Patents by Inventor Richard A. Wade
Richard A. Wade 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: 9995641Abstract: Apparatus and associated methods relate to a force sensor having flip-chip mounted force-sensing die having a force-sensing element fabricated on an unflipped top surface and an unflipped back surface being thinned so as to create a flexible diaphragm responsive to an externally applied force, wherein, when the force-sensing die is flipped and mounted, a predetermined space remains between the top surface of the force-sensing die and the mounting substrate it faces, the substrate presenting a deflection limitation for the deformation of the flexible membrane during a force event. In an illustrative embodiment, the force sensor may have a mechanical stop to precisely establish a predetermined deflection limitation. In some embodiments, the predetermined deflection limitation may advantageously limit the deflection of the flexible membrane so as not to deflect beyond a breaking point.Type: GrantFiled: October 1, 2014Date of Patent: June 12, 2018Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.Inventors: Richard A. Wade, James D. Cook
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Publication number: 20160273977Abstract: Apparatus and associated methods relate to a force sensor having flip-chip mounted force-sensing die having a force-sensing element fabricated on an unflipped top surface and an unflipped back surface being thinned so as to create a flexible diaphragm responsive to an externally applied force, wherein, when the force-sensing die is flipped and mounted, a predetermined space remains between the top surface of the force-sensing die and the mounting substrate it faces, the substrate presenting a deflection limitation for the deformation of the flexible membrane during a force event. In an illustrative embodiment, the force sensor may have a mechanical stop to precisely establish a predetermined deflection limitation. In some embodiments, the predetermined deflection limitation may advantageously limit the deflection of the flexible membrane so as not to deflect beyond a breaking point.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 1, 2014Publication date: September 22, 2016Inventors: Richard A. Wade, James D. Cook
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Patent number: 9164003Abstract: A force sensor system includes a housing assembly, a sensor, an actuator, and an actuator travel stop. The sensor is disposed within the housing assembly, and is configured to generate a sensor signal representative of a force supplied to the sensor. The actuator is disposed at least partially within, and is movable relative to, the housing assembly. The actuator extends from the housing assembly and is adapted to receive an input force. The actuator is configured, upon receipt of the input force, to move toward, and transfer the input force to, the sensor. The actuator travel stop is disposed within the housing assembly, and between the housing assembly and a portion of the actuator. The actuator travel stop is configured to be selectively engaged by the actuator and, upon engagement by the actuator, to limit movement of the actuator toward, and the input force transferred to, the sensor.Type: GrantFiled: October 11, 2012Date of Patent: October 20, 2015Assignee: HONEYWELL INTERNATIONAL INC.Inventor: Richard A. Wade
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Publication number: 20140102222Abstract: A force sensor system includes a housing assembly, a sensor, an actuator, and an actuator travel stop. The sensor is disposed within the housing assembly, and is configured to generate a sensor signal representative of a force supplied to the sensor. The actuator is disposed at least partially within, and is movable relative to, the housing assembly. The actuator extends from the housing assembly and is adapted to receive an input force. The actuator is configured, upon receipt of the input force, to move toward, and transfer the input force to, the sensor. The actuator travel stop is disposed within the housing assembly, and between the housing assembly and a portion of the actuator. The actuator travel stop is configured to be selectively engaged by the actuator and, upon engagement by the actuator, to limit movement of the actuator toward, and the input force transferred to, the sensor.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 11, 2012Publication date: April 17, 2014Applicant: HONEYWELL INTERNATIONAL INC.Inventor: Richard A. Wade
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Patent number: 8459125Abstract: The present disclosure relates to sensors including pressure sensors, humidity sensors, flow sensors, etc. In some cases, a sensor assembly may include a pressure port connected to a sensor unit, an electrical connector connected to the sensor unit and an outer housing encompassing at least portions of the pressure port, sensor unit and electrical connector. In some instances, the sensor unit may include pressure signal output terminals electrically connected to electrical terminals of the electrical connector.Type: GrantFiled: August 1, 2011Date of Patent: June 11, 2013Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.Inventors: Richard A. Wade, Ryan Jones, Todd Eckhardt, James A. Machir, Ian Bentley
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Patent number: 7759945Abstract: A sensor incorporates a dual range ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) for accurately sensing and measuring sensor input over extensive range along with an improved resolution. The sensor can incorporate an ASIC utilizing signals from a MEMS-based piezoresistive Wheatstone bridge. Signals can also come from capacitive pressure measurement sources. The signals can be converted to digital bit counts where calibration coefficients can be implemented to achieve high precision. The calibration coefficients corresponding to bit counts can be compared with transition points that are recorded into ASIC for effectively distinguishing different sensor ranges. The transition points can be stored in an EEPROM fabricated to suit ASIC applications.Type: GrantFiled: August 22, 2007Date of Patent: July 20, 2010Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.Inventor: Richard A. Wade
