Supplied Or Controlled By Space-transmitted Electromagnetic Or Electrostatic Energy (e.g., By Radio) Patents (Class 318/16)
  • Patent number: 7719213
    Abstract: An actuating mechanism for a door includes a first antenna block having a first integrated microcontroller electrically connected to a first transceiver device and a first antenna. A second antenna block having a second integrated microcontroller is electrically connected to a second transceiver device and a second antenna. A processor device is electrically connected between the first and second microcontrollers and a first switch. The first and second antennas receive a first radio frequency signal from a third, mobile transceiver device. The processor device measures a time difference of arrival (TDOA) of the first radio frequency signal. The processor device computes a direction of arrival (DOA). The DOA measurement is compared against a predefined range of DOAs. The processor device sends a control signal to the first switch to actuate the door in the event of a match.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2010
    Inventors: Stephen A. Herman, Garrett J. Swank, Estit S. Ramirez
  • Publication number: 20100109578
    Abstract: A motor control device for controlling rotation of a brushless DC motor of a ceiling fan includes a receiver unit that receives an input signal and outputs a command signal, a magnetic sensor unit for detecting a magnetic pole variation of the brushless DC motor so as to generate a position signal, a processing unit that is electrically connected to the receiver unit and the magnetic sensor unit and that generates a control signal, a motor drive unit that is electrically connected to the processing unit and the brushless DC motor and that generates a drive signal for driving the brushless DC motor, an AC to DC converter unit that rectifies and filters a grid power to generate a first DC power for the motor drive unit, and a DC to DC converter unit that is electrically connected to the aforementioned units and that generates a second DC power.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 20, 2009
    Publication date: May 6, 2010
    Applicant: PAN-WORLD CONTROL TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
    Inventors: Wen-Bin Tsai, Yu-Neng Chou
  • Patent number: 7708048
    Abstract: An automatic barrier operator system for operating a gate or upward acting garage door, for example, includes a controller for operating a reversible motor, a base radio frequency transmitter and a base radio frequency receiver. One or more remote control units include a radio frequency remote receiver and remote transmitter. The controller is operable to automatically close or open the barrier in response to a query signal sent from the base transmitter to the remote receiver and when the remote receiver is within range, returning a signal to effect operation of the barrier. The system is operable to effect operation or maintain the status quo of the barrier depending on the state of the barrier and a particular signal or lack of signal received by the controller from an authorized remote control unit or units. The system provides essentially hands-free automatic operation of opening and closing a garage door and the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2010
    Assignee: Overhead Door Corporation
    Inventor: Wesley M. Mays
  • Patent number: 7692393
    Abstract: Preferred embodiments of the invention comprise an automatic reel capable assisting a user when attempting to unspool a linear material, such as a water hose. The automatic reel includes a control system having a motor controller capable of sensing a pulling of, or increased tension of, the linear material and capable of causing a motor to rotate to unspool the linear material. In certain embodiments, the motor controller tracks the length of the unspooled portion of the linear material and/or reduces the spooling speed of the motor when retracting a terminal portion of the linear material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2010
    Assignee: Great Stuff, Inc.
    Inventors: Ramon Anthony Caamano, Michael J. Lee, James B. A. Tracey, Martin Koebler
  • Patent number: 7688010
    Abstract: Preferred embodiments of the invention comprise an automatic reel capable assisting a user when attempting to unspool a linear material, such as a water hose. The automatic reel includes a control system having a motor controller capable of sensing a pulling of, or increased tension of, the linear material and capable of causing a motor to rotate to unspool the linear material. In certain embodiments, the motor controller tracks the length of the unspooled portion of the linear material and/or reduces the spooling speed of the motor when retracting a terminal portion of the linear material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2010
    Assignee: Great Stuff, Inc.
