Selectively Connected Or Controlled Load Circuits Patents (Class 307/38)
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Publication number: 20090072622Abstract: A level shift 9, IGBT1, 2 and a AND element 10 are provided. An output DOUT is controlled to four states Hi/Lo/HiZ/artificial Hi by controlling input signals IN1, IN2, IN3, PULSE_IN. An element is protected from output short circuiting by transferring an output after a fixed time period to an artificial Hi. Furthermore NMOS are connected in parallel between two inverter circuits and the two stage of the inverter circuit is connected to the gate of NMOS. A delay circuit connecting the output of the initial state of the inverter circuit to a drain and the source of the NMOS to GND is connected to PULSE_IN of the level shift 9. Thus it is possible to almost completely eliminate temperature dependency of the delay time.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 14, 2008Publication date: March 19, 2009Inventors: Akihiko GOTO, Nao Miyamoto, Shinobu Yabuki, Tatsuhiro Aida
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Patent number: 7501716Abstract: A power supply apparatus that output two types of power supply includes a first series regulator for outputting power supply to a first power supply line, a second series regulator for outputting power supply to a second power supply line, an OR circuit for outputting High level signal to activate the first series regulator upon when detecting presence of either one of output from the second series regulator and an activation command by an ON/OFF control signal, and an AND circuit for outputting High level signal to activate the second series regulator when detecting presence of both of output from the first series regulator and an activation command by the ON/OFF control signal.Type: GrantFiled: April 25, 2006Date of Patent: March 10, 2009Assignee: NEC Electronics CorporationInventor: Shigeto Nakajima
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Patent number: 7501717Abstract: A universal driving apparatus of a computer system inputs two control signals of two different duty cycles through a speed control pin of a receptacle for connecting fans with the electricity supplied continuously. The differentiation percentage of the two speeds is compared with a threshold to identify the fan types. Therefore the computer system is capable of driving the identified fan correctly according to the result of the fan-type identification.Type: GrantFiled: May 18, 2006Date of Patent: March 10, 2009Assignee: Tyan Computer CorporationInventor: Chun-Hsu Chen
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Patent number: 7498690Abstract: A system and method is provided for supplying power to multiple outputs in a switching converter. One embodiment of the present invention includes a multiple-output switching converter that may comprise a switch arrangement operative to couple and decouple a supply voltage to an inductor, and to couple and decouple a given output of a plurality of outputs to the inductor. The multiple-output switching converter may also comprise a reference current generator operative to generate a reference current corresponding to an aggregated error of the plurality of outputs. The multiple-output switching converter may also comprise a current sensing device operative to dynamically measure the current through the inductor. The multiple-output switching converter may further comprise a controller that controls the switch arrangement to couple the supply voltage to the inductor during an inductor charge period and decouple the supply voltage from the inductor during an inductor discharge period.Type: GrantFiled: November 30, 2005Date of Patent: March 3, 2009Assignee: Texas Instruments IncorporatedInventor: Anmol Sharma
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Patent number: 7498687Abstract: A controller is usable with a tractor that has a power supply and a trailer that has first and second auxiliary devices. The controller is configured to selectively enable and disable each of the auxiliary devices based on a predetermined set of device disabling conditions wherein: When any of the device disabling conditions occurs, then both auxiliary devices are disabled. When none of the device disabling conditions occurs then, when a first device-selecting condition occurs then the first auxiliary device is enabled and the second auxiliary device is disabled. And when a second device-selecting condition occurs then the second auxiliary device is enabled and the first auxiliary device is disabled.Type: GrantFiled: November 17, 2006Date of Patent: March 3, 2009Assignee: R.A. Phillips Industries, Inc.Inventors: Gregory William Kinsey, John D. Jacob
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Publication number: 20090045677Abstract: A power control circuitry and method of operation are provided for controlling the connection of a voltage source to an associated circuit when that circuit is to enter an active state of operation. The associated circuit has a plurality of circuit portions, and each circuit portion has at least one voltage line for connection to the voltage source. The power control circuitry comprises a series of power switching circuits, each power switching circuit being associated with one of the circuit portions and being provided with an enable signal. Each power switching circuit is responsive to its enable signal being set to connect the voltage source to the at least one voltage line of the associated circuit portion. Further, at least one enable qualifying circuit is provided, each such enable qualifying circuit being associated with one of the power switching circuits and being arranged to generate an output signal used to determine the enable signal provided to a later power switching circuit in the series.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 13, 2007Publication date: February 19, 2009Applicant: ARM LimitedInventors: Christophe Frey, Andrew John Sowden
