Overvoltage Patents (Class 340/662)
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Patent number: 5401394Abstract: The specification discloses a circuit for monitoring the status of an ultraviolet (UV) light bulb in a water treatment system. The circuit uses either transformers or zener diodes with opto-isolators to monitor the voltage across the bulb. A logic signal is emitted when abnormally high voltage is detected, for example, indicating that the bulb is burned out, broken, or missing. A logic signal also is emitted when abnormally low voltage is detected, for example, indicating that the starter circuit is short circuited or that power is interrupted.Type: GrantFiled: January 11, 1993Date of Patent: March 28, 1995Assignee: Amway CorporationInventor: Ronald C. Markham
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Patent number: 5325050Abstract: A maximum voltage detecting apparatus for detecting the maximum voltage output from a light sensor, a wind force sensor or the like by using ferroelectric capacitors, and a method of producing ferroelectric capacitors. A plurality of ferroelectric capacitor devices each of which is composed of one ferroelectric capacitor or a plurality of ferroelectric capacitors which have approximately the same thickness and which are connected in series and are arranged in an array are connected in parallel so as to provide a ferroelectric unit. A DC voltage is applied to the ferroelectric unit so as to produce spontaneous polarization. An output voltage of a wind force sensor or the like is applied to the ferroelectric unit at the opposite polarity, and whether or not the polarization of each ferroelectric capacitor device is reversed is detected, thereby detecting the maximum value of the external voltage.Type: GrantFiled: October 9, 1992Date of Patent: June 28, 1994Assignee: Rohm Co., Ltd.Inventor: Katsumi Sameshima
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Patent number: 5319514Abstract: A digital voltage protection circuit (138) and a phase monitor circuit (154, 160, 162, 168) disconnect AC-powered user equipment (22,182) from the AC power supply (141) whenever the AC power line voltage is outside a predetermined operating voltage window and when any two phases of the power supply (141) are separated by more than a predetermined phase angle. The user equipment (182) is automatically reconnected to the power supply (141) only after the power line voltage and phase remain continuously within operating range for a predetermined delay period. The voltage monitor (138) contains a digital comparator (18) that uses integrated circuit digital logic thresholds as reference voltages for setting upper and lower voltage window limits. The controller protects the user equipment from both over-voltage and under-voltage (brownout) conditions and from phase errors.Type: GrantFiled: March 3, 1992Date of Patent: June 7, 1994Assignee: Voltage Control, Inc., a Montana corporationInventors: Charles P. Walsh, B. Douglas Alexander
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Patent number: 5298888Abstract: An instrument for measuring voltage harmonics and current harmonics on AC (alternating current) power systems. The instrument includes the ability to determine when threshold limits have been exceeded for harmonics. The instrument also includes timing thresholds whose inputs are activated when the harmonic thresholds are exceeded. A single harmonic threshold is applied to measurements from multiple phases on poly-phase systems by comparing the square root of the sum of the squares of measurements from each phase to the harmonic threshold. Three indicators show when voltage harmonic limits are exceeded, current harmonics limits are exceeded, or both voltage and current harmonic limits are exceeded simultaneously.Type: GrantFiled: August 21, 1992Date of Patent: March 29, 1994Assignee: Basic Measuring InstrumentsInventors: Alexander McEachern, Jamie Nicholson
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Patent number: 5298885Abstract: An instrument for measuring voltage harmonics and current harmonics on AC (alternating current) power systems The instrument includes the ability to determine when threshold limits have been exceeded for harmonics. The instrument also includes timing thresholds whose inputs are activated when the harmonic thresholds are exceeded A single harmonic threshold is applied to measurements from multiple phases on poly-phase systems by comparing the square root of the sum of the squares of measurements from each phase to the harmonic threshold. Three indicators show when voltage harmonic limits are exceeded, current harmonics limits are exceeded, or both voltage and current harmonic limits are exceeded simultaneously.Type: GrantFiled: August 21, 1992Date of Patent: March 29, 1994Assignee: Basic Measuring InstrumentsInventors: Alexander McEachern, Jamie Nicholson
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Patent number: 5225811Abstract: A temperature limit circuit has a pair of comparators for producing an output signal when a sensed temperature either exceeds of falls below a permissible range. A common impedance circuit uses a single output pin to establish both the upper and lower temperature limits and a hysteresis level at each end of the range. A hysteresis circuit includes two branches, one of which directs a hysteresis current in one direction to a hysteresis resistor at a common input to the comparators to set the hysteresis at one end of the temperature range, and the other of which directs the hysteresis current through the hysteresis resistor in the opposite direction to set the hysteresis at the other end of the temperature range; the oppositely directed current flows establish hysteresis differentials of opposite polarities. A voltage reference circuit that includes a feedback circuit is preferably used for both temperature sensing and to establish a reference current upon which the hysteresis current is based.Type: GrantFiled: February 4, 1992Date of Patent: July 6, 1993Assignee: Analog Devices, Inc.Inventor: Jonathan M. Audy
