External Or Operator Controlled Patents (Class 323/318)
  • Patent number: 8281163
    Abstract: Systems and methods for reducing problems and disadvantages associated with traditional approaches to masking false faults generated by voltage regulators are provided. A method may include receiving, at a voltage regulator configured to be enabled by a power controller communicatively coupled to the voltage regulator via an enable line, a first indication from a device other than the power controller indicating that the voltage regulator is to be disabled, wherein the enable line is configured to communicate a second indication from the power controller to the voltage regulator indicating whether the voltage regulator is to be enabled. In response to receipt of the first signal, the voltage regulator may communicate to the power controller via the enable line, a third indication indicating that the voltage regulator has been disabled by a device other than the power controller.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2012
    Assignee: Dell Products L.P.
    Inventors: Timothy M. Lambert, Ralph Johnson
  • Patent number: 8258771
    Abstract: A circuit device includes: a power supply circuit; and a logic circuit, the power supply circuit supplying a first power supply voltage and a second power supply voltage to the logic circuit, the first power supply voltage supplied by the power supply circuit periodically changing with a first reference voltage as a reference voltage, the second power supply voltage supplied by the power supply circuit periodically changing with a second reference voltage as a reference voltage, the power supply circuit supplying, due to resonance, the first power supply voltage and the second power supply voltage that repeat a first period during which a voltage difference between the first power supply voltage and the second power supply voltage is decreasing and a second period during which the voltage difference is increasing, and the logic circuit performing adiabatic circuit operation with the supply of the first and the second power supply voltage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2012
    Assignee: Seiko Epson Corporation
    Inventors: Hisao Sato, Atsushi Yamada, Norikazu Tsukahara, Toshikazu Kuwano, Yasuhiro Takahashi
  • Publication number: 20120212172
    Abstract: The present invention relates generally to systems and methods for detecting ground faults (i.e., line-to-ground faults) in electrical power conversion systems. In particular, the embodiments described herein include a common mode voltage booster module configured to calculate a common mode voltage boost factor and a common mode voltage boost function based on a plurality of voltage commands for the system. The common mode voltage boost factor and/or the common mode voltage boost function may be applied to the voltage commands to generate boosted voltage commands which, when applied to an inverter or converter, source current indicative of ground faults in the system. More specifically, the common mode voltage boost factor may be multiplied by a common mode voltage calculated by a common mode voltage calculator and summed with the voltage commands.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 21, 2011
    Publication date: August 23, 2012
    Applicant: ROCKWELL AUTOMATION TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
    Inventors: Carlos Rodriguez Valdez, Russel J. Kerkman, Rangarajan Tallam
  • Patent number: 8238868
    Abstract: A dynamic voltage scaling system for a packet-based data communication transceiver includes a constant voltage supply, a variable voltage supply, and a voltage control unit. The constant voltage supply is configured to supply a constant voltage to at least one parameter-independent function of the transceiver, and the variable voltage supply is configured to supply a variable voltage in accordance with a control signal to at least one parameter-dependent function of the transceiver. Parameter-independent transceiver functions perform operations independent of a predetermined parameter and parameter-dependent transceiver functions perform operations dependent on the predetermined parameter The voltage control unit is configured to generate the control signal based on information provided by at least one parameter-independent transceiver function about the predetermined parameter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2012
    Assignee: Renesas Electronics Corporation
    Inventors: Chunjie Duan, Sinan Gezici, Jinyun Zhang, Rajesh Garg
  • Patent number: 8225114
    Abstract: A portable electronic apparatus is connected to a power supply device via a transmission line, and it includes a designated connector, a charge control circuit, and a judgment circuit. The designated connector includes five terminals respectively corresponding to five pins of a USB connector of the power supply device. When the power supply device is connected to the portable electronic apparatus, the first terminal of the designated connector is logic high, the fourth terminal of the designated connector is logic high, and the third terminal of the designated connector is logic high after pulling up the voltage level of the second terminal, the judgment circuit pulls down the voltage level of the third terminal and detects the voltage level of the third terminal so as to generate a determining result for determining a type of the power supply device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2012
    Assignee: HTC Corporation
    Inventors: Chih-Hung Li, Yung-Hsien Kuo
  • Patent number: 8217639
    Abstract: A power supply device includes a power input unit, a voltage converting unit, a communication unit, a control unit. The power input unit is used for receiving an external power source. The voltage converting unit is used for converting the voltage of the external power source to a predetermined voltage. The communication unit is used for obtaining working voltage information of a power receiving device connected to the power supply device. The control unit is used for controlling the voltage converting unit to output a working voltage indicated by the working voltage information to the power receiving device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Assignees: Hong Fu Jin Precision Industry (ShenZhen) Co., Ltd., Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Kim-Yeung Sip
  • Publication number: 20120161746
    Abstract: A device includes a voltage regulator and/or circuitry for generating a reference voltage. The voltage regulator and the circuitry for generating the reference voltage are operable in a continuous mode or a sample mode. Operating in the sample mode can help reduce overall power consumption of the device. During the sample mode, the voltage regulator and/or the circuitry for generating the reference voltage periodically are enabled to restore energy to respective energy storage components (e.g., capacitors).
