Of Electrically Operated Apparatus (power Tool, Appliance, Machine, Etc.) Patents (Class 324/511)
  • Patent number: 8339142
    Abstract: In an abnormality diagnosing system for first and second current sensors for measuring a current, an obtaining unit obtains at least one pair of measured values of the first and second current sensors. The at least one pair of measured values is measured by the first and second current sensors at a substantially same timing. A diagnosing unit diagnoses whether there is an abnormality in at least one of the first and second current sensors based on a function defining a relationship between the at least one pair of measured values of the first and second current sensors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2012
    Assignee: Denso Corporation
    Inventor: Takahumi Oowada
  • Publication number: 20120319697
    Abstract: Wireless electronic devices may include a transceiver, an antenna resonating element coupled to the transceiver via a transmission line path, transceiver and antenna impedance matching circuits, and other circuitry. The transceiver and the impedance matching circuits may be formed on a first substrate. The antenna resonating element may be formed using a second substrate. The antenna resonating element may be decoupled from the first substrate during testing. First and second sets of test points may be formed at first and second locations long the transmission line path. During testing, a test probe may mate with the first set of test points, whereas an impedance adjustment circuit that serves to electrically isolate the antenna impedance matching circuit from the transceiver may mate with the second set of test points. The impedance adjustment circuit need not be used if the antenna impedance matching circuit is decoupled from the transceiver during testing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 17, 2011
    Publication date: December 20, 2012
    Inventors: Justin Gregg, Joshua G. Nickel
  • Patent number: 8326551
    Abstract: A method and system for incorporating electronic signature analysis in a low voltage power supply to centrally monitor current consumption is disclosed. The electrical loads powered by the low voltage power supply can be tested individually via an automatic test routine by measuring and scaling of current through a differential amplifier. The current consumption of each electrical load can be measured by analyzing a “delta” in the current draw of each electrical load's ON and OFF condition. This value can be compared against a stored table of high and low limits for each electrical load. If a load's current is outside the limits, it will be logged for repairs. A current sensing device can be inserted in series with the output(s) of the low voltage power supply, while in test mode, to allow the automatic test routine to run, and then be shorted out for normal operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2012
    Assignee: Xerox Corporation
    Inventor: Randall Brian Wirt
  • Patent number: 8322236
    Abstract: A measuring apparatus having a measurement voltage input with at least one input contact for an input voltage of a measuring element and a method for detecting moisture on the measurement voltage input of such a measuring apparatus are provided, wherein the measuring apparatus includes a supplemental voltage source, which delivers at least one supplemental voltage and is connected with a supplemental contact arranged in the region of the at least one input contact.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2012
    Assignee: Endress + Hauser Conducta Gesellschaft für Mess-und Regeltechnik mbH + Co. KG
    Inventors: Herman Straub, Martin Lohmann, Stephan Buschnakowski, Jorg Uhle
  • Publication number: 20120274333
    Abstract: In a process plant, a first series of impedance measurements from a valve body are received. The first series of impedance measurements are stored. A second series of impedance measurements from the valve body are received. The second series of impedance measurements from the valve body are stored. The first series and second series of impedance measurements are compared. An indication of loss of integrity of the valve body is generated if the first series of impedance measurements deviates from the second series of impedance measurements.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 19, 2012
    Publication date: November 1, 2012
    Applicant: FISHER CONTROLS INTERNATIONAL LLC
    Inventor: Shawn W. Anderson
  • Publication number: 20120274334
    Abstract: In a process plant, a first series of measurements from a coupling interface are received. The first series of measurements are stored. A second series of measurements from a coupling interface are received. The second series of measurements. The first series and second series of measurements are compared. An indication of loss of clamping force is generated if the first series of measurements deviates from the second series of measurements.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 19, 2012
    Publication date: November 1, 2012
    Applicant: FISHER CONTROLS INTERNATIONAL LLC
    Inventor: Shawn W. Anderson
  • Publication number: 20120259562
    Abstract: A processing system for detecting in-situ arcing events during substrate processing is provided. The processing systems includes at least a plasma processing chamber having a probe arrangement, wherein said probe arrangement is disposed on a surface of said processing chamber and is configured to measure at least one plasma processing parameter. The probe arrangement includes a plasma-facing sensor and a measuring capacitor, wherein the plasma-facing sensor is coupled to a first plate of the measuring capacitor. The probe arrangement also includes a detection arrangement that is coupled to a second plate of the measuring capacitor, wherein the detection arrangement is configured for converting an induced current flowing through the measuring capacitor into a set of digital signals, which is processed to detect the in-situ arcing events.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 6, 2012
    Publication date: October 11, 2012
    Inventors: Jean-Paul Booth, Douglas Keil
  • Patent number: 8249750
    Abstract: An indoor unit includes an indoor side switch device which is brought into a closed state at a startup time when operation starts from a standby state. An outdoor unit includes a startup power supply switch device which is brought into a closed state when the indoor side switch device of the indoor unit is brought into the closed state, an operating power supply switch device which is brought into a closed state in operation and is brought into an open state in the standby state, and an outdoor control device. The outdoor control device of the outdoor unit brings the startup power supply switch device into the open state when the operation starts from the standby state and thereafter brings the operating power supply switch device into the closed state after a lapse of a prescribed time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2012
    Assignee: Daikin Industries, Ltd.
