Patents by Inventor Daniel John Whittle
Daniel John Whittle 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: 10680383Abstract: Embodiments of electrode systems having non-uniform spacing between electrodes along the axial direction for track lighting and other linear systems are disclosed. These systems may be used to provide directional flexibility for removable lighting fixtures with an asymmetric light distribution by providing a range of module position and angular mounting options. Some embodiments include electrodes which overlap continuously or at a series of discrete crossover overlap nodes to provide lateral support without external spacers. Electrode segments may be electrically and mechanically attached at overlap nodes to create extended two- and three-dimensional structures with localized planar areas. Embodiments with preferential bending regions provide additional directional capability.Type: GrantFiled: October 2, 2018Date of Patent: June 9, 2020Assignee: Apex Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Charles Albert Rudisill, Daniel John Whittle
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Publication number: 20190036272Abstract: Embodiments of electrode systems having non-uniform spacing between electrodes along the axial direction for track lighting and other linear systems are disclosed. These systems may be used to provide directional flexibility for removable lighting fixtures with an asymmetric light distribution by providing a range of module position and angular mounting options. Some embodiments include electrodes which overlap continuously or at a series of discrete crossover overlap nodes to provide lateral support without external spacers. Electrode segments may be electrically and mechanically attached at overlap nodes to create extended two- and three-dimensional structures with localized planar areas. Embodiments with preferential bending regions provide additional directional capability.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 2, 2018Publication date: January 31, 2019Inventors: Charles Albert Rudisill, Daniel John Whittle
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Patent number: 10132452Abstract: Suspended and planar electrode systems and methods are disclosed for applications such as lighting. Some embodiments incorporate removable twist-on elements providing uniform spacing between cable rod or strip electrodes extending through space. Multiple electrodes may be attached simultaneously. Twist-on elements may contain light emitting elements electrically attached to parallel electrodes. Embodiments may include mounting features for fixing electrodes above a mounting surface. Some embodiments include electrically insulated electrodes and modules with insulation displacement contact elements and environmental sealing. Some embodiments include polymeric insulation on both the module and electrodes providing environmental sealing when modules are disconnected from electrodes. Electrodes in sealed systems may be suspended with spacers or built into planar arrays in walls, ceiling or furniture.Type: GrantFiled: July 18, 2016Date of Patent: November 20, 2018Assignee: APEX TECHNOLOGIES, INC.Inventors: Charles Albert Rudisill, Daniel John Whittle
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Patent number: 9709258Abstract: A lighting system including modules containing LEDs or other electroluminescent devices and loosely constrained magnetic structures at least partially contained within cavities in the module substrate that are connected to fixtures under magnetic force. The loosely constrained magnetic structures accommodate mechanical variations in the system and provide a method to connect modules mechanically, electrically and thermally to different fixtures or positions in fixtures without tools. The relatively short distance separating magnetic structures provides high connection forces with the use of relatively small magnets. Magnets and electrical contacts are not located directly between the LED subassembly and the fixture, which provides higher thermal conductivity pathways to remove heat from the LEDs. Biasing members may be used to increase thermal contact. Magnetic structures may, but are not required, to conduct electricity.Type: GrantFiled: February 11, 2014Date of Patent: July 18, 2017Assignee: APEX TECHNOLOGIES, INC.Inventors: Charles Albert Rudisill, Daniel John Whittle
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Patent number: 9636600Abstract: A magnetic tile construction set is disclosed that may be used to construct extended 3-dimensional structures. In one embodiment, plastic magnets are attached to multiple edges of a lightweight core. The magnets have a width and length comparable to the thickness of the core and a length that is an order of magnitude longer than the thickness of the core. Tiles may be attached to one another at the tile edges through magnetic forces that do not vary by more than a factor of two over the range of angles from 45 degrees to 180 degrees.Type: GrantFiled: February 14, 2013Date of Patent: May 2, 2017Assignee: APEX TECHNOLOGIES, INC.Inventors: Charles A. Rudisill, Daniel John Whittle