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Patent number: 5194850Abstract: A process for metering electric power passing via a certain point in a single-phase system comprises current (12) and voltage (U) stages at that point in the system and a processing stage for this information to generate data on the measurement of electric power. Each current data acquisition stage comprises the following steps: A) injection, into a winding (10a) of a magnetic circuit (10) with a predetermined structure surrounding one (LA) of the lines (LA, LB) of the system, of a current (Il+Ic) substantially proportional to the sum of a modulation current (kIl) and a "compensation" current (kIc); and B) detection at the terminals of the winding (10a) of an overvoltage leading to the immediate acquisition of the compensation current (kIc) as an image of the current passing through the line (LA). Use in the electronic metering of power in domestic installations, especially with facilities for remote transmission and information.Type: GrantFiled: April 3, 1991Date of Patent: March 16, 1993Assignee: Manufacture d'Appareillage Electrique de CahorsInventors: Pierre Bourrieres, Jean-Paul Berry
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Patent number: 5185735Abstract: An apparatus and method for monitoring voltage on a LAN cable on which data is conveyed by negative-going pulses. Positive voltage on the LAN cable is interpreted as noise. Positive voltage is detected by, for example, comparing the voltage on the LAN cable to a positive reference voltage, determining the peak positive voltage on the LAN cable, or determining the average positive voltage on the LAN cable. Upon the detection of positive voltage on the LAN cable, the presence (and possibly the amount) of noise is indicated to a person or data processing system which supervises the LAN called a LAN sentinel. The apparatus or method could be implemented in a Media Attachment Unit (MAU) with audio, visual or electronic noise indication means. Alternatively, it could be implemented as a hand-held diagnostic tool.Type: GrantFiled: July 10, 1991Date of Patent: February 9, 1993Assignee: Hewlett Packard CompanyInventor: Stephen Ernst
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Patent number: 5182511Abstract: A detector circuit for detecting a phase signal of a polyphase alternator for a battery charge regulator in a motor vehicle. The circuit includes differential signal amplitude discriminator means for discriminating between at least one pair of phase signals delivered by the alternator. The circuit is applicable to multifunction or to dual-purpose battery charge regulators in motor vehicles.Type: GrantFiled: July 11, 1990Date of Patent: January 26, 1993Assignee: Valeo Equipements Electriques MoteurInventors: Jean-Marie Pierret, Didier Michel
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Patent number: 5153806Abstract: An alarm circuit for a transient voltage suppression circuit for protection of equipment using alternating current power is shown and described. This device utilizes a pair of diodes having the same terminals (polarity) connected to a node to which a resistor provides an AC voltage. The diodes conduct during one half cycle in normal operation, and the node is at a virtual ground when both diodes conduct. When a fuse from one diode to ground opens, current no longer flows and the voltage at the node rises as the other diode conducts and applies a voltage to resistors and an alarm input.There is also disclosed a suppression circuit which provides for isolation of the ground from neutral in the event of failure of the varistor.Type: GrantFiled: June 7, 1989Date of Patent: October 6, 1992Inventor: Lawrence G. Corey
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Patent number: 5142432Abstract: A protection circuit which electrically isolates logic level and high-side circuits and detects high side power device fault conditions at the isolated, logic level side of the circuit. When an overvoltage or overcurrent condition occurs at the power switching device, a protection circuit disables the conduction of current through the current carrying terminals of the switching device, preventing damage from occurring to the device. Activation of the protection circuit effects an increased current flow in the secondary and primary coils of the isolation transformer between the low side and high side elements. Voltage at the primary coil of the isolation transformer is monitored by low level circuitry to detect the rise in current, indicating a fault to the system controller upon detection.Type: GrantFiled: October 21, 1991Date of Patent: August 25, 1992Assignee: General Motors CorporationInventor: Eric D. Schneider
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Patent number: 5121108Abstract: A circuit arrangement for monitoring two operating voltages of different polarity detects and indicates the deviation of either operating voltage from its nominal value beyond a predetermined tolerance limit. A transistor is provided, whose base is connected to the positive operating voltage across a first zener diode and to the negative operating voltage through a first resistor, and whose emitter is connected to the negative operating voltage through a series connection of a second zener diode and a second resistor, and to a reference potential across a diode.Type: GrantFiled: April 5, 1990Date of Patent: June 9, 1992Assignee: VLSI Technology, Inc.Inventor: Hans-Robert Schemmel
