Patents by Inventor Willard Ferguson
Willard Ferguson 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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Publication number: 20190209939Abstract: A magnetic construction system comprised of plural multi-shaped structural bodies each containing one or more captured magnets, wherein each magnet is free to rotate within its respective retaining pocket to align in magnetic polarity with rotatable magnets in adjacent structural bodies. Surface geometry around each magnet may include a radial detent feature which provides lateral and rotational stability between magnetically coupled structural bodies, or a radial recess which allows free rotation of respective structural bodies about the polar axis of magnetic coupling.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 7, 2019Publication date: July 11, 2019Inventor: Joshua Willard Ferguson
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Patent number: 10173143Abstract: A magnetic construction system comprised of plural multi-shaped structural bodies each containing one or more captured magnets, wherein each magnet is free to rotate within its respective retaining pocket to align in magnetic polarity with rotatable magnets in adjacent structural bodies. Surface geometry around each magnet may include a radial detent feature which provides lateral and rotational stability between magnetically coupled structural bodies, or a radial recess which allows free rotation of respective structural bodies about the polar axis of magnetic coupling.Type: GrantFiled: January 30, 2014Date of Patent: January 8, 2019Inventor: Joshua Willard Ferguson
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Patent number: 9701210Abstract: A charging system for an electric vehicle includes: a power supply; a cable having first and second ends, the first end attached to the power supply, the cable comprising a charging conductor and a cooling conduit, each of which extends from the first end to the second end; and a connector attached to the second end of the cable, the connector having a form factor corresponding to a charge port of the electric vehicle; wherein the cooling conduit is adapted to convey a fluid that cools the charging conductor.Type: GrantFiled: March 21, 2016Date of Patent: July 11, 2017Assignee: TESLA, INC.Inventors: Yee Shan Woo, Christopher H. Van Dyke, Joseph Mardall, Christopher Newport, Joshua Willard Ferguson
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Publication number: 20160200206Abstract: A charging system for an electric vehicle includes: a power supply; a cable having first and second ends, the first end attached to the power supply, the cable comprising a charging conductor and a cooling conduit, each of which extends from the first end to the second end; and a connector attached to the second end of the cable, the connector having a form factor corresponding to a charge port of the electric vehicle; wherein the cooling conduit is adapted to convey a fluid that cools the charging conductor.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 21, 2016Publication date: July 14, 2016Inventors: Yee Shan Woo, Christopher H. VAN DYKE, Joseph MARDALL, Christopher Newport, Joshua Willard Ferguson
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Patent number: 9257825Abstract: The bus bar includes a first bus bar layer formed of a first generally uniform thickness of a first bus bar conductor; a first dielectric layer overlying a top surface of the first bus bar layer; and a second bus bar layer formed of a second generally uniform thickness of a second bus bar conductor overlying a top surface of the first dielectric layer and the top surface of the first bus bar layer wherein: the first bus bar layer includes a first via for receipt of a first electrical lead of an electrical component and a second via for receipt of a second electrical lead of the electrical component and wherein: the first dielectric layer and the second bus bar layer each include a via aligned with the first via wherein the first electrical lead is extendable from beneath the first bus bar layer through the first dielectric layer and through the second bus bar layer.Type: GrantFiled: February 24, 2014Date of Patent: February 9, 2016Assignee: Tesla Motors, Inc.Inventors: Nicholas R. Kalayjian, Joshua Willard Ferguson, Benjamin D. Dettmann, Ryan C. Kroeze, Michael R. Kubba, William T. Chi
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Publication number: 20140209344Abstract: The bus bar includes a first bus bar layer formed of a first generally uniform thickness of a first bus bar conductor; a first dielectric layer overlying a top surface of the first bus bar layer; and a second bus bar layer formed of a second generally uniform thickness of a second bus bar conductor overlying a top surface of the first dielectric layer and the top surface of the first bus bar layer wherein: the first bus bar layer includes a first via for receipt of a first electrical lead of an electrical component and a second via for receipt of a second electrical lead of the electrical component and wherein: the first dielectric layer and the second bus bar layer each include a via aligned with the first via wherein the first electrical lead is extendable from beneath the first bus bar layer through the first dielectric layer and through the second bus bar layer.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 24, 2014Publication date: July 31, 2014Applicant: Tesla Motors, Inc.Inventors: Nicholas R. KALAYJIAN, Joshua Willard Ferguson, Benjamin D. Dettmann, Ryan C. Kroeze, Michael R. Kubba, William T. Chi
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Publication number: 20140213139Abstract: A magnetic construction system comprised of plural multi-shaped structural bodies each containing one or more captured magnets, wherein each magnet is free to rotate within its respective retaining pocket to align in magnetic polarity with rotatable magnets in adjacent structural bodies. Surface geometry around each magnet may include a radial detent feature which provides lateral and rotational stability between magnetically coupled structural bodies, or a radial recess which allows free rotation of respective structural bodies about the polar axis of magnetic coupling.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 30, 2014Publication date: July 31, 2014Inventor: Joshua Willard Ferguson
