With Coupling Means (e.g., Attenuator, Shunt) Patents (Class 324/126)
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Patent number: 7923987Abstract: A magnetic sensor integrated circuit includes a plurality of magnetically sensitive elements, and at least one test conductor positioned adjacent to at least one of the magnetically sensitive elements and configured to generate a differential magnetic field that is adapted to be applied to the plurality of magnetically sensitive elements during a test mode.Type: GrantFiled: October 8, 2007Date of Patent: April 12, 2011Assignee: Infineon Technologies AGInventor: Udo Ausserlechner
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Publication number: 20110062945Abstract: An exemplary embodiment relates to a measuring device for measuring a current flowing in a first cable. The measuring device includes a measuring shunt in the form of a plate connected in series with the first cable and associated with a measuring electronic card connected to a data transmission cable. The measuring shunt further includes a measuring portion of resistive alloy coupled to connection portions on either side of the measuring portion. The connection portions are integrally formed with the measuring portion, and the first cable is secured to at least one of the connection portions of the measuring shunt.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 23, 2010Publication date: March 17, 2011Inventors: Bruno CONDAMIN, Pascal Muis, Ghislain Bages
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Publication number: 20110043190Abstract: A Rogowski coil includes a core, a Rogowski coil winding disposed on the core, an insulator disposed on the Rogowski coil winding disposed on the core, and a conductive winding disposed on the insulator disposed on the Rogowski coil winding disposed on the core. The conductive winding includes an electrical connection structured to be grounded. When the conductive winding is grounded, the grounded conductive winding provides electrostatic shielding for the Rogowski coil winding of the Rogowski coil.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 20, 2009Publication date: February 24, 2011Inventor: LAWRENCE B. FARR
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Patent number: 7893685Abstract: The invention provides a handheld RF meter with an improved isolation from EMI. The meter incorporates an interference barrier comprising a connecting cable and one or more ferrite cores possibly having different impedance characteristics.Type: GrantFiled: August 28, 2006Date of Patent: February 22, 2011Assignee: Acterna LLCInventors: Darrin L. Paugh, David E. Storvick
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Publication number: 20110026949Abstract: An image forming apparatus includes: an attachment unit configured to receive at least one voltage and being replaceable with a test tool, a controller for controlling operation of a plurality of voltage generating circuits, a current detecting section and a deciding section. The controller is configured to control a first voltage generating circuit so as to generate a test voltage and so as to apply the test voltage through a first voltage line, the test tool, and a second voltage line to a second voltage generating circuit. The deciding section is configured to, upon a detection current corresponding to the applied test voltage and detected by the current detecting section being equal to or greater than a first predetermined value, decide that the predetermined voltages are to be normally applied through the respective first and second voltage lines to the attachment unit.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 28, 2010Publication date: February 3, 2011Applicant: BROTHER KOGYO KABUSHIKI KAISHAInventor: Masahito HAMAYA
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Publication number: 20110006754Abstract: A current measurement apparatus includes a shunt resistor (1) located between two terminal members (5, 6), each connected electrically to a respective end (4, 3) of the shunt resistor, and each extending over substantially the whole of an adjacent side face of the shunt resistor. Electrically insulating, thermally conductive material (8, 9) is provided between each side face of the shunt resistor (1) and the terminal members (5, 6), and serves to provide a thermal path for heat exchange between the shunt resistor and the terminals. The shunt resistor (1) is engineered to have the desired electrical properties, and the terminal members are connected by mechanical fasteners (13, 14) to ensure the required electrical properties without calibration. Measuring circuitry (15) is incorporated between the shunt resistor (1) and terminal members (5, 6).Type: ApplicationFiled: March 26, 2009Publication date: January 13, 2011Applicant: ULTRA ELECTRONICS LIMITEDInventor: Christopher Biggadike
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Method for determining the resonant frequency(s) of an energized power line carrier line (wave) trap
Patent number: 7863886Abstract: A method for testing a line trap of the type whose blocking characteristics are a function of its resonant frequencies without requiring the line trap to be de-energized along with the transmission line to which the trap is connected by injecting a signal into the transmission line over a range of frequencies including at least one of the line trap's expected resonant frequencies; measuring the magnetic field strength produced by the current through the line trap's main coil and the total current flowing through the line trap, and computing the ratio of the magnetic fields where the ratio is computed over a range of frequencies that includes the expected resonant frequency(s) of the line trap, such that the resonant frequencies are indicated where said ratio is at a local maxima or minima.Type: GrantFiled: March 30, 2009Date of Patent: January 4, 2011Assignee: Southern Company Services, Inc.Inventor: Gregory A. Franlin -