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Patent number: 5103124Abstract: Control device for controlling functions of a motor vehicle for a load dump having a computer for generating at least one control signal that is dependent on the level of the operating voltage feeding the control device. A power supply system generates an operating voltage that is supplied to a threshold switch. As long as the operating voltage is above a limit value in the load dump case, the threshold switch outputs a response signal to an evaluator. The latter then only supplies an output signal and thus reports the load dump case to a computer unit when the response signal lasts longer than a set time span.Type: GrantFiled: March 7, 1990Date of Patent: April 7, 1992Assignee: Siemens AktiengesellschaftInventor: Manfred Glehr
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Patent number: 5073724Abstract: An inverse time delay circuit includes an integrator for receiving a signal representative of a voltage or current in an external circuit and a reference signal. The integrator produces a control signal representative of the integral of the difference between the signals. A comparator compares the control signal to a second reference signal to produce an output which changes logic states when the magnitude of the control signals exceeds the magnitude of the second reference signal. A circuit is provided to control the magnitudes of one or both of the reference signals thereby providing control of the instantaneous and/or ultimate trip levels of the circuit.Type: GrantFiled: July 18, 1990Date of Patent: December 17, 1991Assignee: Westinghouse Electric Corp.Inventor: David A. Fox
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Patent number: 5027108Abstract: A method and a device for use with horizontal boring equipment or excavating equipment while making an underground tunnel or digging near known or unknown electric power lines. The device indicates contact with the electrical conductors, whether the contact is momentary or continuous, by monitoring voltage gradients in the earth and activating an alarm if voltage is sensed.Type: GrantFiled: March 5, 1990Date of Patent: June 25, 1991Inventor: Alden J. Gray
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Patent number: 5010438Abstract: A plug-in surge suppressor module for insertion into a circuit breaker panel includes four stacks of metal oxide varistors (MOVs) arranged in a cloverleaf pattern on opposite sides of an elongated copper ground bus attached to one lead of each of the metal oxide varistors. The other leads of two of the stacks of metal oxide varistors are attached to a terminal of a U-shaped first resistive wire fuse, another terminal of which is connected to a first AC power line conductor. The other leads of the other two stacks of MOV's are attached to a terminal of a second U-shaped resistive wire fuse, another terminal of which is connected to a second AC power line conductor. A monitor circuit senses the presence of power and continuity of both fuses by pulsing a light emitting indicator diode every cycle of the AC line. A low frequency oscillator circuit produces slow blinking of the light emitting indicator diode which alerts an observer to replace te surge suppressor module if one of the fuses fails.Type: GrantFiled: June 16, 1989Date of Patent: April 23, 1991Assignee: Square D CompanyInventor: Peter J. Brady
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Patent number: 5001465Abstract: A plurality of electrostatic field proximity sensors are mounted upon a crane boom. The sensors are capacitive elements and include an antenna. The sensors are electrically connected in parallel with a single wire. A summing amplifier is coupled to the sensors for detecting changes in flux fields, which changes could signal a dangerous condition. The sensors can comprise an electrically insulating body having first and second ends with a conductive member attached to one of the ends. A mounting means is provided at the other one of the ends. A resistor can be electrically connected between the ends to discharge excess static charge and to allow detection of missing sensors.Type: GrantFiled: April 30, 1990Date of Patent: March 19, 1991Inventor: Vernon H. Siegel
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Patent number: 4999730Abstract: A line voltage monitor and controller disconnects AC-powered user equipment from an AC power line whenever the AC power line voltage is outside a predetermined operating voltage window. The equipment is automatically reconnected to the power line only after the power line voltage remains continuously within the operating voltage window for a predetermined delay period. The controller protects the user equipment from both over-voltage and under-voltage (brownout) conditions.Type: GrantFiled: May 10, 1989Date of Patent: March 12, 1991Inventor: Harold W. Pickard
