Voltage Regulator Patents (Class 324/416)
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Patent number: 11906589Abstract: Systems, methods, and devices are provided for estimating a state-of-charge in an energy storage system. The systems, methods, and devices may measure a current and a voltage related to the energy storage system, generate a model-based state-of-charge estimate based thereon, generate an aggregated state-of-charge estimate based on the model-based state-of-charge estimate, generate an adaptation current based on the measured current, aggregated state-of-charge estimate, and the adaptive state-of-charge estimate, and update the adaptive state-of-charge estimate based on the measured current and the adaptation current. The systems, methods, and devices may also provide a tracking indication whether the adaptive state-of-charge estimate is tracking between upper and lower confidence limits.Type: GrantFiled: July 15, 2022Date of Patent: February 20, 2024Assignee: NUVATION RESEARCH CORPORATIONInventors: Michael Worry, Stefan Janhunen, Manoj Mathew
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Patent number: 11828811Abstract: A storage battery inspection device includes: an energy storage control circuit that applies an alternating current to a storage battery; a magnetic sensor that senses a magnetic field component outside the storage battery and outputs a magnetic sensor signal indicating the sensed component; a canceling coil that generates a magnetic field component based on an input current to cancel out a magnetic field component generated by magnetization of a magnetic material in the storage battery; a feedback circuit that obtains, from the magnetic sensor signal, a low-frequency signal indicating a magnetic field component having a lower frequency than the alternating current, and applies the input current to the canceling coil based on the low-frequency signal; and a detection circuit that obtains, from the magnetic sensor signal, a detection signal indicating a magnetic field component having the same frequency as the alternating current.Type: GrantFiled: July 28, 2020Date of Patent: November 28, 2023Assignee: INTEGRAL GEOMETRY SCIENCE INC.Inventors: Yuki Mima, Shogo Suzuki, Kenjiro Kimura, Noriaki Kimura
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Patent number: 11448710Abstract: A regenerative load system includes a voltage input and a load current regulator electrically connected to the voltage input. The system includes a fly back rectifier electrically connected to the load current regulator. A current output is electrically connected to the fly back rectifier. A system for regeneratively testing electrically powered equipment includes a power source. The system includes a unit under test (UUT) having a voltage input electrically connected to the power source, a regenerative load system electrically connected to the UUT. The regenerative load system (RLS) includes a RLS voltage input electrically connected to the UUT, a load current regulator electrically connected to the RLS voltage input, a fly back rectifier electrically connected to the load current regulator, and a current output electrically connected to the fly back rectifier. The current output is configured and adapted to provide current the UUT and/or the power source.Type: GrantFiled: March 15, 2019Date of Patent: September 20, 2022Assignee: Hamilton Sundstrand CorporationInventor: Michael J. Hanson
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Patent number: 11422195Abstract: Systems, methods, and devices are provided for estimating a state-of-charge in an energy storage system. The systems, methods, and devices may measure a current and a voltage related to the energy storage system, generate a model-based state-of-charge estimate based thereon, generate an aggregated state-of-charge estimate based on the model-based state-of-charge estimate, generate an adaptation current based on the measured current, aggregated state-of-charge estimate, and the adaptive state-of-charge estimate, and update the adaptive state-of-charge estimate based on the measured current and the adaptation current. The systems, methods, and devices may also provide a tracking indication whether the adaptive state-of-charge estimate is tracking between upper and lower confidence limits.Type: GrantFiled: March 24, 2020Date of Patent: August 23, 2022Assignee: Nuvation Research CorporationInventors: Michael Worry, Stefan Janhunen, Manoj Mathew
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Patent number: 10498566Abstract: A base station system includes a central hub having a baseband controller and a backhaul connection to an external network and a plurality of remote units that are connected to the central hub by respective wired power and cabling connections, each remote unit including an associated drone unit that has an aerial drone and a radio unit mounted thereon. The radio units are operated under control of the baseband controller to form a super cell that appears as a single base station to the external network.Type: GrantFiled: March 27, 2018Date of Patent: December 3, 2019Assignee: CommScope Technologies LLCInventor: Bryan K. Kennedy
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Patent number: 10353013Abstract: A voltage detection device includes battery stacks, and a connection member configured to electrically connect the battery stacks. The voltage detection device includes: a capacitor connected to each battery stack in parallel; switches, each of which having one end connected to a terminal of each battery stack and the other end connected to the capacitor; a detection unit configured to detect a voltage of the capacitor, and a control unit configured to control the switches, in which the control unit comprises: a discharging path selection unit that selects a discharging path comprising the connection member and the capacitor when discharging the capacitor, and a determination unit configured to determine whether an abnormality has occurred in the battery pack or at least one of the switches, in correspondence to at least one of a voltage of the capacitor after charging and a voltage of the capacitor after discharging.Type: GrantFiled: February 25, 2016Date of Patent: July 16, 2019Assignee: FUJITSU TEN LIMITEDInventors: Takehito Iwanaga, Atsushi Izutani, Akihito Kondo, Kazuya Ogawa
