Patents Issued in March 28, 2017
  • Patent number: 9608286
    Abstract: Pipelines are used for charging and discharging power in a redox flow battery (RFB). Inner tube made of ion-exchange material is inserted into each of the pipelines. Conductive sleeves are installed on inside and outside the inner tube. Anode electrolyte and cathode electrolyte flow into corresponding ones of the pipelines of the inner tube. Thereby, wires connected with the conductive sleeves are extended out to be used as electrodes. On charging power, the anode electrolyte and the cathode electrolyte flow forwardly; yet, on discharging power, the anode electrolyte and the cathode electrolyte flow backwardly. Thus, the present invention uses pipelines to add or supplement function of charging/discharging power. Even when the RFB is damaged or failed, power is still charged/discharged for effectively improving or ensuring efficiency of the battery.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: INSTITUTE OF NUCLEAR ENERGY RESEARCH, ATOMIC ENERGY COUNCIL, Executive Yuan, R.O.C.
    Inventors: Hwei-Liang Chang, Yu-Te Tsai, Zone-Sure Chang
  • Patent number: 9608287
    Abstract: An object of the present invention is to provide a nonaqueous electrolytic solution capable of improving electrochemical characteristics in a broad temperature range, an energy storage device using it. A nonaqueous electrolytic solution of an electrolyte salt dissolved in a nonaqueous solvent, which comprises at least one cyclic sulfonic acid ester compound represented by the following general formula (I), and an energy storage device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: UBE INDUSTRIES, LTD.
    Inventors: Koji Abe, Shoji Shikita
  • Patent number: 9608288
    Abstract: A positive electrode for a lithium ion secondary battery, the positive electrode including: a coated particle including a positive active material particle and a reactive layer on the surface of the positive active material particle; and a sulfide-containing solid electrolyte particle which is in contact with the coated particle, wherein the reactive layer includes a reactive element other than lithium and oxygen, wherein the reactive element has a reactivity with the sulfide-containing solid electrolyte particle which is greater than with a reactivity of the reactive element with a transition metal element included in the positive active material particle, and wherein a ratio of a thickness of the reactive layer to a particle diameter of the positive active material particle is in a range of about 0.0010 to about 0.25.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Takanobu Yamada, Yasuaki Matsuda, Masaki Matsui, Yuichi Aihara, Nobuyuki Imanishi
  • Patent number: 9608289
    Abstract: A secondary battery includes: a cathode; an anode; and an electrolytic solution including a cyano compound, the cyano compound including a compound represented by R1-O—C(?O)—O—R2 (R1, R2, or both include a cyano-group-containing group), a compound represented by R3-C(?O)—O—R4 (R4 includes the cyano-group-containing group), or both.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: SONY CORPORATION
    Inventors: Masayuki Ihara, Tadahiko Kubota
  • Patent number: 9608290
    Abstract: Provided is an electrolyte solution additive including lithium difluorophosphate (LiDFP), a vinylene carbonate-based compound, and a sultone-based compound. Also, a non-aqueous electrolyte solution including the electrolyte solution additive and a lithium secondary battery including the non-aqueous electrolyte solution are provided. The lithium secondary battery including the electrolyte solution additive of the present invention may improve low-temperature output characteristics, high-temperature cycle characteristics, output characteristics after high-temperature storage, and swelling characteristics.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: LG Chem, Ltd.