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Patent number: 9583871Abstract: Disclosed are interposer electrical connector embodiments including magnetic components used to facilitate interconnection of peripheral devices to standard input/output, or “I/O”, connectors (such as USB connectors) of devices such as mobile communications products (e.g. smart phones, tablets, and personal computers). The interposer connector embodiments disclosed include those in which a plurality of discrete permanent magnets are arranged with magnetic poles aligned in the same orientation perpendicular to and on one side of the electrical interface. Other embodiments include a plurality of bar permanent magnets located on opposite sides of the interface with all poles of the same type directed at the interface, but each one opposing a ferromagnetic element. These arrangements provide self-aligning capabilities useful for electrical connections that have restrictions on visibility or connection approach geometries.Type: GrantFiled: January 29, 2016Date of Patent: February 28, 2017Assignee: APEX TECHNOLOGIES, INC.Inventors: Charles Albert Rudisill, Daniel John Whittle
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Publication number: 20160327222Abstract: Suspended and planar electrode systems and methods are disclosed for applications such as lighting. Some embodiments incorporate removable twist-on elements providing uniform spacing between cable rod or strip electrodes extending through space. Multiple electrodes may be attached simultaneously. Twist-on elements may contain light emitting elements electrically attached to parallel electrodes. Embodiments may include mounting features for fixing electrodes above a mounting surface. Some embodiments include electrically insulated electrodes and modules with insulation displacement contact elements and environmental sealing. Some embodiments include polymeric insulation on both the module and electrodes providing environmental sealing when modules are disconnected from electrodes. Electrodes in sealed systems may be suspended with spacers or built into planar arrays in walls, ceiling or furniture.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 18, 2016Publication date: November 10, 2016Applicant: Apex Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Charles Albert Rudisill, Daniel John Whittle
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Patent number: 9303854Abstract: An improved electrical rail system for removable and repositionable lighting or other electrical fixtures is disclosed in which electrical interface contacts are interleaved along the rail axis to provide a wide range of fixture pivoting angles around the axis and linear translation along the axis of the rail assembly. Track systems disclosed include linear electrode rails with substantially circumferential contacts configured to provide pivoting of luminaires around the rail in excess of 180 degrees to provide lighting fixture directional flexibility. Helical rail systems are also disclosed with a plurality of interleaved electrical contacts on the surface that coil around the axis of the rail providing continuous pivoting of fixtures. Embodiments include rails with axial symmetry that may be bent in directions perpendicular to the rail axis. Embodiments provide fixture functional switching through movement in a first direction followed by further movement of the fixture without functional switching.Type: GrantFiled: March 11, 2014Date of Patent: April 5, 2016Assignee: APEX TECHNOLOGIES, INC.Inventors: Charles Albert Rudisill, Daniel John Whittle
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Patent number: 9300081Abstract: Disclosed are interposer electrical connector embodiments including magnetic components used to facilitate interconnection of peripheral devices to standard input/output, or “I/O”, connectors (such as USB connectors) of devices such as mobile communications products (e.g. smart phones, tablets, and personal computers). The interposer connector embodiments disclosed include those in which a plurality of discrete permanent magnets are arranged with magnetic poles aligned in the same orientation perpendicular to and on one side of the electrical interface. Other embodiments include a plurality of bar permanent magnets located on opposite sides of the interface with all poles of the same type directed at the interface, but each one opposing a ferromagnetic element. These arrangements provide self-aligning capabilities useful for electrical connections that have restrictions on visibility or connection approach geometries.Type: GrantFiled: June 5, 2013Date of Patent: March 29, 2016Inventors: Charles Albert Rudisill, Daniel John Whittle