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Patent number: 8720968Abstract: A door latching system for the door covering the charge port of an electric vehicle, or for the door covering the fuel filler port of a conventional vehicle, is provided. The door latching system is comprised of a ferromagnetic member attached to an interior surface of the door, and a latching assembly integrated into the port housing, where the latching assembly includes an assembly case, an electromagnet, and a permanent magnet that maintains the door in a closed position when the electromagnet is not energized and releases the door when the electromagnet is energized. The latching assembly may include a magnetic flux sensor that monitors when the port door is open or closed. The magnetic flux sensor may be coupled to a system controller that performs a preset response when the magnetic flux sensor determines that the door is open.Type: GrantFiled: May 29, 2012Date of Patent: May 13, 2014Assignee: Tesla Motors, Inc.Inventors: Daryl Zalan, Joshua Willard Ferguson, Troy Adam Nergaard, Nicholas Robert Kalayjian
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Patent number: 8686288Abstract: The bus bar includes a first bus bar layer formed of a first generally uniform thickness of a first bus bar conductor; a first dielectric layer overlying a top surface of the first bus bar layer; and a second bus bar layer formed of a second generally uniform thickness of a second bus bar conductor overlying a top surface of the first dielectric layer and the top surface of the first bus bar layer wherein: the first bus bar layer includes a first via for receipt of a first electrical lead of an electrical component and a second via for receipt of a second electrical lead of the electrical component and wherein: the first dielectric layer and the second bus bar layer each include a via aligned with the first via wherein the first electrical lead is extendable from beneath the first bus bar layer through the first dielectric layer and through the second bus bar layer.Type: GrantFiled: May 31, 2011Date of Patent: April 1, 2014Assignee: Tesla Motors, Inc.Inventors: Nicholas Robert Kalayjian, Joshua Willard Ferguson, Benjamin David Dettmann, Ryan Carter Kroeze, Michael Raj Kubba, William Thomas Chi
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Patent number: 8651875Abstract: A charge connector latching mechanism integrated into a vehicle's charge inlet is provided, where the latching mechanism includes a retractable latching pawl. The retractable pawl is configured to be positioned in at least a first, default position where the pawl extends through an inlet surface of the charge inlet, and a second position where the pawl is retracted and does not extend through the inlet surface. In the first position the retractable pawl prevents insertion of a charge connector into the charge inlet if the charge connector is uncoupled from the inlet, and prevents removal of the charge connector if the charge connector is coupled to the inlet. In the second position the retractable pawl allows insertion/withdrawal of the charge connector into/from the charge inlet. The front surface of the retractable pawl may include a nub configured to fit within a recess within the front face of the charge connector.Type: GrantFiled: August 18, 2012Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: Tesla Motors, Inc.Inventors: Joshua Willard Ferguson, Andrew David Baglino, Nicholas Robert Kalayjian
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Patent number: 8627860Abstract: A fuel delivery system and method of use are provided that may be used to open the door covering the charge port of an electric vehicle, or the door covering the fuel filler port of a conventional vehicle. The system includes a fuel coupler (e.g., a charging connector or a gas nozzle) designed to transfer fuel from the source to the vehicle via the vehicle's fuel port. The fuel coupler includes a switch that when toggled, causes a control signal to be wirelessly transmitted over a short distance. Upon receipt of the control signal by a receiver integrated into a vehicle that is in close proximity to the fuel port, an unlatching actuator within the vehicle unlatches the port door, thereby allowing it to open and provide port access.Type: GrantFiled: June 6, 2012Date of Patent: January 14, 2014Assignee: Tesla Motors, Inc.Inventors: Joshua Willard Ferguson, Daryl Zalan, Andrew Dai, Troy Adam Nergaard, Nicholas Robert Kalayjian, Scott Ira Kohn
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Patent number: 8579635Abstract: A vehicle charge inlet integrated into a port assembly surface is provided. The charge inlet includes an inlet housing with a perimeter that is curvilinear, non-cylindrical and shaped so that only a single orientation of a complementary sized and shaped electrical connector may be inserted into the inlet. A plurality of electrical contacts, a latching mechanism and a divider are also integrated into the charge inlet housing, the divider extending from the bottom surface of the inlet housing and configured to fit within a complementary slot of the charge connector, the divider providing further electrical isolation between the electrical contacts. A funneling surface connects the open end of the inlet housing to the port assembly surface.Type: GrantFiled: July 13, 2012Date of Patent: November 12, 2013Assignee: Tesla Motors, Inc.Inventors: Elon Reeve Musk, Joshua Willard Ferguson, Daryl Zalan, Christopher Hugo Van Dyke