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 22, 2010
    Publication date: June 28, 2012
    Applicant: ATMEL Corporation
    Inventors: Eivind Holsen, Torgeir Fenheim
  • Patent number: 8204733
    Abstract: A power testing apparatus for a USB interface includes first and second USB interfaces, and a simulation apparatus. The simulation apparatus includes a first voltage regulator, first and second resistors, and a load resistor. The first USB interface is configured to connect to a circuit board. The second USB interface is configured to connect to a USB device. The first voltage regulator includes input, output, and adjusting terminals. The first resistor is connected between the output terminal and the adjusting terminal. The second resistor is connected between the adjusting terminal and ground. The load resistor is connected to the output terminal and ground. Signal pins of the first USB interface are connected to signal pins of the second USB interface. A voltage pin of the first USB interface is connected to a voltage pin of the second USB interface and the input terminal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2012
    Assignees: Hong Fu Jin Precision Industry (ShenZhen) Co., Ltd., Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Xiang Cao
  • Patent number: 8201002
    Abstract: A control system for saving power in an electronic device obtains information of maximum power that can be supplied to the electronic device by each power supply, detects how much power is demanded by the electronic device, determines minimum number of the plurality of power supplies, based on the detected power demanded by the electronic device, and turns on power supplies, of which the number is equal to the determined minimum number, and turn off the other power supplies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2012
    Assignee: Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Li-Wen Chang
  • Publication number: 20120133352
    Abstract: Techniques are disclosed relating to detecting a voltage change. In one embodiment, an integrated circuit may include a monitor circuit and a power management unit. The power management unit may be configured to request a voltage change. The monitor circuit may be configured to detect the requested voltage change and to provide an indication that the voltage change is complete. In response to the indication that the voltage change is complete, the power management unit may adjust a clock frequency.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 30, 2010
    Publication date: May 31, 2012
    Inventor: Michael Frank
  • Publication number: 20120127538
    Abstract: A power-supply control device includes a power-supply control section, a first detection section that detects whether or not a body capable of movement is moving, a second detection section that detects whether or not the body capable of movement exists, and an instruction section. The power-supply control section receives supply of power from a mains power source section, and selectively sets a power supply mode, in which power is supplied to a processing section, and a power saving mode, in which supply of power to the processing section is stopped. The first and second detection sections and the instruction section are caused to operate at least in the power saving mode. The instruction section provides, for the power-supply control section, an instruction for switching between the power supply mode and the power saving mode.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 3, 2011
    Publication date: May 24, 2012
    Applicant: FUJI XEROX CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Mitsunobu MAMIYA, Kazuhiko NARUSHIMA, Kouichi AZUMA, Hidenori HORIE, Masafumi ONO, Motofumi BABA, Masato ISHIYAMA, Keiko SHIRAISHI, Kenta OGATA, Kenji KUROISHI
  • Publication number: 20120127518
    Abstract: A power-supply monitoring device includes a power-supply control section, a detection section, a determination section, a control section, and an attachment section. The power-supply control section receives supply of power from a mains power source section, and selectively sets a power supply mode and a power saving mode. The detection section detects, in a predetermined region, a body capable of movement including a user who intends to use a processing section. When the body capable of movement is detected, the determination section determines whether switching from the power saving mode to the power supply mode is to be performed to obtain a result. The control section controls the power-supply control section on the basis of the result. The attachment section is attached to the detection section so that a detection region including a position or having an area for identifying the user is adjustable.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 1, 2011
    Publication date: May 24, 2012
    Applicant: FUJI XEROX CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Kenta OGATA, Kazuhiko Narushima, Motofumi Baba, Masafumi Ono, Mitsunobu Mamiya, Kenji Kuroishi, Masato Ishiyama, Keiko Shiraishi, Kouichi Azuma, Hidenori Horie
  • Publication number: 20120126779
    Abstract: A system and method for controlling performance and/or power based on monitored performance characteristics. Various aspects of the present invention may comprise an integrated circuit comprising a first circuit module that receives electrical power. A second circuit module may monitor one or more performance characteristics of the first circuit module and/or the integrated circuit. A third circuit module may, for example, determine power control information based at least in part on the monitored performance characteristic(s). The power control information may be communicated to power supply circuitry to control various characteristics of the electrical power. Various aspects of the present invention may also comprise an integrated circuit comprising a first module that monitors at least one performance characteristic of a first electrical device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 26, 2012
    Publication date: May 24, 2012
    Inventors: Neil Y. Kim, Pieter Vorcnkamp
  • Publication number: 20120112654
    Abstract: Methods, systems, and apparatus, for wirelessly controlling a power supply device that controls a load. A wireless adapter includes a wireless communication device that receives transmissions from a wireless controller, a serial interface for a serial data connection to a power supply processing device integrated in the power supply device, an adapter processing device that receives the control signals the wireless communication device outputs, generates the control commands from the control signals, and outputs the control commands to the serial interface to cause the power supply processing device to control power provided to the load in a manner specified by the control commands, and an adapter power circuit that receives regulated direct current (DC) power from the power supply device and is powered from the regulated DC power received, and provides power to the wireless communication device and the adapter processing device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 4, 2010
    Publication date: May 10, 2012
    Applicant: DAINTREE NETWORKS, PTY. LTD.
