Electrical Patents (Class 307/125)
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Patent number: 7068496Abstract: A docking solution for a tablet notebook computer is described. Specifically, the docking solution provides a way to adjust the tilt angle of the tablet screen while conserving area. Further, a main connector and an auxiliary connector is provided to provide an electrical contact between the base unit and the tablet screen when the tablet notebook computer is in a convertible mode.Type: GrantFiled: May 3, 2004Date of Patent: June 27, 2006Assignee: Intel CorporationInventors: Hong W. Wong, Truong V. Phan, Prosenjit Ghosh
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Patent number: 7065662Abstract: A method of implementing a power-based current limiting circuit in an information handling system includes providing a power supply having an output voltage operating range that can vary between a first voltage output level and a second voltage output level. The power supply output voltage is coupled to a load module via a switch. A power output of the power supply supplied to the load module is detected as a function of the load module current and the output voltage. Lastly, the switch is controlled between a first state and a second state in response to the detected power output.Type: GrantFiled: March 10, 2003Date of Patent: June 20, 2006Assignee: Dell Products L.P.Inventors: Kevin Y. Chen, Nikolai V. Vyssotski
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Patent number: 7028511Abstract: A direct current power supply for a washing appliance powered is disclosed. The power supply includes a switch mode power supply which supplies direct current at a low voltage level from a high direct voltage supply and a pair of commutation devices as a buck converter, an active switching device connected across the input of one of the commutation devices, a latching circuit which controls the active switching device to cause the commutation device to switch off to disable the buck converter, and a push button switch for disabling the latching circuit to cause the active switching device to switch off to allow the one commutation switch to function and thereby enable the buck converter.Type: GrantFiled: October 23, 2003Date of Patent: April 18, 2006Assignee: Fisher & Paykel Appliances LimitedInventor: Neil Cheyne
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Patent number: 7019417Abstract: There is provided a power-on reset circuit for generating a power-on reset signal regardless of a power-up slope using not an RC delay method but a current detection method. The power-on reset circuit includes: a power supply voltage sensing node; a power supply voltage detecting unit connected to the power supply voltage sensing node, for detecting a power supply voltage level caused by a difference between a pull-up current and a pull-down current, wherein the power supply voltage detecting unit pulls down the power supply voltage sensing node if the power supply voltage reaches a threshold voltage; and a driving unit connected to the power supply voltage sensing node, for pulling up the sensing node if the power supply voltage is lower than the threshold voltage and buffering a signal of the power supply voltage sensing node to output a power-on reset signal.Type: GrantFiled: December 27, 2002Date of Patent: March 28, 2006Assignee: Hynix Semiconductor Inc.Inventor: Hee-Bok Kang
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Patent number: 7015674Abstract: A jump-start booster pack for starting a vehicle having a depleted vehicle battery is provided. The jump-start booster pack includes a positive connector that can couple to a positive terminal of the vehicle battery and a negative connector that can couple to a negative terminal of the vehicle battery. The apparatus also includes a storage capacitor that provides starting energy to the vehicle when electrical connection is made between the storage capacitor and the vehicle battery through the positive and negative connectors.Type: GrantFiled: March 28, 2002Date of Patent: March 21, 2006Assignee: Midtronics, Inc.Inventor: J. David VonderHaar
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Patent number: 6992405Abstract: According to one embodiment, an integrated circuit is disclosed. The integrated circuit includes a plurality of circuit blocks. Each circuit block includes a voltage differentiator that generates a local supply for the circuit block.Type: GrantFiled: March 11, 2002Date of Patent: January 31, 2006Assignee: Intel CorporationInventors: Kevin X. Zhang, Liqiong Wei
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Patent number: 6989613Abstract: Circuit apparatus for interconnection between an electric power source of expected variability and an recreation vehicle requiring a known fixed range of voltage change. A voltage sensor (18) for producing signals representative of corresponding source voltage variation ranges. A transformer (60) with tapped primary (56,58) is selectively switched to provide low boost or high boost to compensate two low ranges of the source voltage connected by a relay (54) energized by the voltage sensor signals (18). If the source voltage exceeds the low boost range, a further relay (28) energized by a sensor signal connects the source voltage to output terminals (40,42) for ultimate use.Type: GrantFiled: November 3, 2003Date of Patent: January 24, 2006Inventors: George R. Andrews, Frank Izbinski
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Patent number: 6963183Abstract: The invention relates to a control circuit for a direct current motor with a reverse pole protection device, which is connected to the electric circuit of the electrolytic capacitor and the free-wheeling diode in order to reduce losses in the reverse pole protection device.Type: GrantFiled: July 22, 1998Date of Patent: November 8, 2005Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbHInventors: Martin Kessler, Karl-Heinrich Preis
