Patents by Inventor Christopher P. Schaffer

Christopher P. Schaffer has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

  • Patent number: 8860543
    Abstract: A wire-less inductive device and methods of manufacturing and use are disclosed. In one embodiment, the inductive device comprises a plurality of through-hole vias which act to replace windings disposed around a magnetically permeable core. In another embodiment, the inductive device comprises a plurality of connection elements disposed or formed within channels 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 is disclosed. In a third aspect of the invention, an electronics assembly and circuit comprising the wire-less inductive devices are disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2014
    Assignee: Pulse Electronics, Inc.
    Inventors: Christopher P. Schaffer, Aurelio J. Gutierrez
  • Patent number: 8845367
    Abstract: A device for electrically interconnecting and packaging electronic components. In one embodiment, a modular non-conducting base member having one or more component recesses and a plurality of lead channels formed therein is provided. At least one electronic component is disposed within the recess, and the wire leads of the component routed through the lead channels to a conductive lead terminal. A plurality of lead terminals, adapted to cooperate with the non-conducting base member, are received therein, and adapted to place the device in signal communication with an external printed circuit board. The modular non-conducting base members are assembled or stacked to form a unitary modular assembly. Methods for fabricating the device are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2014
    Assignee: Pulse Electronics, Inc.
    Inventors: Aurelio J. Gutierrez, Russell L. Machado, Christopher P. Schaffer, Victor H. Renteria
  • Patent number: 8754734
    Abstract: A low cost, low profile, small size and high performance electronic device for use in, e.g., electronic circuits where a transformer or inductor is required. In one exemplary embodiment, the device includes a self-leaded header made from a unitary construction. The header includes a vertically oriented winding post that obviates the need for e.g. a binocular aperture type configuration. Methods for manufacturing the device are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2014
    Assignee: Pulse Electronics, Inc.
    Inventors: Christopher P. Schaffer, Aurelio J. Gutierrez
  • Publication number: 20140036459
    Abstract: A device for electrically interconnecting and packaging electronic components. In one embodiment, a modular non-conducting base member having one or more component recesses and a plurality of lead channels formed therein is provided. At least one electronic component is disposed within the recess, and the wire leads of the component routed through the lead channels to a conductive lead terminal. A plurality of lead terminals, adapted to cooperate with the non-conducting base member, are received therein, and adapted to place the device in signal communication with an external printed circuit board. The modular non-conducting base members are assembled or stacked to form a unitary modular assembly. Methods for fabricating the device are also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 29, 2013
    Publication date: February 6, 2014
    Inventors: Aurelio J. Gutierrez, Russell L. Machado, Christopher P. Schaffer, Victor H. Renteria
  • Publication number: 20130323974
    Abstract: Low-cost and high-precision inductive devices and methods of manufacturing and using the same. In one embodiment, the inductive device comprises a substrate-based inductive device which utilizes inserted conductive pins in combination with plated substrates which replace windings disposed around a magnetically permeable core. In some variations, these substrate-based inductive devices are integrated into a discrete electronic device. In another embodiment, the substrate-based inductive devices are incorporated into integrated connector modules. Methods of manufacturing and utilizing the aforementioned discrete substrate-based inductive devices and substrate-based integrated connector modules are also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 21, 2013
    Publication date: December 5, 2013
    Inventors: Aurelio J. Gutierrez, Christopher P. Schaffer
  • Patent number: 8591262
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for providing a low-cost and high-precision inductive device. In one embodiment, the inductive device comprises a substrate based inductive device which utilizes inserted conductive pins in combination with plated substrates which replace windings disposed around a magnetically permeable core. In some variations this is accomplished without a header disposed between adjacent substrates while alternative variations utilize a header. In another embodiment, the substrate inductive devices are incorporated into integrated connector modules. Methods of manufacturing and utilizing the aforementioned substrate based inductive devices and integrated connector modules are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2013
    Assignee: Pulse Electronics, Inc.
    Inventors: Christopher P. Schaffer, Aurelio J. Gutierrez
  • Publication number: 20130033353
    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.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 6, 2012
    Publication date: February 7, 2013
    Inventors: Christopher P. Schaffer, Aurelio J. Gutierrez, Alan Lindner
  • Patent number: 8234778
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2012
    Assignee: Pulse Electronics, Inc.
    Inventors: Christopher P. Schaffer, Alan Lindner
  • Publication number: 20120058676
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for providing a low-cost and high-precision inductive device. In one embodiment, the inductive device comprises a substrate based inductive device which utilizes inserted conductive pins in combination with plated substrates which replace windings disposed around a magnetically permeable core. In some variations this is accomplished without a header disposed between adjacent substrates while alternative variations utilize a header. In another embodiment, the substrate inductive devices are incorporated into integrated connector modules. Methods of manufacturing and utilizing the aforementioned substrate based inductive devices and integrated connector modules are also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 3, 2010
    Publication date: March 8, 2012
    Inventors: Christopher P. Schaffer, Aurelio J. Gutierrez
  • Patent number: 8118619
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2012
    Assignee: Pulse Electronics, Inc.