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Patent number: 7485986Abstract: An automatic sensing power system automatically determines a power requirement for an electrical device, converts power to the required level, and outputs the power to the electrical device when the electrical device is connected to the automatic sensing power system.Type: GrantFiled: July 12, 2007Date of Patent: February 3, 2009Assignee: mPATHX, LLCInventors: Gregory W. Menas, Brent A. Miller, Steve Spano
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Publication number: 20090026838Abstract: A power supply management system includes means for detecting required electric power supply from electric loads installed in the motor vehicle, means for determining a distribution of amounts of the electric power to be distributed to the electric loads from an electric power resource in the motor vehicle based on the requirements of the supply of the electric power from the electric loads, and means for supplying one of amounts of the electric power to a corresponding one of the electric loads in accordance with the distribution of the amounts of the electric power.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 24, 2008Publication date: January 29, 2009Applicant: DENSO CORPORATIONInventor: Kunihiro Abe
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Patent number: 7479714Abstract: A method for controlling power consumption of an electronic system is provided. The electronic system includes a number of modules, such as, for example, processing units, server blades and disk drives. In a predetermined sequence, application of power to each module is initiated. Each initiation of the application of power to a module is followed by a waiting period associated with that module.Type: GrantFiled: November 13, 2006Date of Patent: January 20, 2009Assignee: Sprint Communications Company L.P.Inventors: Frederick C. Rogers, Lyle T. Bertz
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Patent number: 7479712Abstract: The invention relates to a configuration for several consumers of electric energy, with these consumers having either the same electric power or different electric powers. Since, as a rule, not all consumers need to be supplied simultaneously with electric energy, for example if, due to maintenance work, some are not in operation, a modular energy supply system is provided, which is comprised of several interconnectable modules. This makes it possible for each consumer to be supplied from small units with the power it requires.Type: GrantFiled: October 27, 2003Date of Patent: January 20, 2009Assignee: Applied Materials GmbH & Co. KG.Inventors: Holger Richert, Wolfgang Morbe
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Patent number: 7478251Abstract: A controller in PSE (Power Sourcing Equipment) controls how to provision uninterruptible power through corresponding ports (and cables) of the PSE to network devices. For example, the controller of the PSE receives a signal indicating a transition of powering the PSE from a primary power input to a backup power supply. The backup power supply has a limited ability to provide backup power to the PSE. In response to receiving the signal, the controller of the PSE utilizes a powering/de-powering algorithm to generate control information used by the controller to selectively discontinue providing power through the certain ports to respective network devices. Consequently, the PSE and, more specifically, the controller provisions power from the PSE depending on a priority level associated with network devices, extending the power life of critical powered network devices and more efficiently using the backup power supply in the case of a power failure.Type: GrantFiled: December 23, 2004Date of Patent: January 13, 2009Assignee: Cisco Technology, Inc.Inventors: Wael William Diab, Matthew A. Laherty
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Publication number: 20080303345Abstract: A semiconductor device including a redundant circuit which can operate even when power source in a circuit in part of the redundant circuit is short-circuited. A power source circuit, a power source control circuit to which a power source potential is input from the power source circuit, and a first functional circuit and a second functional circuit connected to the power source control circuit are provided for a semiconductor device. The power source control circuit selects one of the first functional circuit and the second functional circuit and judges whether power source is short-circuited or not. When power source is short-circuited, power source supply stops and other functional circuits are supplied with power source.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 3, 2008Publication date: December 11, 2008Applicant: Semiconductor Energy Laboratory Co., Ltd.Inventor: Takayuki Ikeda
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Patent number: 7451329Abstract: Improved techniques involve provisioning power for a remote device through a data communications cable. Such techniques involve providing a first electrical stimulus (e.g., a first voltage, V1) to the data communications cable and the remote device, and sensing a first electrical response (e.g., a first current, I1) to the first electrical stimulus from the data communications cable and the remote device. Additionally, the techniques involve providing a second electrical stimulus (e.g., a second voltage, V2) to the data communications cable and the remote device, and sensing a second electrical response (e.g., a second current, I2) to the second electrical stimulus from the data communications cable and the remote device, the second electric stimulus being different than the first electrical stimulus. Furthermore, the techniques involve identifying a power demand for the data communications cable and the remote device. The power demand is based on the first and second electrical responses.Type: GrantFiled: September 8, 2005Date of Patent: November 11, 2008Assignee: Cisco Technology, Inc.Inventor: Frederick R. Schindler
