Diverse Or Unlike Electrical Characteristics Patents (Class 307/72)
  • Patent number: 8080901
    Abstract: An electricity generation system that uses smart pavement is presented, which pavement is comprised of materials that use solar radiation, piezo electricity, and temperature differentials within the road surface itself to create electric power. The pavement is multi-level, modular in construction, and comprised of photo-piezo-thermo-voltaic (PPTV) materials and physical means to capture the motion of passing vehicles as energy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 20, 2011
    Inventor: Loganathan Doraisamy
  • Patent number: 8076797
    Abstract: An energy transfer circuit for connecting a load to multiple energy sources that can have different voltages. The energy transfer circuit connects the load and at least two energy sources, and has a control unit. The energy transfer circuit can transfer energy from at least one energy source to the load in response to the load's power demand; transfer energy from the load to at least one energy source in response to the load's charging current, and transfer energy between the energy sources. The energy transfer circuit also includes a first capacitor in parallel with the primary source and the load; a second capacitor in parallel with the secondary source, an inductor, a first switch between the inductor and the first capacitor, a second switch between the inductor and the second capacitor. The control unit opens and closes the first and second switches in response to the load and sources.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2011
    Assignee: Indy Power Systems LLC
    Inventors: Quentin Wayne Kramer, Steve Tolen
  • Patent number: 8063513
    Abstract: The solution controls electric operational power to be fed to an amplifier. The control can be carried out, for instance, in accordance with a predetermined signal. The operational power is fed to the amplifier with a voltage source unit and a current source unit, and the operational voltage that the voltage source unit feeds to the amplifier is controlled. The current source unit feeds at least some of the operational electric current of the amplifier.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2011
    Assignee: Esju Oy
    Inventors: Eero Koukkari, Pasi Kurttio
  • Patent number: 8063509
    Abstract: A power supply voltage adjusting apparatus includes a voltage setting part that, according to a characteristic variation of a semiconductor integrated circuit, sets a first power supply voltage of a first power supply domain module among a plurality of modules in the semiconductor integrated circuit, each module respectively having a different power supply voltage; a detecting part that compares phases of a first clock signal flowing through the first power supply domain module and a second clock signal flowing through a second power supply domain module to detect a phase difference; and a voltage adjusting part that adjusts a second power supply voltage supplied to the second power supply domain module to reduce the phase difference detected by the detecting part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2011
    Assignee: Fujitsu Limited
    Inventor: Hiroshi Okano
  • Publication number: 20110273021
    Abstract: Generation of ripples and the decrease in the output voltage of a photoelectric conversion device are suppressed. The photoelectric conversion device includes a first photoelectric conversion element; a first voltage conversion element for converting the output voltage of the first photoelectric conversion element; a second photoelectric conversion element whose characteristic is different from the characteristic of the first photoelectric conversion element; a second voltage conversion element for converting the output voltage of the second photoelectric conversion element; and a control element for controlling timing of the first voltage conversion element and the second voltage conversion element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 4, 2011
    Publication date: November 10, 2011
    Inventors: Hajime Kimura, Yoshiaki Ito, Takuro Ohmaru, Shunpei Yamazaki
  • Publication number: 20110273022
    Abstract: The present invention provides a simplified method of controlling power among the various sources and loads in a power system. Power generating sources are each connected to a common DC bus through a converter. The converter selectively transfers energy to the DC bus at a maximum rate or at a reduced rate according to the level of the DC voltage present on the DC bus. At least one storage device is preferably connected to the common DC bus through a power regulator. The power regulator selectively transfers energy to or from the DC bus as a function of DC voltage level present on the DC bus. Further, an inverter may be provided to bidirectionally convert between the DC voltage and an AC voltage for connection to a customer load or the utility grid. Each power conversion device is independently controlled to provide a modular and simplified power control system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 19, 2011
    Publication date: November 10, 2011
    Inventors: Kevin Dennis, Michael Raasch, Der Vang
  • Patent number: 8030801
    Abstract: An airplane ground support system includes a multi-voltage power supply. This system includes an air conditioning module and a control module having a display and a processor, the display and processor presenting an airplane type or class selection menu to airplane support technicians and responding to the selection of a type or class of airplane by generating a power output selection signal designating the type of power needed by the selected type or class of airplane. The system also includes a power supply module which has an A.C. power input, at least one power output, and which receives the power output selection signal as an incoming signal. A power conversion system within the power supply module connects to the A.C. power input and supplies converted and voltage regulated power to the at least one power output. This power conversion system also receives the power conversion control signal as an input signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 4, 2011
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.