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Publication number: 20140268835Abstract: An improved electrical rail system for removable and repositionable lighting or other electrical fixtures is disclosed in which electrical interface contacts are interleaved along the rail axis to provide a wide range of fixture pivoting angles around the axis and linear translation along the axis of the rail assembly. Track systems disclosed include linear electrode rails with substantially circumferential contacts configured to provide pivoting of luminaires around the rail in excess of 180 degrees to provide lighting fixture directional flexibility. Helical rail systems are also disclosed with a plurality of interleaved electrical contacts on the surface that coil around the axis of the rail providing continuous pivoting of fixtures. Embodiments include rails with axial symmetry that may be bent in directions perpendicular to the rail axis. Embodiments provide fixture functional switching through movement in a first direction followed by further movement of the fixture without functional switching.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 11, 2014Publication date: September 18, 2014Applicant: Apex Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Charles Albert Rudisill, Daniel John Whittle
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Publication number: 20140153265Abstract: A lighting system including modules containing LEDs or other electroluminescent devices and loosely constrained magnetic structures at least partially contained within cavities in the module substrate that are connected to fixtures under magnetic force. The loosely constrained magnetic structures accommodate mechanical variations in the system and provide a method to connect modules mechanically, electrically and thermally to different fixtures or positions in fixtures without tools. The relatively short distance separating magnetic structures provides high connection forces with the use of relatively small magnets. Magnets and electrical contacts are not located directly between the LED subassembly and the fixture, which provides higher thermal conductivity pathways to remove heat from the LEDs. Biasing members may be used to increase thermal contact. Magnetic structures may, but are not required, to conduct electricity.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 11, 2014Publication date: June 5, 2014Applicant: APEX TECHNOLOGIES, INC.Inventors: Charles Albert Rudisill, Daniel John Whittle
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Patent number: 8651711Abstract: A lighting system including modules containing LEDs or other electroluminescent devices and loosely constrained magnetic structures at least partially contained within cavities in the module substrate that are connected to fixtures under magnetic force. The loosely constrained magnetic structures accommodate mechanical variations in the system and provide a method to connect modules mechanically, electrically and thermally to different fixtures or positions in fixtures without tools. The relatively short distance separating magnetic structures provides high connection forces with the use of relatively small magnets. Magnets and electrical contacts are not located directly between the LED subassembly and the fixture, which provides higher thermal conductivity pathways to remove heat from the LEDs. Biasing members may be used to increase thermal contact. Magnetic structures may, but are not required, to conduct electricity.Type: GrantFiled: August 17, 2011Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: Apex Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Charles A. Rudisill, Daniel John Whittle
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Publication number: 20130273752Abstract: Disclosed are interposer electrical connector embodiments including magnetic components used to facilitate interconnection of peripheral devices to standard input/output, or “I/O”, connectors (such as USB connectors) of devices such as mobile communications products (e.g. smart phones, tablets, and personal computers). The interposer connector embodiments disclosed include those in which a plurality of discrete permanent magnets are arranged with magnetic poles aligned in the same orientation perpendicular to and on one side of the electrical interface. Other embodiments include a plurality of bar permanent magnets located on opposite sides of the interface with all poles of the same type directed at the interface, but each one opposing a ferromagnetic element. These arrangements provide self-aligning capabilities useful for electrical connections that have restrictions on visibility or connection approach geometries.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 5, 2013Publication date: October 17, 2013Applicant: APEX TECHNOLOGIES, INC.Inventors: Charles Albert Rudisill, Daniel John Whittle
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Patent number: 8491312Abstract: A flexible magnetic interconnect is disclosed. In one embodiment, an apparatus includes a module having a recess therein. A magnetic structure is moveable within the recess and a flexible circuit cooperates with the module to retain the magnetic structure within the recess. Movement of the magnetic structure is caused by magnetic attraction between the magnetic structure and an external magnetic structure. The flexible circuit includes a compliant contact, which changes shape by movement of the magnetic structure.Type: GrantFiled: April 26, 2012Date of Patent: July 23, 2013Assignee: Apex Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Charles Albert Rudisill, Daniel John Whittle