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Patent number: 7503221Abstract: An absolute pressure sensor includes a sense die with a reference chamber on a top side thereof. The reference chamber comprises a precisely fabricated beam that limits the travel of a diaphragm. The beam can be positioned in a cap or cover member of the sense die, thereby allowing the sense die diaphragm to move freely for a particular distance. Over this distance, the sense die will have one sensitivity. When the sense die is pressurized to a certain point, the diaphragm moves until it contacts the beam member in the cap or cover. When the diaphragm hits the beam, the sensitivity of the sense die changes, thereby allowing a smaller voltage out for the greater pressure in. Such an arrangement permits the sensor to provide a function that accurately measures low pressure and measures a higher pressure without utilizing a linear scale.Type: GrantFiled: November 8, 2006Date of Patent: March 17, 2009Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.Inventor: Richard A. Wade
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Publication number: 20090049887Abstract: A sensor incorporates a dual range ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) for accurately sensing and measuring sensor input over extensive range along with an improved resolution. The sensor can incorporate an ASIC utilizing signals from a MEMS-based piezoresistive Wheatstone bridge. Signals can also come from capacitive pressure measurement sources. The signals can be converted to digital bit counts where calibration coefficients can be implemented to achieve high precision. The calibration coefficients corresponding to bit counts can be compared with transition points that are recorded into ASIC for effectively distinguishing different sensor ranges. The transition points can be stored in an EEPROM fabricated to suit ASIC applications.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 22, 2007Publication date: February 26, 2009Inventor: Richard A. Wade
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Publication number: 20080105057Abstract: An absolute pressure sensor includes a sense die with a reference chamber on a top side thereof. The reference chamber comprises a precisely fabricated beam that limits the travel of a diaphragm. The beam can be positioned in a cap or cover member of the sense die, thereby allowing the sense die diaphragm to move freely for a particular distance. Over this distance, the sense die will have one sensitivity. When the sense die is pressurized to a certain point, the diaphragm moves until it contacts the beam member in the cap or cover. When the diaphragm hits the beam, the sensitivity of the sense die changes, thereby allowing a smaller voltage out for the greater pressure in. Such an arrangement permits the sensor to provide a function that accurately measures low pressure and measures a higher pressure without utilizing a linear scale.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 8, 2006Publication date: May 8, 2008Inventor: Richard A. Wade
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Patent number: 7077008Abstract: Differential pressure sensor systems and methods are disclosed, including an absolute pressure sensor composed of a plurality of pressure sense die for detecting sensed media, wherein each of the pressure sense die possess a back side and a front side and are respectively associated with a plurality of varying pressures. The sensed media are applied only at the backside of the pressure sense die, thereby preventing wire bonds and active regions associated with the front side of the pressure sense die from exposure to sensed media and attack from acids and abrasive chemicals associated with the sensed media.Type: GrantFiled: August 23, 2004Date of Patent: July 18, 2006Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.Inventors: Tuyen V. Pham, Gregory D. Parker, Phillip I. Lane, Richard A. Wade
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Patent number: 6953057Abstract: A control solenoid and valve includes a valve bodying having a magnetic assembly, hydraulic assembly, and a pressure regulation member. The magnetic assembly and pressure regulation member are formed respectively on offset axes preferably substantially parallel to one another. The hydraulic assembly exchanges forces created by the magnetic assembly and pressure regulation member. This design accomplishes a more compact arrangement. The pressure regulation member includes longitudinal cavity within the valve body situated on its corresponding axis. Within this cavity, a spool valve reciprocates relative to fluid pressure interacting with the spool valve and forces generated by the magnetic assembly. To accurately sense pressure of the fluid within this cavity and acting on the spool valve, a pressure sensor is positioned at an end of the longitudinal cavity bounded by an end of the spool valve.Type: GrantFiled: October 10, 2003Date of Patent: October 11, 2005Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.Inventor: Richard A. Wade
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Patent number: 6945120Abstract: An absolute pressure sensor is disclosed that includes a plurality of pressure sense die and a hermetically sealed cover located above the plurality of pressure sense die. A carrier can be provided to which the pressure sense die are mounted by a cured adhesive. The carrier and the pressure sense die can be attached to a circuit board populated with a plurality of surface mounted components for electrical connection to the absolute pressure sensor. An ASIC can also be provided for digitally calibrating the pressure sense die with temperature compensation, wherein the ASIC automatically controls a plurality of output modes thereof during calibration.Type: GrantFiled: August 23, 2004Date of Patent: September 20, 2005Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.Inventors: Philip J. Marcus, Michael J. Burkett, Phillip L. Lane, Richard A. Wade, Travis D. Wesley