    Inventors: Norio Sakae, Junichi Hirose, Masahiro Tanaka
  • Patent number: 8228648
    Abstract: A compressor monitoring system includes current and voltage monitors, current and voltage averaging modules, a control module, and a switch. The current monitor measures a current drawn by a motor of a compressor. The current averaging module generates first and second average current values based on the current measured by the current monitor. The voltage monitor measures a utility power voltage. The voltage averaging module generates first and second average voltage values based on the voltage measured by the voltage monitor. The control module selectively generates a fault signal when a first ratio is greater than a first predetermined threshold and a second ratio is less than a second predetermined threshold. The first ratio is based on the first and second average current values. The second ratio is based on the first and second average voltage values. The switch deactivates the motor when the fault signal is generated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2012
    Assignee: Emerson Climate Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Nagaraj B. Jayanth, George Ramayya
  • Publication number: 20120161393
    Abstract: A shuffling device for playing cards and method of shuffling cards is provided where a first group of cards is moved within the device to form a randomized second group of cards. The device comprises moving parts that assist in the movement of cards within the shuffling device; a processor in informational connection with the shuffling device; a sensor that detects at least one of speed, distance and force of at least one moving part and provides a signal to the processor regarding detection of at least one of speed, distance and force; and the processor containing a program that interprets the signal to detect significant variations in at least one of speed, distance and force of the moving part.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 5, 2012
    Publication date: June 28, 2012
    Applicant: SHUFFLE MASTER, INC.
    Inventors: Peter Krenn, Ernst Blaha
  • Publication number: 20120146657
    Abstract: A short circuit detection module for a touch panel includes first and second short circuit detection circuits. The first short circuit detection circuit is coupled to a first conductive line of the touch panel. The first short circuit detection circuit is configured to drive the first conductive line with a first signal having a first logic level. The second short circuit detection circuit is coupled to second, adjacent, conductive line of the touch panel. The second short circuit detection circuit is configured to drive the second conductive line with a second signal having a second logic level that is complementary to the first logic level.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 10, 2010
    Publication date: June 14, 2012
    Applicant: STMicroelectronics Asia Pacific Pte Ltd.
    Inventors: Anthony Junior Casillan, Yannick Guedon, Dianbo Guo
  • Patent number: 8195355
    Abstract: In a fault diagnosis system (10) in a load driving arrangement, the fault diagnosis system detecting a fault in the load driving arrangement in which a controller (13) outputs a control signal to a driver (12) and the driver (12) drives a load (11) according to the control signal, a fault detecting unit (21) and an exclusive OR circuit (22) are provided to enable outputting, as a monitor signal, a signal opposite to the control signal upon detecting a fault in the load driving arrangement and outputting, as a monitor signal, the same signal as the control signal when not detecting a fault, a monitor signal output from the exclusive OR circuit (22) is input to the controller (13), and the controller (13) compares the control signal and the monitor signal and diagnoses whether a fault occurs in the load driving arrangement, based on the result of the comparison.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2012
    Assignee: Aisan Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Tetsuji Inoue
  • Publication number: 20120105072
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus provide for: a first DC bus operating to support a first DC voltage potential and for connecting to a DC input of a motor driver inverter circuit; a motor emulator circuit operating to emulate a polyphase motor and including polyphase output terminals for connecting to a polyphase output of the motor driver inverter circuit; a second DC bus operating to support a second DC voltage potential to a DC input of the motor emulator circuit; and a bi-directional DC-DC power supply coupled between the first and second DC busses, and operating to both: (i) add voltage potential to the first DC voltage potential to produce the higher, second DC voltage potential on the second DC bus, and (ii) subtract voltage potential from the second DC voltage potential to produce the lower, first DC voltage potential on the first DC bus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 27, 2010
    Publication date: May 3, 2012
    Applicant: E&M POWER INC.
