Measuring, Testing, Or Sensing Electricity, Per Se Patents (Class 324/76.11)
  • Publication number: 20140333451
    Abstract: A system for monitoring power consumption of an electronic device, includes a MCU, a processor, and an indicating unit. The MCU includes an inter-integrated circuit and an analog to digital converter. The inter-integrated circuit records a digital output current value and voltage value of each digital electronic component of the electronic device. The analog to digital converter tests an analog output current value and voltage value of each analog electronic component of the electronic device. The analog output current value and voltage value are converted into digital information. The processor processes the digital output current value and voltage value and the digital information to generate a monitoring result.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 2, 2013
    Publication date: November 13, 2014
    Applicants: HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD., HONG FU JIN PRECISION INDUSTRY (ShenZhen) CO., LTD.
    Inventor: LIANG CHEN
  • Publication number: 20140327428
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a detecting device and method, and a program which can detect a power state easily at low cost. A current transformer measures current of a commercial power system from a commercial power supply through a connection point of the commercial power system and a power generation system from a solar power generation system that supplies power having the same frequency as the commercial power supply. A current transformer measures power at the power generation system side through the connection point. A decision value calculator calculates a decision value based on a value obtained through multiplication of a measured value of current through the current transformer and through the current transformer. A flow detector detects a power flow of the commercial power system based on the calculated value. The present invention can be applied to a power measuring system for use in homes, for example.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 8, 2011
    Publication date: November 6, 2014
    Applicant: OMRON CORPORATION
    Inventors: Shuichi Misumi, Hiroshi Imai, Yasuhiro Kawabata, Hiroshi Sameshima
  • Patent number: 8878518
    Abstract: A mode detector in a sensor interface is configured to detect a mode specified by a mode signal when an input signal received from a side of a first terminal is the mode signal. A communication portion in the interface transmits an electric signal, obtained from a sensor circuit, to a side of a second terminal when a mode detected with the detector is a sensor output mode. The communication portion receives an input signal from the side of the first terminal while transmitting an output signal to the side of the second terminal, when a mode detected with the detector is a communication mode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2014
    Assignee: Panasonic Corporation
    Inventors: Masahisa Niwa, Kunitaka Okada, Rudolf Hajek, Jiri Kutej, Timothy J. Warneck
  • Patent number: 8878516
    Abstract: A method for determining each current output of a three-phase inverter (102) comprises the following steps: inspecting an initial set of control signals for the inverter (102); identifying a measurement conflict when at least two of said control signals are asserted within a predetermined amount of time of each; if there is a measurement conflict, providing a first modified set of control signals to the inverter by shifting a position of at least one control signal related to the measurement conflict; and measuring a current through a shunt resistor based on the first modified set of control signals. Also, an electronic device and a digital processor (DSP) for determining each current output of three-phase inverter (102) are provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2014
    Assignee: Texas Instruments Incorporated
    Inventors: Jin Wang, Zhenyu Yu
  • Patent number: 8878517
    Abstract: A method and apparatus provides high-accuracy measurements of an electrical parameter across a broad range of parameter input values. In one embodiment, an intelligent electronic device (IED), e.g., a digital electrical power and energy meter, with a plurality of independently-adjustable gain factors measures a parameter, and calculates and stores calibration factors associated with known values of the measured parameter. The IED or meter applies the stored calibration factors when measuring unknown values of the measured parameter, to improve the accuracy of the measurement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2014
    Assignee: Electro Industries/Gauge Tech
    Inventor: Tibor Banhegyesi
  • Patent number: 8877535
    Abstract: The present invention provides a vertical type sensor, including a substrate; a first electrode formed on the substrate; a sensing layer formed on the first electrode layer and reactive to a target substance, wherein the first electrode layer is interposed between the substrate and the sensing layer; and a second electrode layer formed on the sensing layer and having a plurality of openings, wherein the sensing layer is interposed between the first electrode layer and the second electrode layer, and the target substance contacts the sensing layer via the plurality of openings. The vertical type sensor of the present invention provides instant, sensitive and rapid detection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2014
