Abstract: Improved miniaturized interconnect connector apparatus and methods for their manufacture. These miniaturized interconnect connectors minimize overall size, while at the same time offering acceptable and even improved electrical performance over prior art interconnect connector designs. In one exemplary embodiment, the interconnect connector comprises a plug and corresponding receptacle manufactured from a laser direct structuring (LDS) polymer material. In another embodiment, the interconnect connector comprises a composite structure which takes advantages of the properties of multiple selected materials. In yet another embodiment of the invention, precisely plated polymers such as the aforementioned LDS polymer are utilized in conjunction with known technologies such as flexible printed circuits (FPC) to produce miniaturized interconnect connectors.

Abstract: Improved form-less electronic apparatus and methods for manufacturing the same. In one exemplary embodiment, the apparatus comprises a shape-core inductive device having a bonded-wire coil which is formed and maintained within the device without resort to a bobbin or other form(er). The absence of the bobbin simplifies the manufacture of the device, reduces its cost, and allows it to be made more compact (or alternatively additional functionality to be disposed therein). One variant utilizes a termination header for mating to a PCB or other assembly, while another totally avoids the use of the header by directly mating to the PCB. Multi-core variants and methods of manufacturing are also disclosed.

Abstract: Methods and Apparatus for providing a low-cost and high-precision inductive device. In one embodiment, the inductive device comprises a plurality of vias having extended ends which replace windings disposed around a magnetically permeable core. In another embodiment, the inductive device comprises a wired center core as well as a plurality of vias having extended ends which act as windings disposed around a magnetically permeable core. In a second aspect of the invention, a method of manufacturing the aforementioned inductive devices as well as the wired core centers is disclosed.

Abstract: An advanced modular plug connector assembly incorporating an insert assembly disposed in the rear portion of the connector housing. In one embodiment, the connector has a plurality of ports in multi-row configuration, and the insert assembly includes a substrate adapted to receive one or more electronic components such as choke coils, transformers, or other signal conditioning elements or magnetics. The substrate also interfaces with the conductors of two modular ports of the connector, and is removable from the housing such that an insert assembly of a different electronics or terminal configuration can be substituted therefor. In this fashion, the connector can be configured to a plurality of different standards (e.g., Gigabit Ethernet and 10/100). In yet another embodiment, the connector assembly comprises a plurality of light sources (e.g., LEDs) received within the housing. Methods for manufacturing the aforementioned embodiments are also disclosed.

Abstract: An electrical connector assembly having shielded cage assembly with at least one port for receiving modules, and methods of manufacture and use thereof. In one embodiment, the modules comprise SFP-type (small form-factor pluggable) modules, and the shielded cage assembly comprises an EMI shield member that is disposed at a port opening for the electrical connector assembly. In one variant, the EMI shield member can be disposed on the electrical connector cage assembly without the need for secondary processing techniques such as soldering, or resistance welding. This is accomplished via for example the utilization of mechanical snap features.

Abstract: Improved over-voltage protection apparatus and associated methods useful in e.g., telecommunications applications. In one embodiment, the over voltage protection apparatus comprises a gas discharge tube, common mode inductor, coupled inductor, secondary over-voltage protection device, filter circuitry, coupled inductor and common mode inductor. In one embodiment the over voltage protection apparatus comprises a gas discharge tube, common mode inductor, coupled inductor, secondary over-voltage protection device and filter circuitry. The arrangement of said inductive components being optimally connected in such a manner as to provide a high impedance circuit for all surge events to the gas discharge tube, so as to protect the filtering circuitry. Methods for the manufacture of the filter protection apparatus so as to be maximally independent of component tolerances are also disclosed.

Abstract: An electrical connector mountable on a printed circuit board. In one embodiment, the electrical connector comprises an insulative housing comprising one or more electronic components, a plurality of electrical conductors in signal communication with the electronic components and adapted to interface with a plug and a plurality of terminals in signal communication with the one or more electronic components. In one aspect, the plurality of terminals are adapted to interface with one or more externally mounted electronic components on the printed circuit board thereby filtering signals passing between the electrical conductors and the printed circuit board, with the externally mounted electronic components mounted within the footprint of the electrical connector. Methods of manufacture for the aforementioned electrical connector and business methods are also disclosed.