    Inventors: Ramon Anthony Caamano, Michael J. Lee, James B. A. Tracey, Martin Koebler
  • Publication number: 20100066167
    Abstract: A load includes a device for its inductive power supply, the device including an insertion part, the power supply of the load being provided after the insertion part is inserted into the load.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 7, 2007
    Publication date: March 18, 2010
    Inventor: Josef Schmidt
  • Patent number: 7656105
    Abstract: A wireless signal transmission device for a DC brushless ceiling fan motor that includes a wireless signal transmission device to receive and transmit a signal to a controlling unit, and the controlling unit transmits the control signal to the motor via an electric wire. A wireless signal-transmitting device is installed above the motor. The signal-transmitting device detects the position of the motor and transmits a wireless signal to a signal receiving device, which then transmits the signal to the controlling unit, which further transmits the controlling signal to the motor via of the electric wire, for the purpose of controlling the rotation of the motor. Due to the fact that the signal is transmitted wirelessly, it is not necessary to use any destructive process such as drilling a hole on the body of the ceiling fan, and thus the rigidity and the strength of the components are preserved.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 2, 2010
    Assignee: Rhine Electronic Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Chien Hsun Chen
  • Publication number: 20090273307
    Abstract: A remote blind actuating system for use in opening and closing blinds with a string incorporates a motor, a pulley, a receiver, and a housing. The motor, the pulley, and the receiver are disposed within the housing. The motor is connected with the pulley and is in communication with the receiver. The pulley is an cylindrical member with a first distal end and a second distal end. The pulley is rotatably affixed to the motor about an axis. The first distal end of the pulley is connected with the motor and the second distal end is connected with the string.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 30, 2008
    Publication date: November 5, 2009
    Inventor: Rick Mosbrucker
  • Patent number: 7612507
    Abstract: A motor controller capable of appropriately change the drive control condition in response to variations generated in motor drive control. The receiving circuit wirelessly receives and demodulates the control signal to controllably drive the motor and then outputs the demodulated signal to the motor controller. The current detection circuit detects the drive signal for the motor. The CPU refers to a table including correlations between drive currents of the motor and drive frequencies, which are respectively stored in the memory. The CPU selects a drive frequency corresponding to a drive current detected by the current detection circuit, thus controllably driving the motor using the drive signal of the corresponding drive frequency.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 3, 2009
    Assignee: Futaba Corporation
    Inventors: Kazuo Katsuyama, Hideo Kitazawa
  • Patent number: 7598693
    Abstract: A dustbin, adapted to be opened/closed automatically by induction actuated, includes a container body, cover, motor and actuating device, wherein the motor is connected to the driven element of the cover through the actuating device. The dustbin includes a sensing and controlling device of the stroke of the cover, wherein a cover stroke perception and a shut off circuit, the cover stroke perception is connected with the shut off circuit, and the shut off circuit is connected with the motor, the shut off circuit receives the activating signal from the cover stroke perception and then controls the motor to actuate correspondingly, the cover's stroke inducted by the trigger; point of the cover stroke perception is less than the whole stroke during the closing of the cover. The noise of the crash between the cover and the container body is low, and closing of the cover is rapid and spiffy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 6, 2009
    Inventors: Xin Wang, Jiangqun Chen
  • Publication number: 20090224702
    Abstract: A brushless D.C. motor has a rotor with a plurality of magnets secured to a mounting surface. Each magnet has an RFID tag secured to a magnet surface, with each RFID tag having stored therein a unique identification character serving to identify the magnet. A stator has a plurality of pole teeth separated by slots, each pole tooth having a power coil wound thereabout. A plurality of RFID interrogation antennae are mounted adjacent the pole teeth. An RFID reader generates r.f. interrogation signals broadcast by the antennae to the RFID tags. The RFID tags respond by broadcasting the unique identification character whenever an interrogation signal is sensed as the tag enters the region of a pole tooth. This position and magnet identification information is received by the RFID reader, which processes the information and sends it to a motor controller and driver unit, which supplies operating power to the individual power coils.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 8, 2008
    Publication date: September 10, 2009
    Applicant: Silicon Valley Micro M Corporation
    Inventors: Shengbo Zhu, Su Shiong Huang
  • Patent number: 7579791
    Abstract: A vehicle-side device receives a response signal transmitted from an electronic key carried by a user and executes a matching process to check whether the key is an authorized one. When the matching is confirmed and the operation of a sensor/switch disposed on a door is detected, a given door is unlocked. The device determines a door which is to be opened by the user, and the seat state is controlled on the basis the door to be opened. If the door to be opened is for rearmost seats, the rearmost seats are automatically controlled to a seating state or a loading state based on detection of absence or presence of an object on the rearmost seats.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 25, 2009