    Inventors: Jason Yew Choo Choong, Dallas Ivanhoe Buchanan, III, Tony Garcia, Niall Peter Mai
  • Patent number: 8149191
    Abstract: A system involves LED strings and programmable current source circuits (CSC). An LED current flows through each LED string. Each LED current is controlled by an associated programmable CSC. In one embodiment, the CSCs form a chain. A first CSC uses a reference current for calibration, and thereafter supplies the reference current to the next CSC. When the next CSC detects the reference current, it uses the reference current for calibration. CSCs are calibrated one by one down the chain. In a second embodiment, each CSC can receive the reference current from a common conductor. If the common conductor is detected to be available, then the CSC uses the reference current for calibration. When the conductor is in use, the other CSCs detect the conductor as unavailable and do not attempt to self-calibrate. The CSCs use the reference current one by one, but in an order that changes over time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2012
    Assignee: Active-Semi, Inc.
    Inventors: David J. Kunst, Steven Huynh, Richard L. Gray
  • Patent number: 8150557
    Abstract: A system and method that analyzes at least one aspect of the power grid for demand response in order to reduce feeder circuit losses is provided. The system and method may use a demand response model to select one or more factors for the demand response, such as selecting a subset of customers for demand response from a larger pool of available demand response customers. The demand response model may include a grid structure component, such as an indication of the particular customer's position in the grid, and a dynamic operation component, such as a real-time measurement of current in the feeder circuit. By using the demand response model, feeder circuit losses may thereby reduced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2012
    Assignee: Accenture Global Services Limited
    Inventor: Jeffrey D. Taft
  • Publication number: 20120068686
    Abstract: A load control system controls an electrical load provided in a space and comprises a load control device and a first occupancy sensor mounted to a moving structure (e.g., a door) and a second occupancy sensor mounted to a fixed surface (e.g., a wall or a ceiling). The load control device controls the load in response to the wireless control signals received from the occupancy sensors. The first occupancy sensor transmits an occupied wireless control signal to the load control device in response to detecting the movement of the moving structure. The second occupancy sensor transmits an occupied wireless control signal to the load control device in response to detecting the occupancy condition. The load control device turns on the load in response to receiving the occupied control signal from the first occupancy sensor, and turns off the load in response to receiving vacant control signals from both of the occupancy sensors.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 23, 2011
    Publication date: March 22, 2012
    Inventors: James P. Steiner, Andrew Peter Schmalz, Andrew Ryan Offenbacher, Adam J. Schrems, Brian Raymond Valenta
  • Publication number: 20120062205
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a flexible direct current (DC)-DC converter, which includes a charge pump buck power supply and a buck power supply. The charge pump buck power supply and the buck power supply are voltage compatible with one another at respective output inductance nodes to provide flexibility. In one embodiment of the DC-DC converter, capacitances at the output inductance nodes are at least partially isolated from one another by using at least an isolating inductive element between the output inductance nodes to increase efficiency. In an alternate embodiment of the DC-DC converter, the output inductance nodes are coupled to one another, such that the charge pump buck power supply and the buck power supply share a first inductive element, thereby eliminating the isolating inductive element, which reduces size and cost but may also reduce efficiency.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 7, 2011
    Publication date: March 15, 2012
    Applicant: RF Micro Devices, Inc.