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Publication number: 20120208378Abstract: A flexible magnetic interconnect is disclosed. In one embodiment, an apparatus includes a module having a recess therein. A magnetic structure is moveable within the recess and a flexible circuit cooperates with the module to retain the magnetic structure within the recess. Movement of the magnetic structure is caused by magnetic attraction between the magnetic structure and an external magnetic structure. The flexible circuit includes a compliant contact, which changes shape by movement of the magnetic structure.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 26, 2012Publication date: August 16, 2012Inventors: Charles Albert Rudisill, Daniel John Whittle
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Patent number: 8187006Abstract: A flexible magnetic interconnect is disclosed. In one embodiment, an apparatus includes a module having a recess therein. A magnetic structure is moveable within the recess and a flexible circuit cooperates with the module to retain the magnetic structure within the recess. Movement of the magnetic structure is caused by magnetic attraction between the magnetic structure and an external magnetic structure. The flexible circuit includes a compliant contact, which changes shape by movement of the magnetic structure.Type: GrantFiled: February 2, 2010Date of Patent: May 29, 2012Assignee: Apex Technologies, IncInventors: Charles Albert Rudisill, Daniel John Whittle
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Publication number: 20100197148Abstract: A flexible magnetic interconnect is disclosed. In one embodiment, an apparatus includes a module having a recess therein. A magnetic structure is moveable within the recess and a flexible circuit cooperates with the module to retain the magnetic structure within the recess. Movement of the magnetic structure is caused by magnetic attraction between the magnetic structure and an external magnetic structure. The flexible circuit includes a compliant contact, which changes shape by movement of the magnetic structure.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 2, 2010Publication date: August 5, 2010Applicant: APEX TECHNOLOGIES, INC.Inventors: Charles Albert Rudisill, Daniel John Whittle
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Patent number: 6262825Abstract: In accordance with the present invention, there are provided apparatus and methods useful for efficiently subjecting photosensitive materials to a relatively low energy pre-exposure using the electromagnetic energy during the non-imaging portion of the exposure process (i.e., a backscan beam exposure) prior to subjecting such materials to the main imaging exposure (i.e., an imagewise exposure). In a further aspect of the present invention, there are provided combinations and improvements useful for the enhanced imagewise exposure of photosensitive materials. In additional aspects of the present invention, there are provided methods of enhancing the imagewise exposure of photosensitive materials, imagewise exposed photosensitive material made according to such methods, methods for enhancing sensitivity of a photosensitive material for imagewise exposure, and photosensitive materials having enhanced sensitivity for imagewise exposure made according to these methods.Type: GrantFiled: August 24, 1999Date of Patent: July 17, 2001Assignees: Napp Systems, Inc., Cymbolic Sciences, Inc.Inventors: Gregory E. Mueller, Daniel John Whittle
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Patent number: 5822042Abstract: The photolithography tool of the present invention in its simplest embodiment includes an afocal lens system and a three-dimensional master or mask. The three-dimensional mask is located within the object space of the afocal lens system and is imaged onto a three-dimensional circuit carrier or substrate located within the imaging space of the afocal lens system. By using an afocal lens, with which persons skilled in instrumental optics are familiar, a system can be designed for which the object space is identical to the imaging space for unity magnification. As a result, a mask can be used in which the surface contour and pattern to be imaged is identical to the desired substrate surface and pattern, thereby simplifying mask design.Type: GrantFiled: November 12, 1992Date of Patent: October 13, 1998Assignee: International Business Machines CorporationInventors: Douglas Seymore Goodman, Charles Albert Rudisill, Daniel John Whittle
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Patent number: D943804Type: GrantFiled: September 11, 2018Date of Patent: February 15, 2022Assignee: Apex Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Charles Albert Rudisill, Daniel John Whittle