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Patent number: 7450369Abstract: An enclosed switching apparatus includes an enclosure and a primary power supply disconnect mounted in the enclosure. The primary power supply disconnect has first and second terminals, the first terminals are electrically connectable to a primary power source and the second terminals are electrically connectable to a load. An auxiliary power supply unit includes an auxiliary power supply disconnect having third and fourth terminals. The third terminals are electrically connectable to the primary power source. A transformer has fifth and sixth terminals, the fifth terminals are electrically connected to the fourth terminals of the auxiliary power supply disconnect. An auxiliary fusible element has seventh and eighth terminals, the seventh terminal is electrically connected to one of the sixth terminals of the transformer. A receptacle has ninth terminals thereon. One of the ninth terminals is electrically connected to the eighth terminal of the auxiliary fusible element.Type: GrantFiled: August 30, 2005Date of Patent: November 11, 2008Assignee: Eaton CorporationInventors: William E. Wilkie, II, Richard D. Prohaska, Warren C. Sipe, Mark W. Schmidt, Brendan A. Foley, Douglas R. Bender, Eddie D. Carson
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Publication number: 20080272652Abstract: An integrated circuit 2 is provided with logic blocks 16 which draw their power from virtual supply rails 8, 10. These virtual supply rails 8, 10 are connected by switch blocks 12, 14 to main supply rails 4, 6. The switch blocks 12, 14 are subject to modulation to maintain the virtual supply rails 8, 10 at an intermediate voltage level such that a reduced voltage difference is applied across the logic block 16. This intermediate voltage level is used in a state retention mode in which the clock signal clk to the logic block 16 is stopped and state signal values are maintained therein using this reduced virtual power rail derived voltage difference. When it is desired to resume processing then the full virtual rail voltages are restored by rendering the switch blocks 12, 14 fully conductive and then the clock is restarted.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 3, 2007Publication date: November 6, 2008Inventors: Sachin Satish Idgunji, David Walter Flynn, Robert Campbell Aitken
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Patent number: 7446430Abstract: A distributed power system for delivering DC power to a plurality of loads. A plurality of power converter modules having associated therewith a DC/DC power conversion operation are provided, each disposed proximate an associated one of the loads, each of said converter modules having associated therewith a switching pulse generator for generating switching pulses. A distributed power line distributes input power to each of the modules. A data communication line distributes command data between the modules. Each of the modules includes a power regulation section for receiving the input power to generate a DC output by controlling the operation of the switching pulse generator. It also includes a processing section for interfacing with the data communication line for interfacing with the commands, the processing function operating in at least a slave mode to receive commands from the data communication bus. At least one of the modules operates in both a slave mode and a master mode.Type: GrantFiled: March 31, 2006Date of Patent: November 4, 2008Assignee: Silicon Laboratories Inc.Inventors: Kafai Leung, Ka Y. Leung, Donald E. Alfano
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Patent number: 7446491Abstract: A system and method is disclosed for intelligent power management of actuators such as those used in papermaking. Multiple power supply units are connected to a common power bus. The power bus is connected at predetermined locations to a communications bus. The communications bus is connected in series with all of the actuators. The actuators are arranged in predetermined groups. A computing device determines if electrical power can be supplied to some or all of the actuators that are requesting simultaneous movement and if there is insufficient power for all such actuators the computing device issues permission for actuators to move based on a preselected criteria.Type: GrantFiled: February 17, 2006Date of Patent: November 4, 2008Assignee: ABB Ltd.Inventors: John O'Higgins, John Collins, Cathal Gallagher
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Publication number: 20080265677Abstract: A safety power strip includes a power strip base and a control system. The power strip base has plural receptacle outlets connected with power terminals, and a power line jointed with plugs for connecting with power source. The control system is provided with thermal sensors to detect temperature change occurred in the power strip base and enable a speaker to sound out for warning in case of detecting unusual temperature changes.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 26, 2007Publication date: October 30, 2008Inventors: WEI-YUAN CHIANG, MEI-HUA CHIANG