    Assignee: Denso Corporation
    Inventors: Kazuhiro Nakashima, Kentarou Teshima, Kenichi Ogino
  • Patent number: 7570003
    Abstract: A lid assembly for use with a garbage can having a frame that includes a lip at the bottom of lid and a housing. The housing is defined by a lower wall and a sidewall with an opening. A static electricity sensor is positioned in the housing. The lid assembly also includes a displaceable door that moves with the lip to open the garbage can. So that when the static electricity sensor detects the static electricity of a user, the displaceable door slides to open the garbage can and when the static electricity sensor does not detects the static electricity of a user, the displaceable door slides to close the garbage can.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 4, 2009
    Assignee: Euro-Pro Operating, LLC
    Inventor: Chi Tau Chan
  • Publication number: 20090129003
    Abstract: A mobile operator control unit for remotely controlling a robot includes a housing with a reconfigurable user interface with multiple sockets. A plurality of control modules are each removably received in a socket and include one or more switches. A module interface is connected to the one or more switches. A baseboard processing unit is connected to each module interface for receiving and processing signals received from the module interfaces. A transmitter is responsive to the baseboard processing unit for transmitting signals to the robot based on the activation of the module switches.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 19, 2008
    Publication date: May 21, 2009
    Inventors: Kurt Bruck, Hoi Tong, Geoffrey B. Lansberry, Jake Warren, Alex Kirilov
  • Publication number: 20090121660
    Abstract: The present invention provides a handheld adjustable bed remote control that may comprise a circular group of input buttons. A first input button in the circular group of input buttons, upon activation, may control a head position of an adjustable bed. A second input button in the circular group of input buttons, upon activation, may control a foot position of the adjustable bed. A centrally located button may be positioned at an approximate center of the circular group of input buttons. The central button, upon activation, may cause the adjustable bed to return to a flat position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 13, 2008
    Publication date: May 14, 2009
    Inventor: Martin B. Rawls-Meehan
  • Patent number: 7531972
    Abstract: A remote controlled porch light that has a rotating seat on a base seat, and a rotation driving seat fitting within the base seat. The rotation driving seat has a first reversible motor to rotate the rotation driving seat and lamp to the left or right. A movable lamp holder is attached rotatably to the rotation driving seat. The rotation driving seat has a second reversible motor to rotate the movable lamp holder and lamp up or down. One or more stopper pins in the rotation driving seat limit the degree of horizontal rotation of the rotation driving seat. The base seat is adjustable on an adjusting board to position the light within the center of its arc of rotation, allowing the stopper pins to limit the degree of rotation of the light so that the rotation will not damage the lamp or the house or building to which the light is attached.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2009
    Inventors: David Worsham, Wang Mao-Shen
  • Patent number: 7525277
    Abstract: The command-transmitting device comprises control buttons (11, 12) and a movable control element (2b) movable in two directions along a theoretical axis of operation (D1), these control buttons and this movable control element being arranged on a first face (24) of the transmitting device, in which device the buttons (11, 12) are positioned outside of an exclusion zone (A) defined by two straight lines (C1, C2) intersecting in the center of the movable element and forming an angle (?) of 60°, the bisector of which is parallel to the theoretical axis of operation, and by a circle (21) whose center is on the center of the movable element and whose circumference is separated from the latter by a distance (d) of 20 mm, and the buttons (11, 12) controlling the movements of the slats in opposite directions are arranged on either side of the movable element (2b).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 28, 2009
    Assignee: Somfy SAS
    Inventors: Alain Bejean, Norbert Dupielet, Olivier Poulet
  • Patent number: 7518326
    Abstract: A door system includes a support connected to a structure, and a door mounted on the support and movable relative to the support between an opened position and a closed position. The door includes a detection device and a remote module coupled to the detection device. The remote module includes a battery and an RF module for supporting two-way communication and sending signals indicative of the status of the detection device and the battery. The door system also includes a motor to drive the door, and a controller to control the motor. The controller includes a user interface and a memory. The door system also includes a base module coupled to the controller for receiving signals from the remote module. The received signals are indicative of the status of the detection device and the battery. The base module also sends signals related to successful transmission acknowledgements to the remote module.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2009
    Assignee: Albany International Corp.