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2014
    Assignee: National Chiao Tung University
    Inventors: Hsiao-Wen Zan, Hsin-Fei Meng, Ming-Zhi Dai, Yu-Chiang Chao
  • Publication number: 20140320109
    Abstract: A method of detecting an electric current through a main bearing of a rotating system comprising: a hub; a plurality of blades connected to the hub; at least one electrical motor arranged at the hub; a main shaft attached to the hub and enclosing cabling for providing electrical power to the at least one electrical motor; a bearing housing attached to a metallic structure acting as electrical earth; and a main bearing having an inner ring attached to the main shaft and an outer ring attached to the bearing housing, the method comprising the steps of: providing a first measurement device for determining a measure indicative of an electric current in the main shaft at a first location on a side of the main bearing facing the hub; providing a second measurement device for determining a measure indicative of an electric current in the main shaft at a second location on a side of the main bearing facing away from the hub; determining a measure indicative of a difference between a first current flowing through the
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 7, 2012
    Publication date: October 30, 2014
    Inventor: Olle Bankeström
  • Patent number: 8872529
    Abstract: Provided is a component detection device, which is installable on component processing means which performs a predetermined operation to a conductive component interposed between one conductive member and another conductive member, the component detection device comprising a detection circuit (41) for distinguishing between the conductive component and a conductive foreign matter interposed between the one conductive member and the another conductive member, the detection circuit (41) being electrically connected between the one conductive member and the another conductive member, wherein the detection circuit (41) comprises: a reference voltage generating circuit section (43) for generating a reference voltage based on an input voltage; a voltage comparing circuit section (44) for comparing between the reference voltage and a detection voltage input from a detection terminal; and a sensitivity adjusting circuit section (45) for adjusting the detection voltage so that, when the conductive component is interpo
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2014
    Assignee: Yoshitaka Aoyama
    Inventors: Yoshitaka Aoyama, Shoji Aoyama
  • Publication number: 20140312879
    Abstract: A transistor includes at least one conductive layer, at least one gate dielectric layer and at least one semiconducting film deposited on top of a receptor molecule layer previously deposited or covalently linked to the surface of the gate dielectric. The layer of biological material includes single or double layers of phospholipids, layers made of proteins such as receptors, antibodies, ionic channels and enzymes, single or double layers of phospholipids with inclusion or anchoring of proteins such as: receptors, antibodies, ionic channels and enzymes, layers made of oligonucleotide (DNA, RNA, PNA) probes, layers made of cells or viruses, layers made of synthetic receptors for example molecules or macromolecules similar to biological receptors for properties, reactivity or steric aspects.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 31, 2011
    Publication date: October 23, 2014
    Applicants: UNIVERSITÁ DEGLI STUDI DI BARI, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche Istituto Pro- cessi Chimico Fisici-IPCF
    Inventors: Luisa Torsi, Gerardo Palazzo, Nicola Cioffi, Maria Daniela Angione, Maria Magliulo, Serafina Cotrone, Gaetano Scamarcio, Luigia Sabbatini, Antonia Malllardi
  • Publication number: 20140312880
    Abstract: A wireless lamp detection system (20, 20?) is provided to wirelessly determine the topology of a lighting system (1) or the type of the power supply (3). The detection system (20, 20?) comprises a probe device (21, 21?) having at least a measurement probe (22), adapted for wireless coupling to a lamp (2) to provide a probe signal, corresponding to at least one physical parameter of said lamp power supply (3). A processing unit (29, 29?) is provided, connected with said probe device (21, 21?) to receive said probe signal and configured to determine a type oflamp power supply (3) from said probe signal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 2, 2012
    Publication date: October 23, 2014
    Inventors: Harald Josef Günther Radermacher, Georg Sauerländer
  • Publication number: 20140312877
    Abstract: A residual current protective device (RCD) and a method for AC/DC-sensitive differential current measurement with a voltage-dependent functional unit, which includes an AC/DC-sensitive differential current measuring device, has a current sensor and an AC/DC-sensitive current detection module. A microcontroller configures the voltage-dependent functional unit and evaluates the differential current detected by the AC/DC-sensitive differential current measuring device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 15, 2014
    Publication date: October 23, 2014
    Applicant: Bender GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Michael Kammer