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Patent number: 4998098Abstract: An voltage monitoring system including means for providing a voltage from a current and for reducing the voltage. The system also includes means for integrating the current. The integrating means provides an output which increases from an initial condition at a rate proportional to the voltage. The system further includes means for sensing when the output of the integrating means is above a predetermined level and for resetting the integrating means to the initial condition. Additionally, the system includes means for indicating when the output of the integrating means exceeds the predetermined level.Type: GrantFiled: January 26, 1989Date of Patent: March 5, 1991Assignee: Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories Inc.Inventor: Edmund O. Schweitzer, III
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Patent number: 4996520Abstract: The test apparatus of the present invention tests the power supply on a military aircraft, which power supply provides power to missiles carried by the aircraft. The apparatus tests for an overvoltage condition, wherein the power supply output exceeds the maximum allowable voltage of the missiles. The test apparatus includes an electrical connector for interfacing the test apparatus with the aircraft power supply, and an electrical comparator that compares the voltages from first and second inputs. The first input is clamped to a voltage which is representative of the maximum voltage limit of the missiles and the second input is tied to the output of the aircraft power supply so as to vary with the power supply output. The comparator activates a warning lamp when the second input voltage exceeds the first input voltage to warn an operator of an overvoltage condition.Type: GrantFiled: June 17, 1988Date of Patent: February 26, 1991Assignee: Williams Instruments, Inc.Inventors: Robert A. Williams, Stephen Tye
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Patent number: 4983955Abstract: Monitoring an electric power distribution circuit having a rated load capacity includes continually sensing an intensity of electric power supplied through that circuit. In response to that sensing a first signal indicating when electric power is supplied through that circuit at a predetermined maximum current usage below rated load capacity is provided. A second signal indicating a safe loading condition is provided when the sensed intensity is substantially below that maximum current usage. A third signal is provided when the mentioned intensity is at a value between the safe loading condition and the maximum current usage.Type: GrantFiled: November 28, 1988Date of Patent: January 8, 1991Assignee: Hendry Mechanical WorksInventors: Howard M. Ham, Jr., James J. Keenan
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Patent number: 4980791Abstract: A power supply monitoring circuit for operating in a plurality of modes comprising first and second single input comparators coupled to first and second inputs, respectively, for sensing the voltage levels thereof. A reference circuit for generating a reference voltage at a first output. A programming circuit coupled to the outputs of the first and second single input comparators and being responsive to a third input for providing the selection of plurality of operation modes and for providing second and third outputs which are function of the voltage levels appearing at the first and second inputs.Type: GrantFiled: February 5, 1990Date of Patent: December 25, 1990Assignee: Motorola, Inc.Inventors: Jade H. Alberkrack, Eric W. Tisinger
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Patent number: 4937561Abstract: A system for detecting load has a first detector for detecting load on a generator based on the voltage in a circuit of an armature of the generator, and a second detector for detecting the load on the generator based on the voltage in a circuit inductively coupled to the armature circuit. An output of the first detector is compared with a first reference value by a first comparator and a first overload signal is produced when exceeding the first reference value. A second comparator is provided for producing a second overload signal when exceeding a second reference value. In response to the first and second overload signals alarm lamps are turned on for providing an alarm of the overload.Type: GrantFiled: January 18, 1989Date of Patent: June 26, 1990Assignee: Fuji Jukogyo Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Asao Sasaki, Masami Minegishi
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Patent number: 4907118Abstract: An inexpensive, compact, portable, visual indicator electrical plug-type surge protector which comprises an electrical plug body composed of a molded transparent polymer, the plug body having an extended male grounding prong and a pair of male electrical prongs on one face and a female receiving grounding inlet and a pair of female receiving inlets on the opposite face. The plug body contains in a visually indicating position, generally slightly below the surface of the plug body, a metal oxide varistor electrically connected to the electrical outlet plug so as to prevent electrical surges from passing through the surge protector from the electrical source into which the electrical plug-type surge protector is plugged and to be activated and to change color on the occurrence of an electrical surge so that the user of the surge protector will know when the electrical surge has been received and thereby be able to replace the surge protector with a new surge protector.Type: GrantFiled: March 9, 1989Date of Patent: March 6, 1990Assignee: Curtis Manufacturing Company, Inc.Inventor: Edward L. Hames