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Publication number: 20080246336Abstract: A current fed inverter with duty cycle regulation of dc current to the input of the inverter is provided to increase the magnitude of inverter output power while operating a resonant load at resonant frequency. The regulator duty cycle period is synchronized to the period of the output current of the inverter so that there are two regulator periods for each single output current period of the inverter. Duty cycle regulation may be provided by a single pulse in the regulator period, or a series of pulses in the regulator period. Output power magnitude greater than that available at full duty cycle can be provided by operating the inverter at off resonance. Multiple current fed inverters may be connected to individual coil sections around a crucible and selectively interconnected for a heating or melting mode, or a stir mode.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 5, 2008Publication date: October 9, 2008Inventors: Oleg S. Fishman, John H. Mortimer, Mike Maochang Cao
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Publication number: 20080238199Abstract: A current source includes a first switching element configured to adjust an output current according to a control signal received at a control input. The current source also includes a reference resistance, which is electrically coupled to the first switching element such that the output current flows through the reference resistance. The latter includes first and second individual reference resistors, connected in series, and a diode connected in parallel to the first reference resistor. The first reference resistor has a higher impedance than the second reference resistor. A controller receives a predetermined reference potential and an actuating signal that constitutes the control signal of the first switching element.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 22, 2006Publication date: October 2, 2008Applicant: VDO AUTOMOTIVE AGInventor: Martin Gotzenberger
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Publication number: 20080231114Abstract: When a fault occurs in an energy distribution network, adaptive islanding is initiated to supply energy to customers who are disconnected from the primary source of energy on the network. The customers are selectively connected to secondary energy resources that are distributed within the network. The selected customers are chosen in accordance with a profile that takes into account the amount of energy available from the distributed resources, the expected length of time to repair the fault, the recent energy demands of the customers, and levels of priority that are assigned to respective customers. These factors are monitored, and the selected customers who are connected to the distributed resources are dynamically adjusted during the time that the fault exists.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 24, 2008Publication date: September 25, 2008Applicant: BPL GLOBAL, LTD.Inventors: Jeff Tolnar, Heidi Caroline, Larry Hymer, Michael Bauer
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Publication number: 20080215263Abstract: Methods of controlling activation of electrical appliances can include reducing overlapping activation time of different electrical appliances located at a single customer location of an electrical service provider during at least one time interval during a day. Related systems, circuits, and computer program products are disclosed.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 26, 2007Publication date: September 4, 2008Inventor: Daniel Flohr
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Method and System for Supplying Power to Multiple Voltage Islands Using a Single Supply Source (SSS)
Publication number: 20080211306Abstract: Methods and systems for supplying power to multiple voltage islands using a single supply source are disclosed. Aspects of one method may include providing power to a first of a plurality of voltage islands, and individually controlling providing of power to each of a remaining portion of the plurality of voltage islands. For example, when an electronic system is first powered on, a low current voltage source may be used to supply power to a primary voltage island. As a higher current voltage source becomes available, power derived from the higher current voltage source may be provided to the primary voltage island and to secondary voltage islands. Power to each of the secondary voltage islands may be, for example, individually controlled via a power MOS transistor. The power MOS transistor may also be configured to allow a faster blocking time than unblocking time.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 19, 2007Publication date: September 4, 2008Inventors: Ariel Pickholz, Long Nguyen, Shay Mizrachi -
Publication number: 20080197698Abstract: The invention relates to a method for energy management, whereby large variations in current draw in the loom are reduced, in particular current draw spikes, caused by very high making currents for electric actuators and solenoid valves, which are more evenly distributed over time. The above is achieved, by means of a predictive working of said method for energy management, by determination of both energy available in the subsequent period and the energy requirement, based on switch-on requests and selects users for switching on, according to the priority thereof and an actual tolerance time, within which a user must be switched on at the latest, following the declaration of a switching-on request for the same. The tolerance time is continuously updated.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 21, 2004Publication date: August 21, 2008Applicant: DAIMLERCHRYSLER AGInventors: Ottmar Gehring, Harro Heilmann, Andreas Schwarzhaupt, Erik Sieglin, Gernot Spiegelberg, Wolfgang Stahl, Armin Sulzmann
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Publication number: 20080179953Abstract: A communication device for use with a power distribution module. The communication device allows multiple different DMX universes to be handled over the same cable that also handles power distribution. A front of house module is provided for powering consoles and receiving DMX inputs from the consoles. Two different consoles can be powered and provide their inputs, and either console can be used to control any or all of the universes.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 17, 2007Publication date: July 31, 2008Applicant: PRODUCTION RESOURCE GROUP L.L.CInventors: Charles Reese, Rusty Brutsche, James Bornhorst
