Patents by Inventor John E. Fulmer

John E. Fulmer 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: 7266470
    Abstract: A method, that arbitrates when each of a plurality of sensors can perform an object detection procedure, assigns a different binary address to each sensor. Each bit in the binary address is sequentially selected. While a bit is selected, every sensor applies a signal to a communication link, which signal has a first or a second logic level as denoted by the value of the selected bit of that sensor's address. Those sensors applying the first logic level to the communication link determine if another sensor is applying the second logic level, in which case those proximity sensors suspend participation in the arbitration method. After all the bits have been selected, only one sensor remains active and that sensor is allowed to perform the object detection procedure. Thereafter, each proximity sensor resumes participation in the arbitration method with a different address and the process is repeated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2007
    Assignee: Eaton Corporation
    Inventor: John E. Fulmer