  • Publication number: 20140312878
    Abstract: Indexing a plurality of die obtainable from a material wafer comprising a plurality of stacked material layers. Each die is obtained in a respective position of the wafer. A manufacturing stage comprises at least two steps for treating a respective superficial portion of the material wafer that corresponds to a subset of said plurality of dies using the at least one lithographic mask through the exposition to the proper radiation in temporal succession. The method may include providing a die index on each die which is indicative of the position of the respective die by forming an external index indicative of the position of the superficial portion of the material wafer corresponding to the subset of the plurality of dies including said die and may comprise a plurality of electronic components electrically coupled to each other by means of a respective common control line.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 2, 2014
    Publication date: October 23, 2014
    Inventors: Daniele Alfredo BRAMBILLA, Fausto REDIGOLO
  • Patent number: 8866492
    Abstract: An actuator is manufactured that includes piezoelectric film that does not suffer physical damage. Provided is a manufacturing method comprising first insulating layer deposition of depositing a first insulating layer on a substrate using an insulating material; first annealing of annealing the first insulating layer; first electrode layer deposition of depositing a first electrode layer on the first insulating layer using a conductive material; first piezoelectric film deposition of depositing a first piezoelectric film on the first electrode layer by applying a sol-gel material on the first electrode layer and annealing the sol-gel material; second electrode layer deposition of depositing a second electrode layer on the first piezoelectric film using a conductive material; second insulating layer deposition of depositing a second insulating layer on the second electrode layer using an insulating material; and second annealing of annealing the second insulating layer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2014
    Assignee: Advantest Corporation
    Inventors: Hisao Hori, Yoshikazu Abe, Yoshihiro Sato
  • Publication number: 20140306687
    Abstract: A system and method are provided for measuring an integrated circuit age. A first clock generator is provided for generating a first dock signal. Additionally, a second clock generator is provided for generating a second clock signal. Further, a phase detector is provided that is in communication with the first dock generator and the second dock generator. The phase detector is operable for receiving the first clock signal from the first clock generator and the second clock signal from the second dock generator, and outputting a phase difference signal. Still yet, a circuit is provided that is in communication with the phase detector and the first clock generator. The circuit is operable for receiving the first clock signal from the first clock generator and the phase difference signal from the phase detector. The circuit is further operable for synchronizing the phase difference signal from the phase detector with the first dock signal from the first clock generator.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 11, 2013
    Publication date: October 16, 2014
    Applicant: NVIDIA Corporation
    Inventors: Rubil Ahmadi, Varghese George, Suhas Mysore Satheesh
  • Publication number: 20140306677
    Abstract: In one embodiment, a current detection circuit configured for a switching regulator can include: (i) a feedback controlling circuit configured to control a feedback signal to be consistent with a reference signal, and to generate a feedback control signal; and (ii) a feedback signal generator configured to receive a rise time and a fall time of inductor current of the switching regulator, and to generate the feedback signal in direct proportion with the feedback control signal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 31, 2014
    Publication date: October 16, 2014
    Applicant: Silergy Semiconductor Technology (Hangzhou) LTD
    Inventor: Chen Zhao
  • Publication number: 20140306686
    Abstract: A utility location antenna arrangement for mounting to a user can include at least one antenna element, and the arrangement can be mounted to the user in a hands-free manner. At least a portion of the arrangement can be mounted to at least one of an article of clothing worn by the user and a body part of the user.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 10, 2013
    Publication date: October 16, 2014
    Inventor: ALAN DAVID HADDY
  • Patent number: 8860455
    Abstract: Methods and systems to measure a signal on an integrated circuit die. An on-die measurement circuit may measure an on-die signal relative to an off-die generated reference signal, which may include a series of increasing voltage steps. The on-die measurement circuit may continuously compare voltages of the on-die signal and the off-die generated reference signal, and may generate an indication when the off-die reference signal exceeds the on-die signal. The measurement circuit may generate the indication from a voltage source other than the on-die signal to be measured, and/or may generate the indication with a relatively large voltage swing. The indication may be output off-die for evaluation, such as for testing, debugging, characterization, and/or operational monitoring. A unity gain analog buffer may be provided to tap the on-die signal proximate to a node of interest, which may be implemented within the on-die measurement circuit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 24, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2014