    Inventors: William W. Shier, Lee H. Theusch, Allan B. Czubin, Robert J. Miller
  • Patent number: 7501775
    Abstract: The invention concerns a switching device system including at least one switching device, signal means and control means. Each switching device includes at least one mobile contact part, an electric motor and, coupling means. The coupling means is arranged to transfer motion from the electric motor to the mobile contact part. The control means is arranged to control the switching device. According to the invention the control means is at least partly remotely located from the switching device. The signal means transmit signals from the switching device to the remotely located control means and vice/versa. The signals represent real-time data and/or off-line data. The invention concerns also a switching device, control means and methods related to the invented system as well as computer program products for such system and electric power system being provided with such system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 10, 2009
    Assignee: ABB AB
    Inventors: Stefan Valdemarsson, Per Larsson, Philip C. Kjaer, Per-Olof Thureson, Sjoerd G. Bosga
  • Publication number: 20090039805
    Abstract: A change-over device of pull cord control and wireless remote control for a DC brushless-motor ceiling fan is to have a driver installed in a ceiling fan basic body, and the driver has a detecting unit for detecting whether or not a connector positioned in a hanging bell is connected with a wireless control switch unit so as to control the blades of the DC brushless-motor ceiling fan to rotate by pull cord control or by wireless remote control. Further, the connector is installed inside the hanging bell; therefore, when the DC brushless-motor ceiling fan is to be additionally provided with a wireless control switch unit, it is convenient and safe in installation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 7, 2007
    Publication date: February 12, 2009
    Inventor: Yung Yu TANG
  • Patent number: 7425805
    Abstract: A three-in-one control device for a ceiling fan includes a signal receiving module, which is able to receive segmented controlled signals, stepless controlled signals and wireless controlled signals respectively, for transmitting controlled signals to a micro computer control unit to process, analyze and code them. Then, the processed signals are transmitted to a driving unit to drive the blades of the ceiling fan to rotate. Therefore, when a control switch is replaced with another type, it is unnecessary to change the control device but just connect it to a corresponding control module, able to save manufacturing cost.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2008
    Inventor: Hsia-Yuan Hsu
  • Patent number: 7411772
    Abstract: Techniques in which a 1st force, field, or effect caused by a Casimir effect is converted into a 2nd force, field, or effect. The 1st force, field, or effect might be distinct from the 2nd force, field, or effect only in the net vector or might be distinct in other ways. For example, the distinction might involve substituting a torque for a linear force vector or converting a force, field, or effect associated with the Casimir effect into movement or into an electric, magnetic, or electromagnetic force, field, or effect. These changes preferably are caused by an independent element placed proximate or between to the Casimir effect surfaces. Preferably, the torque causes rotation (i.e., spinning) of an element. This rotation is significantly different from prior-art embodiment because energy does not have to be put back into the system to “reset” the structures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2008
    Inventor: Adrian Jeremy Tymes
  • Publication number: 20080187410
    Abstract: A multi-stage drywall hydraulic lift system for efficiently lifting a drywall panel while providing increased precision in positioning of the drywall panel. The multi-stage drywall hydraulic lift system generally includes a telescoping drywall lifter, a hydraulic actuator connected to the telescoping drywall lifter to extend and retract the telescoping drywall lifter. A hydraulic pump is fluidly connected to the hydraulic actuator. A valve unit is fluidly positioned between the hydraulic pump and the hydraulic actuator to control the flow of fluid to the hydraulic actuator based upon a desired vertical lift velocity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 7, 2007
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Inventor: Roland O. Young
  • Publication number: 20080143280
    Abstract: A wireless control system can be used to selectively adjust the position of a liftgate platform with respect to a vehicle cargo hold. The wireless control system includes a transmitter for use in transmitting a wireless control signal, a receiver that receives the wireless control signal transmitted by the transmitter and communicates a corresponding control signal to an actuation device to adjust the platform and, a transmitter detection system that prevents the actuation device from operating unless the transmitter is positioned in a predetermined location.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 14, 2006
    Publication date: June 19, 2008
    Inventor: Kenneth Rock
  • Patent number: 7379286