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Patent number: 6961856Abstract: A personal computer protection device for disconnecting a computer system from a communications channel during power down periods. The personal computer protection device includes a power sensor for sensing power drawn by the computer system, an input port for connecting to a communications channel, an output for connecting the input port to a communications channel input of the computer system and a relay connected between the input port and output port. The relay selectively disconnects the input port and output port when the sensor senses the power drawn is below a threshold value thereby indicating the computer system is in a powered down or sleep state.Type: GrantFiled: July 9, 2000Date of Patent: November 1, 2005Inventor: Peter Kouropoulus
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Patent number: 6950779Abstract: An apparatus for detecting incorrect connector insertion. The apparatus includes a first member including a first connector; a second member including a second connector; a test signal output processing unit that outputs a first test signal to the first member and the second member; a first determination signal outputting portion that outputs a first determination signal in accordance with outputting the first test signal to the first member; and a second determination signal outputting portion that outputs a second determination signal in accordance with outputting the first test signal to the second member. The apparatus further includes a connector-connected state determination processing unit that determines the connected state of the first connector and the second connector based on the first determination signal and the second determination signal.Type: GrantFiled: February 28, 2003Date of Patent: September 27, 2005Assignee: Aisin AW Co., Ltd.Inventor: Yoshihiko Minatani
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Patent number: 6941233Abstract: A control arrangement and method is provided for detecting and responding to disturbances in electrical power systems. In a preferred arrangement, an integration is initiated that is based on a comparison of actual voltage of a source and a reference voltage. When the integration exceeds a predetermined value, the source is considered unreliable. Also in a preferred arrangement, a determination is made as to whether or not the disturbance is a downstream fault condition. For example, this is useful for applications where a transfer is made from a first source to a second source when predetermined disturbances are detected. In this manner, the transfer of the load to a second source is avoided which would continue the supply of the downstream fault. Additionally, the arrangement distinguishes between various degrees of disturbances to permit appropriate response based on the severity and type of disturbance. For example, a first immediate response, i.e.Type: GrantFiled: August 18, 2003Date of Patent: September 6, 2005Assignee: S&C Electric Co.Inventors: Michael G. Ennis, Raymond P. O'Leary, Joseph W. Ruta
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Patent number: 6934561Abstract: This invention includes a universal base unit having a plurality of cables, each corresponding to a unique electronic host device. The cable includes a capacitor having a value corresponding to a particular electronic host device. The capacitor is coupled in series with a resistor to ground in the universal base unit. The cable further includes a unique mating connector for coupling to the electronic host device. The universal base unit identifies the cable by actuating a step function across the capacitor-resistor network, causing an exponentially decaying waveform. A microprocessor in the host device then measures the width of the waveform to determine the identity of the cable or host device. The system allows a user to carry a single power supply or universal base unit with multiple cables as opposed to having to transport a different accessory for each electronic device.Type: GrantFiled: September 24, 2001Date of Patent: August 23, 2005Assignee: Motorola, Inc.Inventor: Philip H. Burrus, IV
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Patent number: 6930409Abstract: An electromechanical switching device ensures automatic selected polarity interconnection between terminals of two power sources. A double pole double throw (DPDT) switch has three pairs of contacts. A first pair of leads connect to two pairs of contacts in a manner that reverses polarity when switched, while a second pair of leads connect to the other pair of contacts. A switch controller employs a plurality of coils in electrical communication with the two pairs of leads. The coils are arranged and configured so that, when the two pairs of leads are connected to the respective power sources, the coils cause an actuator to move the switch automatically into the correct polarity state regardless of the connections of the leads. The invention is described as a battery jumper cable and to automatically connect like terminals of a pair of batteries. The invention encompasses the method of this device.Type: GrantFiled: July 9, 1997Date of Patent: August 16, 2005Inventor: Jerry R. Smith
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Patent number: 6921989Abstract: A closed loop feedback system controls electrical switchgear that moves at least one contact relative to another contact to switch power on and off in an AC electrical circuit. The control system includes a position feedback device that is operatively coupled to at least one of the two contacts to produce contact position information. A processor receives and analyzes the contact position information to control contact motion to provide AC waveform synchronized switching. The electrical switchgear may be a capacitor switch that includes a bi-stable over-toggle latching device. The latching device maintains the contacts in one of an open stable position in which electrical current does not flow through the contacts or a closed stable position in which electrical current flows through the contacts.Type: GrantFiled: November 22, 2002Date of Patent: July 26, 2005Assignee: McGraw-Edison CompanyInventors: John Francis Baranowski, Debra Jennifer Jochum, Charles John Knotek, Aleksander Mankowski, Michael Peter Dunk