    Inventors: Young Min Lim, Chul Haeng Lee, Doo Kyung Yang, Yu Ha An
  • Patent number: 9608291
    Abstract: A non-aqueous liquid electrolyte secondary battery using negative-electrode active material having Si, Sn and/or Pb, with high charge-capacity, superior characteristics including discharge-capacity retention rate over long is provided. The non-aqueous liquid electrolyte of the battery contains carbonate having unsaturated bond and/or halogen and compounds such as LiPF6 and/or LiBF4 (first lithium salt) and lithium salt different from the first lithium salt.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: MITSUBISHI CHEMICAL CORPORATION
    Inventors: Takashi Fujii, Noriko Shima, Youichi Ohashi, Shinichi Kinoshita
  • Patent number: 9608292
    Abstract: A lithium-ion battery is provided that has a fast charge and discharge rate capability and low rate of capacity fade during high rate cycling. The battery can exhibit low impedance growth and other properties allowing for its use in hybrid electric vehicle applications and other applications where high power and long battery life are important features.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: A123 Systems LLC
    Inventors: Antoni S. Gozdz, Andrew C. Chu, Ricardo Fulop, Yet-Ming Chiang, Gilbert N. Riley, Jr., Roger Lin
  • Patent number: 9608293
    Abstract: A method of manufacturing a lithium-ion secondary battery proposed herein includes the following steps of: preparing a battery in which an electrode assembly is enclosed in a battery case; filling a first electrolyte solution containing a film forming agent into the battery case; charging and discharging the battery filled with the first electrolyte solution; discharging the first electrolyte solution from the battery that has been charged and discharged; and filling a second electrolyte solution containing a film forming agent at a concentration of less than 0.005 mol/L into the battery case from which the first electrolyte solution has been discharged.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventor: Toshihiko Mitsuhashi
  • Patent number: 9608294
    Abstract: An electrode assembly and a method of manufacturing the same are provided. The electrode assembly includes a first electrode laminate formed by stacking one or more electrode units having a first area, and a second electrode laminate formed by stacking one or more electrode units having a second area different from the first area. The first electrode laminate and the second electrode laminate are stacked on each other in a direction perpendicular to a plane and have a step portion formed by a difference in areas of the first and second electrode laminates, the step portion is present on at least one side of four sides of the electrode assembly, at least one step portion includes at least a portion of tape taped across a stacked side, and the portion of tape has a form corresponding to a stepped shape of the step portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: LG CHEM, LTD.
    Inventors: Myung-Hoon Ko, Ji-Won Park, Chang-Bum Ahn
  • Patent number: 9608295
    Abstract: A lithium-ion secondary battery (10) includes a wound electrode assembly (40) having a positive electrode current collector foil (51) and a negative electrode current collector foil 61). An edge portion (52) of the positive electrode current collector foil (51) is exposed in a spiral form at one end of a winding axis (WL). An edge portion (62) of the negative electrode current collector foil (61) is exposed in a spiral form at the other end of the winding axis (WL). The spirally exposed edge portion (52) of the positive electrode current collector foil (51) is divided and gathered into a plurality of parts divided at at least one of a plurality of gaps (S), excluding a central portion (WC) containing the winding axis (WL), provided between wound layers of the positive electrode current collector foil (51) stacked in a direction orthogonal to the winding axis (WL).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Yukiyoshi Ueno, Hideki Sano, Kaoru Inoue, Hideaki Fujita
  • Patent number: 9608296
    Abstract: An electrochemical cell assembly has electrochemical cells of large diameter and high storage capacity, making it particularly useful for stabilization of electric supply systems. The assembly includes at least one electrochemical cell composed of a layer of: a liquid metal or liquid metal alloy forming the cathode, a liquid electrolyte layer, and a layer of a liquid metal or liquid metalloid forming the anode. An electrically insulating inner tube is provided along the vertical axis of the assembly, the presence of which prevents the occurrence of the Tayler instability or other instabilities caused in the liquids by the current flow, and thus prevents the intermixing of the liquids. Another very efficient option for increasing the maximum current of the cell is that of conducting a current having a suitable direction and intensity through the interior of the inner tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: HELMHOLTZ-ZENTRUM DRESDEN-ROSSENDORF E.V.