    Inventor: William A. Peterson
  • Publication number: 20120098546
    Abstract: A method of testing a control system including a valve which is operable by a solenoid is disclosed. The method comprises applying a current through a coil of the solenoid, the current being insufficient to cause the solenoid to operate the valve, and monitoring a response of the system to the current.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 20, 2011
    Publication date: April 26, 2012
    Inventors: Martin STOKES, Julian Richard Davis
  • Patent number: 8154302
    Abstract: An electrical power supply device for a logic unit (1), includes a control member (7) that can transmit a control voltage (6), a power relay (3), transmitting a power voltage (2) when it is controlled, an electronic stage (8) controlling the power relay (3) when the electronic stage (8) receives a control voltage (6, 22) from the control member (7) or from the logic unit (1), a voltage regulator (12) transmitting a power supply voltage (20) to the logic unit (1) when it receives the power voltage (2) from the power relay (3) and a control voltage (6, 23) and a wake-up element (17) capable of transmitting an additional control voltage (24) to the voltage regulator (12) when the power relay (3) transmits the power voltage (2). The power supply is applicable to motor vehicle computers and to the detection of failure of the relay stage (3, 8).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2012
    Assignee: Continental Automotive France
    Inventor: Pascal Rochard
  • Patent number: 8148995
    Abstract: A sensor element detects exhaust gas emitted from an internal combustion engine. A heater is supplied with electricity from a power source so as to heat the sensor element. A detection unit detects heater voltage across the heater. A degradation determination unit determines whether the heater is degraded in accordance with at least one of the heater voltage and a diagnosis value, which changes according to the heater voltage. The degradation determination unit determines whether the heater is degraded further in accordance with at least one of power-supply voltage of the power source and a driving state of an electric device, which is supplied with electricity from the power source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2012
    Assignee: Denso Corporation
    Inventors: Ikuro Hashimoto, Masayuki Kita
  • Patent number: 8134372
    Abstract: A pressure tank fault detector and method provides a system for detecting a fault in a pressure tank, such as a well water tank. The system includes a current transformer positioned adjacent a pump power wire. A circuit includes a timer, a data recorder, and a system status indicator. When the pump operates, the current transformer sends a signal to the circuit and the timer measures the signal duration. The data recorder logs a short cycle when the timer measures less than a selectable predetermined amount of time. When two or more short cycles are recorded, a signal indicates that a tank fault has been detected. Preferably, the system includes a test circuit and permits a user to select the number of short cycles before the alarm and whether to record only consecutive short cycles. Optionally, the system detects and signals pump cycles that exceed a predetermined excessive run time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2012
    Inventors: Kegan Y. King, James S. Watson
  • Patent number: 8114265
    Abstract: There is described a method and a system for evaluating damage of a plurality of cells in an electrolyser. The method comprises acquiring a voltage for each one of the cells; comparing the voltage to at least two threshold voltage levels; classifying the cells as one of: severely damaged cells, non-severely damaged cells and undamaged cells, based on the comparison of the voltage with the at least two threshold voltage levels; and deactivating the cells classified as severely damaged cells from the electrolyser.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Assignee: Recherche 2000 Inc.