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Patent number: 6920404Abstract: Correlations between a residual capacity of a secondary battery and 4 parameters of an internal resistance, temperature, a discharge current and one of an open circuit voltage and a discharge voltage of the secondary battery are previously determined and a contour map of the residual capacity and 2 of the parameters is made, for example. Then, at least 2 varying parameters selected from the 4 parameters are detected while the secondary battery is in use and collated with the correlations to estimate the residual capacity of the secondary battery.Type: GrantFiled: September 20, 2001Date of Patent: July 19, 2005Assignee: Japan Storage Battery Co., Ltd.Inventor: Kenji Yamanaka
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Patent number: 6901326Abstract: Circuit layout to control at least one electrical component of a motor vehicle via a control signal, wherein the circuit layout comprises a digital control unit that provides an output signal during its operation, the circuit layout has a supply terminal, and the digital control unit starts its operation when the supply terminal has an operating voltage above a predetermined threshold value. The digital control unit stops its operation when the supply terminal has an operating value below the threshold value, wherein the circuit layout comprises a circuit block in order to provide for the control signal, during the operation of the digital control unit the circuit block provides for the control signal based on the output signal of the digital control unit, and the circuit block maintains the momentary control signal for a predetermined period of time after the operation of the digital control unit is ended.Type: GrantFiled: May 28, 2003Date of Patent: May 31, 2005Assignees: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft, Siemens VDO Automotive CorporationInventors: Stephan Bolz, Günter Lugent, Mauricio Eduardo Hernandez-Distancia
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Patent number: 6894406Abstract: The invention relates to a switching element for modifying the electric resistance with at least one high temperature superconductor (1) and means (3) for irradiating electromagnetic high frequency onto the at least one high temperature superconductor (1). The invention further relates to a method for switching a high temperature superconductor (1) comprising the steps of providing a high temperature superconductor (1) in the superconducting state and irradiating an electromagnetic high frequency until the high temperature superconductor (1) changes over into a normally conducting state.Type: GrantFiled: May 11, 2001Date of Patent: May 17, 2005Assignee: Theva Dunnschichttechnik GmbHInventor: Helmut Kinder
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Patent number: 6891707Abstract: In a semiconductor protection circuit comprising a low speed protection circuit having an overcurrent detector for detecting an overcurrent of a predetermined switching element and turning off the semiconductor switching element following detection of the overcurrent, and a high speed protection circuit turning off the semiconductor switching element based on a voltage signal proportional to an output voltage of the semiconductor switching element.Type: GrantFiled: October 30, 2001Date of Patent: May 10, 2005Assignee: Mitsubishi Denki Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Kazuaki Hiyama, Akihisa Yamamoto
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Patent number: 6876104Abstract: A high-speed switching circuit with a low or zero inductance shunt resistor is constructed using a trace resistor having parallel overlying trace portions on opposite plane faces of a printed circuit board. The resulting shunt resistor is used in combination with a detector to input data to a microcontroller which controls an automotive load device such as a blower motor. The traces which form the resistor may be extended by horizontal or vertical zig-zag folding or a combination of the two.Type: GrantFiled: November 27, 2001Date of Patent: April 5, 2005Assignee: Yazaki North America, Inc.Inventor: Sam Y. Guo
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Patent number: 6876103Abstract: An automatic transfer switch (ATS) controller is disclosed which includes a power supply circuit to regulate and filter input power, a transformer to convert utility and generator power sources into power supply voltages and voltage sensing sources and a voltage sense signal conditioning circuit. Controller further implements a solenoid driver circuit to drive automatic transfer switch solenoids, an embedded microcontroller configured to monitor utility and generator voltages and a user interface interfaced to said microcontroller for operator entry of instructions. A LED indicator is included and is configured to verify user interface entries and overall operation of the controller and ATS system.Type: GrantFiled: December 29, 2000Date of Patent: April 5, 2005Assignee: General Electric CompanyInventors: Peter J. Radusewicz, Walter Paul Payack, Jr., Carl Kyrk
