Patents by Inventor Robert Crofford

Robert Crofford 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).

  • Systems and methods for protecting vulnerable micro electro-mechanical system (MEMS) and electronic relay devices
    Patent number: 6671149
    Abstract: The present invention discloses systems and methods for protecting electronic devices (switching and non-switching) such as micro electro-mechanical system (MEMS) devices and solid state relays due to lightning exposure or electrical power surges. An over voltage protector and an over current protector are used to limit the exposure of high voltages and currents to the MEMS devices and solid-state relays. A relay or equivalent device is energized when a high current is sensed in the loop, which relay is used to protect the MEMS devices and solid state relays from damage. The relay can be controlled via software/hardware and works in conjunction with other components/devices in the overall systems. In this manner, any number of MEMS devices or solid state relays can be protected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2003
    Assignee: Turnstone Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Ramon C. W. Chea, Jr., P. Kingston Duffie, Harry Rodriguez, Robert Crofford