    Inventors: Said Berriah, Michel Veillette, Gilles J. Tremblay
  • Patent number: 8108191
    Abstract: Apparatus to exercise electrical motor drivers by electrically simulating a geared electric or electrical motor by providing an electronic load for the power signals that are applied to it. Current levels in the load are monitored in real-time using gate array logic and digital signal processing (DSP) algorithms to determine torque, acceleration, velocity and/or position data of the motor and gear train. Motor and gear train positional signals are generated and fed back to the motor driver device to close the servo loop. Control algorithms within the gate array and DSP accurately simulate the motor inertia and act to simulate a physical motor under varying load conditions. A control interface modifies critical motor parameters such as inertia, losses, gear ratio, and loading.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Assignee: Advanced Testing Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Peter F. Britch
  • Publication number: 20120019965
    Abstract: A continuous grounding system for use in an alternating current system including a transformer is disclosed. The system includes a switch assembly connected between a transformer neutral of a transformer and a ground, the switch assembly having an open position and a closed position, the open position disrupting the path through the switch assembly between the electrical connection and the transformer neutral, and the closed position establishing a path connecting the electrical connection to the transformer neutral through the switch assembly, wherein in normal operation of the alternating current electrical device the switch assembly remains in a closed position. The system also includes a DC blocking component positioned in parallel with the switch assembly and connected between the transformer neutral and the ground.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 13, 2011
    Publication date: January 26, 2012
    Inventors: Frederick R. Faxvog, Wallace Jensen, Gale Nordling, Greg Fuchs, David Blake Jackson, Terry Lee Volkmann, James Nicholas Ruehl, Brian Groh
  • Patent number: 8098075
    Abstract: An electronic apparatus includes a first power contact, a second power contact, and a control unit. The first power contact is electrically connected with an anode of a power supply source, and the second power contact is electrically connected with a cathode of the power supply source. The control unit electrically connects the first power contact and the second power contact for forming a signal transmission path and receiving the power generated by the power supply source. When the control unit is operated in a testing mode, the control unit operates in a working mode or a sleeping mode according to an instruction of a default instruction set for changing a current waveform signal transmitted over the signal transmission path, so as to achieve the purpose of providing a convenient and high-efficiency testing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2012
    Assignees: Silitek Electronic (Guangzhou) Co., Ltd., Lite-On Technology Corporation
    Inventor: Tao-Cheng Yen
  • Patent number: 8045302
    Abstract: A compressor monitoring system includes current and voltage monitors, current and voltage averaging modules, a control module, and a switch. The current monitor measures a current drawn by a motor of a compressor. The current averaging module generates first and second average current values based on the current measured by the current monitor. The voltage monitor measures a utility power voltage. The voltage averaging module generates first and second average voltage values based on the voltage measured by the voltage monitor. The control module selectively generates a fault signal when a first ratio is greater than a first predetermined threshold and a second ratio is less than a second predetermined threshold. The first ratio is based on the first and second average current values. The second ratio is based on the first and second average voltage values. The switch deactivates the motor when the fault signal is generated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 25, 2011
    Assignee: Emerson Climate Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Nagaraj Jayanth, George Ramayya
  • Patent number: 7990093
    Abstract: A control apparatus for a multiphase AC electric motor having an inverter includes a current control including an abnormal-state current controller; an abnormal-state detector that detects an abnormal state of any of a wire of an electric motor, a wire of an inverter, and a wire connecting the electric motor to the inverter as an abnormal phase; and an abnormal phase disconnect. The abnormal phase disconnect disconnects one or more of phases detected to be in an abnormal-state and the abnormal-state current controller generates an abnormal state voltage command in accordance with detection of an abnormal state, and uses phases other than the disconnected phases of the inverter to control individual currents of the phases, with the abnormal-state voltage command used as a multiphase voltage command.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2011
    Assignee: Mitsubishi Electric Corporation
    Inventors: Isao Kezobo, Masahiro Kimata, Takayuki Kifuku, Kazumichi Tsutsumi, Chiaki Fujimoto, Noriyuki Inoue
  • Publication number: 20110175620
    Abstract: A wind energy installation test device for defined production of grid system faults, and a method thereof. The test device can include an output configured to connect to a wind energy installation, an input configured to connect to a grid system, and a switching device for connection of an electrical disturbance component relating to a grid system parameter. An autotransformer can be used for the electrical disturbance component. The grid system in a sound state can be connected to a primary winding connection and the grid system in a disturbed state with respect to the grid system parameter can be output at a secondary winding connection.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 30, 2009
    Publication date: July 21, 2011
    Applicant: REpower Systems AG
    Inventor: Heinz-Hermann Letas
  • Patent number: 7969046