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Patent number: 6481409Abstract: An electro-hydraulic control module for deactivating and reactivating intake and exhaust valves in an internal combustion engine comprising a series of stacked plates that form hydraulic valves, manifolding for supply, control and exhaust hydraulic flow and supports electromagnetic solenoids for activating the hydraulic valves. The plate structure is economical to manufacture and is advantageously small in vertical size. A bleed circuit keeps the hydraulic system relatively free of air to achieve fast, reliable and repeatable performance.Type: GrantFiled: March 29, 2001Date of Patent: November 19, 2002Assignee: Fasco Controls, Inc.Inventors: Richard A. Wade, Edgar E. Roberts
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Patent number: 6422206Abstract: A pressure regulating device for high pressure fuel systems includes a pressure sensing element attached directly to a pressure chamber. The pressure sensing element includes a semiconductor element that deflects in response to a deflection of a portion of the pressure caused by fuel pressure within the pressure chamber. A coil is electrically connected with the pressure sensing element and is configured to generate a magnetic field that moves a magnetic armature to control fuel pressure.Type: GrantFiled: May 30, 2001Date of Patent: July 23, 2002Assignee: Fasco Controls CorporationInventors: Richard A. Wade, Paul P. M. Beuger
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Patent number: 6367334Abstract: A pressure regulating device for high pressure fuel systems includes a pressure sensing element attached directly to a pressure chamber. The pressure sensing element includes a semiconductor element that deflects in response to a deflection of a portion of the pressure caused by fuel pressure within the pressure chamber. A coil is electrically connected with the pressure sensing element and is configured to generate a magnetic field that moves a magnetic armature to control fuel pressure.Type: GrantFiled: May 30, 2001Date of Patent: April 9, 2002Assignee: Fasco Control CorporationInventors: Richard A. Wade, Paul P. M. Beuger
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Patent number: 6298731Abstract: A pressure regulating device for high pressure fuel systems includes a pressure sensing element attached directly to a pressure chamber. The pressure sensing element includes a semiconductor element that deflects in response to a deflection of a portion of the pressure caused by fuel pressure within the pressure chamber. A coil is electrically connected with the pressure sensing element and is configured to generate a magnetic field that moves a magnetic armature to control fuel pressure.Type: GrantFiled: August 18, 1999Date of Patent: October 9, 2001Assignee: Fasco Controls CorporationInventors: Richard A. Wade, Paul P. M. Beuger
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Publication number: 20010023616Abstract: A pressure regulating device for high pressure fuel systems includes a pressure sensing element attached directly to a pressure chamber. The pressure sensing element includes a semiconductor element that deflects in response to a deflection of a portion of the pressure caused by fuel pressure within the pressure chamber. A coil is electrically connected with the pressure sensing element and is configured to generate a magnetic field that moves a magnetic armature to control fuel pressure.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 30, 2001Publication date: September 27, 2001Inventors: Richard A. Wade, Paul P.M. Beuger
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Patent number: 6155233Abstract: A pressure regulating device for high pressure diesel fuel systems includes a pressure sensing element attached directly to a wall adjacent a fuel inlet passageway that generates electrical signals responsive to stresses imposed on the wall by fuel pressure within the fuel inlet passageway. The pressure sensing element includes a semiconductor element that deflects in response to a deflection of a portion of the pressure caused by fuel pressure within fuel inlet passageway. A coil is electrically connected with the pressure sensing element and is configured to generate a magnetic field that moves a magnetic armature to control fuel pressure.Type: GrantFiled: September 7, 1999Date of Patent: December 5, 2000Assignee: FASCO Controls Corp.Inventors: Richard A. Wade, Thomas K. James, William P. Page, Paul P. M. Beuger, Joseph A. Stain
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Patent number: 6036167Abstract: Solenoid-actuated control valves having low hysteresis include an annular flux housing with an axial bore extending therethrough. A coil configured to generate a magnetic field is disposed within the flux housing. A magnetic pole piece is disposed within the flux housing axial bore. A magnetic armature is slidably secured within the flux housing axial bore. A spring, positioned between the pole piece and armature, is configured to urge the armature away from the pole piece. A spool valve, slidably secured within a spool sleeve, is mechanically coupled with the armature such that the spool valve follows movement of the armature as a slave.Type: GrantFiled: August 25, 1998Date of Patent: March 14, 2000Assignee: Fasco Controls Corp.Inventor: Richard A. Wade
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Patent number: 5282604Abstract: A pressure control device, preferably for use in a control system of an automatic transmission of a motor vehicle, is shown as having a solenoid motor assembly the armature of which, through a cooperating servo orifice, is effective for varying the magnitude of pressure of a fluid medium acting upon a spool slave-like valving member. The spool valving member has at least two cylindrical axially spaced valving portions with one of such valving portions having a diametrical dimension substantially greater than that of the other of the at least two cylindrical axially spaced valving portions.Type: GrantFiled: November 4, 1992Date of Patent: February 1, 1994Assignee: Coltec Industries Inc.Inventor: Richard A. Wade