    Inventors: Frank Stefani, Tom Weier, Gunter Gerbeth
  • Patent number: 9608297
    Abstract: Various embodiments relate to an in-cell battery management device including: an integrated circuit (IC) including a controller, a resistive balancer, a voltage sensor, and a pressure sensor; and an IC package that encloses the IC having a hole over the pressure sensor wherein the hole allows the pressure sensor to measure pressure in a battery cell; wherein the IC package is contact with the battery cell.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: DATANG NXP SEMICONDUCTORS CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Johannes Petrus Maria van Lammeren, Willem Frederik Adrianus Besling
  • Patent number: 9608298
    Abstract: A battery pack is disclosed. In one aspect, the battery pack includes a battery cell, a temperature sensor configured to measure the temperature of the battery cell, and an inner cover substantially covering the battery cell. The inner cover includes a sensor attachment fixing the temperature sensor to the battery cell. The battery pack has a structure for easily attaching the temperature sensor to the battery cell.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: Samsung SDI Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Ik-Jae Jeong, Min-Cheol Bae, Kyoung-Hwan Noh, Hong-Keun Choi
  • Patent number: 9608299
    Abstract: Apparatuses and methods for determining one or more performance related characteristics (such as state of charge and/or health) of one or more electrochemical cells that store and release electrical energy are disclosed. Embodiments include pressure and/or temperature sensors that sense a change in pressure resulting from the tendency of the electrochemical cell to change volume and/or the temperature of the one or more electrochemical cells as the electrochemical cell(s) are charged or discharged. Alternate embodiments include one or more calculating members that receive pressure and/or temperature information from the pressure and/or temperature sensing members and calculate a performance related characteristic of the electrochemical cell.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: Purdue Research Foundation
    Inventors: Douglas E. Adams, James M. Caruthers, Farshid Sadeghi, Mark D. Suchomel
  • Patent number: 9608300
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a battery device, a battery management system, and a battery management method which can facilitate management of a battery. A battery device 11 includes a battery 51, an IC chip 53, and a direct-current blocking section 52. The direct-current power of the battery 51 is outputted via power lines 17, 18. By the IC chip 53, stored battery information is outputted via the power lines 17, 18 by load-modulating an alternating-current signal exchanged via the power lines 17, 18. By the direct-current blocking section 52, the direct-current power outputted via the power lines 17, 18 is blocked from being inputted to the IC chip 53. A voltage generating section 151 that is connected in parallel with the IC chip 53, and supplies a voltage generated by the alternating-current signal exchanged via the power lines 17, 18 to the IC chip 53 can be provided. The present invention can be applied to an electronic apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: SONY CORPORATION
    Inventor: Takanori Washiro
  • Patent number: 9608301
    Abstract: An electrochemical energy store including at least one anode and at least one cathode in an electrolyte, lithium peroxide being generated at the cathode by the reaction of lithium ions with oxygen. The cathode is connected to an oxygen reservoir.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: ROBERT BOSCH GMBH
    Inventors: Sabine Thiemann-Handler, Martin Holger Koenigsmann
  • Patent number: 9608302
    Abstract: An air battery includes a cathode layer and an anode layer sandwiching an electrolyte layer, and an electrically insulative outer case. The cathode layer has a cathode member, a cathode current collector and a liquid tight/gas permeable member. The cathode layer is provided with a contact member between the outer case and the cathode layer, in which the inner end thereof is in contact with the periphery of the cathode current collector, and the outer end thereof is exposed on a cathode-side surface. The outer end of the contact member protrudes outward with respect to a surface of the liquid tight/gas permeable member to an extent reaching at least a plane including an end face of the outer case. Therefore, this air battery can be directly connected to another battery in series, and is suitable for an on-vehicle power source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Atsushi Miyazawa, Mori Nagayama, Yoshiko Tsukada, Nobutaka Chiba
  • Patent number: 9608303
    Abstract: The present invention relates generally to digital elliptic filters, and more particularly, but not exclusively to multi-layer digital elliptic filters and methods for their fabrication.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: Nuvotronics, Inc.