    Assignee: Intel Corporation
    Inventor: Vinu K. Elias
  • Publication number: 20140300210
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a system for controlling, measuring and monitoring the secondary electric power distribution grid with remote fraud and power theft detection, readings, power cuts-off, reconnection and client load control, besides continuous monitoring of the electric grid parameters, providing diagnostics on the status of the grid and public lighting from an assigned Command Central, located at the secondary bulbar of the distribution transformer, and Measuring Modules at clients installations.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 26, 2012
    Publication date: October 9, 2014
    Inventors: Marcos Valadão Abi-Ackel, Inácio Loiola Pereira Campos
  • Publication number: 20140292304
    Abstract: A method for analyzing appliances in a power line network comprises obtaining an electrical characteristic of the power line network, using a sensor that is connected to the power line network, extracting a line-neglecting feature from the electrical characteristic of the power line network, and detecting an appliance connected to the power line network based on the extracted line-neglecting feature.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 21, 2014
    Publication date: October 2, 2014
    Applicant: Sony Corporation
    Inventors: Altfried DILLY, Ben EITEL, Thomas KEMP, Stefan UHLICH
  • Patent number: 8847575
    Abstract: According to various embodiments, a circuit arrangement is provided which includes a bridge circuit having at least two field effect transistors and a measurement circuit configured to measure a forward voltage of a body diode of any one of the at least two field effect transistors resulting from a predefined current flowing through the field effect transistor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2014
    Assignee: Infineon Technologies AG
    Inventors: Benno Koeppl, Frank Auer, Andreas Kiep
  • Publication number: 20140285178
    Abstract: A current sensor to be connected in series with a power semiconductor device between a voltage supply terminal and ground. The current sensor includes a first terminal to be coupled to the power semiconductor device, a second terminal to be coupled to one of the voltage supply terminal and ground, and a current mirror. The current mirror includes a first MOSFET and a second MOSFET each having a source, a drain, and a gate. The source of the first MOSFET is connected to the source of the second MOSFET and to the second terminal, the drain of the first MOSFET is connected to the first terminal, and the gate of the first MOSFET is connected to the gate of the second MOSFET.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 6, 2014
    Publication date: September 25, 2014
    Applicant: ADVANCED ANALOGIC TECHNOLOGIES INCORPORATED
    Inventor: Richard K. Williams
  • Publication number: 20140285177
    Abstract: A mobile current measurement apparatus, a current measurement terminal, and a current measurement method are provided. More particularly, the present disclosure provides a mobile current measurement apparatus, a current measurement terminal, and a current measurement method capable of measuring a current of a Device-Under-Test (DUT) by using a wireless short distance communication. The method of measuring a current by a current measurement apparatus includes detecting a voltage converted from a current of a device-under-test, compensating the detected voltage by using a voltage offset generated by an amplifier of the current measurement apparatus, and measuring the current of the device-under-test based on the compensated voltage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 21, 2014
    Publication date: September 25, 2014
    Applicant: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Youjin KIM, Mihyun LEE, Jeongnam CHEON
  • Patent number: 8841898
    Abstract: Described herein is a self-powered system for detecting a current spike. The current spike is delivered through a current return network that energizes a resonant circuit to produce an alternating electrical output. The output is rectified by a rectifier into direct output that is then transferred to an integrator circuit. The integrator circuit slowly builds to and dissipates from a voltage threshold corresponding to an output transistor. When the output transistor is triggered by the voltage threshold this trigger is communicated to a fault monitoring software that recognizes the current spike.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2014
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventor: Bruce Van Deventer
  • Patent number: 8841900
    Abstract: A combined measurement device for measuring current and/or voltage of an electrical conductor, comprising a supporting body, a current sensor housed inside the supporting body, and a voltage sensor located at least partially inside the supporting body. A shielding is positioned around the current sensor. The current sensor and the voltage sensor are mutually arranged so as the shielding shields at least partially both the current sensor and the voltage sensor against external electric field disturbances.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2014
