Patents Examined by Amy He
  • Patent number: 9989576
    Abstract: A ground check monitoring device coupled to a trailing cable includes a voltage source and a switch. The trailing cable includes a first conductor, a second conductor, and a ground conductor. A resistive termination device is coupled between the first conductor and the ground conductor. A controller of the ground check monitoring device can toggle the switch between a first node of the first conductor and a second node of the second conductor. By measuring voltages at the first and second nodes, the ground check monitoring device can determine if the resistive termination device is shorted. Further, the controller can calculate resistance values of the first and second conductors and calculate a resistance value of the ground conductor. The calculated resistance values can be compared to expected values and the controller can signal a ground fault condition as appropriate based on the comparisons.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2016
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2018
    Assignee: Littelfuse, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael Vangool, Nehad El-Sherif El-Kharbawe, George J. Fenty
  • Patent number: 9964573
    Abstract: A characteristic impedance of an electric transmission line is measured by way of extraction. In the method, a first probe and a second probe are provided, wherein the first probe and the second probe are separable and independently operable probes. A first characteristic impedance of a first circuit where a first terminal of the first probe and a first terminal of the second probe are directly interconnected to each other is first measured. Then a second characteristic impedance of a second circuit where the first terminal of the first probe and the first terminal of the second probe are connected to opposite terminals of the electric transmission line, respectively, is measured. The characteristic impedance of the electric transmission line can then be obtained according to the first characteristic impedance and the second characteristic impedance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2016
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2018
    Assignee: ALPHA NETWORKS INC.
    Inventors: Chun-Hsueh Chu, Rong-Fa Kuo
  • Patent number: 9958487
    Abstract: A method of monitoring a process of powering an electronic device through a cable assembly is proposed. The cable assembly comprises a cable which is connected between a power supply and the electronic device. The method comprises generating a synchronization signal, generating a test signal based on the synchronization signal and applying the test signal to one end of the cable, detecting a response signal at the one end of the cable, the response signal resulting from applying the test signal to the cable assembly, and determining, based on the response signal and the synchronization signal, a first and a second quantity indicative of a real part and an imaginary part of the impedance of the cable assembly, respectively. Further, an apparatus for monitoring a process of powering an electronic device through a cable assembly is proposed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2016
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2018
    Assignees: Dialog Semiconductor (UK) Limited, Dialog Semiconductor Inc.
    Inventors: Horst Knoedgen, Andrey Malinin, Klaus Strohmayer
  • Patent number: 9952259
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for determining initial rotor position in a stationary state of an electric machine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2016
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2018
    Assignee: Infineon Technologies AG
    Inventor: Shi Nian Li
  • Patent number: 9910124
    Abstract: The disclosure relates to an apparatus and a method for vector scattering parameter (s-parameter) measurements, and more particularly, to an apparatus and a method for providing a simple, low cost solution for tests requiring vector s-parameter measurements. The apparatus includes a source which provides an input signal, a divider which splits the input signal to a reference signal and a testing signal, a phase shifter which shifts the reference signal by a first phase and outputs a phase shifted signal, a device under test (DUT) which shifts the testing signal by a second phase and outputs a DUT shifted signal, a combiner which combines the phase shifted signal and the DUT shifted signal into a combined signal, and a detector which detects a product of the phase shifted signal and the DUT shifted signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2018
    Assignee: GLOBALFOUNDRIES INC.
    Inventors: Adem G. Aydin, Hanyi Ding
  • Patent number: 9897635
    Abstract: A sensor circuit incorporates an analog to digital converter for providing a digital signal derived from sensing elements connected in a bridge configuration. The sensor circuit comprises first and second paths comprising respective first and second sensing elements connected between first and second supply lines; an analog to digital converter having a differential input connected to receive a differential voltage signal (Vinp?Vinn) between the first and second sensing elements and an output for providing a digital output signal (Dout) representing a difference between the first and second sensing elements, the analog to digital converter comprising: current sources connected between the first and second supply lines, each current source being switchably connected to either the first or second sensing elements; and control logic configured to selectively switch current from each of the current sources to either the first path or the second path in dependence on the differential voltage signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2018
    Assignee: NXP B.V.
    Inventor: Edwin Schapendonk
  • Patent number: 9897632
    Abstract: A monitor circuit for monitoring a CUT (Circuit Under Test) is provided. The monitor circuit includes a power switch and a current meter. The power switch is coupled between a supply voltage and the CUT. The current meter is coupled in parallel with the power switch. The current meter is configured to detect a current through the CUT.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2018
    Assignee: MEDIATEK INC.