Publication number: 20100327851Abstract: A contact mechanism includes a movable contact unit to be positionally changed in accordance with insertion of a detachable member; and a fixed contact pair to include a first fixed contact unit and a second fixed contact unit, the positionally changed movable contact unit coming into slidable contact with the first fixed contact unit and the second fixed contact unit to make the first fixed contact unit and the second fixed contact unit conductive through the movable contact unit.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 21, 2010Publication date: December 30, 2010Applicant: FUJITSU LIMITEDInventor: Koki TAKAHASHI
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Publication number: 20100315065Abstract: A bridge module provides connection between first and second conductors of a line under test and a test instrument adapted for use with the bridge module. The bridge module provides monitoring and measurement of DSL communication signals between the telephone company DSL terminal (DSLAM) and the subscriber home DSL equipment across a wide range of frequencies. The bridge module can be used at any point in the communications link and can be used while the link is active. The bridge module provides a clickless connection to the active DSL communications link to avoid interruption in DSL service.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 16, 2009Publication date: December 16, 2010Inventor: Thomas W. Durston
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Patent number: 7847536Abstract: Disclosed are apparatus and methodology for providing approaches to remove or reduce thermal drift of the magnetic sensitivity of Hall sensor devices, to improve the stability of resulting signals of interest. Samples of a particular signal or signals of interest having improved stability make for advantageous use in conjunction with electricity meters. At the same time, associated designs and related components have greater simplicity, for reduced complexity in implementation. Among alternative embodiments, a gating structure selected of various present alternative designs may be used to partially cover, to an intentionally selected degree, an active area of a Hall sensor, so that a zero-drift supply current value may likewise be selected so as to satisfy other criteria which may be applicable to use of the Hall sensor.Type: GrantFiled: August 28, 2007Date of Patent: December 7, 2010Assignee: Itron, Inc.Inventors: Youcef Haddab, Alexandre Kerlain, Vincent Mosser, Hartman Van Wyk
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Patent number: 7843189Abstract: A current sensor includes a coil for sensing current in a current carrying bus, and a mount for mounting the coil to the current carrying bus at a distance from the bus. A system including the current sensor includes similar structure.Type: GrantFiled: December 18, 2008Date of Patent: November 30, 2010Assignee: General Electric CompanyInventor: Brian Eric Lindholm
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Patent number: 7843188Abstract: A computer implemented method and apparatus for a sensor network. The sensor network comprises a set of cables, a set of sensor units, and a central processor unit. The set of cables is capable of conducting an electrical current. The set of sensor units is coupled to the set of cables without physical contact to a wire in the set of cables, wherein the set of sensor units is capable of being powered by the electrical current and transmitting data in the electrical current. The central processor unit is connected to the set of cables and is capable of receiving the data from the set of sensor units in the electrical current.Type: GrantFiled: May 20, 2008Date of Patent: November 30, 2010Assignee: The Boeing CompanyInventor: Daniel N. Harres
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Patent number: 7835471Abstract: Methods to test the operation of the pick-up coil without having to de-energize the power line serving as the power line carrier in order to perform testing on the pick-up coil. A series of at least one test frequency is introduced and parameters of the pick-up coil can be measured to detect the presence or absence of resonant behavior indicative of the health of the pick-up coil. Testing capabilities may be incorporated into a power line carrier receiver and use the connections between the pick-up coils and the receiver to perform the pick-up coil test. Several methods for evaluating the pick-up coil response to a series of test inputs of different frequencies are presented. These methods could be incorporated in a pick-up coil testing device that is independent of a receiver.Type: GrantFiled: November 5, 2009Date of Patent: November 16, 2010Assignee: DGI Creations, LLCInventors: John Robert Weber, Jr., Fritz Heistermann
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Patent number: 7835472Abstract: Methods to test the operation of the pick-up coil without having to de-energize the power line serving as the power line carrier in order to perform testing on the pick-up coil. A sweep wave is introduced and parameters of the pick-up coil can be measured to detect the presence or absence of resonant behavior indicative of the health of the pick-up coil. Testing capabilities may be incorporated into a power line carrier receiver and use the connections between the pick-up coils and the receiver to perform the pick-up coil test. Several methods for evaluating the pick-up coil response to a series of test inputs of different frequencies are presented. These methods could be incorporated in a pick-up coil testing device that is independent of a receiver.Type: GrantFiled: November 5, 2009Date of Patent: November 16, 2010Assignee: DGI Creations, LLCInventors: John Robert Weber, Jr., Fritz Heistermann