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Patent number: 7405991Abstract: The invention is directed to a system and method comprising a first semiconductor device and a second semiconductor device, wherein the first semiconductor device comprises a voltage supply means, characterized in that the voltage supply means of the first semiconductor device is connected to the second semiconductor device, so that the voltage supply means of the first semiconductor device can provide a supply voltage for the second semiconductor device.Type: GrantFiled: March 30, 2004Date of Patent: July 29, 2008Assignee: Infineon Technologies AGInventor: Jens Egerer
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Patent number: 7405493Abstract: A double pole LED outlet switch includes a power outlet receptacle with upper and lower receptacles, and a double pole double throw (DPDT) switch. The DPDT switch is positionable between an UNSWITCHED position and a SWITCHED position. The DPDT switch enables a user to provide either continuous power or switched power to at least the lower receptacle outlet double pole LED outlet switch. The double pole LED outlet switch may be configured as either an independent or a dual double pole LED outlet switch. Both the independent and dual outlet double pole LED outlet switches are most efficiently utilized if installed during construction. A post construction double pole LED outlet switch receptacle may be realized in two types of configurations. One configuration is a master unit and one configuration is a slave unit.Type: GrantFiled: November 13, 2006Date of Patent: July 29, 2008Inventor: Robert J. Leo
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Publication number: 20080150436Abstract: A chopper regulator circuit has: a power output portion for a first and a second load; a first output detection portion detecting the output to the first load; a second output detection portion detecting the output to the second load; a first and a second reference voltage generation portion; an output control portion controlling the amount of outputted electric power based on a result of comparison between two input voltages; and a switching control portion switching which of the first and second loads to supply electric power to and switching what voltages to handle as the input voltages.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 26, 2007Publication date: June 26, 2008Inventor: Tomohiro Suzuki
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Publication number: 20080122289Abstract: A power control system and related methods are disclosed herein to allow convenient distribution of a variety of different power sources to various electrical systems under test. For example, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, a modular power control system includes a multipin power input connector adapted to receive a plurality of supplied power types associated with corresponding pins of the power input connector. A plurality of multipin power output connectors are provided. The supplied power types are associated with corresponding pins of the power output connectors. A plurality of power distribution modules associated with the power output connectors are provided. Each module is adapted to selectively route a selected one of the supplied power types received by a pin of the input connector to a corresponding pin of its associated power output connector.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 3, 2006Publication date: May 29, 2008Inventors: David Mark Best, John A. Hansen, David R. Jones, Artoush Safarli, Jimmie L. Thomas, Neill P. Smith
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Patent number: 7378755Abstract: An information handling system AC-to-DC adapter provides a low DC power output on initial application of an AC power input. The low DC power output supports communication between the adapter and the information handling system of adapter identification information. The information handling system confirms a proper connection with the adapter and sends an authorization to the adapter to output a high DC power output. The adapter monitors the connection with the information handling system to disable the high DC power output if not needed, such as if the information handling system is disconnected from the adapter or reaches a fully charged battery state.Type: GrantFiled: March 31, 2005Date of Patent: May 27, 2008Assignee: Dell Products L.P.Inventors: Terry A. Kingsmore, Jr., Patrick Desbois, Mohammed K. Hijazi, Richard M. Tonry
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Patent number: 7375441Abstract: A disk drive system includes a fixed output voltage regulator including an output terminal that provides a substantially fixed output voltage. A plurality of loads, each includes a voltage supply terminal. A programmable resistor bank which is adapted to selectively provide a plurality of different resistances, is connected in series between the output terminal of the voltage regulator and the voltage supply terminals of the plurality of loads. One of the plurality of different resistances can be selected to adjust a voltage provided to the voltage supply terminals of the plurality of loads.Type: GrantFiled: November 9, 2004Date of Patent: May 20, 2008Assignee: Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd.Inventors: Brian K. Tanner, Richard M. Ehrlich