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Patent number: 6873062Abstract: A switch circuit (10) controls the supply of electrical power from an electrical power source (11) to a load (R5). The switch circuit (10) includes a first transistor (Q1), the emitter of the first transistor (Q1) is adapted to be coupled to the power supply (11) and the collector is adapted to be coupled to the load (R5). An electronic switching device (Q2, Q3) includes an input, an output adapted to be coupled to the other side of the load (R5) and the power source (11), and an activating input. A first resistance device (R1) is coupled between the base of the first transistor (Q1) and the input of the electronic switching device (Q2. Q3). A momentary switch (S1) has first and second terminals (13, 14) and the activating input of the electronic switching device (Q2, Q3) is coupled to the first terminal (14) of the momentary switch. A pulse generation device (C1, R4) is coupled between the collector of the first transistor (Q1) and the second terminal (13) of the momentary switch (S1).Type: GrantFiled: August 13, 1999Date of Patent: March 29, 2005Assignee: Creative Technology Ltd.Inventor: Jun Makino
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Patent number: 6870282Abstract: Previously in a bus system, voltage signals were transmitted from the central unit to the modules, which could reply thereto by variation of the current input. A disadvantage thereby is the relatively high susceptibility to interference of the current input, which itself already must be kept relatively small due to the energy consumption, as well as the correspondingly high effort and expense for an error-free recognition of the signals transmitted from the modules in the central unit. It is now suggested, that the modules also answer to the central unit by means of voltage signals superposed on the direct supply voltage, whereby for the time duration of the signal transmission by the modules, the central unit provides the direct supply voltage to the bus line over a resistor, so that the voltage signal of the module can be detected in the central unit on the bus line on the side of the resistor facing away from the direct supply voltage.Type: GrantFiled: October 17, 2000Date of Patent: March 22, 2005Assignees: Conti Temic microelectronic GmbH, Robert Bosch GmbHInventors: Michael Bischoff, Ruediger Deppe, Guenter Fendt, Thomas Huber, Norbert Mueller, Werner Nitschke, Johannes Rinkens, Peter Schaedler, Stefan Schaeffer, Werner Steiner
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Patent number: 6864600Abstract: There is disclosed an apparatus and method for providing multiple power supply voltages to an integrated circuit. In an integrated circuit of the type comprising at least two power supply domains in which each power supply domain comprises at least one module powered by the same voltage level, the apparatus and method of the present invention blocks an output signal in a first power supply domain from being sent to a second power supply domain when the second power supply domain is in a low power mode. The apparatus and method of the present invention also blocks an output signal from a first power supply domain from being received in a second power supply domain when the first power supply domain is in a low power mode. Power sense cells are used to determine the status of power supply domains and logic circuits are used to block undesired signals. The present invention also properly synchronizes clock signals when power supply domains are activated or inactivated.Type: GrantFiled: February 9, 2001Date of Patent: March 8, 2005Assignee: National Semiconductor CorporationInventor: Aviv Malinovitch
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Patent number: 6856046Abstract: A plug-in device discrimination circuit is connected to the contacts of a jack. When a plug-in device is plugged into the jack, the circuit discerns the type of device it is, thereby enabling proper interface circuitry to be connected to the plug-in device. The discrimination circuit includes a comparison circuit, a switching network, and a controller. The controller operates the switching network to connect the comparison circuit to the jack contacts. When so connected, the comparison circuit compares the electrical characteristics of at least two of the circuits contained within the plug-in device, and produces an output which varies with the results of the comparison. The controller receives the output of the comparison circuit and may configure additional circuitry to present an appropriate interface to the plug-in device.Type: GrantFiled: March 8, 2002Date of Patent: February 15, 2005Assignee: Analog Devices, Inc.Inventors: Shawn W. Scarlett, Steven E. Austin
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Patent number: 6849968Abstract: A switch unit allows a user to perform an on-and-off switching control of a load which is installed in a certain place without having the user move to the load position and confirm the control status of the load. The switch unit includes a local switching unit having a plurality of buttons each coresponding to each load which is installed in a current place, for directly selecting a load to be switching-controlled, an overall switching unit fabricated in the form of a dial, for selecting a load to be switching-controlled, an overall display unit having a number of LEDs, for displaying the switching control state of each load, an all-off switch which is slightly sunk from the surface of the switch unit, for switching all the loads entirely, and a remote controller signal receiver for receiving a remote controller signal. The switch unit further includes a FND display unit for displaying a load corresponding to the current dial position in the overall switching unit with a numerical symbol.Type: GrantFiled: November 21, 2001Date of Patent: February 1, 2005Inventor: Hyung-Sik Park