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Publication number: 20100271006Abstract: The present invention is a method and system for monitoring the continuous flow of power delivered by multiple DC Direct current operated starter motors used to start engine driven electrical generators. The method and system comprise the closing of a starter battery system and an associated starter control switch, causing the starter battery system to discharge through a shunt whereby current is fed into a starter motor. The shunt is optionally provided as a precision resistor with a pre-calibrated voltage drop in millivolts DC proportional to a current passing through it. The shunt directs current to a meter relay, which is calibrated by establishing two set points, or desired trigger ranges, for the meter relay. If the current falls outside a range established by the two set points, then a meter relay alarm output is activated; and, if the current remains within the range, then the meter relay alarm output is not activated.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 28, 2010Publication date: October 28, 2010Applicant: Darby Group Inc.Inventor: DOUGLAS C. FORTNER
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Publication number: 20100264905Abstract: The invention relates to an arrangement for the potential-free measurement of current flowing in two primary conductors (13, 14) arranged in parallel in opposite directions of each other, wherein the magnetic differential field is detected by means of a differential field sensor (12). In order to reduce measuring errors, the primary conductors (13, 14) and the differential field sensor (12) are disposed between two metal parts that are configured as shield plates (1, 2) made of a highly permeable material, each having a web (3 or 6). The webs (3, 6) extend on both sides of the arrangement of the primary conductors (13, 14) substantially in the direction thereof parallel to the arrangement. At least one of the shield plates (1, 2) is configured in a U-shape in cross-sectional planes, having one pair of limbs (4, 5; 7, 8) each, which extend at a right angle in a longitudinal direction to the U-shaped cross-sectional planes.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 18, 2008Publication date: October 21, 2010Inventor: Jochen Schmitt
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Patent number: 7808400Abstract: The present invention is directed to a method of (1) providing continuous monitoring of various operating and environmental characteristics using RFID technology or similar wireless technology and (2) capturing data on historical events that have occurred on the circuits used for the transmission and distribution of electric power. The invention has the additional capability to communicate the information to operators at the site, in remote locations, or to other equipment (peer to peer). The invention provides a low cost method and apparatus to monitor and store operating characteristics and events on the electric power distribution circuit. The information can be used to reduce the duration of outages, for improving system reliability, to study the impact on the power grid of various environmental factors, to enhance the ability to react to operating conditions such as overloads, etc.Type: GrantFiled: August 24, 2007Date of Patent: October 5, 2010Assignee: Marmon Utility LLCInventor: Norman D. McCollough
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Patent number: 7808228Abstract: A long range wireless phasing voltmeter determines the phase difference between the time-varying voltage carried on a reference electrical conductor and another, field conductor. The voltage signal from the reference conductor is measured by a reference probe and compared by a first unit in communication with that reference probe to a 60 Hz signal generated from a GPS receiver. The phase difference, in the form of a nine-bit, audible signal using frequency shift keying to modulate the carrier frequency, is transmitted to a second unit perhaps miles away. A receiver in the second unit decodes the signal and uses another 60 Hz signal generated from another GPS receiver to re-create and then forward a surrogate of the original reference voltage signal to a meter probe that is measuring the signal on a field conductor. The meter probe can then compare the two signals to determine the phase angle difference.Type: GrantFiled: July 21, 2008Date of Patent: October 5, 2010Inventor: Walter S. Bierer
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Publication number: 20100231200Abstract: An electrical current sensor is disclosed having conducting coil portion and an insulating body portion, the conducting coil portion comprising a coil portion with one or more helical windings made of a wire conductor and encircling a central cavity. Adjacent windings are separated by a dielectrically effective gap, wherein the insulating body portion comprises a dielectric spacer comprising a helical gap maintaining protuberance configured for insertion in the central cavity of the windings such that the gap maintaining protuberance is at least partially inserted in the gap between windings.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 11, 2010Publication date: September 16, 2010Applicant: Liaisons Electroniques-Mecaniques LEM SAInventors: Mikio Kurosawa, Takashi Kato