    Assignee: ABB Technology AG
    Inventors: Radek Javora, Petr J. Kral
  • Patent number: 8843334
    Abstract: An apparatus has an input section arranged to receive values representative of the total instantaneous supply of electrical current as a function of time from an alternating voltage supply. Current waveforms comprising sets of values representative of the cyclic waveform of the electric current supply are obtained. A delta waveform generator calculates the difference between a current waveform and an earlier current waveform. An edge detector is arranged to detect an edge or edges in the delta waveform. An analysis section is arranged to identify at least one appliance load based at least on information on the edge or edges detected by the edge detector, and to determine the electrical energy consumed by said appliance load.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2014
    Assignee: Isis Innovation Limited
    Inventors: James Donaldson, Malcolm McCulloch
  • Publication number: 20140266153
    Abstract: An arbitration device comprises a determining unit that determines priority of each of a plurality of electrical devices according to at least either a position or an action status of a person present in a target area for control; and a calculating unit that calculates electrical power to be allotted to each of the electrical devices in such a way that a total of electrical power allotted to a plurality of the electrical devices is within a limit value and the electrical devices having the priority at high levels are allotted with electrical power on a priority basis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 4, 2014
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Inventors: Yukio FUJIWARA, Kenji Kameyama, Hidenori Tomono, Takeo Tsukamoto, Fumio Yoshizawa, Keisuke Konishi, Takanori Inadome, Hideaki Aratani, Juuta Kon, Hirotaka Nitta, Toshiki Suzuki
  • Publication number: 20140265562
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is an apparatus for protecting against theft of electricity from a distribution transformer that transforms electricity from a higher distribution voltage to a lower secondary voltage. The distribution transformer is housed in a transformer housing having secondary terminals extending therefrom. The apparatus includes a protective enclosure rigidly attachable to an outer portion of the transformer housing adjacent the secondary terminals. The protective enclosure is configured to enclose the secondary terminals and to house a plurality of electricity meters for measuring electricity usage. The protective enclosure also has a plurality of service line apertures sized and shaped to receive a plurality of secondary service lines therethrough. Each secondary service line is electrically connectable to one of the electricity meters.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Applicant: MOLONEY ELECTRIC INC.
    Inventor: Robert Eugene Thompson
  • Publication number: 20140266152
    Abstract: An eye diagram capture device includes a delay line arranged to receive a digital signal and output time delayed version of the digital signal. An edge detection circuit is arranged to receive the digital signal and the time delayed version of the digital signal, the edge detection circuit operating to output a signal corresponding to a logical value of the digital signal received coincident with an edge of the time delay version of the digital signal. A voltage comparator is arranged to receive the digital signal and a reference voltage. The voltage comparator operates to output a first signal when the a voltage of the digital signal and the reference voltage are equal to each other.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 13, 2013
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Applicant: Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Wen-Hung HUANG, Chien-Chun TSAI, Ying-Yu HSU
  • Publication number: 20140266151
    Abstract: An interrogator plug for interfacing with the output socket of a pulsed power system to provide external leads engagable by a volt measurement device. The interrogator plug is sized to replicate a conventional plug such that the interrogator plug can be inserted into the output plug. The interrogator plug has lead assemblies positioned to engage the contacts of the output socket ordinarily engaged by conventional plugs. The interrogator plug can also include a divider circuit linked to a coaxial output for providing a reduced voltage current having an operational voltage safely measurable by conventional voltmeters.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Inventors: Randall J. Appleton, Juleigh M. Perona
  • Publication number: 20140266832
    Abstract: Described are apparatuses and methods of current balancing, current sensing and phase balancing, offset cancellation, digital to analog current converter with monotonic output using binary coded input (without binary to thermometer decoder), compensator for a voltage regulator (VR), etc. In one example, apparatus comprises: a plurality of inductors coupled to a capacitor and a load; a plurality of bridges, each of which is coupled to a corresponding inductor from the plurality of inductors; and a plurality of current sensors, each of which is coupled to a bridge to sense current through a transistor of the bridge.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 28, 2013