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Patent number: 9804207Abstract: An integrated circuit (IC) is located on an IC chip and includes an integrated voltage regulator circuit that provides an internal supply voltage to the IC. A test mode signal can be received from an external pin of the IC chip. In response to the test mode signal, the IC can enter a test mode where the internal supply voltage is provided to components of the IC. Also in the test mode, voltage characteristics of the internal supply voltage are measured to produce an analog held value. The measurements occur in an analog domain and over a plurality of sample-and-hold windows. Upon completion of a measurement window, the analog held is converted to a digital value. The digital value is then stored in a memory circuit. The digital value is provided from the memory circuit to a reader device external to the IC.Type: GrantFiled: March 1, 2016Date of Patent: October 31, 2017Assignee: XILINX, INC.Inventor: Austin H. Lesea
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Patent number: 9285412Abstract: The present document relates to voltage regulators (101). In particular, the present document relates to the testing of voltage regulators subject to load transients. A test device (110) configured to generate a load current to be drawn at an output of a voltage regulator (101) is described. The test device (110) comprises a load connector (116) for coupling the test device (110) to the output of the voltage regulator (101); a transistor (113) configured to modulate the current through the load connector (116) subject to a control signal (123); wherein the current through the load connector (116) corresponds to the load current; a current sense resistor (112) arranged in series with the transistor (113) and configured to provide a feedback voltage (121) which is substantially proportional to the load current; and an operational amplifier (111) configured to generate the control signal (123) based on the feedback voltage (121) and based on a target voltage (122).Type: GrantFiled: September 20, 2012Date of Patent: March 15, 2016Assignee: Dialog Semiconductor GmbHInventor: Mladen Veselic
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Patent number: 8957686Abstract: A voltage measurement device, includes: a multiplexer that includes a plurality of input terminals at which voltage signals are inputted; a control circuit that performs voltage measurement by acquiring the voltage signal at a selected input terminal from the multiplexer; and a decision circuit that makes a decision as to whether or not an abnormality has occurred, based upon voltage values measured by the control circuit, wherein: the plurality of input terminals include input terminals at which voltage signals from a plurality of subjects of measurement are inputted, and an input terminal at which a potential for diagnosis is inputted; the control circuit, when performing voltage measurement for the plurality of subjects of measurement, measures voltages at the input terminals at which the voltage signals from the plurality of subjects of measurement are inputted, and a voltage at the input terminal at which the potential for diagnosis is inputted.Type: GrantFiled: February 27, 2012Date of Patent: February 17, 2015Assignee: Hitachi Automotive Systems, Ltd.Inventors: Masahiro Ueda, Yoshinori Aoshima, Akihiko Kudo
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Patent number: 8947097Abstract: A device for measuring electrical current, voltage and temperature in a conductor made of rigid material is disclosed. The conductor is formed from two conductor sections, between which an electrical resistor element is provided that is made of a material having greater resistance than the material of the conductor sections. In the region of the resistor element, a flattened area with a depression is provided, over which a measuring arrangement, through which a portion of the current flowing through the conductor flows, is placed in the manner of a bridge. In the measuring arrangement is arranged in the vicinity of a contact piece by means of which the conductor can be connected in an electrically conducting manner to another conductor such that the heat generated at the contact point is measured.Type: GrantFiled: August 19, 2005Date of Patent: February 3, 2015Assignee: ABB Patent GmbHInventor: Klaus-Georg Müller
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Patent number: 8760094Abstract: An apparatus and method for protecting a power system comprising a generator providing power to an alternating current bus, a power converter for converting alternating current power on the alternating current bus to direct current power on a direct current bus, and a direct current load powered by the direct current power on the direct current bus. An undesired condition is identified at the input to the power converter from the alternating current bus. The undesired condition is caused by at least one of the power converter, the direct current bus, or the load. The power converter is disconnected from the alternating current bus in response to identifying the undesired condition for at least a time delay. The time delay is selected such that the power converter is disconnected from the alternating current bus before the alternating current bus is disconnected from the generator due to the undesired condition.Type: GrantFiled: December 9, 2011Date of Patent: June 24, 2014Assignee: The Boeing CompanyInventors: Eugene V. Solodovnik, Jeffrey J. White
