Patents by Inventor Christopher R. Yahnker
Christopher R. Yahnker 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).
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Patent number: 11591906Abstract: A cutting tool with a cutting region and a connecting support region where the support region is designed to connect to an external motor assembly. The cutting tool is also has a porous region that is integrated within a portion of the tool such that as the tool cuts material the porous region can allow samples of the cut material to permeate into an internal chamber of the tool. Once in the internal chamber material samples can be analyzed in-situ for direct composition analysis.Type: GrantFiled: March 9, 2020Date of Patent: February 28, 2023Assignee: California Institute of TechnologyInventors: Christopher R. Yahnker, Mark S. Anderson, Douglas C. Hofmann, Morgan Hendry, Samad A. Firdosy, Andre M. Pate, Luis Phillipe C.F. Tosi
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Patent number: 11400613Abstract: A cutting tool with a plurality of cutting elements connected to a support structure wherein a portion of the support structure is configured to flex or bend based on the rotational frequency of the cutting tool. The rotational frequency of the cutting tool is a product of the design and composition of the tool.Type: GrantFiled: March 2, 2020Date of Patent: August 2, 2022Assignee: California Institute of TechnologyInventors: Douglas C. Hofmann, Morgan Hendry, Samad A. Firdosy, Andre M. Pate, Christopher R. Yahnker, Cecily M. Sunday
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Patent number: 11073155Abstract: A method of operating a pumping system for an aquatic application based upon performance of multiple water operations is disclosed. The method includes providing a pump and a motor coupled to the pump, and a controller including a variable speed drive that is in communication with the motor. The method also includes: operating the motor in accordance with a first water operation, wherein the first water operation includes a first start time, end time, and water flow rate; operating the motor in accordance with a second water operation, wherein the second water operation includes a second start time, end time, and water flow rate; and altering the first water operation in response to performance of the second water operation.Type: GrantFiled: March 29, 2018Date of Patent: July 27, 2021Assignees: Pentair Water Pool and Spa, Inc., Danfoss Power Electronics A/SInventors: Robert W. Stiles, Jr., Lars Hoffmann Berthelsen, Ronald B. Robol, Christopher R. Yahnker, Einar Kjartan Runarsson
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Publication number: 20210164477Abstract: A pumping system including a pump, a motor coupled to the pump, an automation system, and a pump controller located remotely from the automation system. The pump controller is coupled to at least one pump and the motor, and the pump controller is in digital communication with the motor, the automation system, and at least one auxiliary device. The pump controller transmits data to, and receives data from, the automation system and at least one auxiliary device over at least one communication link and operates the motor based on information entered into the automation system and received from the automation system. The pump controller selectively alters an operation of the motor based on the information received from one of the automation system or parameters received from the at least one auxiliary device.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 15, 2021Publication date: June 3, 2021Inventors: Robert W. Stiles, JR., Lars Hoffmann Berthelsen, Ronald B. Robol, Christopher R. Yahnker, Daniel J. Hruby, Kevin Murphy, Edward Brown, David MacCallum, Dennis Dunn, Kenneth N. Clack, Einar Kjartan Runarsson, Alberto Morando
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Publication number: 20210108643Abstract: An auxiliary device control system for a pool or spa. The auxiliary device control system includes a control system with a user interface, a pump coupled to a swimming pool and a motor coupled to the pump, a filter arrangement, a heater, a water dispersion device, a chlorinator having a chlorinator communication panel, and a lighting device. The pump has an onboard pump controller. The heater has a heater communication panel. The control system is configured to be communicatively coupled to the onboard pump controller, the heater communication panel, the water dispersion device, the chlorinator communication panel, and the lighting device. The user interface includes an LCD display configured to receive input parameters associated with the pump, the heater, the water dispersion device, the chlorinator, the lighting device, and a vacuum.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 22, 2020Publication date: April 15, 2021Inventors: Robert W. Stiles, JR., Lars Hoffmann Berthelsen, Ronald B. Robol, Christopher R. Yahnker, Daniel J. Hruby, Kevin Murphy, Edward Brown, David MacCallum, Dennis Dunn, Kenneth N. Clack, Einar Kjartan Runarsson, Alberto Morando