    Inventor: James Robert Reid
  • Patent number: 9608304
    Abstract: A high-frequency signal transmission line includes a dielectric body including dielectric layers stacked together, a linear signal line provided in the dielectric body, a first ground conductor provided at the dielectric body, at a first side of the signal line in a stacking direction so as to face the signal line, and a subsidiary member provided at the dielectric body, at a second side of the signal line in the stacking direction so as to face a central portion of the signal line in a line-width direction. In a sectional view along a plane perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to an extending direction of the signal line, the signal line is curved such that side portions of the signal line in the line-width direction are farther away from the first ground conductor than a central portion of the signal line in the line-width direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: Murata Manufacturing Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Kuniaki Yosui, Noboru Kato
  • Patent number: 9608305
    Abstract: A circuit includes a current sensing circuit comprising a current input terminal coupled to an input port, a current output terminal coupled to a transmitted port, and a current sensing output terminal configured to provide a current sensing signal proportional to a current flowing between the current input terminal and the current output terminal. The circuit further includes a voltage sensing circuit having a voltage input terminal coupled to the transmitted port and a voltage sensing output terminal configured to provide a voltage sensing signal proportional to a voltage at the transmitted port. A combining circuit has a first input coupled to the current sensing output terminal, a second input coupled to the voltage sensing output terminal, and a combined output node coupled to an output port.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: Infineon Technologies AG
    Inventors: Valentyn Solomko, Winfried Bakalski, Nikolay Ilkov, Werner Simbuerger, Daniel Kehrer
  • Patent number: 9608306
    Abstract: An antenna mount for mounting radio antennas on a communications tower is described. The antenna mount includes a ring structure that encircles the tower and includes a channel disposed about its outer perimeter. The channel is configured to receive a plurality of antenna carriages upon which antennas are mounted on a first end. A second end of the antenna carriage is disposed in the channel and is slideably movable along the length of the channel about the perimeter of the ring structure. The antenna is thus aimable in any desired azimuthal direction by moving the antenna along the ring structure. Bands for communication of data, power, control signaling, and propulsion of the antenna carriages about the ring structure are disposed in the channel. The ring structure may include a junction that allows reorientation of antennas with respect to one another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: Sprint Communications Company L.P.
    Inventors: Nicholas David Caola Kullman, Andrew Mark Wurtenberger
  • Patent number: 9608307
    Abstract: A semiconductor substrate-based system for an RFID device, in particular an RFID transponder, having a semiconductor substrate and an electronic circuit system which is structured on the semiconductor substrate is provided. The semiconductor substrate-based system also has a thin-layer battery, likewise structured on the semiconductor substrate, for supplying power to the RFID device. Moreover, an RFID device having a corresponding semiconductor substrate-based system, and a method for manufacturing a corresponding semiconductor substrate-based system are provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: ROBERT BOSCH GMBH
    Inventors: Tjalf Pirk, Andreas Krauss, Laura Bohne, Janpeter Wolff
  • Patent number: 9608308
    Abstract: An antenna and a material. The material can include signal blocking strands and signal passing strands.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P.
    Inventors: Ki Bok Song, Eric Chen, Hui Leng Lim
  • Patent number: 9608309
    Abstract: A mobile communication device is provided and includes a plastic frame body, a metal outer frame, a metal inner frame and a first conductive spring. The plastic frame body has an opening, a first locking groove, a first inserting groove and a first protrusive portion formed between the first locking groove and the first inserting groove. The metal outer frame is locked to the first locking groove and fixed on the outside of the plastic frame body. The metal inner frame is inserted into the first inserting groove and fixed in the surroundings of the opening of the plastic frame body. Besides, the metal inner frame is electrically connected to a system ground plane. The first conductive spring clasps the first protrusive portion. The first conductive spring extends into the first locking groove and the first inserting groove so as to electrically connect the metal outer and inner frames.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: HTC CORPORATION
    Inventors: Ching-Sung Wang, Chih-Hsien Wu, Yu-Ju Yu, Bing-Hsiao Wang, Huang-Jen Chen
  • Patent number: 9608310