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Patent number: 8539990Abstract: A port door unlatching system is provided that may be used to open the door covering the charge port of an electric vehicle, or the door covering the fuel filler port of a conventional vehicle. The system includes a fuel delivery subsystem with a fuel coupler (e.g., a charging connector or a gas nozzle) designed to transfer fuel from the source to the vehicle via the vehicle's fuel port. The fuel coupler includes a switch that when toggled, causes a control signal to be wirelessly transmitted over a short distance. Upon receipt of the control signal by a receiver integrated into a vehicle that is in close proximity to the fuel port, an unlatching actuator within the vehicle unlatches the port door, thereby allowing it to open and provide port access.Type: GrantFiled: June 6, 2012Date of Patent: September 24, 2013Assignee: Tesla Motors, Inc.Inventors: Joshua Willard Ferguson, Daryl Zalan, Andrew Dai, Troy Adam Nergaard, Nicholas Robert Kalayjian, Scott Ira Kohn
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Publication number: 20130076059Abstract: A door latching system for the door covering the charge port of an electric vehicle, or for the door covering the fuel filler port of a conventional vehicle, is provided. The door latching system is comprised of a ferromagnetic member attached to an interior surface of the door, and a latching assembly integrated into the port housing, where the latching assembly includes an assembly case, an electromagnet, and a permanent magnet that maintains the door in a closed position when the electromagnet is not energized and releases the door when the electromagnet is energized. The latching assembly may include a magnetic flux sensor that monitors when the port door is open or closed. The magnetic flux sensor may be coupled to a system controller that performs a preset response when the magnetic flux sensor determines that the door is open.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 29, 2012Publication date: March 28, 2013Applicant: TESLA MOTORS, INC.Inventors: Daryl Zalan, Joshua Willard Ferguson, Troy Adam Nergaard, Nicholas Robert Kalayjian
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Publication number: 20130078839Abstract: A vehicle charge inlet integrated into a port assembly surface is provided. The charge inlet includes an inlet housing with a perimeter that is curvilinear, non-cylindrical and shaped so that only a single orientation of a complementary sized and shaped electrical connector may be inserted into the inlet. A plurality of electrical contacts, a latching mechanism and a divider are also integrated into the charge inlet housing, the divider extending from the bottom surface of the inlet housing and configured to fit within a complementary slot of the charge connector, the divider providing further electrical isolation between the electrical contacts. A funneling surface connects the open end of the inlet housing to the port assembly surface.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 13, 2012Publication date: March 28, 2013Applicant: Tesla Motors, Inc.Inventors: Elon Reeve Musk, Joshua Willard Ferguson, Daryl Zalan, Christopher Hugo Van Dyke
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Publication number: 20130078841Abstract: A charge connector latching mechanism integrated into a vehicle's charge inlet is provided, where the latching mechanism includes a retractable latching pawl. The retractable pawl is configured to be positioned in at least a first, default position where the pawl extends through an inlet surface of the charge inlet, and a second position where the pawl is retracted and does not extend through the inlet surface. In the first position the retractable pawl prevents insertion of a charge connector into the charge inlet if the charge connector is uncoupled from the inlet, and prevents removal of the charge connector if the charge connector is coupled to the inlet. In the second position the retractable pawl allows insertion/withdrawal of the charge connector into/from the charge inlet. The front surface of the retractable pawl may include a nub configured to fit within a recess within the front face of the charge connector.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 18, 2012Publication date: March 28, 2013Applicant: TESLA MOTORS, INC.Inventors: Joshua Willard Ferguson, Andrew David Baglino, Nicholas Robert Kalayjian
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Publication number: 20130074985Abstract: A port door unlatching system is provided that may be used to open the door covering the charge port of an electric vehicle, or the door covering the fuel filler port of a conventional vehicle. The system includes a fuel delivery subsystem with a fuel coupler (e.g., a charging connector or a gas nozzle) designed to transfer fuel from the source to the vehicle via the vehicle's fuel port. The fuel coupler includes a switch that when toggled, causes a control signal to be wirelessly transmitted over a short distance. Upon receipt of the control signal by a receiver integrated into a vehicle that is in close proximity to the fuel port, an unlatching actuator within the vehicle unlatches the port door, thereby allowing it to open and provide port access.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 6, 2012Publication date: March 28, 2013Applicant: TESLA MOTORS, INC.Inventors: Joshua Willard Ferguson, Daryl Zalan, Andrew Dai, Troy Adam Nergaard, Nicholas Robert Kalayjian, Scott Ira Kohn
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Patent number: D694188Type: GrantFiled: July 13, 2012Date of Patent: November 26, 2013Assignee: Tesla Motors, Inc.Inventors: Joshua Willard Ferguson, Christopher Hugo Van Dyke
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Patent number: D724031Type: GrantFiled: July 13, 2012Date of Patent: March 10, 2015Assignee: Tesla Motors, Inc.Inventors: Elon Reeve Musk, Joshua Willard Ferguson, Daryl Zalan, Christopher Hugo Van Dyke
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Patent number: D749503Type: GrantFiled: June 30, 2015Date of Patent: February 16, 2016Assignee: Tesla Motors, Inc.Inventors: Joshua Willard Ferguson, Franz Von Holzhausen, Javier Verdura, Radu I Muntean, Patrick Grimmel