    Inventors: Chris Levesque, Jean-Christophe Berchtold, Joseph Hubert Colles, Robert Deuchars, William David Southcombe, David Zimlich, David E. Jones, Scott Yoder, Terry J. Stockert
  • Publication number: 20120062204
    Abstract: The disclosed DC-to-DC converter circuit comprises a tracking ADC configured to drive a DC-to-DC converter. In particular, the tracking ADC is configured to receive an analog feedback voltage from the output of the DC-to-DC converter. The analog feedback voltage is compared to an analog reference voltage and based upon the comparison a digital ADC output signal, comprising a digital code, is generated to drive the DC-to-DC converter. The digital ADC output signal is received by the DC-to-DC converter, which is configured to compare the digital code to a target code value. Based upon this comparison, the digital signal drives operation of the DC-to-DC converter by indicating whether the output of the DC-to-DC converter will be adjusted (e.g., by telling the DC-to-DC converter to increase its output voltage, to decrease its output voltage, or to keep its output voltage the same). Other systems and methods are also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 15, 2010
    Publication date: March 15, 2012
    Applicant: Infineon Technologies AG
    Inventor: Dieter Draxelmayr
  • Publication number: 20120062206
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for providing intermittent or interruptible power to an electronic device. The circuit may provide power upon user initiation and interrupt that power in response to a user command, fault state, period of inactivity and so forth. As one example, interruptible power may be initially provided to activate or “power up” an electronic device and constant power provided after the initial activation. The initial powering up of the device may be facilitated by closing two contacts. The circuit may continue to provide power after the button is released through a monitoring and/or feedback mechanism.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 21, 2011
    Publication date: March 15, 2012
    Applicant: Apple Inc.
    Inventor: John M. Depew
  • Publication number: 20120051444
    Abstract: A system for independent control of electric motors and electric lights includes a plurality of two-wire wallstations coupled in series via power wires between an alternating-current (AC) source and a light/motor control unit. The light/motor control unit is preferably located in the same enclosure as an electric motor and an electric light and has two outputs for independent control of the motor and the light. The light/motor control unit and the wallstations each include a controller and a communication circuit that is coupled to the power wiring via a communication transformer and communicate with each other using a loop current carrier technique. The light/motor control unit and the wallstations utilize pseudo random orthogonal codes and a median filter in the communication process.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 11, 2011
    Publication date: March 1, 2012
    Inventors: James P. Steiner, Aaron Dobbins, Edward J. Blair
  • Publication number: 20120043956
    Abstract: RF PA circuitry and a DC-DC converter, which includes an RF PA envelope power supply and DC-DC control circuitry, are disclosed. The PA envelope power supply provides an envelope power supply signal to the RF PA circuitry. The DC-DC control circuitry has a DC-DC look-up table (LUT) structure, which has at least a first DC-DC LUT. The DC-DC control circuitry uses DC-DC LUT index information as an index to the DC-DC LUT structure to obtain DC-DC converter operational control parameters. The DC-DC control circuitry then configures the PA envelope power supply using the DC-DC converter operational control parameters. Using the DC-DC LUT structure provides flexibility in configuring the DC-DC converter for different applications, for multiple static operating conditions, for multiple dynamic operating conditions, or any combination thereof.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 2, 2011
    Publication date: February 23, 2012
    Applicant: RF Micro Devices, Inc.
    Inventors: William David Southcombe, Chris Levesque, Jean-Christophe Berchtold, David E. Jones, Scott Yoder, Terry J. Stockert
  • Patent number: 8121743
    Abstract: A power restoration method and system. The method includes receiving by a computer processor of a computing apparatus, a signal indicating that a power outage has ended and that an input voltage signal used for powering power consumption devices at a first specified location power will be enabled. The computer processor disables input voltage signal connections to the power consumption devices and detects that the input voltage signal is enabled. The computer processor enables a first input voltage signal connection associated with a first power consumption device and monitors a frequency signal associated with the input voltage signal. The computer processor generates frequency level data comprising a frequency level of the frequency signal and compares the frequency level to a predetermined frequency level value. The computer processor generates results data comprising results of comparing the frequency level to a predetermined frequency level value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2012
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Gregory Jensen Boss, Rick Allen Hamilton, II, Julianne Frances Haugh, Anne R. Sand
  • Publication number: 20120032665
    Abstract: Distributed maximum power point tracking systems, structures, and processes are provided for power generation structures, such as for but not limited to a solar panel arrays. In an exemplary solar panel string structure, distributed maximum power point tracking (DMPPT) modules are provided, such as integrated into or retrofitted for each solar panel. The DMPPT modules provide panel level control for startup, operation, monitoring, and shutdown, and further provide flexible design and operation for strings of multiple panels. The strings are typically linked in parallel to a combiner box, and is then toward and enhanced inverter module, which is typically connected to a power grid. Enhanced inverters are controllable either locally or remotely, wherein system status is readily determined, and operation of one or more sections of the system are readily controlled. The system provides increased operation time, and increased power production and efficiency, over a wide range of operating conditions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 30, 2011
    Publication date: February 9, 2012
    Inventors: Argil E. SHAVER, II, Ronald M. Newdoll
  • Patent number: 8099197
    Abstract: A method and system for aggregating messages. The method comprises obtaining, at a controller, a first plurality of messages related to operation of a distributed energy generator; generating, at the controller, a second plurality of messages from the first plurality, wherein each message in the second plurality has a start-time within a first time window; and generating, at the controller, a third plurality of messages from the second plurality, wherein each message in the third plurality has an end-time within a second time window and is associated with an indicia of a message group.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2012
    Assignee: Enphase Energy, Inc.