    Abstract: A system is disclosed for converting energy from the electromagnetic quantum vacuum available at any point in the universe to usable energy in the form of heat, electricity, mechanical energy or other forms of power. By suppressing electromagnetic quantum vacuum energy at appropriate frequencies a change may be effected in the electron energy levels which will result in the emission or release of energy. Mode suppression of electromagnetic quantum vacuum radiation is known to take place in Casimir cavities. A Casimir cavity refers to any region in which electromagnetic modes are suppressed or restricted. When atoms enter into suitable micro Casimir cavities a decrease in the orbital energies of electrons in atoms will thus occur. Such energy will be captured in the claimed devices. Upon emergence form such micro Casimir cavities the atoms will be re-energized by the ambient electromagnetic quantum vacuum.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2008
    Assignee: Jovion Corporation
    Inventors: Bernard Haisch, Garret Moddel
  • Patent number: 7345445
    Abstract: A wiping system for use on a vehicle window comprises a window wiper assembly positioned proximate the window, a first sensor for detecting the presence of moisture on the window and a second sensor for detecting if the vehicle has been remotely started. A controller is coupled to the wiper assembly and to the first and second sensors and enables the wiper assembly when the vehicle has been remotely started and moisture is present on the window. The wiping system also comprises a third sensor for detecting the presence of moisture on the window, a fourth sensor for detecting vehicle shut-down, and a fifth sensor for sensing the temperature of the window. The controller is coupled to each of the third, fourth, and fifth sensors and enables the wiper assembly when the vehicle has been shut-down for less than a predetermined period of time, the temperature of the window exceeds a temperature threshold, and moisture is detected on the window.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2008
    Assignee: General Motors Corporation
    Inventor: Fred W. Huntzicker
  • Patent number: 7315146
    Abstract: The motorized blind (4) device (1) with orientable slats (5) comprises an orders transmitter (2) and an orders receiver (6) which is attached to the motorized blind, the orders transmitter (2) comprising a first control interface (2a) and a second control interface (2b). This device is one which comprises means of interpretation for differentiating between the orders to translate and to orient the slats on the basis of the actions performed on the two control interfaces, in which the second control interface (2b) comprises an element (14) that can be moved in two opposite senses along substantially one and the same first direction and in which two electric contacts are respectively actuatable by movement of the element (14) in the first sense and in the second sense. Such a device is simple, inexpensive, multi-purpose and its ergonomics for orienting the slats is intuitive.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2008
    Assignee: Somfy SAS
    Inventor: Alain Bejean
  • Patent number: 7315143
    Abstract: An operating system which utilizes a multi-functional wall station for a motorized barrier includes an operator for controlling movement of a barrier between various positions. The operator may receive signals from a wireless or wired wall station transmitter, a wireless keyless entry device and/or a portable remote transmitter device. The multi-function wall station provides for selective concealment of certain switches or buttons which are not commonly used in the day-to-day operation of a wall station. For example, the up/down switch may be actuated by a hinged cover which conceals other selected operational buttons and wherein those operational buttons are only accessed upon opening of the hinged cover. The wall station also provides a periodic lighting element so as to easily direct the user to push the hinge cover to initiate up/down movement of the barrier.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2008
    Assignee: Wayne-Dalton Corp.
    Inventors: Willis J. Mullet, James S. Murray, David B. Davies
  • Patent number: 7307394
    Abstract: A control and motor arrangement in accordance with the present invention includes a motor configured to generate a locomotive force for propelling the model train. The control and motor arrangement further includes a command control interface configured to receive commands from a command control unit wherein the commands correspond to a desired speed. The control and motor arrangement still further includes a plurality of detectors configured to detect speed information of the motor, and a process control arrangement configured to receive the speed information from the sensors. The process control arrangement is further configured and arranged to generate a plurality of motor control signals based on the speed information for controlling the speed of said motor. The control and motor arrangement yet still further includes a motor control arrangement configured to cause power to be applied to the motor at different times in response to the motor control signals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2007
    Assignee: Lionel L.L.C.