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Publication number: 20100225305Abstract: Systems and methods for faster, safer and lower cost means of interconnecting local generation or power monitoring systems to a residential or commercial electric power system so that the connection is made via a direct connection to the power meter socket on the consumer side of the meter. The breaker for the system is collocated with the interconnection. Further modern energy management system typically require measurement of an entire premise's power and energy load, requiring additional power measurement probes and communications wiring. Instead of being connected to a new, upgraded breaker in the main service panel on the consumer side of the meter which often requires extensive and time consuming work to do as well as additional potential complications, embodiments of the invention may allow for a quick interconnection by inserting an attachment underneath the existing standardized meter for simplified power connection, measurement and communications.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 2, 2010Publication date: September 9, 2010Inventor: Stacey Reineccius
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Publication number: 20100225304Abstract: An embodiment of a voltage-measuring circuit includes: a first resistor connected to a first measurement node; a second resistor connected to the first resistor and a second measurement node; a configuration switch configured to, in response to a control signal, selectively interconnect the first and second resistors, during enable and disable phases of the control signal respectively, into and out of either a parallel or a series configuration; and a control and measurement circuit configured to provide the control signal, receive a first measurement voltage from the first and second measurement nodes during the enable phase, and receive a second measurement voltage from the first and second measurement nodes during the disable phase.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 5, 2009Publication date: September 9, 2010Applicant: ANALOG DEVICES, INC.Inventor: John WYNNE
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Patent number: 7777605Abstract: To provide a structure capable of securing satisfactory induction coupling efficiency and high reliability in manufacturing an induction coupling apparatus used in power line carrier communication, the induction coupling apparatus having a magnetic core formed from a first core element part and a second core element part so that a gap would be formed between the core element parts, includes: a core parallel moving mechanism for carrying out relative and parallel movement of the first core element part and the second core element part in a direction that the length of the gap varies; and a predetermined gap length regulating member for limiting parallel movement in a direction that the first core element part and the second core element part approach each other to regulate the gap length to the predetermined gap length in the case that the core parallel moving mechanism is used for the parallel movement.Type: GrantFiled: March 16, 2007Date of Patent: August 17, 2010Assignee: Mitsubishi Electric CorporationInventors: Nobuyuki Zumoto, Hiroshi Isoya, Takao Tsurimoto, Yuichiro Murata, Youichi Hisamori
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Publication number: 20100194382Abstract: A signal level detection method is provided, the method includes providing a feed line system that includes coaxial cable connectors connected coaxial cable sections. Each coaxial cable connector includes a connector body, a coupling circuit positioned within the connector body, an electrical signal power level detection circuit electrically connected to the coupling circuit and comprised by the connector body, and an output component comprised by the connector body. At least one coupling circuit senses an electrical signal flowing through at least one associated coaxial cable connector. At least one electrical signal power level detection circuit detects a plurality of associated power levels of the electrical signal flowing through at least one associated coaxial cable connector.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 26, 2010Publication date: August 5, 2010Applicant: JOHN MEZZALINGUA ASSOCIATES, INC.Inventor: Noah P. Montena
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Patent number: 7750621Abstract: A clamp meter is provided for measuring consumption of current and power of an electrical appliance. The clamp meter includes a power inlet port and a power outlet port that are in controlled connection with each other. A current detection element is arranged between the power inlet port and the power outlet port. When the power inlet port is connected to a power source and the power outlet port is connected to an electrical appliance to be detected, with the electrical appliance turned on, the current detection element detects and converts the current flowing through the power outlet port into a digital signal, which is displayed on a display device mounted on the clamp meter, whereby, through the data and information displayed on the display device, a user may get aware of the power consumption of the electrical appliance and abnormality of power consumption thereof.Type: GrantFiled: July 17, 2009Date of Patent: July 6, 2010Assignee: Chung Instrument Electronics Industrial Co., Ltd.Inventor: Shaw-Lin Liu
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Publication number: 20100164516Abstract: A method and a device for monitoring at least one output stage for an inductive load using a current regulator and an analysis device are described. A short circuit to a power supply or to ground is detected by comparing at least one current value in a switching phase of the at least one output stage with at least one current value in a free-wheeling phase of the at least one output stage.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 30, 2007Publication date: July 1, 2010Applicant: ROBERT BOSCH GMBHInventors: Christian Lammers, Jochen Neumeister, Hans Raub, Steffen Reinhardt, Danilo Marcato