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Patent number: 4879626Abstract: The present invention relates to an electronic overload relay which uses a schmidt trigger circuit or a CMOS integrated circuit, wherein the electronic overload relay includes an automatic return circuit connected in parallel between the output terminal of a NOT-gate and the input terminal of a succeeding NOT-gate, an instaneous operation characteristic circuit connected in series between one terminal of a variable resistance and the input terminal of the succeeding NOT-gate, and a temperature compensation circuit connected in parallel to the secondary coil of the current transformer.Type: GrantFiled: October 7, 1988Date of Patent: November 7, 1989Inventor: In S. Kim
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Patent number: 4879625Abstract: Voltage monitor for monitoring the output voltage of a power source which can be connected to a power load, which includes a reference voltage source, comparators for comparing the power source voltage with the reference voltage, switches between the power source and the load, which can be controlled by an output from the comparators, such that the switches can be closed only when the power source voltages are within certain voltage limits and meet certain conditions, and also such that the load is disconnected when the power source voltages go beyond certain voltage or frequency limits. A timing circuit may also be provided for timing various voltage conditions.Type: GrantFiled: December 11, 1987Date of Patent: November 7, 1989Inventor: Richard A. Potenzone
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Patent number: 4873603Abstract: Output current of secondary winding of a current transformer (21) corresponding to current value of an A.C. power line (1) is led to series connection of an electric power circuit (500) and resistors (40,41); voltages obtained across the resistors (40,41) are input to a time delay circuit (70) which ignites a load break contact (200) in the A.C. power line (1) when an accident overcurrent flows in compliance with tripping characteristics. A quasi output signal or reference signal for testing of D.C. voltage is applied to the time delay circuit (70) when any current does not flow in the A.C. power line, thereby to enable tripping test of the circuit breaker as it is connected to the actual power line.Type: GrantFiled: February 23, 1989Date of Patent: October 10, 1989Assignee: Mitsubishi Denki Kabushiki KaishaInventor: Kazuhiro Ishii
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Patent number: 4866558Abstract: A time delay circuit of a circuit breaker has: a comparator (35) for comparing an input signal (Ex) and a reference value (Ey) and for switching on and off for charging of a capacitor (38); a reference voltage setting circuit (37) for setting the reference voltage (Ey) corresponding to a value of a rated current of an A.C. power line; a processing circuit (45) for calculating a ratio of the input voltage (Ex) corresponding to a value of overcurrent to the reference voltage (Ey); and a voltage/current conversion circuit (44) for converting an output voltage of the processing circuit (Ez) to a current output (Ib) which is to be charged in the capacitor (38) for determining a delay time.Type: GrantFiled: December 23, 1988Date of Patent: September 12, 1989Assignee: Mitsubishi Denki Kabushiki KaishaInventor: Kazuhiro Ishii
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Patent number: 4862314Abstract: A system for providing power to a central office protector module which has a visual indicator for indicating an alarm whenever one of the two lines protected by the module is shorted to ground by the module. The system includes at least one connector block which has a group of receptacles for receiving the module. The system includes a power supply which converts central office battery to a relatively low amplitude voltage to provide power to the alarm indicator. Current flows only when the module shorts the line to ground. The power supply also includes its own alarm indicator and also has provision to test that indicator and provide a remote alarm.Type: GrantFiled: June 3, 1988Date of Patent: August 29, 1989Assignee: Reliance Comm/Tec CorporationInventors: Phil Corvino, Tom McCormick
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Patent number: 4862142Abstract: Electrical circuits for detecting intermittent and continuous electrical parameters such as continuity for open or closed circuits, AC power interruption or decrease in frequency, DC power interruption, missing electrical pulses; and voltage, resistance, and current levels that are greater than or less than present high and low limits. This invention also detects temperature and light (illumination) that is greater or less than present limits. The invention has a memory and both a (variable time delayed) automatic, and a manual memory reset. It provides both visual and a defeatable audio indicators or alarms. The advantage of said invention is that it detects intermittent conditions as brief as fractions of microseconds that may occur as frequently as milliseconds apart or as infrequently as days apart; it also detects steady state conditions.Type: GrantFiled: October 26, 1987Date of Patent: August 29, 1989Inventor: Eldon L. Knight
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Patent number: 4858058Abstract: In a circuit breaker, a timer circuit is employed for delay interrupting operation in case of line failure. The timer circuit includes at least a peak value converting circuit, an effective value converting circuit, a switch, and a switching control circuit. When the failure current is lower than a predetermined threshold level, a long-time delay tripping circuit of the timer circuit is operated in response to an effective value voltage from the effective value converting circuit. When the fail current exceeds over the threshold level, the long-time delay tripping circuit is operated in response to a peak value voltage from the peak value converting circuit so as to avoid an adverse influence of the saturation characteristic of the current transformer.Type: GrantFiled: August 2, 1988Date of Patent: August 15, 1989Assignee: Mitsubishi Denki Kabushiki KaishaInventor: Kazuhiro Ishii