    Inventors: James W. Mann, III, David Wayne Leadingham
  • Publication number: 20110227417
    Abstract: A system, method and/or apparatus for the delivery of energy at a site, at least a portion of the energy being delivered by at least one or more of a plurality of renewable energy technologies, the system and method including calculating the load required by the site for the period; calculating the amount of renewable energy for the period, including obtaining a capacity and a percentage of the period for the renewable energy to be delivered; comparing the total load to the renewable energy available; and, implementing one or both of additional and alternative renewable energy sources for delivery of energy to the site.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 13, 2009
    Publication date: September 22, 2011
    Applicant: Alliance for Sustainable Energy, LLC
    Inventor: Howard Andrew Walker
  • Publication number: 20110215649
    Abstract: An energy storage system and a method of controlling the energy storage system, the energy storage system including a power converting unit for converting a voltage output from the power generating system into a direct current (DC) link voltage, a bidirectional converter enabled to perform mutual conversion between an output voltage of the battery and the DC link voltage, a DC link unit for constantly maintaining a level of the DC link voltage, a bidirectional inverter for converting the DC link voltage into an alternating current (AC) voltage appropriate for the grid, and for converting an AC voltage of the grid into the DC link voltage, and an integrated controller for controlling the power converting unit, the bidirectional converter, and the bidirectional inverter, and for controlling operation modes of the energy storage system. In particular, the integrated controller may control operation modes in accordance with the DC link voltage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 4, 2010
    Publication date: September 8, 2011
    Inventors: Byeong-Seon Min, Sung-Im Lee
  • Publication number: 20110215650
    Abstract: A system for harvesting, storing, and generating energy, that includes floating structure supporting machinery to extract energy from wind, waves, surface generators, or currents. At least one energy storage and power generating unit is anchored to the seafloor and adapted to tether the floating structure to the unit. The unit includes an internal chamber into which water flows through a hydroelectric turbine to generate electrical energy. A pump is provided, powered by energy from the floating structure machinery, to evacuate water from the unit and a control system directs power from the machinery to pump water out of the unit during periods of excess energy extraction by the machinery and to allow water to flow into the chamber through the hydroelectric turbine to generate electrical energy during periods of lower energy extraction by the machinery.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 3, 2011
    Publication date: September 8, 2011
    Applicant: Massachusetts Institute of Technology
    Inventors: Alexander H. Slocum, Gregory E. Fennell, Alison S. Greenlee
  • Patent number: 8009451
    Abstract: A universal power adapter has an input for receiving an input voltage from a power source and an output for supplying an output voltage selected from amongst two or more preset voltages. A voltage converter circuit converts between the input voltage and the two or more preset voltages. A connector tip connectable with the output connects one of the two or more preset voltages to the output.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Assignee: Modern Sense Limited
    Inventor: Kam Wah So
  • Patent number: 8008808
    Abstract: The present invention provides a simplified method of controlling power among the various sources and loads in a power system. Power generating sources are each connected to a common DC bus through a converter designed to optimize power flow to the DC bus. A DC storage device is connected to the common DC bus through a power regulator designed to maintain a constant voltage on the DC bus. Further, an inverter may be provided to convert the DC voltage to an AC voltage for a customer load or for connection to the utility grid. Each power conversion device is independently controlled to provide a modular and simplified power control system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Assignee: ZBB Energy Corporation
    Inventors: Steven Seeker, Kevin Dennis, Mike Hughes
  • Patent number: 7999411
    Abstract: An electronic card connector is used to connect an electronic card to an electronic device, such as a level-shifting device. The electronic card connector includes an insert slot unit and a switch unit. The insert slot unit is adapted for insertion of the electronic card and is provided with a power signal terminal for providing electric power to the electronic card that is inserted into the insert slot unit. The 10 switch unit is disposed in the insert slot unit, is operable to establish electrical connection between the power signal terminal and a first power source when the electronic card inserted into the insert slot unit does not actuate the switch unit, and is further operable to establish electrical connection between the power signal terminal and a second power source when the electronic card inserted into the insert slot unit actuates the switch unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2011
    Assignee: Wistron Corporation
    Inventors: Pi-Chang Chiu, Kuo-Hua Chen
  • Publication number: 20110181115
    Abstract: A system for managing AC energy harvested from a harvesting device (1) including a coil (4) including switching circuitry (S1-S4) coupled between first (7A) and second (7B) terminals of the coil. The switching circuitry includes first (S1), second (S2), third (S1), and fourth (S4) switches. A switch controller (17) closes the second and fourth switches to allow build-up of current (ILh) in the coil, opens one of the second and fourth switches, and closes a corresponding one of the third and first switches in response to the built-up inductor current reaching a predetermined threshold value (Ihrv) to steer the built-up inductor current through the corresponding one of the third and first switches to a current-receiving device (24 and/or RL,CL).