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Patent number: 6818843Abstract: Microswitch, comprising a base element (G) with a contact surface (KG) and an electrode (EG), and a switching element (S) with a contact surface (KS) and an electrode (ES) disposed opposite the electrode (EG) of the base element (G) at a distance (g). The switching element (S) is provided with a spring constant and is connected at least with a part of its edge portion with the base element (G) in a fixed manner. The contact surfaces (KG, KS) form a switching contact which is closable against a reaction force caused by the spring constant by means of a voltage applied to the electrodes (EG, ES). The base element (G) and the switching element (S) each comprise an auxiliary electrode (HG, HS) at a distance (a) from the electrode (EG, ES), to which a voltage can be applied. For opening the switching contact the electrodes (EG, ES) have a first voltage potential (U1) and the auxiliary electrodes have a second voltage potential (U2) of the voltage.Type: GrantFiled: February 10, 2003Date of Patent: November 16, 2004Assignee: Telefonaktiebolaget LM EricssonInventors: Michael Meixner, Leena Paivikki Buchwalter, Jennifer Louise Lund, Hariklia Deligianni
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Patent number: 6812595Abstract: The method of a protection circuit includes a reference voltage source and at least one circuit which are connected together via a switch. A memory element is connected to the input of the circuit, downstream of the switch. The switch is temporarily opened by a control signal generated by a monostable circuit when detecting switching of power elements belonging to an electronic device embedding the protection circuit. When the switch is open, the memory element supplies the circuit with the reference voltage previously stored. In this way, switching of the power element that might cause noise on the reference voltage cannot disturb the circuit and thereby cannot cause a faulty operation of the latter.Type: GrantFiled: September 4, 2002Date of Patent: November 2, 2004Assignee: STMicroelectronics S.r.l.Inventor: Filippo Marino
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Publication number: 20040189100Abstract: A technique for controlling a switching circuit, such as a relay, includes one or more sensing circuits that generate signals based upon the presence of an actuating object and upon a randomly applied strobe signal. The generated signals are sampled and are used as a basis for determining the state of an output signal. The sensing circuit may generate the signals based upon capacitive coupling with the actuating object. The randomization of the sampling provides enhanced immunity to periodic or cyclic noise. Where more than one sensing circuit is included, the output of the circuits may be considered together for determining the state of the output signal, such as based upon predetermined ranges of signal levels. Signals of the sensing circuit may be sampled in the absence of the strobe to provide an indication of the relative noise level. If the noise level is determined to be elevated, the output signal may not change states.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 25, 2003Publication date: September 30, 2004Inventors: Michael Lee Gasperi, David Dale Brandt, Thong T. Nguyen
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Patent number: 6798217Abstract: A proximity sensor with a sensor head for generating sensor signals is described. The proximity sensor is divided into a fastening portion containing a sensor head, and an electronics portion that can be connected to the fastening portion and has at least a sensor-signal evaluation unit and a power supply. The sensor signals pass from the fastening portion to the electronics portion via electrical contacts or contactlessly. Furthermore, a modular system for forming proximity sensors is proposed, and contains a multiplicity of fastening portions, respectively containing a sensor head, with different dimensioning and, connectable herewith, in each case identical electronics portions.Type: GrantFiled: September 3, 2002Date of Patent: September 28, 2004Assignee: ABB Research Ltd.Inventor: Guntram Scheible
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Publication number: 20040174074Abstract: A safety switching apparatus for safely disconnecting an electrical load, such as an electrical machine, has at least one output switch with at least two switching positions. The output switch is for interrupting an external power supply path to the load. The safety switching apparatus further has a control unit which controls the switching position of the output switch. The control unit is capable of monitoring the actual switching position of the output switch by means of an RF test signal which is transmitted from an RF generator to the output switch.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 12, 2004Publication date: September 9, 2004Inventors: Gerhard Ehrlich, Richard Veil, Thomas Peter
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Patent number: 6787938Abstract: An integrated circuit and method for providing a switchover from the primary power source to the secondary power source to prevent a volatile element from losing stored data. The integrated circuit includes a forced power source switchover circuit for detecting that the supply level of the primary power source drops below a predefined threshold level. A switchover circuit on the integrated circuit initiates a switchover operation based upon the forced power source switchover circuit detecting that the supply level being received from the primary power source drops below the predefined threshold level. The detection by the forced power source switchover circuitry may occur on a signal level that transitions faster than a predetermined negative rate of change. The integrated circuit may be incorporated in any system having volatile elements, such as memory or a clock.Type: GrantFiled: July 27, 2000Date of Patent: September 7, 2004Assignee: STMicroelectronics, Inc.Inventors: David C. McClure, Tom Youssef