    Abstract: The present invention is to provide a power supply control apparatus which can connect a ground to a suitable electric potential when the ground is disconnected. The power supply control apparatus includes a control circuit having a switch element and a switch control unit, and a load. One terminal of load is connected to a direct-current power supply through the switch element, and the other terminal is connected to a ground electric potential. The switch control unit has a ground terminal connected to the ground electric potential and outputting a ground current flowing toward the ground electric potential. The control circuit includes a bypass device having a load side bypass system for passing the ground current to the ground electric potential through the load when connection between the ground terminal and the ground electric potential is disconnected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2011
    Assignees: Yazaki Corporation, Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Masashi Nakayama, Shigemi Ishima, Kazuhiro Aoki, Akihito Tsukamoto
  • Publication number: 20110140707
    Abstract: In a method for operating a power tool with a diagnostic device, wherein the power tool has an internal combustion engine, a generator as an energy supply, and an electronic control unit, wherein a diagnostic device is connectable to the electronic control unit, and wherein the electronic control unit has an operating mode and a diagnostic mode, a non-uniform voltage signal is supplied by the generator as an energy supply and a uniform voltage signal is supplied by the diagnostic device as an energy supply. The electronic control unit evaluates the voltage signal that is being supplied as an energy supply and switches to diagnostic mode when the voltage signal is the uniform voltage signal supplied by the diagnostic device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 2, 2010
    Publication date: June 16, 2011
    Applicant: Andreas Stihl AG & CO. KG
    Inventors: Robert Böker, Heiko Däschner
  • Publication number: 20110142671
    Abstract: A wind turbine rotor blade includes a plurality of lightning receptors configured along either or both of the pressure side or suction side of the blade. At least one continuity circuit is configured with the blade, with the lightning receptors disposed in series within a respective continuity circuit such that an electrical continuity path defined by the circuit passes through each of the lightning receptors within the continuity circuit. The circuit has terminal ends that extend through the blade root for conducting continuity checks with the circuit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 1, 2010
    Publication date: June 16, 2011
    Applicant: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANY
    Inventors: Peter James Fritz, Richard Hardison
  • Publication number: 20110068803
    Abstract: A quadrilateral distance module may be used to detect faults in an electrical power system. A resistive coverage of the quadrilateral distance module may be defined by an adaptive resistance blinder. The adaptive resistance blinder may be adapted to certain power system conditions, such as forward load flow and/or reverse load flow. A forward adaptive resistance blinder may be calculated in parallel with a reverse adaptive resistance blinder. The forward adaptive resistance blinder may use a polarizing quantity adapted for forward load flow conditions, and the reverse adaptive resistance blinder may use a polarizing quantity adapted for reverse load flow conditions. Fault detection may comprise comparing both the forward and reverse adaptive resistance blinders to power system stimulus and detecting a fault when the stimulus satisfy either blinder.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 17, 2010
    Publication date: March 24, 2011
    Inventors: Jorge Fernando Calero, Armando Guzman-Casillas, Gabriel Benmouyal
  • Publication number: 20100315696
    Abstract: Methods and devices for calibrating and controlling the actuation of an analog interferometric modulator configured to have a plurality of actuation states. Devices and methods for calibrating an analog interferometric modulator to respond in linear relation to an applied voltage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 15, 2009
    Publication date: December 16, 2010
    Applicant: QUALCOMM MEMS Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Chong U. Lee, John H. Hong, Marc M. Mignard
  • Patent number: 7848852
    Abstract: An indoor unit includes an indoor side transmitting and receiving section, a relay which is put in a closed state in a standby state, and an indoor control section which controls the relay on the basis of an output of the indoor side transmitting and receiving section. An outdoor unit includes an outdoor side transmitting and receiving section, and a power circuit. Then, the indoor control section of the indoor unit does not bring the relay into the closed state upon determining that the connection wiring lines which connect the indoor unit with the outdoor unit are miswired on the basis of a reception output of the indoor side transmitting and receiving section when operation starts from a standby state in which the supply of power of the outdoor unit is stopped.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2010
    Assignee: Daikin Industries, Ltd.
    Inventors: Norio Sakae, Junichi Hirose, Masahiro Tanaka
  • Patent number: 7825817
    Abstract: A sensor and alarm system having a power-on sequence. The system has a power supply permanently-like connected to a power line of a facility. There may be a power interrupt to the power supply, which may initiate a power-on sequence of alarms. The sequence of alarms may indicate whether the system is wired properly and operating normally. If the sequence does not occur in a pattern as expected, then there may be a problem with the system. Also, the sensor portion of the system may set off an alarm pattern if a sensed gas has a concentration greater than a first magnitude. The system may set off another alarm pattern if a sensed gas has a concentration greater than a second magnitude. If a sensing element of the sensor portion goes out of calibration, then the system may set off still another alarm pattern.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2010
    Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventors: William J. Bray, Adrienne G. Thomle, Donald L. Harju, Mark B. Panzer, Robert G. Schermeister
  • Publication number: 20100264931