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 28, 2010
    Publication date: July 28, 2011
    Inventor: Vadim V. Ivanov
  • Publication number: 20110169334
    Abstract: A Renewable Energy Appliance incorporates an integrated, attractive, energy collection, conversion management and storage system in a self- contained deliverable structure. The appliance prioritizes the production of electrical energy using ambient wind and solar energy sources, while at the same time, providing for the substitution of fossil fuels on an expanded or as-needed basis. The appliance can be delivered, pre-assembled and programmed to provide electrical energy for many requirements with minimal environmental impact on the location site. It can be utilized in configurations to offset the grid, stand alone and/or to provide reliable back-up power to an electrical energy consuming load or grid at the point of use. The appliance can be certified to meet code compliance “plug and play” use.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 11, 2011
    Publication date: July 14, 2011
    Inventor: Dennis Lee Williams
  • Patent number: 7952224
    Abstract: A discharge share ratio calculation unit (52) calculates, for each power storage device, a remaining electric power quantity before an SOC is reached with respect to which an allowable discharge electric power is restricted, and calculates a discharge power share ratio between power storage devices according to the ratio of the remaining electric power quantity. A charge share ratio calculation unit (54) calculates, for each power storage device, a chargeable quantity before an SOC is reached with respect to which an allowable charge electric power is restricted, and calculates a charge power share ratio between power storage devices according to the ratio of the chargeable quantity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2011
    Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Hiroki Sawada, Masayuki Komatsu
  • Patent number: 7944090
    Abstract: A multi-output power conversion circuit is provided for converting an input voltage into a standby voltage and a first output voltage. The multi-output power conversion circuit includes a transformer, a power switching circuit, a first rectifier-filter circuit, a second rectifier-filter circuit, a first switching circuit, a voltage-adjusting circuit, a feedback circuit and a power control circuit. The feedback circuit is connected to the first rectifier-filter circuit, the second rectifier-filter circuit and the system circuit. The feedback circuit generates a feedback voltage according to a power-status signal issued by the system circuit. The power control circuit is interconnected between the power switching circuit and the feedback circuit for controlling on/off statuses of the power switching circuit according to the feedback voltage. The feedback circuit generates the feedback voltage according to the power-status signal and selectively according to the first DC voltage or the second DC voltage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2011
    Assignee: Delta Electronics, Inc.
    Inventors: Shih-Hsien Chang, Po-Nien Ko
  • Patent number: 7944082
    Abstract: A device may include an interconnect module that includes a number of ports, where each port is configured to receive both an alternating current (AC) power supply and a direct current (DC) power supply; where the interconnect module provides power from the received power supplies to a plurality of field replaceable units (FRUs).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2011
    Assignee: Juniper Networks, Inc.
    Inventor: Jaspal Gill
  • Publication number: 20110109165
    Abstract: An electrical power management apparatus and method in which a public power grid, a renewable energy source, an energy storage element and a domestic power supply network are interconnected through a controllable switch which connects the various components together in combinations which are advantageous to sensed power load and consumption circumstances.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 29, 2010
    Publication date: May 12, 2011
    Applicant: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Peter Hahn, Nils Haustein, Rainer Krause
  • Publication number: 20110101783
    Abstract: An electrical power distribution system and method are provided, wherein the system includes a primary generator and a secondary harvester. The primary generator includes a primary coil configured to emit an electromagnetic field when an electrical power is supplied to the primary coil, and a first communication device configured to communicate a signal. The secondary harvester includes a secondary coil configured to supply an electrical power when receiving the emitted electromagnetic field, and a second communication device configured to communicate the signal, such that the first and second communication devices communicate the signal independent from the emitted electromagnetic field.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 10, 2011
    Publication date: May 5, 2011
    Applicant: EVEREADY BATTERY COMPANY, INC.