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Patent number: 6777824Abstract: An electronic mirror circuit for the activation of mirrors for motor vehicles, where the mirrors are positioned adjusted by electric motors. The circuit is made of an operational component having a plurality of circuits for conducting currents. Also, a load control unit is correspondingly connected with the current conducting circuits. A plurality of load circuits are in communication with the load control unit. Each of the load circuits corresponds with a given one of the current conducting circuits. The load circuits are activated by the current conducting circuits. Also provided is an electrical coupling device for connecting the load circuits to the mirrors via a wire distribution tree.Type: GrantFiled: January 16, 2001Date of Patent: August 17, 2004Assignee: Lang Mekra North America, LLCInventors: Heinrich Lang, Michael Witzke
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Patent number: 6777827Abstract: In a switching arrangement for controlling a load-controlled power switch via a transformer Ü, a voltage signal is inputted into the transformer, the voltage signal being comprised of impulses of short duration T1p, T1n in positive and negative directions. Two field effect transistors F1, F2 at the secondary side of the transformer Ü convert the impulses T1p, T1n into impulses T3p, T3n in positive and negative directions which reliably control the power switch LT, the impulse duration of the impulses T3p, T3n being extended to the beginning of the next input impulses with reversed voltage directions T1n, T1p. A diode D1 and D2, respectively, is disposed in each of the field effect transistors F1and F2 between the source terminal S and the drain terminal D thereof. A respective series switch is activated ahead of the gate terminals of each respective field effect transistor F1 and F2.Type: GrantFiled: August 10, 2001Date of Patent: August 17, 2004Inventors: Michael Klemt, Karlheinz Klemt
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Patent number: 6774507Abstract: A highly reliable power supply comprises two independent input power train units each connected to a separate primary winding of a common transformer, and an output power train unit connected to the secondary winding of the transformer. A control unit controls how much energy each of the input power train units supplies. Each of the input power train units is connected to a different source of battery power or a different power distribution bus. Advantageously the advantages of full duplication of a power supply are obtained while duplicating only the input power train units. The input power train units are effectively isolated from each other through being connected to separate windings of the transformer.Type: GrantFiled: March 26, 2003Date of Patent: August 10, 2004Assignee: Lucent Technologies Inc.Inventors: Charles Calvin Byers, Arthur Francis Kirk
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Patent number: 6768222Abstract: A system and method for delaying power to a computer system. The method includes providing a standby signal. The method further includes receiving a power up signal. The method also includes delaying the power up signal. The method further includes passing the power up signal to the computer system after delaying the power up signal. The system includes a detection circuit and a delay circuit. The detection circuit is configured to receive a standby signal from a power supply. The detection circuit is also configured to output a control signal. The delay circuit is coupled to receive the control signal. The delay circuit is configured to output a delayed control signal for the power supply in response to the control signal after a predetermined period of time.Type: GrantFiled: July 11, 2000Date of Patent: July 27, 2004Assignee: Advanced Micro Devices, Inc.Inventor: Joe Ricks
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Publication number: 20040130217Abstract: The auxiliary switch includes a non-contact sensor, such as a Hall effect device, that is switched by the condition of a magnetic field. The magnetic field condition is effected by a movable contact indicator that moves between open and closed positions with the separable contacts of the electric power apparatus. A magnet may be attached to the movable contact indicator, or the movable contact indicator can be magnetized to form the magnet. Alternatively, the moving contact indicator can intercept or not intercept a magnetic field produced by a fixed magnet spaced from the sensor. The Hall effect device may be mounted on the outside of the nonmagnetically permeable housing of the electric power apparatus, or inside if there is sufficient room. In either case, no mechanical coupling is required for the sensor.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 2, 2003Publication date: July 8, 2004Inventors: Peter K. Moldovan, Edward L. Wellner, Michael R. Larsen, Paul J. Rollmann, Xin Zhou, John R. Skibinski, Randal D. Gazdecki
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Patent number: 6756702Abstract: An electrical power system includes an electric power source providing AC power to a load. A wideband voltage controller provides a wideband control signal vector to the electric power source. A fundamental component removal module interfaces to the AC power, receiving a fundamental component Park vector of the AC voltage, and providing a resonant frequency content in Park vector format of the AC current. A narrow band voltage regulator uses a resonant component Park vector of the AC current and the resonant frequency content in Park vector format to provide a narrow band output vector signal. A dead band compensating circuit rotates narrow band output vector signal by a transport lag compensation angle to provide a compensated control signal vector to the electric power source. The wideband control signal vector and compensated control signal vector are used to regulate the AC power so that the resonant frequency content is attenuated.Type: GrantFiled: December 18, 2002Date of Patent: June 29, 2004Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.Inventors: Gabor Kalman, Colin Huggett