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Patent number: 8737775Abstract: A system and method of measuring displacement of energized components within a tap changer compartment. A fiber optic sensor assembly is provided within a transformer compartment. The sensor assembly monitors displacement of one or more energized components within the transformer compartment. The sensor assembly transmits information to a control box assembly that uses the information to output analog or digital signals, control signals, voltage and/or ampere measurements or other information.Type: GrantFiled: April 9, 2007Date of Patent: May 27, 2014Assignee: Waukesha Electric Systems, Inc.Inventor: Geoff Webb
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Patent number: 8643375Abstract: A circuit system is disclosed. The system comprises a master circuitry, at least one slave circuitry which has a battery sensor for checking battery status of a power supply battery and a shut down mechanism for controlled shut down upon detection of low battery by the battery sensor, and a battery sensor manipulation circuit controlled by the master circuitry. The battery sensor manipulation circuit is arranged to manipulate sensed battery status for the battery sensor of at least one of the at least one slave circuitry to force the controlled shut down of the at least one of the at least one slave circuitry upon provision of a shut down control signal from the master circuitry. A method of controlling power management of such a circuit system is also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: December 8, 2009Date of Patent: February 4, 2014Assignee: ST-Ericsson SAInventor: Jens Thorvinger
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Patent number: 8552734Abstract: The integrated circuit (10) has an internal power supply domain with a power supply voltage adaptation circuit (14) to adapt the power supply voltage in the power supply domain. Typically, a plurality of such domains is provided wherein the power supply voltage can be adapted independently. During testing an internal power supply voltage is supplied to a temporally integrating analog to digital conversion circuit (16) in the integrating circuit (10). A temporally integrated value of the power supply voltage is measured during a measurement period. Preferably, integrating measurements of a plurality of internal supply voltages are performed in parallel during the same measurement time interval. Preferably a further test is performed by changing over between mutually different supply voltages during a further measurement period. In this way the measured integrated supply voltage can be used to check the speed of the change over between the different voltages.Type: GrantFiled: April 13, 2006Date of Patent: October 8, 2013Assignee: NXP B.V.Inventors: Rinze I. M. P. Meijer, Sandeep Kumar Goel, Jose De Jesus Pineda De Gyvez
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Patent number: 8513941Abstract: A power detection regulation device including a power detection signal generator, a power state detector and a regulated output unit is disclosed. The power detection signal generator receives the input power from an external power supply and generates a power detection signal. The power state detector generates a power state signal based on the power state derived from the power detection signal. The regulated output unit receives the power state signal and generates a driving signal to an external electrical device in accordance with the feedback signal from the external electrical device. The power state signal is provided for the external electrical element to perform relevant processes, and the regulated output device can output the predetermined driving signal on receiving the power state signal indicating some abnormal situation in the input power so as to maintain the normal operation performed by the actuating element in the external electrical device.Type: GrantFiled: July 30, 2011Date of Patent: August 20, 2013Assignee: Inno-Tech Co., Ltd.Inventors: Ting-Chin Tsen, Shu-Chia Lin, Wen-Yueh Hsieh
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Patent number: 8456939Abstract: Voltage regulation circuitry is provided comprising a pull-up p-type threshold device connecting a supply voltage node to an output voltage node, the pull-up p-type threshold device configured to be switched off in dependence on a control signal. A pull-down stack connects the output voltage node to a reference voltage node, the pull-down stack comprising a pull-down p-type threshold device and a pull-down n-type threshold device connected in series. An inverter is configured to receive an input from the output voltage node and is configured to generate a cut-off signal, wherein the pull-down n-type threshold device is configured to be switched on in dependence on the control signal and the pull-down p-type threshold device is configured to be switched off in dependence on the cut-off signal.Type: GrantFiled: November 22, 2010Date of Patent: June 4, 2013Assignee: ARM LimitedInventor: Pranay Prabhat
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Patent number: 8330529Abstract: Embodiments of a method, apparatus and circuit for voltage regulation are disclosed. One embodiment of a circuit includes a first field effect transistor (FET) having a gate, a drain and a source. A current source is connected to the drain of the FET. A second FET has a source connected to the source of the first FET by a node. The second FET also has a gate. A low-pass filter circuit has an input connected to the gate of the first FET and an output connected to the gate of the second FET.Type: GrantFiled: January 28, 2010Date of Patent: December 11, 2012Assignee: Xilinx, Inc.Inventors: Wenfeng Zhang, Qi Zhang