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Patent number: 4851950Abstract: An electrical apparatus for magnetothermal and differential protection, of the type comprising a device for sensing differential currents associated with a magnetothermal protection switch, comprises a differential current sensor connected to an input of a controlled gain signal amplifier, in turn connected to a plurality of light indicators arranged to go on progressively in dependence on the sensor. The apparatus provides a quantitative and qualitative measurement of the stray current.Type: GrantFiled: May 31, 1988Date of Patent: July 25, 1989Assignee: Bassani Ticino, S.p.A.Inventor: Romano Ballada
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Patent number: 4847725Abstract: When a current of a distribution line is increased to about two times of a rated current of a circuit breaker, the circuit breaker is operated to open the distribution line with a comparatively long time lag such as 100 seconds by a long time-lag tripping circuit of the circuit breaker, on the other hand, in case that a current of 80-90% of the rated current have continuously flowed before the current is increased as mentioned above, the time lag which is set in the long time-lag tripping circuit is shortened.Type: GrantFiled: July 7, 1988Date of Patent: July 11, 1989Assignee: Mitsubishi Denki Kabushiki KaishaInventor: Kazuhiro Ishii
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Patent number: 4794948Abstract: A solenoid operated directional control valve includes a visual position indicator assembled of rectifying bridge circuit whose DC output terminals are bridged by a series connection of a light emitting diode with a PTC resistor. In this manner, the indicator is universally applicable both for DC and AC power sources and for a wide range of supply voltages.Type: GrantFiled: December 10, 1987Date of Patent: January 3, 1989Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbHInventor: Roland Schempp
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Patent number: 4769595Abstract: A pulse length indicator, for signaling when the length of a pulse from a cyclic signal source has exceeded a chosen duration, has a ramp signal generator, coupled to the cyclic signal source, which produces a ramp signal. The level of the ramp signal is dependent upon the duration of either of the high and low levels of the cyclic signal. The ramp signal is fed to a level sensitive switch which couples an indicator, typically an LED, to a power source. When the level of the ramp signal is sufficiently long or short, the switch closes to actuate the indicator. The ramp signal generator can be a simple R-C circuit with the signal source being AC or DC coupled to the switch.Type: GrantFiled: September 26, 1986Date of Patent: September 6, 1988Assignee: Tandem Computers, Inc.Inventor: Kan-Chiu Seto
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Patent number: 4755805Abstract: A system in which an electrically conductive boring device is caused to move through the ground to provide an underground tunnel, to install underground utilities, or for any other reason. A technique for detecting if the boring device electrically engages an underground source of high voltage such as an existing underground utility line. This arrangement, is also suitable for detecting if other electrically conductive apparatus, structural member, or like means engages a similar underground source of high voltage includes means defining an electrically conductive path leading from the boring device or other such member to a grounding point sufficient to reduce to a negligible level any high voltage to which the device or like member may be subjected. The present technique monitors the current through the grounding path and indicates if the current level through the path reaches a predetermined threshold level which is selected to correspond with the presence of high voltage.Type: GrantFiled: May 22, 1986Date of Patent: July 5, 1988Assignee: FlowMole CorporationInventor: Albert W. Chau
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Patent number: 4724375Abstract: A direct current power supply configuration for use in a wide variety of electronics applications, is described. The invention features high precision capability with relatively simple circuitry. A system of panel indicators eliminates the need for a panel voltmeter and improves serviceability and ease of operation over the prior art.Type: GrantFiled: November 12, 1986Date of Patent: February 9, 1988Inventor: Norman R. Dittmar
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Patent number: 4692693Abstract: An apparatus for measuring low currents with high dynamics, comprising in series: a multi-range preamplifier, a logarithmic amplifier, a thresholding circuit, an alarm circuit and a reading circuit, the preamplifier comprising in series: a first differential amplifier receiving at its inverting input the low current to be measured and a second amplifier, the first amplifier having a linear feedback chain of very high impedance and the second amplifier having a linear feedback chain of much lower impedence, a zero point adjustment and a circuit for testing the gain of the apparatus being also provided on the first amplifier.Type: GrantFiled: January 24, 1985Date of Patent: September 8, 1987Assignee: Commissariat a l'Energie AtomiqueInventor: Serge Rabeyrolles