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Patent number: 6756911Abstract: A controller input/output module visual indicator and safety means including a light redirector, terminal block assembly and at least one circuit having at least one light emitting diode or like light transmission means positioned distally from terminal block assembly. Each light redirector is configured to receive light from each corresponding light transmission means on a proximate end and redirect the light information to a distal end adjacent to the terminal block assembly for viewing by the control operator. An optional shield or side barrier may optionally be coupled to the circuit to provide operator safety from the high voltage signals which may exist on each input/output module.Type: GrantFiled: August 24, 2001Date of Patent: June 29, 2004Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.Inventors: Mark V. Striano, Michael D. Carney, Thomas P. Overholt, Jack Elias
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Patent number: 6747373Abstract: System and methods for coordinating the control system of a switched power capacitor with an integrated resonance protection function. The coordination system coordinates the function of a switched power capacitor's primary control system and resonance protection system to avoid duplication of tasks and on/off operation deadlock. The coordination system adjusting calculations made by the primary control system in response to a determination of a harmonic resonance condition by the resonance protection system.Type: GrantFiled: December 26, 2001Date of Patent: June 8, 2004Assignee: ABB Technology AGInventors: Yi Hu, Luciano Di Maio, Fabio Gatelli, William M. Egolf, David G. Hart
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Patent number: 6744338Abstract: A switch arrangement includes a MEMS switch connected to a voltage supply system. The MEMS switch has a mechanical resonant frequency. The voltage supply system has a capability for supplying a voltage with a frequency corresponding to the mechanical resonant frequency of the switch. A method includes providing a MEMS switch including a movable part which has a mechanical resonant frequency, and then supplying an AC voltage to the movable part. The AC voltage has a frequency corresponding to the mechanical resonant frequency of the movable part.Type: GrantFiled: November 13, 2001Date of Patent: June 1, 2004Assignee: International Business Machines CorporationInventor: Vladimir Nikitin
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Patent number: 6734581Abstract: The invention includes a programmable emergency-stop circuit apparatus and method that provides advanced function not found in other systems. The circuit centralizes the control of high voltage motor power into one place, by providing connections for, in its minimum configuration, several different kill switches, a motors-on button, and an AC motor power relay coil. In the present invention, kill switches, test inputs, emergency-stop and motors-on buttons, computer ready and watchdog signals are all conveniently connected in one location, alongside the AC motor power relay coil driver. Programmable options exist for testing kill inputs online, while the emergency stop is energized.Type: GrantFiled: March 27, 2002Date of Patent: May 11, 2004Assignee: Eigenpoint CompanyInventor: Michael Griffis
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Publication number: 20040084970Abstract: According to an embodiment of the invention, a sensor element device for a capacitive contact switch can be formed from a foam body with several portions. There are electrically conductive areas with a sensor element surface and an electrical contact face, as well as insulating areas. The sensor element surfaces engage from below on a glass ceramic plate. The areas can be interconnected in cylindrically elongated and juxtaposed manner. This leads to a type of strand material from which with the predetermined spacing it is possible to produce juxtaposed, capacitive sensor elements as parts of contact switches.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 20, 2003Publication date: May 6, 2004Applicant: E.G.O. Elektro-Geraetebau GmbHInventors: Uwe Winkler, Wilfried Schilling
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Publication number: 20040080216Abstract: A movable switch electrode (E21) which is contactable with a capacitance element electrode (E1) formed on a substrate (20) and is spaced apart from a fixed switch electrode (E11) formed in an interior of the capacitance element electrode (E1) and having a domed form to cover the fixed switch electrode (E11) is set in place. When a detective member (30) is operated and a force applied from a displacement electrode (40) to the movable switch electrode (E21) reaches a specified value, the movable switch electrode (E21) is elastically deformed and depressed drastically with buckling at the nearly top portion thereof and is brought into contact with the fixed switch electrode (E11). This brings the switch into the ON-state. At this time, an operator is given a pronounced click feeling.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 10, 2003Publication date: April 29, 2004Inventor: Hideo Morimoto
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Publication number: 20040075348Abstract: A method that allows a circuit attached to a material, i.e., paper, to be controlled by performing a switching function by drawing lines on the paper with a pencil. The drawn connections may be changed by erasing the drawn connections with a pencil eraser and writing new connections on the paper with a pencil. Connections may also be drawn into a circuit or have the drawn connections cause the circuit to perform some function by utilizing a standard ink jet printer or laser printer to print lines on paper equipped with a circuit, by having the printed lines perform the function of wires.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 7, 2003Publication date: April 22, 2004Applicant: Pitney Bowes IncorporatedInventors: Andrei Obrea, Brian M. Romansky, Thomas J. Foth, Jeffrey D. Pierce, Anand V. Chhatpar