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Publication number: 20110254556Abstract: A switch testing circuit is configured for testing a switch. The switch testing circuit includes a switch element, a first light emitting diode, and a control chip. The first light emitting diode, the switch element, and the switch are connected in series. The first light emitting diode is configured for indicating connection condition between the switch and the switch testing circuit. The control chip is configured for acquiring a voltage from one terminal of the switch element and comparing the acquired voltage with a comparison voltage to judge whether the switch is qualified or disqualified according to the comparison result.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 21, 2010Publication date: October 20, 2011Applicants: HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD., HONG FU JIN PRECISION INDUSTRY (ShenZhen) CO., LTD.Inventor: YAN SHI
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Publication number: 20110187376Abstract: In one embodiment, a sensor for circuit testing has a first terminal and a second terminal. The first terminal is configured to be coupled to a first node of a first circuit via a first capacitor, and the second terminal is configured to be coupled to a second node of the first circuit. The sensor also has at least one transmitter and at least one receiver that measures a first transmission factor between the first terminal and the second terminal. The sensor determines that the first circuit is in a first state if the first transmission factor is above a first threshold, and determines that the first circuit is in a second state if the first transmission factor is below the first threshold.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 29, 2010Publication date: August 4, 2011Inventors: Jens Barrenscheen, Dirk Hammerschmidt
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Patent number: 7957847Abstract: Voltage regulating systems are provided that adjust their output control signals in response to feed-forward information that is indicative of deterministic changes in the load current. A feed-forward circuit provides a feed-forward signal in response to an input signal generated from a source that is external to the voltage regulating system. The voltage regulator systems can proactively respond to the predictive information by adjusting their output, thereby improving the regulation tolerance to dynamic loading. As an example, the feed-forward information can include signals indicating multiple deterministic events that affect the load. Signals from multiple events can be summed together to generate a feed-forward term. As another example, the voltage regulating systems can be responsive to feedback information and feed-forward information from internal to the regulator, in addition to external deterministic information.Type: GrantFiled: September 30, 2005Date of Patent: June 7, 2011Assignee: Hitachi Global Storage Technologies Netherlands, B.V.Inventors: James Eddy Donaldson, Bryan Scott Rowan
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Patent number: 7825665Abstract: Circuitry arranged for sensing a variable polarity signal comprises an input node supplied with the variable polarity signal to produce an input signal. A first sensing circuit is responsive to the input signal having a first polarity for producing a first signal. A level shifting circuit is responsive to the input signal having a second polarity for shifting a level of the input signal to produce a shifted signal of the first polarity at a level determined by the input signal.Type: GrantFiled: March 14, 2007Date of Patent: November 2, 2010Assignee: Linear Technology CorporationInventors: Bryan Avery Legates, Albert Mien-Yee Wu
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Patent number: 7737718Abstract: A power supply assembly that can be miniaturized even though an applied voltage to a load is rendered variable, and a semiconductor testing system using the same are put into practice. With an improvement of the power supply assembly for finding an error against a set voltage by feeding back an applied voltage applied to a load, and applying a predetermined voltage to the load by causing an output amplifier to increase and decrease amperage to be fed to the load on the basis of the error, it is characterized in provided a voltage converter causing a voltage level of a power supply voltage of the output amplifier to follow up a voltage level of the set voltage.Type: GrantFiled: May 21, 2007Date of Patent: June 15, 2010Assignee: Yokogawa Electric CorporationInventor: Isamu Koura
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Patent number: 7705600Abstract: An apparatus and method for disabling an internal voltage regulator of a circuit to voltage stress test the circuit. The apparatus may include a circuit having an internal voltage regulator and a design-for-test circuit coupled to the circuit to disable the internal voltage regulator to voltage stress test the circuit in a test mode.Type: GrantFiled: February 12, 2007Date of Patent: April 27, 2010Assignee: Cypress Semiconductor CorporationInventor: Bruce Byrkett
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Patent number: 7659716Abstract: A sensor circuit has: a sensor portion that obtains, as an electrical signal, information on an object to be measured or detected; and a control circuit that controls the operation of the sensor portion. The control circuit receives a start input signal inputted thereto from outside for making the sensor portion operate only for a given duration after the start input signal is inputted thereto. With this configuration, it is possible to reduce the current consumption by arbitrarily controlling a period of an intermittent operation of the sensor circuit.Type: GrantFiled: July 25, 2007Date of Patent: February 9, 2010Assignee: Rohm Co., Ltd.Inventor: Hidetoshi Nishikawa