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Patent number: 7368686Abstract: An electric cooking appliance is provided. The electric cooking appliance includes a plurality of surface heating elements and a plurality of sensors configured to monitor an operational status of a corresponding surface heating element. The electric cooking appliance also includes a first cooking unit, a second cooking unit and an electronic control to facilitate sharing power between the first cooking unit and the second cooking unit based on the operational status of the plurality of surface heating elements.Type: GrantFiled: September 6, 2006Date of Patent: May 6, 2008Assignee: General Electric CompanyInventors: John L. Etheredge, Philip A. Barber, Brian Henninger, Timothy Scott Shaffer
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Publication number: 20080093928Abstract: A Power Outlet Control Device with Serial Bus(es). It is a power socket that detects the working state of Electronic Device(s) through the Serial Bus and turns on or cuts off the power of the Electronic Device(s) according to the working state. The Power Control Socket Device with Serial Bus(es) comprises: a main power socket, connected to AC power; a sub socket; a Serial Bus, to output a data signal; a controller, connected to said Serial Bus and detecting said data signal to generate a control signal; a power switch, connected to said sub socket, said AC power and said control, with said control signal controlling the turning on or cutting off said AC power to said sub socket.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 19, 2006Publication date: April 24, 2008Applicant: OMEGA TECHNOLOGY OF TAIWAN INCInventor: Hsueh Chin Hsieh
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Patent number: 7358625Abstract: An electrical power strip includes a housing, an AC power source (e.g. a male plug or power cord), an AC outlet, a converter, and a 12 VDC outlet. The AC outlet and the converter receive power from the AC power source. The converter converts the AC power (e.g. 120 VAC) to 12 VDC and supplies the converted power to the 12 VDC outlet, which may be a cigarette lighter outlet. The housing exterior defines a cradle to receive a 12 VDC device. A handle is also included on the power strip.Type: GrantFiled: December 14, 2004Date of Patent: April 15, 2008Assignee: Woods Industries, Inc.Inventors: Charles Cheng, Shiao-Tsun Ku, Dan Altheimer
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Publication number: 20080084115Abstract: An electrical distribution system is provided for selectively connecting an electrical power source to load devices comprising a panel and a plurality of switching devices mounted in the panel. Each switching device is electrically connectable between an electrical power source and a load device for selectively delivering electrical power to the load device. A control system controls operation of the switching devices. The control system comprises a programmed controller for commanding operation of the switching devices. The control system includes analog ports for selectively controlling analog load devices.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 7, 2006Publication date: April 10, 2008Inventors: William A. King, David M. Williams
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Publication number: 20080084114Abstract: An electrical distribution system is provided for selectively connecting an electrical power source to load devices comprising a plurality of panelboards each having a plurality of load circuit positions. A plurality of pairs of circuit breakers and switching devices are each mounted in one of the load circuit positions. Each pair is electrically connected between an electrical power source and a load device for selectively delivering electrical power to load devices. An I/O controller is mounted in the panelboard for controlling operation of the switching devices. The I/O controller includes a communication circuit. A system controller is connected to each I/O controller communication circuit and comprises a programmed controller for commanding operation of the I/O controllers.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 7, 2006Publication date: April 10, 2008Inventors: Martin Brucherseifer, William A. King, Seshagiri R. Marellapudi, Paul Terricciano, John DeBoer
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Publication number: 20080059824Abstract: A method and apparatus for selectively charging a secondary voltage rail includes selectively and partially charging a secondary voltage rail using at least one soft start power gate switch and using an initial power control indicator. The partially charged secondary voltage rail is selectively charged, using at least one main power gate switch, based on the initial power control indicator and a detected voltage on the secondary voltage rail. When the initial power control indicator is in a state representative of an initial power up command and when the detected voltage is greater than or equal to a predetermined voltage level, at least one main power gate switch is closed thereby charging the secondary voltage rail.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 31, 2006Publication date: March 6, 2008Applicant: ATI Technologies Inc.Inventors: Omid Rowhani, Vincent Ross
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Patent number: 7336463Abstract: A device and method are provided for detecting and configuring a solid state dimmer when wired in series or parallel with a load powered by an alternating current (AC) input. The device can comprise a microcontroller configured to be powered by the AC input. A zero-cross detector in communication with the microcontroller is capable of detecting when an AC waveform crosses zero and generating a corresponding pulse signal when the AC waveform crosses zero. A pulse analyzer can be included and configured to determine when the zero-cross detector is generating pulses exceeding a pre-determined time length threshold that represents a serial wiring configuration.Type: GrantFiled: September 9, 2005Date of Patent: February 26, 2008Assignee: Control4 CorporationInventors: James K. Russell, Walter Barnum