    Inventor: Bo-Jr Huang
  • Patent number: 9885744
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a system and method for an abnormal waveform in a power distribution system that quickly transmits abnormal waveform-related data of a large size by changing a protocol according to data size. The system for detecting an abnormal power quality waveform comprises: a plurality of RTUs for measuring abnormal waveform when a waveform measuring signal received, and transmitting an abnormal waveform using a protocol set according to the size of the abnormal waveform; an FEP for transmitting the waveform measuring signal to an RTU installed in a failure section, and receiving and storing the abnormal waveform from the RTU; a main server for transmitting the waveform measuring signal through the FEP to the RTU installed in the failure section, performing controlling to measure the abnormal waveform generated in the failure section, and receiving and displaying the abnormal waveform according to the waveform measuring signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 6, 2018
    Assignee: KOREA ELECTRIC POWER CORPORATION
    Inventors: Sung-Woo Lee, Bok-Nam Ha, In-Yong Seo, Dong-Wan Seo, Moon-Jong Jang, Won Namkoong
  • Patent number: 9885678
    Abstract: A measuring system for determining the specific electrical conductivity of a medium in a vessel, comprising an inductive conductivity sensor with at least one transmitter coil that emits an input signal into the medium and a receiver coil connected to the transmitter coil via the medium that delivers the output signal, a temperature sensor for measuring the temperature of the medium, and a data processing unit that determines the conductivity of the medium using the input signal, the output signal, and the temperature provided. The system is characterized by the fact that the conductivity sensor and the temperature sensor are designed as non-invasive sensors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 6, 2018
    Assignee: Endress+Hauser Conducta GmbH+Co. KG
    Inventors: Hendrik Zeun, Stefan Paul
  • Patent number: 9872670
    Abstract: Systems and methods (the “utility”) presented herein provide for the assessment of acousto-electrical probes, such as their connections (e.g., transducer leads) and their response characteristics. For example, the utility may provide for readily evaluating transducer leads that have been broken and/or detached from transducers within an ultrasound probe. Due to the increasing complexity of ultrasound probes, identification of broken and/or detached transducer leads also becomes increasingly complex. Being able to identify such disconnected transducer leads may enable a person to repair, or “reterminate”, these transducer leads leading to a potentially substantial cost savings, the least of which being incurred by avoiding total replacement of an ultrasound probe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 23, 2018
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Nickolas Markoff, Christopher M. Cone
  • Patent number: 9857416
    Abstract: A method detects electromigration in a field replaceable unit. An integrated circuit, which is within a field replaceable unit (FRU) in an electronic device, is quiescented. An isolation power switch applies a test voltage from a field power source to a target voltage rail in the integrated circuit. An isolation power switch isolates the target voltage rail from the field power source. A voltage sensor coupled to the target voltage rail measures a field voltage decay rate for the target voltage rail. A voltage record comparator logic within the integrated circuit compares the field voltage decay rate to an initial voltage decay rate for the target voltage rail. In response to a difference between the field voltage decay rate and the initial voltage decay rate for the target voltage rail exceeding a predetermined limit, a signal is sent to an output device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2018
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: David D. Cadigan, William V. Huott, Adam J. McPadden, Anuwat Saetow, Gary A. Tressler
  • Patent number: 9857403
    Abstract: A mobile trolley for resistance measurement comprises: a frame, a resistance measurer, a lifting system, a substrate, at least a first electrode, plural second electrodes and a control module, wherein the set locations of the first and the second electrodes agree with the test method of the “ESD association” standard, whereby the electric resistance between the first and the second electrodes are measured; thereby it is easy to measure the resistance value of a floor according to the test method of the “ESD association” standard.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2018
    Inventor: Chien-Ten Huang
  • Patent number: 9829519
    Abstract: A system and method for a branch current monitoring system employing a 2-Phase Wye, a Single-Phase 3-Wire or a Single-Phase 2-Wire wiring configuration that is configured to identify a phase association and a polarity for a branch circuit current sensor using the phase angle between voltage and current. Also, a system and method for verifying phase association and polarity determinations for branch circuit current sensors that utilizes real and reactive power measurements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 2015
    Date of Patent: November 28, 2017
    Assignee: EATON CORPORATION
    Inventors: Alan Kenji Hayashi, Brian Zachary Zaremski, Zhi Gao
  • Patent number: 9812854
    Abstract: A power supply device is disclosed. A circuit board is disposed inside a conductive housing. A rectifying module is disposed on the circuit board and has primary and secondary sides. The grounding module includes a first grounding element, a second grounding element, and a fastening element. Two terminals of the first surge protection module are respectively electrically connected to the primary side and the first grounding element. Two terminals of the second surge protection module are respectively electrically connected to the secondary side and the second grounding element. The second grounding element and the first grounding element are not directly connected. The fastening element passes through the conductive housing, the circuit board, the first grounding element, and the second grounding element so that the conductive housing, the first grounding element, and the second grounding element are electrically connected to one another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2016
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2017
    Assignee: DELTA ELECTRONICS, INC.