    Inventors: Benjamin Smith, Martin Fornage
  • Publication number: 20120007577
    Abstract: A system for dynamically scaling a power voltage including a system on chip (SoC) and a power control circuit. The SoC includes a plurality of application circuits. The SoC is configured to generate internal clock signals in response to an externally supplied clock signal. The SoC also generates a target voltage that changes based on a change of an operating current. The internal clock signals are respectively provided to the application circuits. The operating current is a sum or total current of the application circuits. The power control circuit generates an internal power voltage based on the target voltage and provides the internal power voltage to the SoC. The system for dynamically scaling a power voltage including a SoC may decrease power consumed in the SoC because the system of dynamically scaling a power voltage decreases a required voltage margin by changing a target voltage before a transition of the SoC current.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 22, 2011
    Publication date: January 12, 2012
    Applicant: SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Jong Pil LEE
  • Publication number: 20110316517
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an electronic apparatus having stand-by mode. The electronic apparatus comprises: a first circuit, comprising an interface and transferring data to an external device; a second circuit, comprising a processor and setting a first power supplying mode of the first circuit; and a third circuit, setting a second circuit power supplying mode of the second circuit and setting a second power supply mode of the first circuit when the second circuit is disabled; wherein the processor selects a first circuit power supplying mode from power supplying modes of a plurality of first circuits as the second power supplying mode before the second circuit is disabled.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 24, 2011
    Publication date: December 29, 2011
    Applicant: REALTEK SEMICONDUCTOR CORP.
    Inventors: Chih-Fu Tsai, Jia-Ching Shen
  • Publication number: 20110316516
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method and to an apparatus for operating a power source (1) connected to a manually actuated implement (4) by a user, wherein parameters of the power source (1) are set by way of operating elements (3) of an operating and display unit (2) and a movement of the implement (4) in the space is captured by way of an evaluation unit (9) disposed in the power source (1). In order to enable fast and rapid operation of the power source (1), even without removing a potentially present protective clothing of the user, it is provided for an operating function to be activated at the power source (1), whereupon the movement of the implement (4) in the space (6) is captured and a position of the implement (4) resulting from the movement is associated with the operating and display unit (2).
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 26, 2010
    Publication date: December 29, 2011
    Applicant: FRONIUS INTERNATIONAL GMBH
    Inventors: Robert Schiefermüller, Wolfgang Brunmayr, Christian Pointner
  • Patent number: 8085030
    Abstract: A voltage generator includes a charge pump, a voltage dividing circuit, and a comparator. The charge pump can output a high voltage. The dividing circuit includes a plurality of resistors and at least one switch. The dividing circuit can generate a first divided voltage of the high voltage when the switch is turned on and a second divided voltage of the high voltage when the switch is turned off. An output signal of the comparator can control the switch and the charge pump. The dividing circuit and the comparator form a feedback loop so that the response speed of the comparator can be increased and the ripples of the high voltage outputted from the charge pump can be decreased.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2011
    Assignee: NOVATEK Microelectronics Corp.