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Patent number: 10871163Abstract: A system includes a motor and a control system operating as a master controller with respect to at least one function, the control system including an automation system with a user interface having a display connected to the automation system. A controller is located remotely from the control system and coupled to a pump or the motor. The controller operating as a slave controller with respect to the at least one function when connected to the control system. The controller is in communication with the motor and the control system, and transmits information to and receives information from the control system over at least one communication link. The controller operates independently to control the motor when disconnected from the control system.Type: GrantFiled: December 20, 2010Date of Patent: December 22, 2020Assignees: Pentair Water Pool and Spa, Inc., Danfoss Power Electronics A/SInventors: Robert W. Stiles, Jr., Lars Hoffmann Berthelsen, Ronald B. Robol, Christopher R. Yahnker, Daniel J. Hruby, Kevin Murphy, Edward Brown, David MacCallum, Dennis Dunn, Kenneth N. Clack, Einar Kjartan Runarsson, Alberto Morando
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Publication number: 20200284146Abstract: A cutting tool with a cutting region and a connecting support region where the support region is designed to connect to an external motor assembly. The cutting tool is also has a porous region that is integrated within a portion of the tool such that as the tool cuts material the porous region can allow samples of the cut material to permeate into an internal chamber of the tool. Once in the internal chamber material samples can be analyzed in-situ for direct composition analysis.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 9, 2020Publication date: September 10, 2020Applicant: California Institute of TechnologyInventors: Christopher R. Yahnker, Mark S. Anderson, Douglas C. Hofmann, Morgan Hendry, Samad A. Firdosy, Andre M. Pate, Luis C.F. Tosi
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Publication number: 20200282582Abstract: A cutting tool with a plurality of cutting elements connected to a support structure wherein a portion of the support structure is configured to flex or bend based on the rotational frequency of the cutting tool. The rotational frequency of the cutting tool is a product of the design and composition of the tool.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 2, 2020Publication date: September 10, 2020Applicant: California Institute of TechnologyInventors: Douglas C. Hofmann, Morgan Hendry, Samad A. Firdosy, Andre M. Pate, Christopher R. Yahnker, Cecily M. Sunday
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Patent number: 10240606Abstract: A pumping system for moving water of a swimming pool includes a water pump, a variable speed motor, and an arrangement for controlling the variable speed motor. The pumping system further includes an auxiliary device operably connected to the arrangement for controlling, which is capable of receiving a parameter from the auxiliary device. The arrangement for controlling is capable of independently controlling the variable speed motor without receipt of a parameter from the auxiliary device. In addition or alternatively, the arrangement for controlling is operable to selectively alter operation of the motor based upon the parameter.Type: GrantFiled: October 9, 2014Date of Patent: March 26, 2019Assignees: Pentair Water Pool and Spa, Inc., Danfoss Drives A/SInventors: Robert W. Stiles, Jr., Lars Hoffmann Berthelsen, Ronald B. Robol, Christopher R. Yahnker, Daniel J. Hruby, Kevin Murphy, Edward Brown, David MacCallum, Dennis Dunn, Kenneth Clack, Einar Kjartan Runarsson, Alberto Morando
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Publication number: 20180216621Abstract: A method of operating a pumping system for an aquatic application based upon performance of multiple water operations is disclosed. The method includes providing a pump and a motor coupled to the pump, and a controller including a variable speed drive that is in communication with the motor. The method also includes: operating the motor in accordance with a first water operation, wherein the first water operation includes a first start time, end time, and water flow rate: operating the motor in accordance with a second water operation, wherein the second water operation includes a second start time, end time, and water flow rate; and altering the first water operation in response to performance of the second water operation.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 29, 2018Publication date: August 2, 2018Inventors: Robert W. Stiles, JR., Lars Hoffmann Berthelsen, Ronald B. Robol, Christopher R. Yahnker, Einar Kjartan Runarsson