Abstract: An advanced connector assembly enabled to receive and distribute power signals. In one embodiment, the connector comprises a multi-port modular jack, and incorporates a PSE controller board disposed in the rear portion of the connector assembly, e.g., outside the connector housing. The PSE controller board controls the power to a powered device and may be adapted to, for example, distinguish whether the device is a short circuit or a network interface card, guarantee the supply of power to selected ports, and prevent cables from transmitting abnormal power. Heat removal features are also optionally utilized to effectively dissipate heat produced by the electronic or signal conditioning components utilized on said multi-port modular jack. In some embodiments, the PSE controller board is also optionally made removable from the jack housing.

Abstract: Improved form-less electronic apparatus and methods for manufacturing the same. In one exemplary embodiment, the apparatus comprises a shape-core inductive device having a bonded-wire coil which is formed and maintained within the device without resort to a bobbin or other form(er). The absence of the bobbin simplifies the manufacture of the device, reduces its cost, and allows it to be made more compact (or alternatively additional functionality to be disposed therein). One variant utilizes a termination header for mating to a PCB or other assembly, while another totally avoids the use of the header by directly mating to the PCB. Multi-core variants and methods of manufacturing are also disclosed.

Abstract: An electronic fail safe circuit ensures that if there is a microprocessor failure during a brake application, this failure does not result in a release of the brakes. This is accomplished by the fail safe circuit forcing the appropriate solenoids to the self-regulating valve's hold state for a certain amount of time. This, in combination with the self regulating valve, accomplishes the desired outcome of a minimum disruption in the brake application and, specifically, prevention of an erroneous brake release. To further enhance the reliability of the system, a dual battery power supply is used. Each battery is tested prior to doing a brake application. Each battery has to pass the test, i.e., each battery individually must have enough charge to complete the brake application, before the brake application is undertaken.

Abstract: An improvement on locomotive bubble-type fuel level measuring systems tests or monitors the integrity of the bubble-type pneumatic system by observing the rate of bubble formation, in addition to gauging fuel level. A bubble-type fuel level detection system bubbles a volume of air through a bubble tube. As air exits from the bottom of the tube, bubbles form in the fuel. These bubbles cause small variations in back-pressure in the tube as each bubble grows in size and eventually breaks free from the opening in the tube. The frequency these variations is proportional to the airflow or bubble rate at the bottom of the bubble tube such that pneumatic leaks or other problems can be detected by declaring a problem condition if the bubble rate falls below a predetermined threshold.

Abstract: A computer and a chassis construction for a computer for severe environmental conditions enclosing a plurality of circuit cards and a power supply includes a sealed, airtight, watertight, metal enclosure having a plurality of integrally joined walls, a first of the plurality of walls having a removable plate for access to the printed circuit cards and the power supply accommodated in the enclosure. The computer for use in a severe environment includes a plurality of printed circuit boards and a power supply and a metal enclosure having a plurality of walls, a top cover and a bottom plate, the enclosure being integrally formed to form an airtight seal along abutting edges thereof. One of the walls has a removable plate and the enclosure is formed of metal. A mechanism is provided for preventing ingress of foreign substances in the enclosure. The mechanism includes a device for shielding the interior of the enclosure from electromagnetic interference (EMI).

Abstract: A consist power monitor provides information to the engineer of a multiple unit consist on the ability of each locomotive to provide traction power and dynamic braking. The consist power monitor is a microprocessor based device which communicates with other locomotive consist power monitors, either through the MU cable or over a wireless link, to display consist status to the engineer. Where the communication is through the MU cable, the communications link is provided by a high frequency carrier superimposed on an existing MU cable wire. No modification is required to the MU cable allowing for easy retrofit of existing locomotives. The alternative wireless communication is accomplished by means of a low power, spread spectrum data link now being incorporated into new locomotives. Information exchanged among the consist power monitors pertains to loading and dynamic brake conditions of the locomotives in the consist. Locomotive consist information is presented continuously.