    Abstract: An apparatus and a portable electronic device are provided to facilitate tuning of the resonance of an antenna at least partially disposed within a conductive housing. As such, an apparatus is provided that includes a conductive housing having a first conductive portion. The first conductive portion defines a non-conductive aperture. The apparatus also includes a second conductive portion disposed at least partially within the conductive housing. The second conductive portion defines an open-ended non-conductive slot. The slot is configured to couple to radio frequency circuitry. The apparatus further includes a conductive element extending between and conductively coupling the first and second conductive portions. A personal electronic device that embodiments the apparatus is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: Nokia Technologies Oy
    Inventor: Wei Huang
  • Patent number: 9608311
    Abstract: An antenna and a terminal device include a Printed Circuit Board (PCB), a first main antenna, a second main antenna and a connection component. The first main antenna is printed on the PCB, and the second main antenna is configured outside the PCB and electrically connected to the first main antenna through the connection component. By connecting the antenna printed on the PCB with the antenna configured outside the PCB, the limitation that wiring space is not enough in the existing antenna design is made up, and the utilization of the limited space can be significantly improved when the wiring of the antenna is designed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: ZTE Corporation
    Inventor: Zhi Qiu
  • Patent number: 9608312
    Abstract: A device is set forth, comprising: a metallic back cover having interior and exterior portions; a chassis disposed on the interior portion of said metallic back cover for mounting components; a metallic edge ring surrounding said metallic back cover and said chassis; a gap extending through the exterior portion of the back cover and through the edge, for defining one dimension of an antenna conducting plane; a ground plane covering the chassis such that said antenna conducting plane and ground plane wrap around the chassis and components mounted thereon; an antenna feed extending through the ground plane to the antenna conducting plane; and a shorting pin connecting the ground plane to the antenna conducting plane.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: BLACKBERRY LIMITED
    Inventors: Huanhuan Gu, Houssam Kanj, Shirook M. Ali
  • Patent number: 9608313
    Abstract: Provided is a waveguide feeder. The waveguide feeder includes: a probe aligned at a center of a waveguide aperture at a metal wiring layer of a semiconductor substrate to input and output an electric signal; and an open stub located at a contact surface of a waveguide flange on a ground surface of a semiconductor chip in order to form a ground path of the probe on a surface of the waveguide flange.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: Research & Business Foundation Sungkyunkwan University
    Inventors: Byung Sung Kim, Cheng Lin Cui
  • Patent number: 9608314
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a mobile terminal, which includes a terminal body having a rear surface and side surfaces extending from each end portion of the rear surface toward a front surface, the terminal body made of a metal, a lower cap detachably coupled to a lower end of the terminal body and externally exposed to operate as a radiator of an antenna apparatus, a non-metal member interposed between the terminal body and the lower cap and forming a slot by spacing the terminal body and the lower cap apart from each other, and a dividing member crossing the non-metal member, and dividing an area where the terminal body and the lower cap are electrically connected and generate an electric field accordingly, the dividing member dividing the slot into first and second slots.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: LG ELECTRONICS INC.
    Inventors: Youngbae Kwon, Kangjae Jung, Sungjung Rho, Changwon Yun, Duckyun Kim, Yunmo Kang
  • Patent number: 9608315
    Abstract: The invention relates to a roof antenna (1) for mounting on a roof (2) of a vehicle, said roof antenna (1) having a base plate (7) and an antenna cover (3) that can be connected to the base plate (7). A printed circuit board (4) with antenna elements and at least one plug connection (5) is arranged under the antenna cover (3). The base plate (7) has detent hooks (11) for pre-attaching on the roof (2) and fixing means for a final assembly, said fixing means being designed as a central dome (6) with a screw thread and a star handle (12) that interacts with the dome (6).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: HIRSCHMANN CAR COMMUNICATION GMBH
    Inventors: Christian Gerneth, David Silva
  • Patent number: 9608316
    Abstract: A printed circuit board (PCB) is disposed to stand vertically on a main board and having a first surface and a second surface opposite to the first surface. A main antenna pattern is formed on the first surface of the PCB to operate in dual band including a low frequency band and a high frequency band. A bandwidth extension pattern is formed on the second surface of the PCB and formed to operate in the high frequency band, the bandwidth extension pattern having a coupling stub which forms an overlapping portion with a portion of the main antenna pattern, with the PCB interposed therebetween, to implement an antenna having an extended bandwidth, which operates together with the portion of the main antenna pattern in the high frequency band.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignees: Hyundai Motor Company, Winnercom Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Youn Jin Choi, Tae Byung Park, Ki Jo Kang