    Abstract: An ambulatory infusion device for infusion of a liquid drug into a patient's body over an extended period of time and methods thereof are disclosed. The device includes a sensor assembly, which produces a sensor assembly output based on an infusion characteristic of the ambulatory infusion device and based on a supply voltage/current, and a supply unit which is coupled to a sensor of the sensor assembly and generates the supply voltage/current. A sensor testing unit detects a failure of the sensor assembly, wherein the sensor testing unit is coupled to the sensor assembly and the supply unit, and the sensor testing unit carries out a sensor testing sequence. The sensor testing sequence includes controlling the supply unit so as to produce a variation of the supply voltage/current, and determining whether the variation of the supply voltage/current produces a corresponding variation of the sensor assembly output.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 16, 2010
    Publication date: October 21, 2010
    Applicant: ROCHE DIAGNOSTICS INTERNATIONAL AG
    Inventors: Stefan Lindegger, Reto Schrotberger, Alex Muri
  • Patent number: 7808245
    Abstract: A testing system for a ground fault detection system of an electrical system of a machine is disclosed. The testing system has a low voltage power source, the low voltage power source capable of operation that is independent from a high voltage power source of the machine. The testing system also has a variable current source that is permanently connected to a positive voltage bus or to a negative voltage bus of the electrical system of the machine, where the machine operates self-sufficiently. The testing system also has a controller connected to the variable current source. The testing system also has an input device, where the input device is connected to the controller.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 5, 2010
    Assignee: Caterpillar Inc
    Inventors: Robert Wayne Lindsey, Curtis Brian Johnson
  • Patent number: 7791352
    Abstract: A method for detecting a fault in semiconductor components in electrical machines, e.g., three-phase generators, used in the automotive field is described. The electrical machine is equipped with multiple windings, each having a phase terminal U, V, W. The electrical machine is checked by determining the voltage in one of its phase terminals U, V, W both during operation and at rest. The phase terminals of phase terminals U, V, W of the electrical machine that are not taken into account are checked for voltage dips with respect to a potential or are checked for the output currents.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 7, 2010
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GMBH
    Inventor: Guenter Nasswetter
  • Patent number: 7777495
    Abstract: Provided are a device and a method of detecting signal lamps in a vehicle, in particular in a large vehicle, being provided with a plurality of signal lamps each being capable of switching between an OFF-phase and an ON-phase. The method includes the steps of during the OFF-phase of a vehicle signal lamp to be probed inducing a probing current by connecting an electric current generator to said vehicle signal lamp circuit, where the probing current is lower than the nominal current for the lamp in question. The next step is to detect the electric voltage level over the lamp circuit and determining vehicle signal lamp characteristics such as type and condition based on said electric voltage level detection. The result of the determination is that the signal lamp is a LED lamp being connected, when the detected voltage level is within a predetermined interval between a first voltage level and a second voltage level.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 17, 2010
    Assignee: Volvo Lastvagnar AB
    Inventor: Carl Mannerfelt
  • Patent number: 7750501
    Abstract: A system and method for preventing over voltages in a power system coupled to an electric machine are disclosed. Briefly described, one embodiment is a method comprising detecting an operating voltage on a high voltage direct current (HVDC) bus, determining if at least one component of the power system is operational, communicating a signal to a power converter of the power system when the detected operating voltage is greater than a threshold voltage and when the component is not operational, and shorting together a plurality of terminals of the electric machine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 6, 2010
    Assignee: Continental Automotive Systems US, Inc.
    Inventor: Fengtai Huang
  • Patent number: 7714587
    Abstract: Systems and methods are disclosed for detecting a faulty ground strap connection for a machine hosting a high voltage system. In one embodiment, a fault detection and compensation system includes a ground strap, a DC power supply electrically referenced to a machine frame, a leakage detection switch connected to the machine frame, a current source controlled by the leakage detection switch, and a voltage measuring device that measures an offset voltage. The fault detection and compensation system further includes a leakage detection and compensation controller that compensates for the unbalanced fault condition by controlling the leakage detection switch and the current source, and determines whether the ground strap is properly connected to the machine frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 11, 2010
    Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventors: Robert Wayne Lindsey, Dustin Craig Selvey, Arthur Wild, Robert Roy Sychra
  • Publication number: 20100060289
    Abstract: An easily implemented method of diagnosing both supply path, upstream, and load path, downstream, anomalies such as impedance events in machine or motor circuitry is accomplished by analyzing the across-the-line startup current and voltage time waveforms. No line of sight limitations exist and high accuracy exists. The techniques can be automated estimating poor contact resistance based on the voltage and current variation under a load change condition perhaps such as startup and/or shutdown of the load. Both, upstream and downstream problems from the point of voltage measurement can be monitored analyzing a load change condition. Additionally, downstream problems can be identified by using negative sequence current under steady state operation of the load.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 5, 2008
    Publication date: March 11, 2010
    Applicant: SKF USA, Inc.