Abstract: An improvement in an End-of-Train (EOT) monitor system allows the continuity of the brake pipe of a train to be verified. Obstructions in the brake-pipe, such as, for example, closed angle cocks, kinks, blockages, or breaks, adversely affect brake safety. A pressure sensor is installed in the Locomotive Cab Unit (LCU) to sense brake application. If the brake pipe is intact, a brake application initiated from the locomotive should correspondingly result in a drop in pressure at the EOT unit. The time require for the drop to propagate through the train is a function of train length. If a pressure drop is not sensed at the EOT unit within a predetermined period of time, it is assumed to be due to either a corrupted brake pipe or a communications failure between the LCU and EOT unit. A Microprocessor in the LCU initiates a communications check by interrogating the EOT unit from the LCU. If no reply is received, an alarm sounds warning the engineer of a communications failure.

Abstract: Improvements relating to railroad telemetry and control system address problems in compatibility between HOT and EOT units, implement an automatic UDE location procedure, and automate calibration of EOT units. An improved two way protocol that allows EOT units having different code formats to be used with a HOT unit. A method is implemented by a HOT unit, cooperating with an EOT unit, for locating a fault which causes a UDE brake operation. An automatic calibration procedure for the EOT unit that does not require the operator to have access to the electronic circuitry.

Abstract: Motion and direction sensors for end of train (EOT) telemetry equipment employ a piezoelectric film as the sensing element. The motion sensor has a mechanical design which is optimized for detecting vibration on a railroad car. The electrical circuitry of the motion sensor generates output pulses to the EOT microprocessor which are processed according to an algorithm to make a determination of train motion based on detected vibration levels and rates of occurrence. Also, the EOT microprocessor dynamically adjusts the sensitivity of the motion sensor as a function of detected motion. The direction sensor uses a pendulum aligned with the axis of train motion to stress the piezoelectric film and, like the motion sensor, generates output pulses to the EOT microprocessor. These pulses are processed by a direction sensing algorithm implemented on the EOT microprocessor to determine the direction of train motion.

Abstract: Improvements relating to railroad telemetry and control system address problems in compatibility between HOT and EOT units, implement an automatic UDE location procedure, and automate calibration of EOT units. An improved two way protocol that allows EOT units having different code formats to be used with a HOT unit. A method is implemented by a HOT unit, cooperating with an EOT unit, for locating a fault which causes a UDE brake operation. An automatic calibration procedure for the EOT unit that does not require the operator to have access to the electronic circuitry.

Abstract: A direct sequence digital spread spectrum receiver acquires and maintains synchronization in a reliable, yet simple manner, even under severe multipath and interference conditions. A sliding correlator and a voltage controlled crystal oscillator (VCXO) cooperate to acquire initial synchronization, and once synchronization is acquired, the VCXO is linearly frequency modulated (FM) for accurate tracking. The difficult problem of keeping the receiver code clock synchronized to that of the transmitter under severe multipath and interference conditions is solved by virtue of a dual switched bandwidth low pass filter section of the tracking circuit, allowing a wide bandwidth for initial acquisition and tracking but once the clocks are aligned, a narrow loop takes over that follows the transmitter closely. A commercially available intermediate frequency (IF) integrated circuit (IC) is used as an amplitude modulated (AM) detector to achieve the large dynamic range required.

Abstract: Power supply for an EOT unit in which an electrical generator driven by air from the train air brake pipe provides the primary power to the EOT unit. The power supply of this invention may be incorporated as part of the EOT unit or it may be supplied as a power kit modification for existing EOT units in order to replace electric storage batteries in these units.

Abstract: A solid state event recorder having particular application to railroad locomotives has a plurality of interface modules to allow the collection of desired data over a period of time. Radio downloading of the data provided by a telemetry transmitter to wayside receivers is the primary way of downloading data. Alternative data downloading are provided by a removable memory module, a portable wireless data extractor and a laptop computer. The removable memory module is provided with its own backup battery power supply but normally derives its power from an inductive coupling to the solid state recorder. Data is read into the removable memory module from the solid state recorder via an inductive coupling, and data is read out of the removable memory module to the telemetry transmitter via another inductive coupling. Both the portable wireless data extractor and the laptop computer are used for maintenance purposes.