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Publication number: 20090278544Abstract: A system and method of measuring displacement of energized components within a tap changer compartment. A fiber optic sensor assembly is provided within a transformer compartment. The sensor assembly monitors displacement of one or more energized components within the transformer compartment. The sensor assembly transmits information to a control box assembly that uses the information to output analog or digital signals, control signals, voltage and/or ampere measurements or other information.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 9, 2007Publication date: November 12, 2009Inventor: Geoff Webb
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Patent number: 7506180Abstract: Embodiments of a switching power supply circuit are disclosed wherein the number of times that a switch of the circuit is enabled is counted.Type: GrantFiled: March 10, 2005Date of Patent: March 17, 2009Assignee: Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P.Inventors: David K. Klaffenbach, Michael J. Campin, Algird M. Gudaitis, Chadwick W. Stryker
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Patent number: 7466150Abstract: An apparatus for generating a power signal from a load current is described, has a controller with a load current input, a load current output, an intermediate signal output, and a status signal output, an influencing device with an intermediate signal input and a power signal output, and an interruption device with an interrupt input, an interrupt output, and a status signal input. The controller generates a status signal and an intermediate signal depending on the load current, and the interruption device interrupts the power signal if the status signal satisfies a predetermined first condition, and otherwise lets the power signal pass, and the influencing device generates the intermediate signal as the power signal and output the same at the power signal output if the intermediate signal does not satisfy a predetermined second condition, and otherwise generates and output a power signal with a predetermined value.Type: GrantFiled: September 29, 2006Date of Patent: December 16, 2008Assignee: Infineon Technologies AGInventors: Christian Arndt, Wolfgang Troeger
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Patent number: 7459886Abstract: A method and circuit for simultaneously charging a battery and providing supply voltage to a load. The circuit includes a low-drop-out voltage (LDO) regulator and a constant-current, constant-voltage (CC-CV) regulator. In one embodiment, CC-CV regulator provides a control voltage to the LDO regulator generated by a voltage-controlled current source. As charge voltage approaches battery termination voltage, the control voltage is reduced regulating LDO regulator output to provide constant voltage while decreasing charge current to the battery. In another embodiment, a slow response amplifier and a current mirror in the CC-CV regulator provide a smooth and stable charging current to the battery that is decreased as battery charge approaches a full charge level, while maintaining constant supply voltage to the load. In a further embodiment, an externally programmable amplifier in the CC-CV regulator may enable use of the circuit with varying power sources.Type: GrantFiled: May 21, 2004Date of Patent: December 2, 2008Assignee: National Semiconductor CorporationInventors: Vladislav Potanin, Elena Potanina
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Patent number: 7443155Abstract: A voltage detecting apparatus with a capacitor having a switch for detecting a voltage of a direct-current power source, which can detect a malfunction of the switch without additional parts and effects to a measurement time in a normal condition, is provided. When a microcomputer measures a voltage between both terminals of a capacitor plural times, the sampled voltages are at most a prescribed threshold value, and a voltage decreases at least a prescribed difference of voltages in sampling order (each of all measured voltages between both terminals decreases at least a potential deference from a voltage measured previously in sampling order). Furthermore, when the voltage between both terminals of the capacitor becomes 0 volt in condition that a fifth switch SW5 is opened, it is judged that the fifth switch is in an abnormal condition.Type: GrantFiled: September 24, 2007Date of Patent: October 28, 2008Assignee: Yazaki CorporationInventor: Yoshihiro Kawamura
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Patent number: 7397229Abstract: There is provided a switch mode power supply circuit including at least one inductive component coupled to an associated switching device for cyclically connecting the inductive component to a source of power. The circuit includes a signal output representative of a voltage at a junction of the at least one inductive component to the switching device. The circuit further comprises a hard switching amplitude detector for deriving a measure of hard switching amplitude occurring in operation in the switching device the detector including a signal processing path for receiving the signal output and generating the measure of hard switching amplitude therefrom. The signal path includes: a signal differentiator for imperfectly differentiating the signal output to generate a corresponding imperfectly differentiated signal; and a signal integrator for integrating the imperfectly differentiated signal in a temporally-gated manner for generating the measure of hard switching.Type: GrantFiled: June 16, 2004Date of Patent: July 8, 2008Assignee: NXP B.V.Inventor: Johan Christiaan Halberstadt