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Publication number: 20150030463Abstract: A pumping system for moving water of a swimming pool includes a water pump, a variable speed motor, and an arrangement for controlling the variable speed motor. The pumping system further includes an auxiliary device operably connected to the arrangement for controlling, and an arrangement for providing two-way communication between the arrangement for controlling and the auxiliary device. The arrangement for controlling is capable of receiving a parameter from the auxiliary device through the arrangement for providing two-way communication. In one example, the arrangement for controlling is capable of independently controlling the variable speed motor without receipt of a parameter from the auxiliary device. In addition or alternatively, the arrangement for controlling is operable to selectively alter operation of the motor based upon the parameter.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 9, 2014Publication date: January 29, 2015Inventors: Robert W. Stiles, Jr., Lars Hoffmann Berthelsen, Ronald B. Robol, Christopher R. Yahnker, Daniel J. Hruby, Kevin Murphy, Edward Brown, David MacCallum, Dennis Dunn, Kenneth Clack, Einar Kjartan Runarsson, Alberto Morando
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Patent number: 8840376Abstract: The present invention provides a pumping system for moving water of a swimming pool, including a water pump and a variable speed motor. In one example, a target volume amount of water and an operational time period is provided, and the operational time period is altered based upon a volume of water moved. In another example, operation of the motor is altered based upon the volume of water moved. In addition or alternatively, a target flow rate of water to be moved by the water pump is determined based upon the target volume amount and a time period. In addition or alternatively, a plurality of operations are performed on the water, and a total volume of water moved by the pump is determined. In addition or alternatively, an optimized flow rate value is determined based upon power consumption.Type: GrantFiled: March 29, 2010Date of Patent: September 23, 2014Assignee: Pentair Water Pool and Spa, Inc.Inventors: Robert W. Stiles, Jr., Lars Hoffmann Berthelsen, Ronald B. Robol, Christopher R. Yahnker, Einar Kjartan Runarsson
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Patent number: 8500413Abstract: The present invention provides a pumping system for moving water of a swimming pool, including a water pump and a variable speed motor. In one example, a target volume amount of water and an operational time period is provided, and the operational time period is altered based upon a volume of water moved. In another example, operation of the motor is altered based upon the volume of water moved. In addition or alternatively, a target flow rate of water to be moved by the water pump is determined based upon the target volume amount and a time period. In addition or alternatively, a plurality of operations are performed on the water, and a total volume of water moved by the pump is determined. In addition or alternatively, an optimized flow rate value is determined based upon power consumption.Type: GrantFiled: March 29, 2010Date of Patent: August 6, 2013Assignees: Pentair Water Pool and Spa, Inc., Danfoss Low Power Drives A/SInventors: Robert W. Stiles, Jr., Lars Hoffmann Berthelsen, Ronald B. Robol, Christopher R. Yahnker, Einar Kjartan Runarsson
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Patent number: 8465262Abstract: Embodiments of the invention provide a pumping system for at least one aquatic application controlled by a user. The pumping system includes a pump, a variable speed motor, a memory, and a controller. The pumping system includes a user interface with a first speed button, a second speed button, an increase button, and a decrease button. The buttons provide an actuate and release operation, a first touch and hold operation, and a second touch and hold operation. The controller operates the variable speed motor at a substantially constant speed based on a current speed value selected by the user using the buttons.Type: GrantFiled: October 24, 2011Date of Patent: June 18, 2013Assignee: Pentair Water Pool and Spa, Inc.Inventors: Robert W. Stiles, Jr., Lars Hoffmann Berthelsen, Ronald B. Robol, Christopher R. Yahnker, Daniel J. Hruby, Kevin Murphy, Einar Kjartan Runarsson, Arne Fink Hansen, Florin Lungeanu, Peter Westermann-Rasmussen
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Publication number: 20130032078Abstract: A sea glider that includes a pressure hull and fore and aft fairings encapsulating the pressure hull. At least one of the fore and aft fairings defines an Ogive profile.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 6, 2012Publication date: February 7, 2013Applicant: iRobot CorporationInventors: Christopher R. Yahnker, Robert Eugene Hughes, Marc Jeremy Hoffman, Amber Kardes
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Patent number: 8323262Abstract: Certain aspects of the invention relate to an applicator, and methods of use thereof, which can house multiple component formulations in separate material receptacles, which can then be easily reconstituted at time of use without any assembly by the user. A device of the invention can be used for, but is not limited to, applying hydrogel formulations to dura mater, abdominal tissue in hernia repair, tissues near the spine, lung tissue, intestinal tissue, and any of the internal tissues. A device of the invention can be configured to apply a spray or a stream of liquid formulation onto a surface to be treated. A device of the invention can be configured to deliver the formulation through an endoscope or laparoscope.Type: GrantFiled: July 8, 2009Date of Patent: December 4, 2012Assignee: HyperBranch Medical Technology, Inc.Inventors: Keith R. D'Alessio, Jeffrey G. Clark, Roy R. B. Attride, Wai N. Chin, Robert M. Colonna, Tomas Matusaitis, Todd J. Taylor, Christopher R. Yahnker