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Patent number: 7746055Abstract: A current sensor is provided for non-invasively measuring electrical current in an electrical conductor. The current sensor includes a housing having a Hall effect sensor and circuitry for transmitting a signal indicative of the current flowing through the electrical conductor. The current sensor further includes a clamp that allows an operator to easily and repeatedly install and remove the current sensor from electrical conductors. The current sensor may also include a mu-metal device for shielding the Hall effect sensor for stray magnetic fields generated by adjacent electrical conductors.Type: GrantFiled: October 10, 2008Date of Patent: June 29, 2010Assignees: Consolidated Edison Company of New York, Inc., Softstuf, Inc.Inventors: Sanjay Bose, Anthony T. Giuliante, Amir Makki
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Patent number: 7746056Abstract: An electronic circuit includes a substrate having a surface and a device supported by the surface of the substrate. The electronic circuit also includes a magnetic field transducer disposed over the surface of the substrate and an insulating layer disposed between the substrate and the magnetic field transducer. The electronic circuit also includes a conductor disposed over the magnetic field transducer. The conductor is configured to carry an electrical current to generate a first magnetic field. The electronic circuit is responsive to the first magnetic field.Type: GrantFiled: January 22, 2009Date of Patent: June 29, 2010Assignee: Allegro Microsystems, Inc.Inventors: Jason Stauth, Richard Dickinson, Glenn Forrest, Ravi Vig
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Patent number: 7741832Abstract: A micro-electro-mechanical system (MEMS) current sensor for sensing a magnetic field produced by an electrical current flowing in a conductor includes a first fixed element and a moving element. The moving element is spaced away from the first fixed element and is movable relative to the fixed element responsive to a magnetic field produced by an electrical current flowing in a conductor for providing a mechanical indication of a strength of the magnetic field. The sensor also includes a tunneling current generator for generating a tunneling current between the first fixed element and the moving element and a tunneling current monitor for monitoring a change in the tunneling current responsive to the mechanical indication to provide an indication of a value of the electrical current in the conductor.Type: GrantFiled: April 18, 2007Date of Patent: June 22, 2010Assignee: General Electric CompanyInventors: Ertugrul Berkcan, Christopher James Kapusta, Marco Francesco Aimi, Shankar Chandrasekaran, Glenn Scott Claydon
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Publication number: 20100148756Abstract: This invention provides a clamp meter with safe trigger mechanism which allows an operator to take electrical measurements of the conductors safely, particularly in case of the electrical conductor elements situated in congested or awkward locations and positions. In the preferred embodiment of the present invention, the trigger is placed at the underside of said clamp meter so as to allow convenient access to it for the fingers of a hand while the clamp meter is held in the hand. The trigger mechanism of the invention may be operated with single or multiple fingers. The invention also allows the hand to maintain its ‘clinched-fist’ position throughout the measurement process, thereby eliminating the need to open the hand any time during the process. The invention thus makes the electrical parameter measurement operation using clamp meters safer than for the conventional meters.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 13, 2008Publication date: June 17, 2010Inventors: Tushar Gajkumar Shah, Kuldeep Himmatrao Shahane, Amol Ashokrao Deshmukh
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Patent number: 7737679Abstract: An electronic energy meter includes a first sigma delta modulator having an electrically isolated digital data output. A power supply stage coupled to a first electrical line provides a supply voltage to the first sigma delta modulator. A shunt device is also coupled to the first electrical line. The first sigma delta modulator is coupled via an input to the shunt device for measuring a current through the first electrical line. The electrically isolated digital output is isolated by a capacitive isolation barrier.Type: GrantFiled: October 24, 2008Date of Patent: June 15, 2010Assignee: Texas Instruments IncorporatedInventor: Volker Rzehak
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Patent number: 7733080Abstract: The clamp meter contains a revolving member configured between the meter's body member and jaw member. The revolving member is composed of a first base and a second base located on the interfacing sides of the body member and the jaw member, respectively. The first base and the second base are revolvably joined together by an axle extended axially from the body member into the jaw member via the first and second bases' aligned axle holes. The first base has at least a roller ball elastically embedded in a concave and exposed towards the second base. The roller ball would roll into one of a number of notches of the second base as the base and jaw members are rotated relative to each other, thereby creating a number of preset configurations of the included angle between the body and jaw members.Type: GrantFiled: November 20, 2008Date of Patent: June 8, 2010Assignee: Chung Instrument Electronics Industrial Co., Ltd.Inventor: Shaw-Lin Liu