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Patent number: 7323794Abstract: An information handling system power supply system has a plurality of power supply units (PSUs) with outputs connected in parallel and a current balancing circuit for equalizing current from these outputs. A pseudo output current value may be added to the actual output current value for each PSU so that the parallel load sharing current balance system thinks all of the PSUs are sharing the load equally. This allows simple and inexpensive paralleling of differently rated PSUs without complex load sharing circuitry. Also, PSU stress factors may be easily compensated. For each PSU there may be a first voltage, VS1, generated that is proportional to the output current of the respective PSU. A pseudo current bias voltage, VIbais, is added to the first voltage, VS1, to produce a biased second voltage, VS2, (VS2=VS1+VIbais). The biased second voltage, VS2, now represents the apparent current output of the respective PSU when current load balancing each PSU of the power supply system.Type: GrantFiled: November 12, 2004Date of Patent: January 29, 2008Assignee: Dell Products L.P.Inventors: Jerome Gentillet, Lynn Simmons
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Patent number: 7278036Abstract: A system for starting up plural electronic devices includes an external controller, a power source, and four backboards. The external controller includes four output ends. Each backboard includes a power switch connected to a respective electronic device and to the power source, an onboard controller connected to the respective power switch, and first and second connectors each having four ends. Fourth, first, second and third ends of the first connector are respectively connected to first, second, third, fourth ends of the second connector. The onboard controller includes four input ends respectively connected to the four ends of the first connector, and an output end connected to the power switch. Signals output from the external controller are received as four different input signals at the four onboard controllers, the input signals corresponding to four different time delays for the onboard controllers to output signals to start up the four electronic devices.Type: GrantFiled: November 24, 2004Date of Patent: October 2, 2007Assignee: Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.Inventor: Ming-Huan Yuan
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Patent number: 7271502Abstract: The disclosed device is directed towards a combined network switch and power strip including a housing defining an interior and an exterior. A power cord is coupled to the housing. A power surge protector coupled to the power cord is disposed in the housing. An electrical power switch is coupled to the surge protector and is disposed in the housing. An array of electrical outlets is coupled to the electrical power switch and is disposed in the housing in operative communication between the interior and the exterior. A power transformer is coupled to the power surge protector in the housing interior. A network switch is coupled to the power transformer and is disposed in the housing interior. The network switch includes a network port array in operative communication between the interior and the exterior. A network connection is in operative communication with the network switch and a network outlet.Type: GrantFiled: March 1, 2004Date of Patent: September 18, 2007Assignee: Cisco Technology, Inc.Inventor: Phillip Andrew Remaker
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Patent number: 7242111Abstract: An automatic sensing power system automatically determines a power requirement for an electrical device, converts power to the required level, and outputs the power to the electrical device when the electrical device is connected to the automatic sensing power system.Type: GrantFiled: January 18, 2006Date of Patent: July 10, 2007Assignee: mPATHX, LLCInventors: Gregory W. Menas, Brent A. Miller, Steve Spano
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Patent number: 7239042Abstract: An electronic device includes a supply circuit board having a switching power supply circuit for outputting DC voltages in conformity with a type of commercial power, and a control circuit, which is connected to the supply circuit board, for performing control in accordance with the type of the commercial power. The control circuit discriminates the type of commercial power based upon a voltage value that is the result of dividing a DC voltage by the supply circuit board, and changes over control of a fixing heater in dependence upon the type of commercial power discriminated. When the door of an image forming apparatus is opened, the supply circuit board halts the supply of DC to a high-voltage circuit, thereby suppressing the generation of high voltage, and the control circuit is notified of the fact that the door has been opened.Type: GrantFiled: June 9, 2003Date of Patent: July 3, 2007Assignee: Canon Kabushiki KaishaInventor: Hiromichi Yamanaka
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Patent number: 7228206Abstract: The invention relates to an electrical system for a ship, comprising generators, electrical consumers, such as electric motors, and an on-board power supply system with switchgears etc. as the components of the system. The electrical system is further characterized in that supplies sufficient electrical energy in all operating states of the ship and that the system components are automatically controlled by digitized standard modules.Type: GrantFiled: January 18, 2002Date of Patent: June 5, 2007Assignee: Siemens AktiengesellschaftInventors: Jens Kahle, Bernd Kallbach, Hans-Peter Willer