    Inventors: Christopher P. Schaffer, Thomas Rascon
  • Publication number: 20120011709
    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.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 18, 2011
    Publication date: January 19, 2012
    Inventors: Christopher P. Schaffer, Alan Lindner
  • Publication number: 20110193669
    Abstract: A low cost, low profile, small size and high performance electronic device for use in, e.g., electronic circuits where a transformer or inductor is required. In one exemplary embodiment, the device includes a self-leaded header made from a unitary construction. The header includes a vertically oriented winding post that obviates the need for e.g. a binocular aperture type configuration. Methods for manufacturing the device are also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 8, 2011
    Publication date: August 11, 2011
    Inventors: Christopher P. Schaffer, Aurelio J. Gutierrez
  • Patent number: 7982572
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2011
    Assignee: Pulse Engineering, Inc.
    Inventors: Christopher P. Schaffer, Aurelio J. Gutierrez, Alan Lindner
  • Patent number: 7942700
    Abstract: A device for electrically interconnecting and packaging electronic components. In one embodiment, a modular non-conducting base member having one or more component recesses and a plurality of lead channels formed therein is provided. At least one electronic component is disposed within the recess, and the wire leads of the component routed through the lead channels to a conductive lead terminal. A plurality of lead terminals, adapted to cooperate with the non-conducting base member, are received therein, and adapted to place the device in signal communication with an external printed circuit board. The modular non-conducting base members are assembled or stacked to form a unitary modular assembly. Methods for fabricating the device are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2011
    Assignee: Pulse Engineering, Inc.
    Inventors: Aurelio J. Gutierrez, Russell L. Machado, Christopher P. Schaffer, Victor H. Renteria
  • Publication number: 20110074213
    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.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 6, 2010
    Publication date: March 31, 2011
    Inventors: Christopher P. Schaffer, Thomas Rascon
  • Patent number: 7845984
    Abstract: A 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 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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2010
    Assignee: Pulse Engineering, Inc.
    Inventors: Christopher P. Schaffer, Thomas Rascon
  • Publication number: 20100284160
    Abstract: A device for electrically interconnecting and packaging electronic components. In one embodiment, a modular non-conducting base member having one or more component recesses and a plurality of lead channels formed therein is provided. At least one electronic component is disposed within the recess, and the wire leads of the component routed through the lead channels to a conductive lead terminal. A plurality of lead terminals, adapted to cooperate with the non-conducting base member, are received therein, and adapted to place the device in signal communication with an external printed circuit board. The modular non-conducting base members are assembled or stacked to form a unitary modular assembly. Methods for fabricating the device are also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 10, 2010
    Publication date: November 11, 2010
    Inventors: Aurelio J. Gutierrez, Russell L. Machado, Christopher P. Schaffer, Victor H. Renteria
  • Patent number: 7745257
    Abstract: A structure and a manufacturing method providing improved coplanarity accommodation and heat dissipation in a multi-chip module. One of the components in a multi-chip module (MCM) is provided with a recess formed in its respective top surface; and a film is applied so as to cover the top surfaces of the components and so that any excess film can enter into the recess. The recess is preferably a peripheral groove. Then when molding material is injected, it may surround and seal the side surfaces of the components, while not substantially covering the top surfaces that are covered by the film. Since the recess receives any excess film material that may be present, it may prevent such excess film material from covering the respective side surfaces of the corresponding component and creating a void between the component and the molding material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2010
    Assignee: International Rectifier Corporation
    Inventor: Christopher P. Schaffer
  • Patent number: 7708602
    Abstract: Connector apparatus and methods providing for “keep-out” functionality against improperly sized plugs or inserts are disclosed. In one embodiment the invention discloses a connector assembly incorporating an integrated keep-out feature associated with the housing. In one variant, the connector assembly comprises a modular jack connector, and the keep-out feature(s) is/are formed substantially within one or more the sidewall(s) of the housing, thereby simplifying its assembly and reducing its cost, as well as conserving on connector interior space. In another embodiment, the keep-out feature comprises an element disposed substantially within a plane parallel to the front face of the connector. Methods for manufacturing and using connectors with integrated keep-out features are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2010
    Assignee: Pulse Engineering, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas Rascon, Christopher P. Schaffer, Gary L. Hurd
  • Publication number: 20100013589
    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.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 15, 2009
    Publication date: January 21, 2010
    Inventors: Christopher P. Schaffer, Aurelio J. Gutierrez, Alan Lindner