  • Patent number: 9608317
    Abstract: A spiral antenna device includes a plurality of generally polygonal loops. The polygonal loops have respective side counts that decrease progressively as a function of the loop's radial distance from a center of the antenna device. The side count may vary between loops as a multiple of a power of two.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: Trustees of Tufts College
    Inventors: Nahid Rahman, Mohammed N. Afsar
  • Patent number: 9608318
    Abstract: According to various aspects, exemplary embodiments are disclosed of antenna assemblies and methods of manufacturing the same. In an exemplary embodiment, a method generally includes forming (e.g., molding, etc.) a sleeve over and/or between a first portion of a first component (e.g., a bushing, etc.) and a second portion of a second component (e.g., adaptor, etc.). The sleeve is coupled to the first and second portions of the respective first and second components. The method may also include removably attaching an antenna connector subassembly to the first component such that a printed circuit board assembly of the antenna connector subassembly is covered by the sleeve. The method may additionally include overmolding a sheath over the sleeve and one or more radiating elements of a multiband antenna assembly that includes the antenna connector subassembly, whereby the sleeve covers and protects the printed circuit board assembly during the overmolding.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: Laird Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Yen Siang Tan, Chit Yong Hang
  • Patent number: 9608319
    Abstract: This disclosure provides a flexible substrate antenna and antenna device including a flexible substrate antenna. The flexible substrate antenna includes a first parasitic radiation electrode and a second parasitic radiation electrode provided on the flexible substrate, where a leading ends (open ends) of the first parasitic radiation electrode and the second parasitic radiation electrode face each other with a slit of a predetermined gap therebetween. Further, a capacitive feed electrode is formed on the flexible substrate at a position facing the first parasitic radiation electrode, and is configured to capacitively feed power to the first parasitic radiation electrode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: Murata Manufacturing Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hiroya Tanaka, Yuichi Kushihi
  • Patent number: 9608320
    Abstract: A method for opening a dome for the protection of a device to be protected, fitted in a part described as fixed, in which, in the initial position before opening, a generally plane interface separates the dome from the fixed part, is provided. The method includes connecting the dome to the fixed part by at least two independent double-link connections that are movable in rotation between the dome and the fixed part. The links in a single connection being fitted in common to the dome and to the fixed part to form overall a pantograph in the shape of an isosceles trapezium which, during opening, opens out by pivoting until maximum opening is achieved, so that the dome moves away from the fixed part via a combination of movements in translation and in rotation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: AIRBUS OPERATIONS S.A.S.
    Inventors: Jacques Fournie, Christophe Bernus, Thony Dupas, Jerome Phalippou, Gilles Mercadier, Nicolas Toureille, Frederic Milin, Jean Redon
  • Patent number: 9608321
    Abstract: A radome having localized areas of reduced radio signal attenuation includes a body having a first portion and a second portion. The first portion has a reduced radio signal attenuation property in a transmit band and a second portion has a reduced radio signal attenuation property in a reception band.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: GOGO LLC
    Inventor: Sean Scott Cordone
  • Patent number: 9608322
    Abstract: An electronic device includes a printed circuit board (PCB), an antenna and a switch. The antenna is printed on the PCB. The antenna includes multiple key contacts. Each of the multiple key contacts includes a first terminal, a second terminal and a third terminal. The first terminal is an output terminal. The second terminal and the third terminal are connected in series in the antenna. The switch switches the electronic device to an input mode and an antenna mode, thus the electronic device can be alternatively switched to an input function or a communication function.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignees: HONG FU JIN PRECISION INDUSTRY (ShenZhen) CO., LTD., HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Zhi-Cheng Yu, Cheng-Qiu Wei
  • Patent number: 9608323