    Inventor: Tzung-Shing Tsai
  • Patent number: 8078894
    Abstract: Power management architectures, methods and systems for programmable integrated circuit are disclosed. One embodiment of the present invention pertains to a power management software architecture which comprises power management modules each associated with a respective driver. Each driver is associated with a component of a programmable integrated circuit and displayable as a graphic image within an on-screen display of an integrated circuit design tool for programming the programmable integrated circuit. In addition, each power management module is operable to report power consumption data customized to its respective driver. The power management software architecture also comprises a power source module associated with a power source for the programmable integrated circuit for reporting power supply characteristics.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2011
    Assignee: Cypress Semiconductor Corporation
    Inventor: Kenneth Y. Ogami
  • Publication number: 20110298967
    Abstract: A processor-implemented method, system and computer readable medium for intelligently controlling the power level of an electronic device in a multimedia system based on user intent, is provided. The method includes receiving data relating to a first user interaction with a device in a multimedia system. The method includes determining if the first user interaction corresponds to a user's intent to interact with the device. The method then includes setting a power level for the device based on the first user interaction. The method further includes receiving data relating to a second user interaction with the device. The method then includes altering the power level of the device based on the second user interaction to activate the device for the user.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 4, 2010
    Publication date: December 8, 2011
    Applicant: MICROSOFT CORPORATION
    Inventors: John Clavin, John Tardif
  • Publication number: 20110292705
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for regulating an input voltage to a power conversion module. In one embodiment, the method comprises computing a voltage regulation threshold based on an output voltage for the power conversion module; comparing an input voltage of the power conversion module to the voltage regulation threshold; and generating, when the input voltage satisfies the voltage regulation threshold, an average input voltage less than the voltage regulation threshold, wherein the average input voltage is generated from the input voltage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 26, 2011
    Publication date: December 1, 2011
    Applicant: ENPHASE ENERGY, INC.
    Inventor: Martin Fornage
  • Publication number: 20110285377
    Abstract: A data transmission interface, for coupling to an external apparatus, including a first signal transmission line and a second signal transmission line, for transmitting a differential signal, a first resistor and a voltage-variable component, selectively connected to the first signal transmission line, and a second resistor, connected to the second signal transmission line, wherein, when the data transmission interface is coupled to the external apparatus, the voltage-variable component is connected to the first signal transmission line, and the first signal transmission line presents a first voltage in response to the external apparatus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 11, 2011
    Publication date: November 24, 2011
    Applicant: MSTAR SEMICONDUCTOR, INC.
    Inventors: Chuan-Wen Chen, Chia Jung Chang
  • Patent number: 8063625
    Abstract: A circuit or apparatus for providing intermittent or interruptible power to an electronic device. The circuit may provide power upon user initiation and interrupt that power in response to a user command, fault state, period of inactivity and so forth. As one example, interruptible power may be initially provided to activate or “power up” an electronic device and constant power provided after the initial activation. The initial powering up of the device may be facilitated by closing two contacts. The circuit may continue to provide power after the button is released through a monitoring and/or feedback mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2011
    Assignee: Apple Inc.
    Inventor: John M. Depew
  • Publication number: 20110267026
    Abstract: A method and apparatus are disclosed for modifying a transition to an altered power state of an electronic device based on accelerometer output. The apparatus includes an electronic device having a display and an accelerometer. The apparatus also includes a determination module, and a modification module. The determination module determines an in-use condition of the electronic device based on accelerometer output for the electronic device. The modification module modifies a transition to an altered power state of the electronic device in response to the determination module determining the in-use condition.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 30, 2010
    Publication date: November 3, 2011
    Applicant: LENOVO (SINGAPORE) PTE, LTD.
    Inventors: Howard Locker, Mark Charles Davis, Michael Thano Matthews, Steven Richard Perrin, Sean Michael Ulrich
  • Patent number: 8050803
    Abstract: A power feeding system includes a power feeding apparatus and a power line communication unit. The power feeding apparatus feeds power from a power line to an external apparatus. The power line communication unit communicates via the power line, which is a communication medium. The power feeding apparatus includes an acquisition unit, a restriction unit and a determination unit. The acquisition unit acquires restriction information used to restrict the feeding of the power to the external apparatus. The restriction unit restricts the feeding of the power to the external apparatus to which the power feeding apparatus is to feed the power. The determination unit determines as to whether or not the restriction unit has to restrict the feeding of the power, based on the restriction information acquired by the acquisition unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2011
    Assignee: Fuji Xerox Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Masahiko Miyata, Seiji Honda
  • Patent number: 8051304
    Abstract: In a power supply apparatus for supplying a target power supply voltage to a microprocessor, a system controller sets the target power supply voltage to be supplied to the microprocessor based on a voltage configuration signal outputted from the microprocessor and outputs a voltage setting signal corresponding to the target power supply voltage. The regulator circuit generates the target power supply voltage set by the system controller based on the voltage setting signal outputted from the system controller and supplies the voltage to the microprocessor 10. The system controller acquires the conditions of the microprocessor, such as the operating time and temperature of the microprocessor and the amount of computation in the microprocessor, and reflects the acquired conditions on the setting of the power supply voltage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2011
    Assignee: Sony Computer Entertainment Inc.