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Patent number: 6714881Abstract: A method for time reference compensation in a power metering system, the method comprising monitoring a time-dependent characteristic of incoming AC power over a predetermined local time interval, comparing the monitored characteristic over the predetermined local time interval with the expected value of the characteristic based upon the nominal frequency of the AC power, and calculating a correction to one or more of local real-time and time-based measurements of the power metering system, based on the comparing.Type: GrantFiled: August 14, 2001Date of Patent: March 30, 2004Assignee: Square D CompanyInventors: David C. Carlson, Michael J. Devaney
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Patent number: 6713897Abstract: A touch switch apparatus for detecting the presence of an object such as a human appendage, the apparatus having a touch pad and a local control circuit connected to the touch pad and to a controlled device. The touch pad preferable includes a first electrode and a second electrode spaced from and surrounding the first electrode. The control circuit is preferably in integrated circuit form. A signal is provided to the touch pad to generate an electric field thereabout. Introduction of a stimulus near the touch pad disturbs the electric field. The control circuit detects the electric field disturbance in and generates a control signal in response.Type: GrantFiled: October 25, 2001Date of Patent: March 30, 2004Assignee: Touchsensor Technologies, LLCInventor: David W. Caldwell
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Patent number: 6710474Abstract: A circuit for switching on a partial circuit includes a first switching element (T1), a second switching element (T2 to T6), an activation circuit for the first switching element, a first diode (D1), a second diode (D2), and a third diode (D3). During operation, when the partial circuit is being switched on, first switching element (T1) is activated and second switching element (T2 to T6) is assigned no activity. The activation circuit for the first switching element (T1) includes a storage capacitor (C1) and a DIAC coupled to a control electrode of the first switching element (T1). First diode (D1), second diode (D2), and third diode (D3) are arranged such that stored energy in storage capacitor (C1) is more effectively utilized for activating the first switching element (T1), thus allowing use of a smaller capacitance for the storage capacitor (C1).Type: GrantFiled: January 2, 2002Date of Patent: March 23, 2004Assignee: Patent-Treuhand-Gesellschaft fur elektrische Gluhlampen mbHInventor: Felix Franck
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Patent number: 6700225Abstract: A standard high voltage circuit having a light bulb therein as a load. A low voltage DC circuit has a plurality of parallel manually actuated switches, with output contacts in the high voltage circuit and inputs in the low voltage circuit. A 7414 chip is provided to debounce the DC imposed on the low voltage circuit by the manual switches, and a chip with a toggle function is positioned in series between the 7414 chip and the high voltage circuit. Each manually actuated switch is capable, in each full throw thereof, of producing an OFF/ON/OFF, or ON/OFF/ON sequence.Type: GrantFiled: October 5, 1999Date of Patent: March 2, 2004Inventor: Thomas C. Barmore
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Publication number: 20040036362Abstract: A power transfer switch is used between a watt-hour meter and a meter box. The meter box has main power contacts which are connected to a main power source and customer-side contacts which are connected to at least one load. The power transfer switch includes a base with first contacts for connection to the main power contacts of the meter box and second contacts for connection to the customer-side contacts of the meter box. The base has further contacts for connection with the watt-hour meter and contacts for connection with a standby power source. The power transfer switch also includes a rotary switch. The rotary switch has a first position in which the main power contacts are connected to the customer-side contacts and a second position in which the standby power source is connected to the customer-side contacts.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 20, 2002Publication date: February 26, 2004Applicant: Power Quality, LLCInventors: James W. Beck, Gary A. Hoonsbeen, Robert J. Marks
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Publication number: 20040036363Abstract: A voltage control circuit that utilizes a level-shifter circuit and a switch circuit to isolate a charge pump output terminal from a system voltage source when a charge pump is enabled, and to couple the charge pump output terminal to the system voltage source when the charge pump is disabled. The level-shifter circuit receives the charge pump output voltage as its high voltage supply and the charge pump enable signal as its input signal, and transmits the charge pump output voltage from its output terminal when the charge pump is enabled, and zero volts when the charge pump is disabled. The switch circuit includes a PMOS transistor constructed such that its bulk and source are connected to the charge pump output terminal, and its drain is connected to the system voltage source. The switch circuit also includes a guard ring structure surrounding the PMOS transistor.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 26, 2002Publication date: February 26, 2004Inventors: Erez Sarig, Ran Rosenzweig