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Publication number: 20100134094Abstract: The present invention provides a clamp meter with clamp jaws whose position is adjustable in different planes with respect to the plane of the main body of the clamp meter at various fixed angles, thereby helping the user to measure the current in the conductors which are disposed in tight physical spaces such as an electrical cabinet or electrical panel, or placed in awkward positions such as overhead locations. The present invention allows the user to operate the instrument and also read the display in all positions of the clamp jaws.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 13, 2008Publication date: June 3, 2010Inventors: Tushar Gajkumar Shah, Kuldeep Himmatrao Shahane, Amol Ashokrao Deshmukh
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Patent number: 7728578Abstract: In order to extend the measurement range of a current sensor, a current divider is formed by a first conductor formed in a current sensor that is mounted on a printed circuit board and a second conductor on the printed circuit board that electrically shorts at least one input terminal of the current sensor to at least one output terminal of the current sensor. The input terminal of the current sensor supplies the current to be measured to the first conductor and the output terminal supplies the measured current back to the printed circuit board.Type: GrantFiled: May 15, 2008Date of Patent: June 1, 2010Assignee: Silicon Laboratories Inc.Inventors: Brett E. Etter, Donald E. Alfano, Timothy J. Dupuis, Donald K. Coffey
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Patent number: 7719259Abstract: A current sensor system that uses a sensor resistor to sense current flow and in which the level of voltage drop across that resistor is used to control the current flow through another resistor, the input resistor, into a current integrator. The ratio of input resistor to sensor resistor resistance values determines the ratio of sense current to integrator input current level. By matching the temperature coefficients of the resistors the effects of temperature are reduced. The integrator output provides either directly or indirectly a voltage level, frequency, or duty cycle output signal to indicate the sensor resistor current level.Type: GrantFiled: April 3, 2008Date of Patent: May 18, 2010Inventor: Fred Mirow
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Patent number: 7719258Abstract: A method and apparatus for current measurement using Hall sensors without iron cores, used to estimate a flowing current in an electric conducting cable are provided by the exemplary examples of the present invention. The method for current measurement using Hall sensors without iron cores includes the following step: (a) providing Hall sensors to be attached to or located near the electric conducting cable; (b) using each of the Hall sensors to measure the flux density of the magnetic field generated by the flowing current, so as to generate an output voltage according to the flux density of the magnetic field; (c) performing a statistical operation on the output voltages of the Hall sensors, so as to generate a statistical voltage; (d) estimating the flowing current in the electric conducting cable according to the statistical voltage.Type: GrantFiled: October 13, 2008Date of Patent: May 18, 2010Assignee: National Taiwan University of Science and TechnologyInventors: Kun-Long Chen, Nan-Ming Chen
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Patent number: 7714567Abstract: A method and apparatus to detect non-cancelled magnetic field produced when current flows through an electric conductor are provided. The sensor includes multiple coils, which allow the sensor to be arbitrarily oriented and attach to the outside of an electrical power cable. Arbitrary orientation provides for easy of field installation.Type: GrantFiled: June 22, 2008Date of Patent: May 11, 2010Assignee: Heger Research LLCInventor: Charles E. Heger
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Patent number: 7714735Abstract: A system and method of monitoring a plurality of electrical assets comprise an electricity distribution infrastructure, including a plurality of electrical asset sensors coupled to the electrical assets for monitoring an operating condition of the electrical assets as well as any fault conditions. The sensors may include a current transformer for obtaining a current waveform, a GPS receiver for applying a synchronized time-stamp to the waveform data, and a mesh network radio for transmitting the time-stamped waveform data. Data from the plurality of sensors may be encrypted and transmitted over a mesh network to one or more gateways that are in communication with a central command processor. In response to an abnormal operating condition of any electrical asset, the central command processor may determine a probable fault location, a probable fault type, and a fault response.Type: GrantFiled: September 13, 2006Date of Patent: May 11, 2010Inventor: Daniel Rockwell
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Patent number: 7714594Abstract: A current detection printed board includes: a board having a penetration hole that penetrates the board; and at least one wire that is formed in a coiled shape having both ends by penetrating the board along the periphery of the penetration hole and alternately connecting a front surface layer and a rear surface layer of the board, wherein, when a conductor, in which an AC current flows, is disposed to pass through the inside of the penetration hole, a current flowing in the wire is output through electromagnetic induction.Type: GrantFiled: January 26, 2007Date of Patent: May 11, 2010Assignee: Daihen CorporationInventors: Yoshifumi Ibuki, Shigeki Amadatsu, Tomohiko Kitano, Shuji Omae