    Inventors: Iwao Takiguchi, Kazuaki Mitsui, Tetsuji Tamura, Atsuhiko Imai
  • Patent number: 8051312
    Abstract: An integrated circuit includes an energy controller that generates a power supply voltage level for the integrated circuit based on a desired target frequency value for the integrated circuit. The energy controller configures a programmable hardware process sensor based on the power supply voltage level such that the programmable hardware process sensor is capable of mimicking the electrical characteristics of a predetermined critical path associated with the integrated circuit when operating at the power supply voltage level. By monitoring the frequency of the programmable hardware process sensor over a period of time, the energy controller can compare the monitored frequency to an expected value and determine whether the power supply voltage level can be adjusted or whether it should be maintained.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2011
    Assignee: Advanced Micro Devices, Inc.
    Inventor: Denis Foley
  • Patent number: 8044654
    Abstract: In one aspect, a method of reducing power consumption in a circuit by adaptive bias current generation of a bias current configured to bias, at least in part, at least one amplifier of the circuit is provided. The method comprises establishing the bias current based, at least in part, on a reference frequency of a reference clock providing a clock signal to at least one component of the circuit, and changing the bias current in response to a change in the reference frequency of the at least one reference clock, the bias current being change non-linearly with respect to the change in the reference frequency of the at least one reference clock. In another aspect, the method comprises establishing the bias current based, at least in part, on a capacitance of a reference capacitor, and changing the bias current in response to a change in the capacitance of the reference capacitor such that the bias current is changed non-linearly with respect to changes in the capacitance of the reference capacitor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 25, 2011
    Assignee: Analog Devices, Inc.
    Inventor: Ronald A. Kapusta, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20110254530
    Abstract: A fault protected current source is provided that can be used to safely drive LEDs in reliability test systems. The current source is includes circuits and processes that detect the common faults found in LED reliability test systems. After a fault is detected, the current source shuts down drive before destructive spikes are produced. Because only true LED failures are counted, this fault protected current source can be used to construct reliability test systems that produce more accurate reliability test data.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 13, 2011
    Publication date: October 20, 2011
    Inventor: JEFFERY NEIL HULETT
  • Patent number: 8035368
    Abstract: A universal serial bus on-the-go (USB-OTG) power source includes a direct-current to direct-current (DC-to-DC) converter for generating a source voltage when coupled to a battery. A pulse generator generates an oscillating signal when a USB-OTG enable signal is asserted. A power supply module generates a supply voltage from the oscillating signal and the source voltage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2011
    Assignee: Freescale Semiconductor, Inc.
    Inventor: Marcus W. May
  • Patent number: 8032233
    Abstract: A client device manages consumption of power supplied by an electric utility to multiple power consuming devices. Power flow to the power consuming devices is selectively enabled and disabled by one or more controllable devices controlled by the client device. The client device receives a power control message from a load management server. In one embodiment, the power control message indicates at least one of an amount of electric power to be reduced and an identification of at least one controllable device to be instructed to disable a flow of electric power to one or more associated power consuming devices. Responsive to the power control message, the client device issues a power management command or instruction to one or more controllable devices under the client device's control. The power management command causes the controllable device(s) to disable a flow of electric power to at least one associated power consuming device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 4, 2011
    Assignee: Consert Inc.
    Inventors: Joseph W. Forbes, Jr., Joel L. Webb
  • Publication number: 20110227556
    Abstract: A position detection and simulation platform includes software configurable logic and programmable inputs and outputs to support software configuration only changes for use with a variety of position feedback devices including synchros, resolvers, linear variable differential transformers, and rotary variable differential transformers. Power to the software configurable outputs is dynamically controlled so that the power supply voltage presented to the outputs satisfies a minimum threshold above the amplitude of the output signal. Dynamic control is based on at least one of a digital representation of a signal to be output, an analog version of the signal to be output, or the signal being output.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 2, 2011
    Publication date: September 22, 2011
    Applicant: UNITED ELECTRONIC INDUSTRIES, INC
    Inventors: Olexiy Ivchenko, Denys Kraplin
  • Publication number: 20110231675
    Abstract: Systems and methods for reducing problems and disadvantages associated with traditional approaches to masking false faults generated by voltage regulators are provided. A method may include receiving, at a voltage regulator configured to be enabled by a power controller communicatively coupled to the voltage regulator via an enable line, a first indication from a device other than the power controller indicating that the voltage regulator is to be disabled, wherein the enable line is configured to communicate a second indication from the power controller to the voltage regulator indicating whether the voltage regulator is to be enabled. In response to receipt of the first signal, the voltage regulator may communicate to the power controller via the enable line, a third indication indicating that the voltage regulator has been disabled by a device other than the power controller.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 16, 2010
    Publication date: September 22, 2011
    Applicant: DELL PRODUCTS L.P.