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Inventors: Gerhard SCHROM, J. Keith HODGSON, Alexander LYAKHOV, Chiu Keung TANG, Narayanan RAGHURAMAN, Narayanan NATARAJAN
  • Patent number: 8836525
    Abstract: An isolated current-sensing system for use with a resistive current sense element includes an analog front-end configured to receive a voltage from the resistive current sense element, and to provide an analog output. A processing circuit receives the analog output, and provides a measurement signal indicative of the sensed current. An isolation circuit provides an isolation barrier, and is configured to pass the measurement signal. A programmable over-current protection alarm may be included, and configured to generate an alarm signal when the analog output exceeds a programmable threshold. The processing circuit may include a voltage-to-PWM converter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2014
    Assignee: Lear Corporation
    Inventors: Miguel Angel Aceña, Youssef Ghabbour
  • Publication number: 20140253093
    Abstract: Methods and systems for data center management include collecting sensor data from one or more sensors in a rack; determining a location and identifying information for each asset in the rack using a set of asset tags associated with respective assets; communicating the sensor and asset location to a communication module; receiving an instruction from the communication module; and executing the received instruction to change a property of the rack.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 8, 2013
    Publication date: September 11, 2014
    Applicant: INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MACHINES CORPORATION
    Inventor: INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MACHINES CORPORATION
  • Patent number: 8829887
    Abstract: A 3D-IC detector for each layer of a stacked device comprises a pulse generator to receive an initial signal and generate a pulse-in signal to a next stage detector. A latch is coupled to the pulse generator to receive an output signal from the pulse generator and generate a layer identifying signal. A counter is coupled to previous stage detector and the initial signal to perform a counting operation; and an adder coupled to the counter to add a number to a counting output from the counter and input added signal to the pulse generator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2014
    Assignee: National Tsing Hua University
    Inventors: Ming-Pin Chen, Meng-Fan Chang, Wei-Cheng Wu
  • Patent number: 8829940
    Abstract: The present invention discloses a method of testing a partially assembled multi-die device (1) by providing a carrier (300) comprising a device-level test data input (12) and a device-level test data output (18); placing a first die on the carrier, the first die having a test access port (100c) comprising a primary test data input (142), a secondary test data input (144) and a test data output (152), the test access port being controlled by a test access port controller (110); communicatively coupling the secondary test data input (144) of the first die to the device-level test data input (12), and the test data output (152) of the first die to the device-level test data output (18); providing the first die with configuration information to bring the first die in a state in which the first die accepts test instructions from its secondary test data input (144); testing the first die, said testing including providing the secondary test data input (144) of the first die with test instructions through the device-
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2014
    Assignee: NXP, B.V.
    Inventors: Fransciscus Geradus Marie de Jong, Alexander Sebastian Biewenga
  • Patent number: 8829888
    Abstract: Sensor devices and related methods disclosed. One example sensor device includes a non-magnetic substrate, a coil comprising a plurality of turns wound about the substrate, the coil defining an aperture structured to receive a conductor therein; and a dielectric material positioned adjacent to the coil and at least partially within the aperture such that the dielectric material is between the coil and a conductor positioned in the aperture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2014
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Subramanyam Satyasurya Chamarti, Steven Lee Bietz
  • Publication number: 20140247036
    Abstract: An arrangement for measuring electrical energy consumption includes an input circuit operable to generate a first signal representative of a line voltage waveform and a second signal representative of a line current waveform. The arrangement further includes a processing circuit operable to generate energy consumption data based on the first signal and the second signal. The processing circuit is further operable to generate a first pulse waveform having a plurality of output pulses based on the energy consumption data, each output pulse corresponding to a quantity of energy consumed. The arrangement further includes a wireless transmitter coupled to the processing circuit, the wireless transmitter configured to transmit an RF signal each time the first pulse waveform changes state.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 16, 2014
    Publication date: September 4, 2014
    Applicant: Landis+Gyr, Inc.