    Inventor: Peter F. Hoffman
  • Patent number: 7936083
    Abstract: An embodiment of a system for multiple source power conversion is implemented in a vehicle that includes an alternating current (AC) power source and first and second direct current (DC) power sources. The system includes an inverter, a DC-to-DC converter, and a controller. The controller receives external commands, inverter feedback signals, and DC-to-DC converter feedback signals, and executes and inverter control algorithm and DC-to-DC converter control algorithm. An embodiment of a method for multiple source power conversion between an AC power source, and first and second DC power sources includes receiving external commands from a remote source, inverter feedback signals from an inverter, and DC-to-DC converter feedback signals from a DC-to-DC converter. The method also includes executing an inverter control algorithm and a DC-to-DC converter control algorithm to generate drive signals for the inverter and DC-to-DC converter, respectively, based on the received commands and feedback signals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2011
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: Constantin C. Stancu, Robert T. Dawsey, Mark L. Selogie
  • Patent number: 7932639
    Abstract: Methods and mechanisms to simultaneously regulate two or more supply voltages provided to an integrated circuit by a voltage regulator. In an embodiment of the invention, a voltage regulation message exchanged between the integrated circuit and the voltage regulator includes an identifier indicating two or more supply voltages selected from a plurality of supply voltages provided to the integrated circuit by the voltage regulator, where the voltage regulation message relates to the indicated two or more supply voltages. In another embodiment, the voltage regulation message indicates a desired supply voltage level to which the indicated two or more supply voltages are to transition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2011
    Assignee: Intel Corporation
    Inventors: Hung-Piao Ma, Alon Naveh, Gil Schwarzband, Annabelle Pratt, Jorge Pedro Rodriguez, Joseph T. Dibene, II, Sean M. Welch, Kosta Luria, Edward R. Stanford
  • Patent number: 7911081
    Abstract: In embodiment, a power supply system is configured to use a linear regulator to form a regulated voltage during a standby mode and to use the regulated voltage to form another regulated voltage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2011
    Assignee: Semiconductor Components Industries, L.L.C.
    Inventor: Nicolas Cyr
  • Publication number: 20110058312
    Abstract: A mobile power system comprises a plurality of energy sources, wherein at least one energy source is a solar powered generating device and at least one energy source is a wind powered generating device; a plurality of electronic and telecommunications components configured to receive the power generated by the plurality of energy sources and/or convert the power generated to direct current power; a plurality of batteries configured to store the direct current power; and at least one transportable housing configured to hold the plurality of energy sources, the plurality of electronic and telecommunications, and the plurality of batteries during transport of the housing, and wherein the housing is configured to remotely operate the at least one solar powered energy device and the at least one wind powered generating device when the mobile power system is in operation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 9, 2010
    Publication date: March 10, 2011
    Applicant: SUNDIAL POWER PODS, LLC
    Inventors: Eldon Prax, Stan Waldrop
  • Patent number: 7888819
    Abstract: An uninterruptible power supply has first and second input terminals, first and second inductors, first and second AC switch units, first and second storing devices and a control unit. The first and the second inductors are electrically connected to the first and the second input terminals. The first and the second AC switch units are electrically connected to the first and the second inductors for conducting input currents. The control unit is electrically connected to the first and the second AC switch units which may be turned on and off thereby to control the first and the second inductors which charge the input currents and discharge the input currents to the first and the second storing devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2011
    Assignee: Phoenixtec Power Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Cheng-Tan Lee
  • Patent number: 7859875
    Abstract: A universal power adapter has an input for receiving an input voltage from a power source and an output for supplying an output voltage selected from amongst two or more preset voltages. A voltage converter circuit converts between the input voltage and the two or more preset voltages. A connector tip connectable with the output connects one of the two or more preset voltages to the output.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2010
