Patents by Inventor Patrick Ferran

Patrick Ferran 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).

  • Switch device with operating modes of capacitive proximity and mechanical actuation
    Patent number: 5270710
    Abstract: A switch device with two modes of operation includes at least one switch comprising, carried by a substrate, two conductive lands and an electrically conductive elastic capsule in contact with one land and, in the unoperated condition, overlying the other land so as to be capable of being urged into contact with the latter. An electrical signal from a source is applied to the capsule. A circuit measures variations of the signal due to the proximity of an electrically conductive object. The device can be used to implement matrix keyboards combining the functions of a conventional keypad and a tactile pad.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 1991
    Date of Patent: December 14, 1993
    Assignee: Sextant Avionique S.A.
    Inventors: Philippe Gaultier, Patrick Ferran, Patrick Vouillon