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Publication number: 20100109648Abstract: An inductor design having a detection winding which is magnetically coupled to the existing winding and its induction voltage is used to cancel that of the existing winding. Having the induction voltage cancelled, the voltage across the existing winding represents a resistive voltage drop of the existing winding current. The detection winding is furthermore built with a non-inductive portion having a significantly higher DC resistance in proportion to that of the existing winding. This resistance proportion is insensitive against temperature variations when both the existing and the detection windings are built with the same material and subjected to the same environment. A reference current is fed through the detection winding to produce a reference resistive voltage drop which is used to cancel the resistive voltage drop across the existing winding. When a precise cancellation occurs, the existing winding current is known to be in exact proportion to the reference current.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 30, 2008Publication date: May 6, 2010Inventor: Chi Hung Cheung
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Publication number: 20100109649Abstract: An apparatus for determining and/or monitoring at least one process variable. The apparatus includes: at least one energy input, via which the apparatus receives energy for operation of the apparatus. The invention includes features that: at least one measuring unit is provided, which measures energy applied to the energy input; and at least one control unit is provided, which, based on comparison of the measured energy with a desired value of the energy requirement, controls at least one unit of the apparatus.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 30, 2007Publication date: May 6, 2010Applicant: Endress + Hauser GmbH + Co. KGInventors: Roland Dieterle, Axel Humpert, Armin Wernet
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Patent number: 7705604Abstract: An electric circuit for triggering a piezoelectric element, a fuel injection system of a motor vehicle in particular, is described. A first measuring shunt connected in series to the piezoelectric element is provided. Provided are two transistors connected in series whose shared connecting point is connected to the piezoelectric element. A second measuring shunt is also provided. The two transistors and the second measuring shunt are connected in series.Type: GrantFiled: October 20, 2005Date of Patent: April 27, 2010Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbHInventors: Marco Graf, Joerg Reineke, Mirko Schinzel
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Patent number: 7705583Abstract: A micro-electromechanical system (MEMS) current and magnetic field sensor for sensing a magnetic field produced by a conductor includes a magneto-MEMS component for sensing the magnetic field and an interference-MEMS component for sensing an interference, wherein the magneto-MEMS component and the interference MEMS component are used to provide an indication of the current in the conductor.Type: GrantFiled: October 15, 2008Date of Patent: April 27, 2010Assignee: General Electric CompanyInventors: Ertugrul Berkcan, Shankar Chandrasekaran
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Patent number: 7701197Abstract: An electrical current sensing assembly comprises: a conductive input substrate with a generally planar contact surface; a conductive output substrate with a generally planar contact surface proximate and substantially parallel to the input substrate contact surface; a conductive current sense path extending from the input substrate contact surface to the output substrate contact surface with a sense path cross sectional area generally normal to electrical current flow; a conductive current bypass path extending from the input substrate contact surface to the output substrate contact surface with a bypass path cross sectional area generally normal to electrical current flow; and an electrical current sensing device proximate the current sense path for sensing electrical current passing through the current sense path; wherein the ratio of the current passing through the bypass path to the current passing through the sense path is proportional to the ratio of the bypass path cross sectional area to the sensing pType: GrantFiled: April 20, 2008Date of Patent: April 20, 2010Assignee: Hamilton Sundstrand CorporationInventors: Randal Sherman, Shin Katsumata
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Patent number: 7701198Abstract: A power measurement apparatus includes a radio frequency input terminal, a measurement module, an interface, a memory, and a control unit. The radio frequency input terminal is connected to a radio frequency device. The measurement module is connected to the radio frequency input terminal to convert the radio frequency signal into a voltage signal. The interface is connected to the measurement module, receiving and transmitting the voltage signal from the measurement module. The memory is connected to the interface to store a voltage-power table related to the radio frequency signal. The control unit is connected to the interface to query the voltage-power table in the memory via the interface, and obtain the power of the radio frequency device according to the voltage signal output from the measurement module.Type: GrantFiled: September 15, 2008Date of Patent: April 20, 2010Assignees: Hong Fu Jin Precision Industry (ShenZhen) Co., Ltd., Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.Inventors: Chong Zhang, Cho-Ju Chung, Teng-Huei Chu