    Assignee: Modern Sense Limited
    Inventor: Kam Wah So
  • Patent number: 7843171
    Abstract: A battery charging circuit sets charging current according to either the capacity of the battery under charge or a constraint of the charging source, depending on the properties of the charging source. The battery charging circuit sets termination current, however, according to the capacity of the battery under charge, regardless of the properties of the charging source. For example, the termination current may be set as a fixed fraction of the recommended C rate of the battery even if the charging current supplied by the charging source is below this C rate. Always setting the termination current in proportion to the battery's capacity permits detection of the current at which charging should terminate even when the charging current is constrained by the charging source and no longer depends on the battery's capacity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 30, 2010
    Assignee: Semtech Corporation
    Inventors: Warren Richard Schroeder, Alan Burchfield, Thomas Joseph Karpus
  • Patent number: 7839668
    Abstract: A multiple output AC/DC power adapter is provided. The adapter includes an adapter body with an output connector and more than one output plugs configured for connecting with the output connector. The adapter body includes a DC-DC converting circuit having an input terminal, an output terminal, a first adjustment terminal. The output connector includes a positive terminal, a second adjustment terminal and a negative terminal configured for connecting to the output terminal and the first adjustment terminal of the DC-DC converting circuit and ground correspondingly. The output plugs each includes an adjustment resistor having a resistance value different from the other output plugs. Therefore, when equipped with a plurality of output plugs each of the plurality of plugs having different resistor R0, the adapter can supply different output DC voltages for different electronic device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 23, 2010
    Assignees: Hong Fu Jin Precision Industry (ShenZhen) Co., Ltd., Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Shih-Fang Wong, Tsung-Jen Chuang, Xiang-Cheng Wan
  • Publication number: 20100259103
    Abstract: A circuit arrangement with a switchable voltage supply for a control apparatus may include a DC voltage supply terminal; and an AC voltage supply terminal; a control apparatus including at least one input, an output and at least one supply terminal; three electronic switches, each having a control electrode, a reference electrode and a working electrode, wherein the reference electrode of the first electronic switch and of the second electronic switch is coupled to the first node; wherein the working electrode of the first electronic switch is coupled to the supply terminal of the control apparatus; wherein the control electrode of the first electronic switch is coupled to a reference potential, wherein at least one further load is coupled to the working electrode of the second electronic switch.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 15, 2007
    Publication date: October 14, 2010
    Applicant: OSRAM Gesellschaft mit beschraenkter Haftung
    Inventors: Klaus Fischer, Josef Kreittmayr
  • Patent number: 7808127
    Abstract: The disclosed apparatus and systems are adapted to implement dynamic power control in order to condition and store, and/or immediately utilize, energy from one or more available power inputs, whether the inputs are constantly, regularly, or intermittently available, singly or in various combinations. Power control circuits according to the invention provide means for dynamically responding to input availability and output requirements in order to prioritize input energy selection, input signal conditioning, and output power delivery adapted to the application and operating environment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 5, 2010
    Assignee: Triune IP LLC
    Inventors: Ross E. Teggatz, Wayne T. Chen, Brett E. Smith
  • Publication number: 20100230965
    Abstract: A system for maintaining buoyant, energy-capture devices in general relative position in water in the presence of surface waves allows heeling of the energy capture devices while preventing collision. The system includes a grid of structural members that resists compression while permitting limited relative surface displacement between the first and second energy-capture devices. The structural members may be partially compressible and provide a restoring force, and they may allow heeling. Electricity from wave energy capture devices is combined in a way that smoothes variations inherent in wave action. Electricity from wind energy capture devices is combined with energy from wave energy capture devices for transmission to shore.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 9, 2010
    Publication date: September 16, 2010
    Applicant: Natural Power Concepts, Inc.