    Abstract: An omni-directional antenna can include a feed disk, which can terminate at a feed disk apex, and a top element, which can include a nipple that terminates a top element apex. The feed disk and top element can be positioned so that the feed disk apex and the top element apex can be spaced-apart by a distance “d”, which can be chosen according to the desired frequency range and cable feed impedance. The feed disk and top element can also have respective bottom conical and top conical surfaces. When the feed disk and top element are positioned, the top and bottom conical surfaces can establish a respective first predefined angle relative to a horizontal plane and a second predefined angle relative to the horizontal plane, thereby extending the antenna frequency range. The predefined angles can be chosen according to the desired frequency range of operation and cable feed impedance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: The United States of America, as Represented by the Secretary of the Navy
    Inventors: Peter Stuart Berens, David Vincent Arney, Hale Bradford Simonds, Susan Lynn Morales, Dennis Bermeo
  • Patent number: 9608324
    Abstract: An antenna apparatus and a method for controlling an antenna array are provided. The method includes the following steps. A plurality of selectable antenna configurations is provided for a directional service. One of the antenna configurations is selected for an antenna element of the antenna array according to a service criterion. The antenna apparatus includes an antenna array, a controller, and a switching unit. The antenna array includes a plurality of antenna elements. The controller is adapted to generate a control signal based on selecting one of a plurality of antenna configurations according to a service criterion for an antenna element to provide a directional service. The switching unit is adapted to configure each of the antenna elements according to the control signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: Industrial Technology Research Institute
    Inventors: Ming-Che Lin, Jen-Yuan Hsu, Chien-Yu Kao, Pang-An Ting
  • Patent number: 9608325
    Abstract: A multi-role or multi-function system operable to perform a multi-role or a multi-function and configured to dynamically allocate requisite resources for performing antenna functions during a frame interval of the multi-role or the multi-function by determining whether the antenna functions are completely performable in the frame interval, based on a time-sharing resource allocation procedure; and if not, allocating the requisite resources for performing the antenna functions during the frame interval, based on a time-sharing resource allocation procedure and an antenna-sharing resource allocation procedure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: Selex ES S.p.A.
    Inventors: Salvatore Celentano, Francesca Donati, Sergio Pardini
  • Patent number: 9608326
    Abstract: A circularly polarized isolated magnetic dipole (CP-IMD) antenna includes: a first isolated magnetic dipole (IMD) element; a second IMD element positioned adjacent to the first IMD element; a third IMD element positioned adjacent to the second IMD element and configured to oppose the first IMD element; a fourth IMD element disposed positioned adjacent to each of the first and third IMD elements and configured to oppose the second IMD element; and a feed network configured to supply signals to the first thru fourth IMD elements at a phase difference of ninety degrees in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: ETHERTRONICS, INC.
    Inventors: Abhishek Singh, Jeffrey Shamblin
  • Patent number: 9608327
    Abstract: The range of a Near Field Communications (NFC) in an electronic device is boosted by positioning a magnet near the center of a spiral loop NFC antenna. The magnet interacts with a modulated magnetic field generated by the antenna, concentrating the power of the modulated field. The magnet may be part of another component of the device, such as a magnet in the zoom mechanism of a camera. If the electronic device has a metal case, performance of the NFC antenna is further enhanced by including an opening through the metal over an axis of the magnet and a segment of the antenna's spiral loop, and by extending the opening to eliminate a parasitic current pathway around the antenna. The extended opening in the metal case significantly reduces the effect of eddy currents generated in the housing that counter the NFC magnetic field.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: AMAZON TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
    Inventors: Seng Chin Tai, Chun Kit Lai, Adrian Napoles
  • Patent number: 9608328
    Abstract: The present invention is a method and system for using a 3D printer for printing various tunable antennas. In one embodiment, and exponent antenna is created by printing a board using a 3D printer in combination with vacuum metallization to create the antenna and provide engineered break points for adjusting the printed antenna for the most effective gain. In another embodiment, a spiral cavity backed antenna is printed using a combination of a 3D printer and vacuum metallization. In a third embodiment, a horn antenna is printed using a combination of a 3D printer engineered break points for adjustment and a hinged version with an actuator creating a new antenna.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: Robotic Research, LLC
    Inventors: Alberto Daniel Lacaze, Karl Nicholas Murphy
  • Patent number: 9608329