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Patent number: 4628396Abstract: The apparatus comprises a high voltage disconnect and load isolation switch. During normal operation commercial power is conducted through a pair of contacts "a" and "b" to a load. When a high voltage (HV) component is detected by an HV pulse detector, a command from the HV detector opens a secondary power interrupter while simultaneously activating the opening of contacts "a" and "b". A surge protector conducts some of the HV energy greater than the source, or commercial power, to ground. As contacts "a" and "b" open, HV ground probes are positioned at a slight distance (dielectric constant equal to the commercial power source) from these contacts. These probes provide a ground source for an HV component throughout the complete transition of contact "b" to the rest position, which will be at ground potential. There is now full isolation from the source power supply.Type: GrantFiled: November 16, 1984Date of Patent: December 9, 1986Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Air ForceInventor: D. Frank E. Flemming
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Patent number: 4590533Abstract: A device for protecting from an overvoltage a power apparatus constituting an electric power system. The device comprises a plurality of detector means having respectively different voltage detection regions so as to attain preferably protection characteristic corresponding to the characteristic curve of the voltage-and-time product permissible for the power apparatus, a plurality of timer means for checking whether the durations of the outputs of the detector means exceed a respective predetermined time periods, and logic means for combining the respective outputs of the timer means through a predetermined logic operation.Type: GrantFiled: July 22, 1983Date of Patent: May 20, 1986Assignee: Mitsubishi Denki Kabushiki KaishaInventor: Masanori Murata
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Patent number: 4580063Abstract: A pair of IGFETs connected in cascade across a d-c power supply form a source/drain junction constituting the output terminal of a self-biasing amplifier to which binary-coded bipolar signals are transmitted by way of a voltage divider effectively inserted between an input terminal and the afore-mentioned junction, a tap of that voltage divider being connected to the gate of a first of these IGFETs whose source is tied to one of the two supply terminals; the drain and the gate of the second IGFET are tied to the opposite supply terminal. A protective diode lies between the input terminal and the supply terminal connected to the source of the first IGFET so as to be reverse-biased by the voltage divider in a quiescent state and to break down in the presence of an abnormally high input voltage of a given polarity (positive in the specific instance described).Type: GrantFiled: December 1, 1982Date of Patent: April 1, 1986Assignee: SGS-ATES Componenti Elettronics S.p.A.Inventors: Guido Torelli, Giovanni Salomone
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Patent number: 4574276Abstract: An indicating system includes first and second voltage comparators, first and second output circuits which are respectively supplied with output signals of the first and second voltage comparators, and first and second indicating elements which are connected to a common output terminal of the first and second output circuits. A first input terminal of the first voltage comparator is supplied with a first reference voltage, and a second input terminal thereof is supplied with a control signal. A first input terminal of the second voltage comparator is supplied with a second reference voltage, and a second input terminal thereof supplied with the control signal. When the voltage level of the control signal is higher than the first reference voltage, the first output circuit causes a current of a first polarity to flow to the common output terminal. As a result, the first indicating element is lit up, and the second indicating element is not.Type: GrantFiled: March 8, 1983Date of Patent: March 4, 1986Assignee: Hitachi, Ltd.Inventor: Tetsuo Sato
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Patent number: 4571690Abstract: Two different set voltages are respectively compared with a power source voltage. When the smaller set voltage which is close to a minimum operating voltage of an arithmetic circuit coincides with the power source voltage, a clock signal generator, and hence the arithmetic circuit are stopped. When the power source voltage increases to coincide with the larger set voltage after the clock signal generator is stopped, the clock signal generator and hence the arithmetic circuit are restarted.Type: GrantFiled: March 29, 1983Date of Patent: February 18, 1986Assignee: Tokyo Shibaura Denki Kabushiki KaishaInventor: Eiichi Munetsugu
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Patent number: 4558310Abstract: A system senses alternating current in a conductor, such as a main line supplying electrical power to a home, and responds to the sensed current as by providing a warning signal when the sensed current exceeds or is less than a preset value for a predetermined short period of time. The current sensor itself is a simple coil of wire, either with an air core or a partial ferromagnetic core, which can be easily operatively associated with the current carrying conductor without the need for disconnecting the conductor from its terminals and which when installed does not present the hazards associated with current transformers.Type: GrantFiled: September 29, 1982Date of Patent: December 10, 1985Inventor: Raymond J. McAllise