    Inventors: John Pitre, Stuart Huang
  • Publication number: 20100207453
    Abstract: An environmentally friendly combination of wind turbine and solar energy collectors are provided. Solar photovoltaic material is secured to the surface of the wind turbine tower to augment the power generation capability of a wind turbine. The wind turbine energy output is controlled by a power management program and may be combined with the solar power energy that is generated from solar photovoltaic material covering the surface area of the body of the wind turbine's tower through an electrical subsystem associated with the wind turbine, an electrical subsystem associated with the solar energy collection system, and a combination subsystem conductively coupled both the electrical subsystem associated with the wind turbine and the electrical subsystem associated with the solar energy collection system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 15, 2009
    Publication date: August 19, 2010
    Applicant: CANDEW SCIENTIFIC, LLC
    Inventor: DAWN EMILY OTTMAN
  • Publication number: 20100181838
    Abstract: A device to generate electricity for building may include a rotating heat electric generating device including turbine blades to rotate in response to heat escaping an attic of the building, a DC/AC power inverter to convert the energy generated by the rotating turbine blades into electricity energy, a storage battery device to store the electrical energy, a switch device to receive the electrical energy from the storage battery device and to switch between a electric bus of the building or a utility service provider, and a controller to control the storage battery device and the switch device so the storage battery device selectively charges and discharges the electric power and so the switch device switches between the building and the utility service provider. The DC/AC power inverter may convert the DC power from the storage battery device to AC power for the splitter switch device, and the apparatus may include a solar electric generating device to generate electric power from the sun's rays.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 20, 2009
    Publication date: July 22, 2010
    Inventor: Wayne Farris
  • Publication number: 20100181837
    Abstract: The present invention provides a simplified method of controlling power among the various sources and loads in a power system. Power generating sources are each connected to a common DC bus through a converter designed to optimize power flow to the DC bus. A DC storage device is connected to the common DC bus through a power regulator designed to maintain a constant voltage on the DC bus. Further, an inverter may be provided to convert the DC voltage to an AC voltage for a customer load or for connection to the utility grid. Each power conversion device is independently controlled to provide a modular and simplified power control system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 16, 2009
    Publication date: July 22, 2010
    Inventors: Steven Seeker, Kevin Dennis, Mike Hughes
  • Publication number: 20100164291
    Abstract: A power supply system comprises an electrical power generating device producing DC electrical power in the form of a DC electrical current, a DC current conductor receiving the DC electrical current from the electrical power generating device and carrying the DC electrical current to a socket, and an AC power system transmitting AC electrical current to the socket so that the socket can be accessed by a plug inserted therein to receive the DC current or the AC current from it. The socket has four recesses in it, and each recess has a respective contact therein. Each recess is configured to receive a respective prong and make a respective electrical contact with the plug therein. A first of the contacts transmits the DC current, a second and third of the contacts transmit complementary poles of the AC electrical current, and a fourth contact connects with a grounded connection. A DC-powered electrical device has a plug with a plug body and three prongs supported on and extending from the plug body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 26, 2008
    Publication date: July 1, 2010
    Inventor: Yaroslav A. Pichkur
  • Publication number: 20100156185
    Abstract: There are disclosed a photovoltaic and fuel cell (PV-FC) hybrid generation system using a single converter and a single inverter, and a method of controlling the same. The PV-FC hybrid generation system includes a DC/DC converter unit converting an FC output voltage from a fuel cell, converting chemical energy into electrical energy, into a preset voltage, a DC link unit commonly connecting an output terminal of a photovoltaic cell, converting the sunlight into electrical energy, and an output terminal of the DC/DC converter unit, and linking the converted FC output voltage from the DC/DC converter unit with a PV output voltage from the photovoltaic cell to thereby generate a DC voltage, and a DC/AC inverter unit converting the DC voltage from the DC link unit into a preset AC voltage. Furthermore, a method of controlling the PV-FC hybrid generation system is proposed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2009
    Publication date: June 24, 2010
    Applicants: Samsung Electro-Mechanics Co., Ltd., SUNGKYUNKWAN UNIVERSITY Foundation for Corporate Collaboration
    Inventors: Jin Wook Kim, Byoung Kuk Lee, Jong Soo Kim, Gyu Yeong Choe, Jong Sun Kim, Il Woon Lee, Jae Sun Won, Jong Hae Kim, Dong Seong Oh
  • Publication number: 20100156186
    Abstract: There is provided a photovoltaic and fuel cell hybrid generation system using dual converters and a single inverter and a method of controlling the same. A photovoltaic and fuel cell (PV-FC) hybrid generation system according to an aspect of the invention may include: a PV DC/DC converter unit converting a PV output voltage into a predetermined voltage; an FC DC/DC converter unit converting an FC output voltage into a predetermined voltage; a DC link unit commonly connecting an output terminal of the PV DC/DC converter unit and an output terminal of the FC DC/DC converter unit, and linking the converted PV output voltage from the PV DC/DC converter unit to the converted FC output voltage from the FC DC/DC converter unit to thereby generate a DC voltage; and a DC/AC inverter unit converting the DC voltage from the DC link unit into a predetermined AC voltage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2009