    Inventors: Dennis J. Denen, Neil P. Young, Gary L. Moreau, Martin Pierson, Robert Grubba
  • Patent number: 7304443
    Abstract: A remote auxiliary switch for activating an automotive window washer of a window without activating a window wiper for the window is disclosed. An operator may conveniently dispense washer fluid from the on board reservoir of the existing wiper system to use when cleaning the window manually. The remote auxiliary switch is operable external to a vehicle cabin and may function as a wireless remote. Optionally, a servo valve may also be operated through the auxiliary switch to selectively control delivery of the washer fluid to a specific nozzle when a plurality of nozzles are provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2007
    Inventors: Randy Argo, Michael Clifford
  • Publication number: 20070273309
    Abstract: A roller shade structure controlled by radio-frequency (RF) wireless communication from a control device comprises a roller tube and a conductive enclosure. The conductive enclosure is mounted inside the roller tube for enclosing a motor drive system having a motor operable to controllably rotate the roller tube in a direction at a speed when a voltage is applied to the motor. A capacitive coupling is provided between the enclosure and the roller tube, the capacitive coupling providing an increased signal strength of RF signals received by the RF receiver.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 22, 2007
    Publication date: November 29, 2007
    Inventor: Lawrence R. Carmen
  • Publication number: 20070205910
    Abstract: Disclosed is a system and method for wireless motion control. The system generally includes a centralized motion coordinator device and one or more motion stick devices that communicate with each other wirelessly. The centralized motion coordinator controls operation of the one or more motion stick devices by wirelessly transmitting basic commands to the one or more motion stick devices. In response, the motion stick devices process the received commands and generate trajectory information based, at least in part, on the commands received from the centralized motion coordinator device. The trajectory information is used to control operation of a motor for advancement of an actuator assembly associated with the one or more motion stick devices along a predetermined axis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 15, 2007
    Publication date: September 6, 2007
    Applicant: Parker-Hannifin Corporation
    Inventors: John E. Guite, Jeffrey M. Kelley, Mark C. Calahan, John L. Walewander, Steven W. Danek, Andrew D. Barnes, John H. Rathkey
  • Patent number: 7237287
    Abstract: A bed including a frame, a deck, a siderail, a communication network and a graphic caregiver interface module. The graphic caregiver interface module includes an input device, a control circuit, a memory, and a display.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2007
    Assignee: Hill-Rom Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Matthew W. Weismiller, Joseph A. Kummer, Kenneth L. Kramer, Philip D. Palermo, Daniel F. Dlugos, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7239101
    Abstract: An A/V monitor mounting structure for a vehicle allows a monitor installed on a center console of a vehicle to be received in the center console so that the monitor can be extended out of and retracted into the center console as the occasion demands. The A/V monitor mounting structure includes a motor driven in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction when power is applied thereto from an external power source, an operation section installed on a lower end of a rear surface of a monitor to raise and lower the monitor, a gear section for transmitting power from the motor to the operation section, and a clutch section for retarding a moving velocity of the monitor when the monitor is moved upward and downward.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2007
    Assignee: Hyundai Motor Company
    Inventor: Young Rok Choi
  • Patent number: 7228105
    Abstract: A measurement arrangement for accurate and repeatable measurement of transmission and reception characteristics of a communication device. The arrangement comprises an at least partly conductive box forming a substantially enclosed cavity, and arranged in the box a reference antenna, at least one conducting mode mixer and/or at least one mode mixer with absorbing material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2007
    Assignee: Integra Antennas Limited
    Inventors: Corbett Rowell, Anton Schmid
  • Patent number: 7215238
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus are provided for a combined vehicle keyless entry and garage door (GD) opener fob. The fob comprises a receiver, transmitter, processor, memory, user activated function switches, and preferably a display. In a GD function learn mode, the fob memorizes the signal parameters of a GD activate signal received directly from a nearby GD opener. In the normal GD operate mode, the fob transmits a replica of the GD activate signal using the learned signal parameters stored in the memory. The optional display preferably tells the user that the learn mode is active, prompts the user to operate the nearby GD opener during the learn mode, indicates whether the learn operation was successful or not and shows when the fob has returned to normal (non-learn mode) operation. The GD modes of the fob are entirely self-contained and do not depend upon the vehicle electronics system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2007
    Assignee: General Motors Corporation
    Inventors: M. Scott Buck, Thomas H Tu
  • Patent number: 7211972
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a power tool including a wireless remote stop for terminating the flow of electricity to an electric motor. The electric motor is configured for operating a working element assembly of a power tool, such as an arbor/circular saw blade included a table saw. In an embodiment, a remote stop is a hand-held fob, having a housing and a button. Alternatively, the remote stop may be implemented as a foot pedal apparatus, for being disposed on a shop floor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2007
    Assignee: Black & Decker Inc.