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Patent number: 7191348Abstract: An integrated circuit has an input connection for connecting an external signal conductor that passes signals to execute functions in the device. The external signal conductor can pick up strong interfering signals with high frequency content, for example when the device is used in a car. To protect against unintended execution of functions the device contains a timer circuit comprising a capacitance and a current supplying circuit coupled to an integration node. A discharge diode is coupled between the input connection and the integration node, with a polarity such that the discharge diode, when in forward bias, is capable of draining current from the current supplying circuit. A detector is coupled to the integration node for generating a signal to be supplied to the integrated circuit device to respond to a signal transition on the conductor. The diode serves to reset integration on the integration node before the detector detects the transition in case of short pulses.Type: GrantFiled: July 22, 2003Date of Patent: March 13, 2007Assignee: NXP B.V.Inventors: Clemens Gerhardus Johannes De Haas, Cecilius Gerardus Kwakernaat, Stefan Gerhard Erich Butselaar
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Patent number: 6894501Abstract: A method and apparatus for determining a setting specified from a plurality of the settings for a function provided in an integrated circuit, wherein the setting is specified by connecting an external measurement resistor to a measurement terminal of the integrated circuit, comprises applying a direct current to the measurement terminal of the integrated circuit, thereby producing a measurement voltage at the measurement terminal; applying the direct current to a reference terminal of the integrated circuit, wherein the reference terminal has an external reference resistor connected thereto, thereby producing a reference voltage at the reference terminal; quantizing a voltage level of a difference voltage representing a voltage difference between the reference voltage and the measurement voltage, thereby producing a quantized voltage; and providing control signals to a functional module within the integrated circuit, the control signals representing the one of the settings corresponding to the quantized voltaType: GrantFiled: May 21, 2002Date of Patent: May 17, 2005Assignee: Volterra Semiconductor, Inc.Inventors: Jeremy M. Flasck, Andrew J. Burstein, David B. Lidsky, Michael D. McJimsey
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Patent number: 6803768Abstract: A method for generating a fault signal in a system voltage regulator by a phase signal includes detecting the system voltage and phase signal; comparing the system voltage and phase signal with respective fault levels; and generating a fault signal upon either the system voltage or the phase signal falling below the respective fault level of the fault levels. The fault signal generating method also inhibits generating a fault signal using a drive signal of the system voltage regulator. A diagnostic circuit for a system voltage regulator is also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: November 19, 2002Date of Patent: October 12, 2004Assignee: STMicroelectronics S.r.l.Inventors: Claudio Serratoni, Maurizio Gallinari, Giampietro Maggioni
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Publication number: 20040017198Abstract: Switches (306) are used to connect stacks of fuel cells (302, 304) in series or in parallel depending on the load to keep total cell voltage below a maximum input voltage requirement. The cells (302, 304) are coupled in parallel under low power conditions, and the cells are coupled in series under high power conditions to provide a more efficient system (500).Type: ApplicationFiled: July 26, 2002Publication date: January 29, 2004Inventor: Chenggang Xie
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Patent number: 6614231Abstract: A high efficiency electronic load has a switch mode power factor corrected (PFC) input rectifier circuit that provides a high voltage positive and negative direct current (DC) voltage to drive a switching inverter that in turn delivers an output alternating current (AC) back into an AC power line. The input PFC circuit is phase and frequency controlled by the input AC power line which allows the input and output to be operating at completely different frequencies.Type: GrantFiled: August 21, 2001Date of Patent: September 2, 2003Assignee: Maxwell Technologies, Inc.Inventor: Guy C. Thrap
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Patent number: 6580783Abstract: A power fault testing apparatus for testing telecommunications equipment interfaces to Telcordia's 2nd Level AC power fault standards. The apparatus is powered by a three-phase 480 VAC, 600 A power service. A plurality of transformers, including a variable autotransformer and a fixed transformer, and load resistor banks are coupled to the power source in a network organized as a plurality of selectable and switchable power paths for interfacing with an Equipment Under Test (EUT) operable to be disposed in a test chamber. Power output of the fixed transformer is referenced to a single point ground positioned at a relay bank. The power to the EUT is referenced to building ground that is tied to the single point ground of the fixed transformer. The fixed transformer thereby operates as an isolation transformer, which allows for testing the EUT while operating under power.Type: GrantFiled: March 26, 2002Date of Patent: June 17, 2003Assignee: AlcatelInventor: Gary L. Swale