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Patent number: 7215523Abstract: An apparatus for protecting an integrated circuit is applied to an electrical apparatus having a control unit. The control unit is used for controlling the integrated circuit and the protecting apparatus. The protecting apparatus includes a power input terminal, a power output terminal, and a control terminal. The power input terminal is used for receiving a power, and the power output terminal is used for outputting the power to the integrated circuit. The control terminal is used for receiving a control voltage of the control unit. When the control unit is at the power on mode, the control unit outputs the control voltage of a first level to prevent the power being input to the integrated circuit. Over a predetermined period of time, the control unit outputs the control voltage of a second level, so that the power can be input to the integrated through the protecting apparatus.Type: GrantFiled: November 29, 2004Date of Patent: May 8, 2007Assignee: Benq CorporationInventor: Chih-Yuan Lin
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Patent number: 7197429Abstract: A diagnosis system for household electric appliances, such as refrigerators, freezers, and others, presenting multiple loads, energized by switches commanded by electronic c ontrols coupled to a command module, which energizes the loads and an interface. The system includes a voltmeter to measure a first voltage in the inlet of the loads with the switches opened and a second voltage in the inlet of each load with respective switch closed, and a control unit for processing the values of the first voltage and of each second voltage. The control unit provides an interface with an indication of a failure in the command module, in the switches, or in the respective electronic controls thereof, in case a second voltage presents a value that is equal to or higher than that of the first voltage.Type: GrantFiled: December 2, 2003Date of Patent: March 27, 2007Assignee: Multibras S.A. EletrodomesticosInventor: Fabio Eduardo Rosa
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Patent number: 7184848Abstract: A control server, or similar central processor, manages the distribution of data (including audio and video), voice, and control signals among a plurality of devices connected via a wired and/or wireless communications network. The devices include audio/visual devices (such as, televisions, monitors, PDAs, notepads, notebooks, MP3, portable stereo, etc.) as well as household appliances (such as, lighting, ovens, alarm clocks, etc.). The control server supports video/audio serving, telephony, messaging, file sharing, internetworking, and security. A portable controller allows a user to access and control the network devices from any location within a controlled residential and/or non-residential environment, including its surrounding areas. The controllers are enhanced to support location-awareness and user-awareness functionality.Type: GrantFiled: July 23, 2004Date of Patent: February 27, 2007Assignee: OpenPeak Inc.Inventors: Paul Krzyzanowski, Wayzen Lin, Michael Pitts
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Patent number: 7170265Abstract: A dual output voltage regulator circuit is disclosed. The output voltage regulator has a first FET and a second FET. A current source responsive to the regulated output voltage provides a current drive to the gate of the first FET in a first mode of operation and to the gate of the second FET in a second mode of operation. Further, the circuit employs switches for switchably selecting between the first mode of operation and the second mode of operation.Type: GrantFiled: April 7, 2005Date of Patent: January 30, 2007Assignee: SiGe Semiconductor Inc.Inventor: Edward J. W. Whittaker
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Patent number: 7164214Abstract: A programmable uninterruptible power supply for coupling battery powered systems associated with a mobile site, such as a vehicle, to the primary electrical system of the mobile site operates to selectively couple the battery powered systems to the electrical system of the mobile site and to a secondary, or back-up battery separate from the primary battery associated with the electrical system of the mobile site. Various system control functions are performed, including reverse battery protection, over voltage and under voltage protection, battery drain protection, battery charging detection, reverse current detection and uninterruptible power switching. For detected adverse operating conditions, the load is disconnected from the electrical system of the mobile site and the back-up battery is used to operate the battery powered systems which are to be protected from such adverse operating conditions.Type: GrantFiled: November 25, 2002Date of Patent: January 16, 2007Inventors: Dean Eisenberger, Jeff Legg
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Patent number: RE39523Abstract: A power control apparatus includes a first driven circuit and a second driven circuit connected to the first driven circuit. A primary power-supply circuit produces a primary voltage from a source voltage of a battery and supplies the primary voltage to drive the first driven circuit. A secondary power-supply circuit produces a secondary voltage from the source voltage of the battery or from the primary voltage of the primary power-supply circuit, and supplies the secondary voltage to drive the second driven circuit. A control circuit outputs a power-supply control signal to the secondary power-supply circuit in response to a command signal, so that the supply of the secondary voltage to the second driven circuit by the secondary power-supply circuit is started or terminated by the power-supply control signal.Type: GrantFiled: October 30, 2002Date of Patent: March 20, 2007Assignee: Ricoh Company, Ltd.Inventor: Tatsuya Fujii