    Inventors: Shan-Chun Yang, Cheng-Chun Lin, Yi-Hua Chang
  • Patent number: 9804216
    Abstract: Embodiments relate to a method, apparatus, and system for passively detecting strength of an electromagnetic field. An electroactive polymer (EAP) is configured with an antenna in communication with an RC circuit. The EAP is positioned proximal to a sensor. In response to receipt of a transient electromagnetic pulse due to an electrostatic discharge, the circuit captures the received pulse and transmits the pulse to the EAP. The EAP reacts to the pulse in the form of a deflection. The magnitude of the deflection correlates to the field strength which caused the received pulse. As deflection of the EAP is communicated to the proximally positioned sensor, a recording of the electrostatic discharge takes place.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2016
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2017
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Samuel R. Connor, Michael A. Cracraft, Jonathan W. Jackson, Joseph Kuczynski
  • Patent number: 9778168
    Abstract: The coating monitoring system is based on electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). The system consists of one or more compact and rugged mini-potentiostat modules coupled to one or more electrodes mounted on top of the paint coating of the structure being monitored. The electrodes and modules can be coated with a topcoat if desired. Alternatively, they may be mounted only temporarily to the structure for spot inspection. They periodically report to a laptop. Communications may be implemented using a wireless protocol. The units may be battery powered with an estimated battery lifetime of up to ten years, depending on the frequency of measurement and interrogation Alternative power supplies may be used to replace or supplement the battery to allow extended battery lifetime. Moisture, humidity, or other sensors may be incorporated into the coating monitor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2017
    Assignee: ElectraWatch, Inc.
    Inventors: Guy D. Davis, Ryan C. Dunn, Robert A. Ross
  • Patent number: 9772300
    Abstract: An inductive conductivity sensor and a method for measuring specific electrical conductivity of a medium, comprising a transmitting coil fed by means of an input signal; coupled with the transmitting coil via the medium; a receiving coil, which delivers an output signal, which is a measure for the conductivity of the medium; and surrounding the transmitting coil and the receiving coil a housing, which has, intended for immersion in the medium, at least one housing section, whose housing wall surrounds the transmitting coil and the receiving coil. The housing section includes at least a first electrically conductive contact intended for contact with the medium and a second electrically conductive contact intended for contact with the medium.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 26, 2017
    Assignee: Endress + Hauser Conducta Gesellschaft für Mess-und Regeltechnik mbH + Co. KG
    Inventor: Torsten Pechstein
  • Patent number: 9752900
    Abstract: A capacitive transducer includes first and second fixed outer plates, each having fixed electrodes positioned on inner surfaces, and a center plate assembly positioned between the fixed outer plates. The center plate assembly includes a top center plate and bottom center plate. The top and bottom center plates each have an inner section, an outer frame positioned outward of a perimeter of the inner section, a set of springs connecting the outer frame to the inner section, and a center electrode positioned on an outer surface of the inner section. The set of springs has thickness less than each of the inner section and the outer frame. The center electrodes of the top and bottom center plates are connected to become electrically one electrode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2017
    Assignee: Wyrobek International, Inc.
    Inventor: Jerzy Wyrobek
  • Patent number: 9753076
    Abstract: An integrated circuit is configured to detect current leakage that results from electromigration in the integrated circuit. An isolation power switch selectively connects a target voltage rail in the integrated circuit to a power source. A voltage memory stores a record of an initial voltage decay rate for the target voltage rail while isolated from a manufacturer's power source. A voltage record comparator logic compares the initial voltage decay rate to a field voltage decay rate for the target voltage rail when isolated from a field power source. An output device indicates that a difference between the initial voltage decay rate and the field voltage decay rate for the target voltage rail exceeds a predefined limit, where the difference is a result of current leakage caused by electromigration in the integrated circuit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2017
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: David D. Cadigan, William V. Huott, Adam J. McPadden, Anuwat Saetow, Gary A. Tressler
  • Patent number: 9746503
    Abstract: A method for adjusting a current sensor with a measuring element having a broken rational current-voltage characteristic curve, including:—changing the broken rational profile of the broken rational current-voltage characteristic curve of the measuring element on the basis of at least one predetermined condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2013
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2017
    Assignee: Continental Teves AG & Co. oHG
    Inventors: Klaus Rink, Wolfgang Jöckel