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Publication number: 20100085036Abstract: A power line monitoring device is mounted to a power line. The device includes circuitry for monitoring the power line and communicating information regarding the power line. A ground reference point of the circuitry is electrically coupled to the power line. Therefore, the monitoring device, including its circuitry, has substantially the same voltage potential as the power line. Accordingly, there is a substantially equalized or uniform electric field around the device. The substantially equal voltage potential and electric field allow communications with the monitoring device to have reduced noise and interference, as compared to other devices that have different voltage potentials than their corresponding power lines. A pad of semi-conductive material may be disposed between the power line and the electrical conductors to slow a rate of change of the voltage potential of the device circuitry when mounting the device to the power line, thereby minimizing risk of corona discharge.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 29, 2009Publication date: April 8, 2010Applicant: Cooper Technologies CompanyInventors: John Fredrick Banting, Gregg James Haensgen, Bruce W. McBee
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Signal transmission device for a measuring probe, as well as transmission method and measuring probe
Patent number: 7683803Abstract: A signal transmission device is disclosed, which serves to connect a measuring probe, in particular a pH measuring probe or an oxygen measuring probe, to a signal-processing unit. The signal transmission device includes a differential amplifier at whose non-inverting input an input signal can be applied which is provided by an electrode of the measuring probe, and from which a corresponding low-impedance output signal can be delivered to a transmission line, by which the output signal can be transmitted to the signal-processing unit. The output of the differential amplifier can be connected via a first resistor to the transmission line and to the inverting input of the differential amplifier, and can be connected to the input of a first control unit by which signals can be registered, such as clock signals and/or data, which are applied to the transmission line by the signal-processing unit.Type: GrantFiled: January 14, 2008Date of Patent: March 23, 2010Assignee: Mettler-Toledo AGInventor: Juergen Ammann -
Publication number: 20100066351Abstract: An exemplary embodiment relates to a measuring device for measuring a current flowing in a first cable. The measuring device includes a measuring shunt in the form of a plate connected in series with the first cable and associated with a measuring electronic card connected to a data transmission cable. The measuring shunt further includes a measuring portion of resistive alloy coupled to connection portions on either side of the measuring portion. The connection portions are integrally formed with the measuring portion, and the first cable is secured to at least one of the connection portions of the measuring shunt.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 14, 2009Publication date: March 18, 2010Inventors: Bruno CONDAMIN, Pascal Muis, Ghislain Bages
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Publication number: 20100013459Abstract: Power detector integrally formed within a printed transmission line to capacitively couple a portion of signal power propagating on the printed transmission line and a power detector circuit that receives coupled power output from the power detector to detect a power level of the signal power. The power detector is designed such that capacitance of the coupling capacitor is absorbed into a distributed capacitance of the transmission line to maintain continuity of a characteristic impedance of the transmission line.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 18, 2006Publication date: January 21, 2010Inventors: Roi Carmon, David Goren, Ullrich R. Pfeiffer
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Patent number: 7649348Abstract: An auxiliary element includes an end plate having an inner face which is intended to be applied against a large surface of a sensor and an outer face which bears two spaced-apart mounting lugs on a first edge thereof, the lugs extending outwards perpendicularly to the outer face. A first pair of passages is formed in the lugs for first screws used to fix the auxiliary element to a support. In addition, the end plate includes a through opening for the electrical conductor and a second pair of passages, symmetrically on either side of the opening, for second screws used to fix the end plate to the sensor. The through opening is formed by a recess provided on a second edge, opposite the first edge, and the second pair of passages are formed by two parallel slits which extend perpendicularly to the first edge of the end plate.Type: GrantFiled: November 24, 2004Date of Patent: January 19, 2010Assignee: ABB EntrelecInventor: Armando Vilas Boas
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Patent number: 7636396Abstract: Methods to test the operation of the pick-up coil without having to de-energize the power line serving as the power line carrier in order to perform testing on the pick-up coil. A series of test frequencies are introduced and parameters of the pick-up coil can be measured to detect the presence or absence of resonant behavior indicative of the health of the pick-up coil. Testing capabilities may be incorporated into a power line carrier receiver and use the connections between the pick-up coils and the receiver to perform the pick-up coil test. Various methods are disclosed for evaluating the pick-up coil response to a series of test inputs of different frequencies. These methods could be incorporated in a pick-up coil testing device that is independent of a receiver.Type: GrantFiled: August 8, 2006Date of Patent: December 22, 2009Assignee: DGI Creations, LLCInventors: John Robert Weber, Jr., Fritz Heistermann