    Inventors: Ernesto Wiedenbrug, Sang Bin Lee
  • Patent number: 7639021
    Abstract: An improved circuit and method for detecting dielectric breakdown and ground fault conditions is provided. The circuitry and method of the present invention include taking a continuous voltage reading of the high voltage battery and sampling the continuous voltage reading of the high voltage battery at a fixed time interval. The circuitry and method calculate a change in the continuous voltage reading of the high voltage battery over the change in time and repeatedly calculate an optimum fixed time interval and an optimum change in voltage over time. Storage of the optimum fixed time interval and optimum change in voltage over time provides for repeatedly comparing the optimum change in voltage over the fixed time interval to the constant voltage of the high voltage battery to calculate the resistance of the dielectric breakdown fault. The calculation of the resistance of the dielectric breakdown fault is carried out independently of the capacitance of the electric circuit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 29, 2009
    Assignee: Temic Automotive of North America, Inc.
    Inventors: Edward Li, Mark Gunderson, Wen Li
  • Publication number: 20090278548
    Abstract: A sensor element detects exhaust gas emitted from an internal combustion engine. A heater is supplied with electricity from a power source so as to heat the sensor element. A detection unit detects heater voltage across the heater. A degradation determination unit determines whether the heater is degraded in accordance with at least one of the heater voltage and a diagnosis value, which changes according to the heater voltage. The degradation determination unit determines whether the heater is degraded further in accordance with at least one of power-supply voltage of the power source and a driving state of an electric device, which is supplied with electricity from the power source.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 24, 2009
    Publication date: November 12, 2009
    Applicant: DENSO CORPORATION
    Inventors: Ikuro HASHIMOTO, Masayuki Kita
  • Publication number: 20090219030
    Abstract: Embodiments of the invention can include methods and systems for detecting rotor field ground faults in rotating machinery. In one embodiment, a system can include a rotor of the rotating machine comprising a plurality of field windings substantially disposed therein and a stator of the rotating machine comprising a plurality of stator windings substantially disposed therein, with an air gap existing between the rotor and the stator. The system can include a high-impedance grounding circuit at least temporarily connected between the rotor and a ground. Additionally, the system can include an air gap flux probe positioned at least temporarily between the rotor and the stator for measuring a magnetic flux density generated in the air gap during operation of the rotating machine. Finally, the system can further include an analyzer in electrical communication with the air gap flux probe for receiving an output of the air gap flux probe.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 29, 2008
    Publication date: September 3, 2009
    Applicant: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANY
    Inventors: Sameh Ramadan Salem, Sheppard Salon, Madabushi Venkatakrishnama Chari, O-Mun Kwon
  • Publication number: 20090174413
    Abstract: A DC power source or DC switching device that uses a test signal to verify the proper connection of the load (or loads) at its output prior to applying full power to the output. This method and apparatus inserts a low power or low energy test signal at the output terminals of a DC power source and measures the test signal's effect on connected external loads to access the condition and proper connection of these loads before applying full power to the DC output power port. If the test signal detects that a load is connected with a reverse polarity, is shorted, malfunctioning or can otherwise cause damage, it will inhibit the application of full power to the output terminals until the situation is corrected.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 30, 2008
    Publication date: July 9, 2009
    Applicant: Teknic, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas John Bucella, Thomas P. Dombroski, David E. Fuchs, Jeremy M. Block
  • Publication number: 20090153144
    Abstract: Fault detection apparatuses and methods for detecting a processing or hardware performance fault of a semiconductor production tool have been provided. In an exemplary embodiment, a method for detecting a fault of a semiconductor production tool comprises sensing a signal associated with a test component of the production tool during operation of the production tool and converting the signal to an electronic test signal. A prerecorded signature signal corresponding to the test component is provided and the test signal and the prerecorded signature signal are compared.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 12, 2007
    Publication date: June 18, 2009
    Applicant: NOVELLUS SYSTEMS, INC.