    Inventors: Jaime E. Garcia, Jeffrey D. Weston
  • Patent number: 7173537
    Abstract: The device according to the invention has a sensor (5) for generating and detecting an electromagnetic field situated in the vicinity of a moving part (1) that should not be touched. The device according to the invention also has an evaluation unit (8) that is connected to the sensor (5) in order to evaluate sensor signals that can be generated by the sensor (5), wherein the evaluation unit (8) can generate an evaluation signal. Finally, a control unit (9) connected to the evaluation unit (8) is provided, which is designed and can be operated so as to control the movement of the part (1) as a function of the evaluation signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 6, 2007
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventor: Klaus Voigtlaender
  • Patent number: 7154410
    Abstract: A garage door power module is provided with the capability of operating over a number of different operating frequencies by configuring a power module chassis with a receptacle for receiving radio receivers where each of the receivers is adapted to receive one of the frequencies. The receptacle located near one edge of the chassis and is configured with a planar surface and support members that permit the receivers to be slidably inserted and removed from the receptacle. In addition the radio receiver is equipped with a plug connector and the receptacle is equipped with a socket for receiving the plug connector in order to transmit radio control signals from the receiver to logic control circuits in the power module.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2006
    Assignee: Marantec America Corporation
    Inventor: Michael Hoermann
  • Patent number: 7148798
    Abstract: A solid state programmable timer attaches with two wires across the two contacts for the key circuit of the PC board controlling a security gate and two wires to the emergency personnel remote key switch. A timed cycle is activated by an emergency personnel key opening the security gate. When the timed cycle ends the timer causes the closing of the security gate allowing it to resume normal operation without the need for the emergency personnel key. The timer is pre-programmed with the amount of time normally required for an emergency operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 12, 2006
    Inventor: James E. Chapman
  • Patent number: 7135957
    Abstract: A universal garage door operating system and method. In one embodiment, a vehicle transmitter is provided transmitting a wireless garage door transmitter control signal. A control module is provided for mounting in a structure such as a garage, and is adapted to receive a wireless garage door transmitter. The control module includes a receiver for receiving the garage door transmitter control signal, a controller for generating a garage door transmitter actuator control signal in response to the garage door transmitter control signal, and an actuator for actuating the garage door transmitter in response to the garage door actuator control signal so that the garage door transmitter transmits a wireless garage door control signal for use in operating a garage door.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2006
    Assignee: Lear Corporation
    Inventor: Robert H. Wilson
  • Patent number: 7132807
    Abstract: A model train on-board microprocessor provides basic lighting and motor operation and control. A socket provides a seamless instant remote control upgrade using industry standard remote control devices. The device provides new and useful functions and features for more prototypical operation by augmenting the industry standard remote control device capabilities. These new functions and features are made accessible from the remote control device companion transmitter with unique keypad sequences.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2006
    Inventor: Jon F. Zahornacky
  • Patent number: 7126302
    Abstract: A window covering system includes a window covering, a motor having a housing and a power supply inlet, for opening or closing the window coverings, and a modular motor converter. The modular motor converter includes a low voltage interface for functional attachment to the motor, a housing for the low voltage interface, a standard motor power supply connector incorporated into the housing and fitting into the motor power supply inlet, and at least one attachment arm, preferably two, that clips onto the motor housing and permits quick clip-on and removal from the motor. In one form, the modular motor converter further includes a remote radio frequency control for functional attachment to and control of the motor. The modular motor converter also includes means for pre-setting silent stop of the motor end positions. The housing permits external access to motor dip switches.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2006
    Inventor: Gerrit Jan Vrielink
  • Patent number: 7091682
    Abstract: A logic chip that controls the motor of a motorized window covering or other object includes a clock. A frequency stabilizer circuit is provided to receive input voltage and to output to the clock a current that is a function of the voltage and temperature over a range of input voltage values and over a range of ambient temperature values so that the frequency output by the oscillator is constant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2006
    Assignee: Harmonic Design, Inc.