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Publication number: 20030102870Abstract: A modular power supply architecture for automatic test equipment is disclosed. The power supply architecture includes a control module having a control signal output line and a plurality of output modules. The control module includes control circuitry to generate a control signal along the control signal output line and measurement circuitry coupled to the control signal output line. The output modules have respective control inputs coupled in parallel to the control signal output line to receive the control signal and respective current outputs connected in parallel. The output modules are operative in response to the control signal to generate respective currents at the current outputs. A current output bus receives and sums the respective current outputs, the output bus being isolated from the control signal line.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 30, 2001Publication date: June 5, 2003Inventors: Gerald H. Johnson, Michael F. Taylor
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Patent number: 6534990Abstract: A generator wake-up system that transitions the voltage regulator from a low power, sleep mode to full voltage regulation mode when the wake-up system detects and confirms a valid frequency of rotation of the generator. The wake-up system includes a control circuit to filter, amplify, and detect the proper threshold of an input waveform; and an assessing device that implements a control algorithm to measure and validate the input waveform.Type: GrantFiled: July 18, 2001Date of Patent: March 18, 2003Assignee: Delphi Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Lary Robert Hocken, Benjamin T Purman, Stephen Wayne Anderson
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Publication number: 20030038636Abstract: A high efficiency electronic load has a switch mode power factor corrected (PFC) input rectifier circuit that provides a high voltage positive and negative direct current (DC) voltage to drive a switching inverter that in turn delivers an output alternating current (AC) back into an AC power line. The input PFC circuit is phase and frequency controlled by the input AC power line which allows the input and output to be operating at completely different frequencies.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 21, 2001Publication date: February 27, 2003Applicant: I-Bus/Phoenix, Inc.Inventor: Guy C. Thrap
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Patent number: 6518735Abstract: In an apparatus for measuring a pure resistance of an in-vehicle battery, a terminal voltage and a discharging current of the battery are measured when the discharging current flows from the battery. A first approximate equation of a voltage-current characteristic curve is acquired for an increasing discharging current, and a second approximate equation is the voltage-current characteristic curve is acquired for a decreasing discharging current. Two points providing equal synthesized resistances each composed of the pure resistance and polarization resistance component are set on the voltage-current characteristic curves represented by the first and the second approximate equations, respectively. The gradients between the two points in each of the voltage-current characteristic curves are corrected to provide two corrected gradients each exclusive of a voltage drop due to the polarization resistance component.Type: GrantFiled: November 5, 2001Date of Patent: February 11, 2003Assignee: Yazaki CorporationInventors: Tomohiro Kawaguchi, Norihito Enomoto, Hideaki Kamohara, Youichi Arai
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Publication number: 20030016021Abstract: A generator wake-up system that transitions the voltage regulator from a low power, sleep mode to full voltage regulation mode when the wake-up system detects and confirms a valid frequency of rotation of the generator. The wake-up system includes a control circuit to filter, amplify, and detect the proper threshold of an input waveform; and an assessing device that implements a control algorithm to measure and validate the input waveform.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 18, 2001Publication date: January 23, 2003Inventors: Lary Robert Hocken, Benjamin T. Purman, Stephen Wayne Anderson
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Publication number: 20020053910Abstract: In an apparatus for measuring a pure resistance of an in-vehicle battery, a terminal voltage and a discharging current of the battery are measured when the discharging current flows from the battery. A first approximate equation of a voltage-current characteristic curve is acquired for an increasing discharging current, and a second approximate equation is the voltage-current characteristic curve is acquired for a decreasing discharging current. Two points providing equal synthesized resistances each composed of the pure resistance and polarization resistance component are set on the voltage-current characteristic curves represented by the first and the second approximate equations, respectively. The gradients between the two points in each of the voltage-current characteristic curves are corrected to provide two corrected gradients each exclusive of a voltage drop due to the polarization resistance component.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 5, 2001Publication date: May 9, 2002Applicant: Yazaki CorporationInventors: Tomohiro Kawaguchi, Norihito Enomoto, Hideaki Kamohara, Youichi Arai
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Patent number: 6367039Abstract: A voltage regulator is disclosed which is coupled with a programmable trimming circuit by a trim test circuit. When disabled, the trim test circuit passes the logic states of the signals produced by the trimming circuit to the voltage regulator. When enabled, the trim test circuit applies signals to the voltage regulator which correspond with asserted logic states of signals producible by the trimming circuit. Thus, the effect of the trimming circuit on the voltage regulator is testable without actual programming of the trimming circuit.Type: GrantFiled: August 22, 2000Date of Patent: April 2, 2002Assignee: Micron Technology, Inc.Inventor: Scott Derner