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Patent number: 4523295Abstract: An arrangement for storing user programmed system timing information in a microprogrammable system in the event of a power outage. The system includes a static random access memory (RAM) for periodically storing microprocessor-generated timing information and an electrically erasable programmable ROM (EEPROM) which is coupled to the static RAM for the temporary storage of this information in the event of a power outage. Also provided in the system is a power down sensor responsive to an AC-coupled power supply for detecting power loss to the system. When the input voltage drops below a predetermined value, the contents of the static RAM are automatically transferred to the nonvolatile EEPROM.Type: GrantFiled: September 7, 1982Date of Patent: June 11, 1985Assignee: Zenith Electronics CorporationInventor: Thomas J. Zato
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Patent number: 4453092Abstract: A comparator circuit which includes a differential pair of transistors forming differential inputs of the comparator and a voltage level shift circuit coupled in series connection path with the emitters of the pair of transistors. The voltage level shift circuit includes an additional transistor having its collector-emitter path connected in series between an output of the comparator and the emitter of the first pair of transistors; a first diode coupled a series-conduction path to the emitter of the second one of the pair of transistors and having an anode connected to the base of the additional transistor; and a second diode coupled between the base and emitter of the additional transistor wherein the effective beta of the additional transistor is reduced to reduce the bias current that would otherwise flow through the first transistor when such transistor is rendered conductive by an applied differential input signal.Type: GrantFiled: December 27, 1982Date of Patent: June 5, 1984Assignee: Motorola, Inc.Inventor: Eric D. Joseph
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Patent number: 4428020Abstract: Power supply sensing circuitry comprises a first comparator for determining whether the power supply potential voltage exceeds by a predetermined amount the voltage required to operate a data processing system connected to the power supply potential, and a second comparator for determining whether the power supply potential is at least the voltage required to operate the connected data processing system.Type: GrantFiled: October 14, 1981Date of Patent: January 24, 1984Assignee: SCM CorporationInventor: Raymond A. Blanchard, Jr.
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Patent number: 4386281Abstract: A circuit (10) is provided for use in a telecommunications integrated circuit which has a memory for storing a telephone number. The circuit (10) essentially comprises a latch having differential nodes (22, 28). The circuit (10) serves to detect when the supply voltage provided between the supply terminals (12, 14) drops to a level which causes loss of the data stored in the integrated circuit memory. An output signal (PUC) is driven to a low state upon detection of loss of power. For a slow return of supply power the nodes (22, 28) are respectively pulled to low and high states by current leakage through diodes (30, 36, 38) connected to the power terminals (12, 14). For a rapid supply voltage transition the latch node (28) is pulled high by capacitive coupling through a diode (30). This serves to set the latch in the condition where the output node (22) is at a low state to indicate loss of power. After generation of the PUC signal in the low state, external circuitry provides a reset signal (.phi..sub.Type: GrantFiled: January 15, 1981Date of Patent: May 31, 1983Assignee: Mostek CorporationInventor: Michael B. Terry
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Patent number: 4368499Abstract: A circuit apparatus including a circuit interrupter connected between an AC supply and electrical equipment to be protected and operational in a first condition to transmit power therebetween and operational in a second condition to interrupt power transmission therebetween, a control circuit for producing the first condition in response to normal supply voltage and for producing said second condition in response to abnormal supply voltage, a delay circuit connected to the control circuit and adapted to produce a minimum time delay between successive occurrences of the first condition, an overvoltage circuit adapted to produce the second condition in response to a voltage from the supply that exceeds a predetermined maximum level, and an undervoltage circuit adapted to produce the second condition in response to a voltage from the supply that is below a given threshold level.Type: GrantFiled: March 2, 1981Date of Patent: January 11, 1983Assignee: Electronic Specialists, Inc.Inventor: Francis J. Stifter
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Patent number: 4354142Abstract: A circuit arrangement for the pulsed illumination of a stroboscope ring of a record player is formed from a pulsating direct voltage by rectification, and the pulsating direct voltage is applied to a series connection of an ohmic resistor and a light emitting diode.Type: GrantFiled: July 21, 1980Date of Patent: October 12, 1982Assignee: U.S. Philips CorporationInventor: Alfred Seitz