    Inventor: Winston Glenn Walker
  • Patent number: 7082706
    Abstract: Systems and methods are disclosed for creating aerial messages using multiple aircraft. Each of the aircraft includes a control box located in the aircraft for receiving data from and transmitting data to a software program running on a main computer. The systems and methods employ a wireless network to transmit and receive data between the aircraft and the software program, with each aircraft (or its respective control box) representing a node on the wireless network. Additionally, the systems and methods may operate on remote controlled devices, such as miniature remote controlled aircraft, and may be used to produce colored aerial messages. The systems and methods may be used to create an aerial vapor screen capable of displaying projected images.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 1, 2006
    Assignee: Skytypers, Inc.
    Inventors: Gregory Stinis, Stephen G. Stinis, Curtiss T. Stinis
  • Patent number: 7081724
    Abstract: An electrical mains-powered actuator designed to operate a closing, darkening or solar protection element, having in a common enclosure, a direct current motor, a board controlling the motor power supply and an AC/DC voltage converter, the control board including a radio-wave receiver, such that the voltage converter enables lowering of the voltage and includes at least one switch controlled at a frequency (F1) such that it is at most equal to twice the mains sector frequency or such that its ratio to the radio-wave receiver frequency (F0) ranges between 2.2 10?5 to 2.2 10?4.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 25, 2006
    Assignee: Somfy SAS
    Inventors: Marc Bouix, Serge Bruno
  • Patent number: 7064502
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a power tool including a wireless remote stop for terminating the flow of electricity to an electric motor. The electric motor is configured for operating a working element assembly of a power tool, such as an arbor/circular saw blade included a table saw. In an embodiment, a remote stop is a hand-held fob, having a housing and a button. Alternatively, the remote stop may be implemented as a foot pedal apparatus, for being disposed on a shop floor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 20, 2006
    Assignee: Black & Decker Inc.
    Inventors: Jaime E. Garcia, Jeffrey D. Weston
  • Patent number: 7034488
    Abstract: A barrier movement operator is having a position sensor in a telescoping barrier control arm is described. A controller, remote from the arm, senses the barrier position to identify limits of barrier travel and to control rate of travel of the barrier between limits. The operator includes both optical and edge sensor obstruction detectors and is responsive to wireless communication for receiving user initiated command signals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2006
    Assignee: The Chamberlain Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Eric Robb, Richard Hill, William Gioia, Edward Kukulski
  • Patent number: 7030578
    Abstract: The method makes it possible to control and monitor the dynamic operation operation of an actuator intended to drive a movable element of a building protection installation. The actuator is associated with nearby controlling means comprising a power supply device or converter, a local processing unit, and a two-way radiofrequency transmitter, constituting a local actuation unit. The method is characterized in that it consists in transferring to another unit, called the remote processing unit, all or part of the processing for analyzing measurements relating to said actuator and/or to said movable element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2006
    Assignee: Somfy SAS
    Inventor: Jean-Michel Orsat
  • Patent number: 7009529
    Abstract: A garage door power module is provided with the capability of operating over a number of different operating frequencies by configuring a power module chassis with a receptacle for receiving radio receivers where each of the receivers is adapted to receive one of radio signals. The receptacle located near one edge of the chassis and is configured with a planer surface and support members that permit the receivers to be slidably inserted and removed from the receptacle. In addition the radio receiver is equipped with a plug connector and the receptacle is equipped with a socket for receiving the plug connector in order to transmit radio control signals from the receiver to logic control circuits in the power module.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2006
    Assignee: Marantec America Corporation
    Inventor: Michael Hoermann