    Publication date: June 24, 2010
    Applicants: Samsung Electro-Mechanics Co., Ltd., SUNGKYUNKWAN UNIVERSITY Foundation for Corporate Collaboration
    Inventors: Jin Wook KIM, Chung Yuen WON, Jong Soo KIM, Byoung Kuk LEE, Gyu Yeong CHOE, Hee Sung MOON, Jeong Min KO, Dong Seong OH, Tae Won LEE, Jae Sun WON
  • Publication number: 20100153757
    Abstract: A method and apparatus to balance adapter power supply and computing device power demand. In one embodiment, power to/from battery pack(s) maybe controlled by adjusting the output voltage of the power adapter via the current input to the power adapter through a feedback pin to meet power demand of electrical loads. Another embodiment provides a way to adjust the activities of the electrical loads such that neither adapter power rating nor the electrical load power limit is exceeded while avoiding system shutdown.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 26, 2010
    Publication date: June 17, 2010
    Inventors: Peter T. Li, Don J. Nguyen
  • Publication number: 20100148587
    Abstract: A multiple-input DC-DC converter that is capable of power diversification among different energy sources with different voltage-current characteristics. The converter is capable of bidirectional operation in buck, boost and buck-boost modes and provides a positive output voltage without the need for a transformer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 17, 2008
    Publication date: June 17, 2010
    Inventor: Alireza Khaligh
  • Patent number: 7728547
    Abstract: A hybrid battery pack and methods of charging and discharging the same make it possible to manage at least two power sources by one circuit. The hybrid battery pack includes a first power source having a first switching circuit, a second power source connected to the first power source in parallel and having a second switching circuit, a current sensor serially connected to the first and second power sources to sense the currents of the first and second power sources, and a controller to obtain the voltages of the first and second power sources so that the first and second power sources are not over-charged or over-discharged and to calculate the entire capacity of the first and second power sources using the amount of currents obtained by the current sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Assignee: Samsung SDI Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Seong Ben Lim, Hong Seok Choi
  • Publication number: 20100117452
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a delocalized power generation system with computer controls and storage optimization capacity. A plurality of power generating systems is linked to a building along with a plurality of electrical storage means. By selectively charging and discharging the storage means and by selectively picking which electrical generating means one uses, the generation of power to the structure is maximized.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 7, 2008
    Publication date: May 13, 2010
    Inventors: Jared A. Dunnmon, Avishek Panth
  • Patent number: 7714463
    Abstract: A device for controlling a single-phase power conditioner for a renewable energy system is disclosed. The device comprises: a power system, providing alternating current (AC) utility power; a renewable energy system, using a natural resource so as to generate direct current (DC) power; a DC-to-DC converter, accepting the DC power generated by the renewable energy system so as to convert an input DC voltage of the DC power to an output DC voltage at a voltage level different from the DC input voltage; a grid-tied power conditioner, transforming voltage levels of the AC power and DC power; a controller, issuing a control signal for controlling the grid-tied power conditioner; and a load, consuming electricity by way of the grid-tied power conditioner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 11, 2010
    Assignee: Industrial technology Research Institute
    Inventors: Wei-Te Su, Pao-Chuan Lin, Yi-Shuo Huang, Yoshihiro Konishi
  • Publication number: 20100084921
    Abstract: The Universal Power Inlet System, or UPIS, is a method of providing universal attachment of 3 different types of electrical power systems into the input circuitry of a Power Distribution Unit, or PDU. This method allows use of either fixed or detachable power cord options permitting the PDU to be powered by any of the following types of electrical power sources: 3-Phase Delta, 3-Phase Star (or Wye) and Single-Phase. This method also describes a way to uniquely identify the specific power system the mentioned PDU is currently attached to. The method also optionally allows derivation of supplementary information about the electrical power system such as current capacity, or ampacity, of the power cord being used. All this information can be used for capacity monitoring and reporting as well as protection of PDU circuitry and power cords.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 8, 2008
    Publication date: April 8, 2010
    Applicant: Avocent Huntsville Corporation
    Inventor: Carlos E. Martins
  • Publication number: 20100060082
    Abstract: A digital camera includes: a battery installation part connectable to either an AC adapter or a battery; a mechanical shutter and a diaphragm; and a controller for supplying, to the mechanical shutter and the diaphragm, power from the AC adapter or battery that is connected to the battery installation part. The controller monitors a voltage output through the battery installation part during the power supply to the mechanical shutter and the diaphragm, and determines whether or not the AC adapter is connected to the battery installation part in accordance with the behavior of the monitored voltage changes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 10, 2009