    Abstract: There is disclosed a multiband antenna device comprising a conductive elongated antenna element configured for electrical connection to a conductive groundplane at a grounding point, and for electrical connection to a radio transmitter/receiver at a feeding point. The antenna element comprises a first portion and a second portion. The first portion is configured to extend in a first direction along a first outside edge of the groundplane, and then in a second direction along a second outside edge of the groundplane. The second portion of the antenna element is configured to double back next to the first portion in a third, substantially counter-parallel direction back along the second outside edge of the groundplane, and then in a fourth direction along the first outside edge of the groundplane.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: Microsoft Technology Licensing, LLC
    Inventors: Luyi Liu, Devis Iellici
  • Patent number: 9608330
    Abstract: A superluminal antenna element integrates a balun element to better impedance match an input cable or waveguide to a dielectric radiator element, thus preventing stray reflections and consequent undesirable radiation. For example, a dielectric housing material can be used that has a cutout area. A cable can extend into the cutout area. A triangular conductor can function as an impedance transition. An additional cylindrical element functions as a sleeve balun to better impedance match the radiator element to the cable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: Los Alamos National Laboratory
    Inventors: John Singleton, Lawrence M. Earley, Frank L. Krawczyk, James M. Potter, William P. Romero, Zhi-Fu Wang
  • Patent number: 9608331
    Abstract: A modal antenna is proposed that provides for dynamic tuning and optimization of antenna system parameters for SAR (Specific Absorption Rate) management in mobile wireless devices. A modular approach is described where the radiator and active components are integrated into a module, allowing the fixed radiator to be used across multiple wireless products and form factors. Multiple radiation modes can be generated by a single antenna structure with one or several of the modes designed to minimize SAR while maintaining efficient communication link performance. Proximity sensors or other sensors provide indicators to determine when mode selection is necessary.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: ETHERTRONICS, INC.
    Inventors: Sebastian Rowson, Laurent Desclos, Jeffrey Shamblin, Abhishek Singh
  • Patent number: 9608332
    Abstract: A hybrid antenna includes a dielectric substrate and a stamping element. The stamping element includes a main radiator, a first holder, a second holder, a feeding element, and an extension branch. The main radiator is substantially disposed above the dielectric substrate. The first holder is coupled to a first end of the main radiator. The second holder is coupled to a second end of the main radiator. The feeding element is coupled to a signal source. The extension branch is substantially disposed below the dielectric substrate, and is coupled between the second holder and the feeding element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: MEDIATEK INC.
    Inventors: Kuo-Fong Hung, Chia-Wei Chi
  • Patent number: 9608333
    Abstract: A reflector system includes a hoop assembly, a collapsible mesh reflector surface and an extendible mast assembly. The hoop assembly includes a plurality of link members extending between a plurality of hinge members and the hoop assembly is moveable between a collapsed configuration wherein the link members extend substantially parallel to one another and an expanded configuration wherein the link members define a circumferential hoop. The reflector surface is secured to the hoop assembly and collapses and extends therewith. The hoop is secured by cords relative to top and bottom portions of a mast that maintains the hoop substantially in a plane. The mast is stored on a spool and extends to release the hoop, pull the mesh reflector surface into a shape that is intended to concentrate RF energy in a desired pattern, and tension the cords that locate the hoop.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: Harris Corporation
    Inventors: Gustavo A. Toledo, Dana Monnier, Jessica Beahn, Michael R. Winters, Ryan Whitney, Robert M. Taylor, Jonathan Boyles
  • Patent number: 9608334
    Abstract: A device is described. The device includes a chip, a reflector, and an antenna. The reflector is disposed on a surface of the chip. The reflector is a metalized layer on the surface of the chip.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: NXP B.V.
    Inventor: Maristella Spella
  • Patent number: 9608335
    Abstract: Antennas and other transducers for use in transmitting and receiving twisted waves are disclosed. A reflector includes numerous parabolic segments having focal lengths that decrease monotonically with azimuth angle. A feed is used that is located at a focal length associated with one of the segments. Thus, each segment has a phase delay that is related to a difference between the primary focal length and the focal length of the segment. This variation of phase delay with azimuth allows twisted waves to be transmitted and received.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: RAYTHEON COMPANY
    Inventors: Gary M. Graceffo, Andrew M. Kowalevicz