    Inventors: Timothy M. Lambert, Ralph Johnson
  • Publication number: 20110227901
    Abstract: A responsive, low-power display panel power supply is provided. In one embodiment, such a display panel power supply may include a regulator whose responsiveness varies depending on the bias current it consumes, and a current source that provides a variable bias current. The regulator may provide the display panel a supply voltage and a supply current based on a reference voltage and a bias current. Various events taking place in the display panel, such as toggling at COM lines, source lines, and/or gate lines may cause parasitic capacitances within the display panel to draw more or less supply current. To ensure the regulator remains suitably responsive to such changes in supply current, while reducing the total power consumed by the power supply, the current source may provide a higher bias current to the regulator at least while the supply current is changing than at certain other times.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 19, 2010
    Publication date: September 22, 2011
    Applicant: APPLE INC.
    Inventor: Yongman Lee
  • Publication number: 20110221478
    Abstract: Multiple characteristics of a DC-DC converter, such as its mode of operation (e.g., either forced continuous conduction mode, or discontinuous conduction mode), and an operational parameter (such as the dead-time between switching times of the output switching devices (upper and lower MOSFETs) of the converter, whose associated driver integrated circuit has a pin usage that leaves only a single pin available for auxiliary purposes, are programmed by a single pin-based digital and analog information extracting circuit that couples both digital information and analog information within the same control signal to the driver IC by way of only the one available pin.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 20, 2011
    Publication date: September 15, 2011
    Applicant: INTERSIL AMERICAS INC.
    Inventors: Steven Patrick LAUR, Wei DONG, Mehul Dilip SHAH
  • Publication number: 20110215790
    Abstract: A smart link in a power delivery system includes an insulator, which electrically isolates a power line, and a switchable conductance placed in parallel with the insulator. The switchable conductance includes switchgear for sourcing, sinking, and/or dispatching real and/or reactive power on the power line to dynamically in response to dynamic loading, transient voltages and/or currents, and phase conditions or other conditions on the power line.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 14, 2010
    Publication date: September 8, 2011
    Applicant: Searete LLC
    Inventors: Roderick A. Hyde, Muriel Y. Ishikawa, Jordin T. Kare, Lowell L. Wood, JR., Victoria Y.H. Wood
  • Patent number: 8014183
    Abstract: A power converter with a feedback controller includes a converter body with an input end for an input voltage, an output end for an output voltage, a controller with a feedback device, and a connector for connection with the output end of the converter body and with an electric appliance. The circuit of the converter body converts an input voltage to an output voltage. A controller is connected in circuit to the converter body and includes a circuit for regulating the voltage for a desired system output. The feedback device connects to the output end of the converter body. The output voltage is adjustable only when the controller receives an output voltage as a feedback from the feedback device. The controller is not triggered and hence an output voltage is not adjustable when the connector is engaged with the output end of the converter body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2011
    Inventor: Chung Fu Chou
  • Publication number: 20110193629
    Abstract: A tracking power supply, a method for controlling a power supply, and a communication apparatus are disclosed. The tracking power supply includes: a basic voltage output unit, configured to provide a basic voltage; and a compensation voltage output unit, configured to provide a compensation voltage. The compensation voltage output unit and the basic voltage output unit are connected in series so as to provide a voltage which is the sum of the basic voltage and the compensation voltage for a load.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 30, 2010
    Publication date: August 11, 2011
    Inventors: Zhaozheng Hou, Xujun LIU
  • Publication number: 20110187282
    Abstract: A load control device for controlling the amount of power delivered from an AC power source to an electrical load comprises a rotary actuator, such as a rotary knob or a rotary wheel. The load control device increases and decreases the amount of power delivered to the electrical load in response to rotations of the rotary knob in first and second directions, respectively. The load control device accelerates the rate of change of the amount of power delivered to the load in response to the angular velocity of the rotary actuator. The load control device generates a ratcheting sound when the rotary actuator is rotated in the first direction at a high-end intensity of the load control device. The load control device is operable to control the electrical load in response to both actuations of the rotary actuator and digital messages received via a communication link.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 29, 2010
    Publication date: August 4, 2011
    Applicant: LUTRON ELECTRONICS CO., INC.
    Inventors: Ethan Charles Biery, Maureen E. Flowers, Galen Edgar Knode