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Publication number: 20120100010Abstract: Embodiments of the invention provide a pumping system for at least one aquatic application controlled by a user. The pumping system includes a pump, a variable speed motor, a memory, and a controller. The pumping system includes a user interface with a first speed button, a second speed button, an increase button, and a decrease button. The buttons provide an actuate and release operation, a first touch and hold operation, and a second touch and hold operation. The controller operates the variable speed motor at a substantially constant speed based on a current speed value selected by the user using the buttons.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 24, 2011Publication date: April 26, 2012Inventors: Robert W. Stiles, JR., Lars Hoffmann Berthelsen, Ronald B. Robol, Christopher R. Yahnker, Daniel J. Hruby, Kevin Murphy, Einar Kjartan Runarsson, Arne Fink Hansen, Florin Lungeanu, Peter Westermann-Rasmussen
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Patent number: 8043070Abstract: A pumping system for moving water of a swimming pool includes a water pump, an infinitely variable speed motor, and an arrangement for operating the motor. In one example, the pumping system includes a memory configured to store a plurality of retained speed values, an arrangement for providing a plurality of retained speed values to the memory, and an arrangement for reading a selected one of the plurality of retained speed values from the memory. In addition or alternatively, the pumping system includes a storage medium for digitally storing a plurality of pre-established motor speed values and an arrangement for receiving input from a user to select one of the pre-established motor speeds. In addition or alternatively, the pumping system further includes an arrangement for restarting operation of the motor at a previously selected speed value when power supplied to the motor is interrupted during operation of the motor. A method for controlling the pumping system is also provided.Type: GrantFiled: December 11, 2006Date of Patent: October 25, 2011Assignees: Pentair Water Pool and Spa, Inc., Danfoss Low Power Drives, a Division of DanfossInventors: Robert W. Stiles, Jr., Lars Hoffmann Berthelsen, Ronald B. Robol, Christopher R. Yahnker, Daniel J. Hruby, Kevin Murphy, Einar Kjartan Runarsson, Arne Fink Hansen, Florin Lungeanu, Peter Westermann-Rasmussen
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Patent number: 8019479Abstract: A pumping system includes a pump for moving water. In one aspect, this is in connection with performance of an operation. The system includes a variable speed motor operatively connected to drive the pump. A value indicative of flow rate of water is determined and the motor is controlled to adjust the flow rate indicative value toward a constant. A value indicative of flow pressure is determined and the motor is controlled to adjust the flow pressure indicative value toward a constant. A selection is made between flow rate control and flow pressure control. In another aspect, the pump is controlled to perform a first operation, and is operated to perform a second water operation. Control of operation of the pump to perform the first water operation is altered in response to operation of the pump to perform the second operation.Type: GrantFiled: November 23, 2005Date of Patent: September 13, 2011Assignee: Pentair Water Pool and Spa, Inc.Inventors: Robert W. Stiles, Lars Hoffmann Berthelsen, Ronald B. Robol, Christopher R. Yahnker, Everett Cox, Donald Steen, Kevin Murphy, Walter J. Woodcock, Jr., Daniel J. Hruby, Peter Westermann-Rasmussen, Gert Kjaer, Einar Kjartan Runarsson, Arne Fink Hansen, Alberto Morando, Florin Lungeanu, Nils-Ole Harvest
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Publication number: 20110091329Abstract: A pumping system for moving water of a swimming pool includes a water pump, a variable speed motor, and an arrangement for controlling the variable speed motor. The pumping system further includes an auxiliary device operably connected to the arrangement for controlling, and an arrangement for providing two-way communication between the arrangement for controlling and the auxiliary device. The arrangement for controlling is capable of receiving a parameter from the auxiliary device through the arrangement for providing two-way communication. In one example, the arrangement for controlling is capable of independently controlling the variable speed motor without receipt of a parameter from the auxiliary device. In addition or alternatively, the arrangement for controlling is operable to selectively alter operation of the motor based upon the parameter.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 20, 2010Publication date: April 21, 2011Inventors: Robert W. Stiles, JR., Lars Hoffmann Berthelsen, Ronald B. Robol, Christopher R. Yahnker, Daniel J. Hruby, Kevin Murphy, Edward Brown, David MacCallum, Dennis Dunn, Kenneth N. Clack, Einar Kjartan Runarsson, Alberto Morando