    Publication date: March 11, 2010
    Inventor: De Lu QU
  • Publication number: 20100033015
    Abstract: A unitized electrical generating and storage system is herein described that combines up to three sources, hydroelectric, solar and wind, of that can produce electric power. This invention encompasses an enclosed housing structure that securely and efficiently integrates multiple power generating technologies and electrical storage capacity into a single platform assembly or unit that is easy to install and implement. It can be applied to a variety of applications and locations where conventional utility power or a single renewable energy source can not be reasonably incorporated. This invention is designed to address the electrical needs of remote sites or locations where other power supply facilities or means are non-existent or difficult to impossible to implement and creates more aesthetic power generating equipment to sites along highways, roads, parks, golf courses, rivers, lakes and reservoirs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 6, 2009
    Publication date: February 11, 2010
    Applicant: TECHSTREAM CONTROL SYSTEMS, INC
    Inventor: Raymond Alvarez
  • Patent number: 7637816
    Abstract: A gaming control board having low-power circuitry and high-power circuitry for controlling the operation of a gaming machine. The low-power circuitry includes logic components including a CPU that executes instructions for randomly selecting a plurality of game outcomes in response to wagers inputted by a player. The high-power circuitry includes high-power components such as lamp drivers for interfacing high-power signals between the gaming control board and a game interface board. Two connectors are provided on the gaming control board, one to interface low-power signals and another to interface high-power signals. The high-power circuitry is located near the connector interfacing the high-power signals for optimal EMI suppression.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 29, 2009
    Assignee: WMS Gaming Inc.
    Inventors: Stephen A. Canterbury, Timothy C. Loose, Victor Mercado, Mark V. Page
  • Publication number: 20090278405
    Abstract: An embodiment of a system for multiple source power conversion is implemented in a vehicle that includes an alternating current (AC) power source and first and second direct current (DC) power sources. The system includes an inverter, a DC-to-DC converter, and a controller. The controller receives external commands, inverter feedback signals, and DC-to-DC converter feedback signals, and executes and inverter control algorithm and DC-to-DC converter control algorithm. An embodiment of a method for multiple source power conversion between an AC power source, and first and second DC power sources includes receiving external commands from a remote source, inverter feedback signals from an inverter, and DC-to-DC converter feedback signals from a DC-to-DC converter. The method also includes executing an inverter control algorithm and a DC-to-DC converter control algorithm to generate drive signals for the inverter and DC-to-DC converter, respectively, based on the received commands and feedback signals.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 8, 2008
    Publication date: November 12, 2009
    Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS, INC.
    Inventors: Constantin C. Stancu, Robert T. Dawsey, Mark L. Selogie
  • Publication number: 20090195077
    Abstract: The present invention provides for a system to generate electricity from vehicular traffic and road infrastructure. Specifically, energy of a moving vehicle may be transferred via mechanic or wind energy into electricity. Additionally, shoulders of roads allow for installment of photovoltaic cells that provide for electricity while not interfering with normal traffic patterns in the least.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 22, 2009
    Publication date: August 6, 2009
    Inventor: Benjamin Elias Blumenthal
  • Patent number: 7566992
    Abstract: A power station comprises a power-consuming shaft run on which a motor and a compressor are arranged, as well as a power-emitting shaft run on which a generator and an expansion machine are arranged. The compressor feeds a compressed fluid into a storage volume. The compressed storage fluid is expanded in the expansion machine, producing work. The generator and the motor are connected to the electrical grid system via frequency converters. This makes it possible to operate the electrical machines at a rotation speed which is asynchronous with respect to the grid system. A method and apparatus is disclosed that allows the net power output of the power station to be matched to the demands of the electrical grid system by varying the rotation speed of at least one of the shaft runs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 28, 2009
    Assignee: Alstom Technology Ltd
    Inventor: Rolf Althaus
  • Patent number: 7560829
    Abstract: A power system can include a first battery port to couple to a first type of battery pack having a first battery voltage range, a second battery port to couple to a second type of battery pack having a second battery voltage range that is different from the first battery voltage range, a first power rail to couple to a first set of loads, a second power rail to couple to a second set of loads, and a switch circuit. The switch circuit can provide a number of switch settings. The switch settings can include a first setting to couple the first battery port to the first power rail and the second battery port to the second power rail, a second setting to couple the first battery port to both the first power rail and the second power rail, and a third setting to couple the second battery port to both the first power rail and the second power rail.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 14, 2009
    Assignee: Intel Corporation
    Inventors: Wayne Proefrock, Thovane Solivan