    Inventor: Keith John HANSEN
  • Publication number: 20090115425
    Abstract: A drive system is provided for an electronic domestic appliance, for example a washing machine, a dryer or a dishwasher, having an electric motor and a motor controller for controlling operation of the electric motor. The motor controller is provided with a testing device which contains at least one apparatus for measuring motor currents of the electric motor, an apparatus for applying voltages to motor terminals of the electric motor, and an interface to an evaluation apparatus. The drive system can be tested without problems and at minimal cost during final testing of the domestic appliance if the drive system is fully integrated in the domestic appliance. A method for final testing of an electronic domestic appliance having a drive system and an electronic domestic appliance having the drive system, are also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 17, 2008
    Publication date: May 7, 2009
    Applicant: DIEHL AKO STIFTUNG & CO. KG
    Inventor: Stefan Zeh
  • Publication number: 20090115424
    Abstract: A pressure tank fault detector and method provides a system for detecting a fault in a pressure tank, such as a well water tank. The system includes a current transformer positioned adjacent a pump power wire. A circuit includes a timer, a data recorder, and a system status indicator. When the pump operates, the current transformer sends a signal to the circuit and the timer measures the signal duration. The data recorder logs a short cycle when the timer measures less than a selectable predetermined amount of time. When two or more short cycles are recorded, a signal indicates that a tank fault has been detected. Preferably, the system includes a test circuit and permits a user to select the number of short cycles before the alarm and whether to record only consecutive short cycles. Optionally, the system detects and signals pump cycles that exceed a predetermined excessive run time.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 31, 2008
    Publication date: May 7, 2009
    Inventors: Kegan Y. King, James S. Watson
  • Patent number: 7528608
    Abstract: Sensor device for a household appliance that includes a body (2), detector device to measure at least one variable of a fluid and which includes a conductivity sensor, and a printed circuit (3) that receives the variables measured by the detector device. The body (2) includes a housing (20) where the printed circuit (3) is housed, and the device (1) also includes a cover (6) to close the housing (20). The body (2) also includes an inlet conduit (21) and an outlet conduit (22) through which said fluid passes, the housing (20), the printed circuit (3) and the cover (6) being disposed transversally to the conduits (21, 22) between the conduits (21, 22). The conductivity sensor is connected to said body (2) and is connected to or next to the printed circuit (3).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2009
    Assignee: Coprecitec, S.L.
    Inventors: Antón Elexpuru, Jose Ignacio Oñate
  • Publication number: 20090108847
    Abstract: A fuse test and ground device includes an insulated housing with a bore that extends from the front of the housing towards the rear of the housing. An electrical contact is disposed partially within the bore. A current interrupter, such as a fuse, is electrically connected between the contact and a testing ground lead. An eye, having it's surface insulated by the housing, can be attached to the housing and provide a connection point for manipulation of the device. A grounding bore extends from a second aperture into the housing and provides an electrical connection to the contact. A grounding plug can be connected to ground on one end and inserted into the grounding bore to create a permanent ground for the device. An annunciator is connected to the current interrupter such that the annunciator provides an indication when a current flows through the current interrupter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 31, 2007
    Publication date: April 30, 2009
    Applicant: Cooper Technologies Company
    Inventors: David Charles Hughes, Steven Guy Whitmore
  • Patent number: 7511505
    Abstract: A centralized connector module, a refrigeration unit and a method of assembling a refrigeration unit. In one embodiment, the centralized connector module includes (1) a dielectric body having interconnected terminal sets corresponding to components connectable thereacross and (2) continuity indicator circuits associated with at least some of the terminal sets and configured to indicate continuity faults with respect to connected ones of the components.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2009
    Assignee: Heatcraft Refrigeration Products LLC
    Inventors: Patrick M. Bailey, Raynald C. Clarke
  • Patent number: 7492559
    Abstract: An apparatus for testing the life of a leakage current protection device having a leakage current detection circuit and a trip mechanism having a switch device. In one embodiment, the apparatus a ground fault simulation unit, a fault detector of the leakage current detection circuit and the trip mechanism, and a life testing detection control unit having an MCU for controlling operation of the fault detector. In operation, a first signal (pulse signal) is sent to the gate of the switching device to generate a first voltage at the cathode of the switching device, a second signal is sent to the ground fault simulation unit to generate a simulated ground fault for the leakage current detection circuit to generate a second voltage at the gate of the switching device, and the first and second voltages are measured to determine whether a fault exists in the leakage current detection circuit and the trip mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2009
    Assignee: General Protech Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Feng Zhang, Hongliang Chen, Fu Wang, Wusheng Chen, Yulin Zhang, Huaiyin Song
  • Publication number: 20090031816
    Abstract: The problems inherent with connecting a DUT to a test station have been solved by the use of a tray designed to allow a wide variety of different DUTs to be physically connected individually to a test station using a universal test station connector. The tray allows for the association therewith of a personality module which serves to provide the proper physical connections and to electrically condition the test station to the electrical characteristics of the DUT. The tray allows for sealed environmental testing of the DUT without impacting any physical connections between the DUT and the test station. The tray also allows for the DUT to be vibrated from externally applied motion without interfering with either the sealed environment around the DUT and without imparting motion to the physical connection between the DUT and the test station.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 28, 2007
    Publication date: February 5, 2009
    Inventors: David Henderson, Sean P. Cortright, Calvin Krug, Ryan Kelley