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Patent number: 6108804Abstract: A voltage regulator is disclosed which is coupled with a programmable trimming circuit by a trim test circuit. When disabled, the trim test circuit passes the logic states of the signals produced by the trimming circuit to the voltage regulator. When enabled, the trim test circuit applies signals to the voltage regulator which correspond with asserted logic states of signals producible by the trimming circuit. Thus, the effect of the trimming circuit on the voltage regulator is testable without actual programming of the trimming circuit.Type: GrantFiled: September 11, 1997Date of Patent: August 22, 2000Assignee: Micron Technology, Inc.Inventor: Scott Derner
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Patent number: 6017017Abstract: A method and apparatus for the recognition of the state of a solenoid valve supplies an on/off control switching current to the coil of the solenoid valve. A high level of current is caused to flow through the coil for switching the device on, and a reduced level of current is applied to the coil for holding the solenoid armature in its on position. If the armature should be caused to drop off from its on position by a mechanical shock, an increase in the frequency of the switching current occurs, due to the decrease in magnetic circuit inductance. This frequency increase is detected and compared to a predetermined threshold value. If the detected frequency exceeds the threshold value, it is recognized as an armature drop off, and corrective action can be taken immediately.Type: GrantFiled: September 18, 1998Date of Patent: January 25, 2000Assignee: WABCO GmbHInventors: Danne Lutz, Holger Thies
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Patent number: 5751603Abstract: An active asymmetrical power supply comprising a power supply, a load sensor and a voltage reference selection circuit. The load current sensor preferably, is coupled between the power supply and a load to provide the voltage reference selection circuit information regarding the amount of load current being applied to the load. The load current can be measured as a function of a voltage drop across the load current sensor. The voltage reference selection circuit actively offsets an operating voltage (or DC set voltage) in response to the amount of load current being applied to the load.Type: GrantFiled: December 12, 1995Date of Patent: May 12, 1998Assignee: Intel CorporationInventor: David E. Landolf
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Patent number: 5737199Abstract: A fail check device and method for switching signal lines, wherein PWM signals are sent out onto PWM signal lines through a PWM signal output/survey circuit. Based on the level of the PWM signals to be sent out and the level of the PWM signals actually sent out, a PWM mismatch signal (logical) is produced. The produced PWM mismatch signal (logical) has a value which indicates a fault when the PWM signal lines are in a state of breakage or short circuit to a ground or the PWM signal lines in a predrive circuit are short-circuited to the positive wiring of a power source. Therefore, by using the PWM mismatch signal (logical), a breakage in the PWM signal lines or a fault in the predrive circuit can be detected by a control CPU.Type: GrantFiled: July 10, 1996Date of Patent: April 7, 1998Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Akihiko Kanamori, Shinji Kogure
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Patent number: 5500806Abstract: A voltage regulator controller including three types of data logs which are operator selectable and configurable. An operator can enable data logging to occur at specific times and intervals. The voltage regulator controller includes a real time clock/calendar and interval timer to support this function. In a preferred embodiment, the controller includes an event log, a snapshot interval log and a minimum/maximum metered parameter log. Advantageously, the event log can be programmed to monitor configuration changes made from the voltage regulator controller's front panel or from a remote device. The voltage regulator controller also includes a memory card interface which enables the log contents to be uploaded to a removable PCMCIA standard memory card.Type: GrantFiled: November 18, 1993Date of Patent: March 19, 1996Assignee: Siemens Energy & Automation, Inc.Inventors: Michael A. Bellin, Carl Laplace, John J. Trainor, Mark Hoffmann
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Patent number: 4562548Abstract: A microcomputer surveillance system is operative to monitor the output signal of a power supply to determine if an alarm limit has been reached and to center the alarm limits around an operating point of the power supply. Sensed output signals are converted to signal frequencies and transmitted optically to counters which accumulate counts indicative of the output signal. A microcomputer controller uses these counts to set alarm limits and determine if an alarm limit has been exceeded.Type: GrantFiled: May 12, 1983Date of Patent: December 31, 1985Assignee: AT&T Bell LaboratoriesInventors: Brad E. Andersen, Billy H. Hamilton, Robert E. Schroeder
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Patent number: 4471308Abstract: The determination of specific faulty components in an automotive type DC voltage regulator is accomplished by detecting the presence or absence of harmonic frequencies, of the base operating frequency of an associated DC voltage generator, on terminals of the regulator in its operating environment.Type: GrantFiled: September 22, 1982Date of Patent: September 11, 1984Assignee: Ford Motor CompanyInventors: Stewart V. Gable, Francis G. King