    Inventor: Warren Thomas Martin
  • Patent number: 8823355
    Abstract: A feed device for the automatic shifting of objects is provided. The feed device includes a storage area or a holding element and a driven feed unit by means of which an object arranged on the storage area or at the holding element of the feed device can be shifted when the feed unit engages at the object, and wherein the feed device includes at least one electronic component which electronically detects a movement of the feed unit. The electronic component is configured such that the covering of a distance by the feed unit during movement of the feed unit is directly detected as an electric pulse and that the covering of respectively predefined distances of the feed unit generates a pulse sequence characteristic for the distances covered by the electronic component having different contact device at which in each case a pulse is generated which is characteristic for the respective contact device when the feed unit has covered a predefined distance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2014
    Assignee: Inventory Systems GmbH
    Inventors: Georg Hachmann, Dariusz Kostecki
  • Patent number: 8823357
    Abstract: A radio frequency (RF) power amplifier protection system for a radio. The protection system utilizes a resistive tap connected to the drain of a power amplifier transistor and a high speed voltage detector. The protection system uses short, low-power tests pulses to determine the quality of an antenna load upon tuning the radio to an RF carrier frequency by transmitting the short test pulse. If the measured voltage value exceeds a calibrated value, the power of the RF transmitter is reduced for subsequent operation or the RF transmitter is shut down completely. The invention also includes a system and method for detecting when an antenna is disconnected from a radio using an low frequency AC signal to measure the resistance of an antenna connected to an RF transmitter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2014
    Assignee: Spectralux Corporation
    Inventors: Thomas Ogle Shafer, Tony Monroe Bragg, Gary Altman
  • Patent number: 8823356
    Abstract: Processes, machines, and articles of manufacture that may serve to enable the detection or determination of alternating line voltages from an alternating power source, such as the power grid, are provided. This automatic sensing may be useful when connections are made to the power grid, such that when connections are made, the connections may be configured to be compatible with the available power source. This automatic sensing may also be useful if power sources change characteristics over time or if devices may be connected to different power sources over time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2014
    Assignee: SolarBridge Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Patrick L. Chapman
  • Patent number: 8823399
    Abstract: Apparatuses and methods of capacitive buttons and detecting and differentiating touches from different size conductive objects on the capacitive buttons. One apparatus includes a capacitance-sensing circuit coupled to a capacitive button. The capacitive button includes a first sense element and a second sense element. The capacitance-sensing circuit is operative to measure signals from the first sense element and the second sense element with a sensing parameter (also referred to as tuning properties) set to a first value. The signals correspond to capacitances of the first sense element and second sense element. An inner perimeter of the first sense element is disposed to surround (at least in part) an outer perimeter of the second sense element. The apparatus further includes processing logic coupled to the capacitance-sensing circuit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2014
    Assignee: Cypress Semiconductor Corporation
    Inventor: Vibheesh Bharathan
  • Patent number: 8816673
    Abstract: In accordance with an embodiment, an apparatus for analyzing signals comprises a spectrum analyzer and a frequency extension module. The spectrum analyzer includes an IF switch which switches between an internal IF signal and an external IF signal, and a LO coupler which is configured to output a portion of one or more LO signals. The frequency extension module is configured to receive the one or more LO signals from the spectrum analyzer and send an IF signal to the spectrum analyzer. A diplexer band switch is used to direct the low band signals to the spectrum analyzer and to direct the high band signals to the frequency extension module where they are downconverted to the external IF which is output to the IF switch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2014
    Assignee: Anritsu Company
    Inventor: Richard Glenn Barber
  • Patent number: 8818742
    Abstract: Certain embodiments of the invention may include systems, methods, and apparatus for detecting theft and status of electrical power. According to an example embodiment of the invention, a method is provided for detecting theft and status of electrical power. The method can include monitoring switch state of a main circuit breaker, monitoring load-side voltage, monitoring load current, determining one or more conditions associated with power usage based at least in part on one or more of the monitored switch state, the monitored load-side voltage, or the monitored load current and transmitting information representing the one or more determined conditions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2014
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventor: Adil Ansari
  • Patent number: 8813355
    Abstract: A method for producing a current metering device with current conductor optionally made of aluminum or aluminum alloy, which has a middle section in the form of a bar and two end sections with flattened areas, and is bent between one end section at a time and the middle section, a magnetic module which has a bushing which holds the current conductor, and two copper or copper alloy sleeves which are applied at least to parts of the end sections of the current conductor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2014
    Assignee: Vacuumschmelze GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Markus Brunner
  • Publication number: 20140233160
    Abstract: Electrical distribution panels are provided that are configured to receive a smart breaker. The electrical distribution panel includes a frame; at least one bus line coupled to the frame; a position sensing circuit associated with a breaker position of the electrical distribution panel, the position sensing circuit being configured to provide a unique electrical parameter associated with the breaker position; and a communications circuit coupled to the position sensing circuit and configured to communicate information pertaining to the unique electrical parameter to an external recipient when the smart breaker is positioned in the electrical distribution panel to provide an address for a device associated with the breaker position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 19, 2013
    Publication date: August 21, 2014
    Inventors: Vincent Ferri, David Raymond Rohn
  • Publication number: 20140231675
    Abstract: An improved evaluation circuit which allows high sensitivity in an economical manner. For this purpose, a shift register having at least one data input, a clock input, a plurality of register stages and at least one data output is provided, wherein the output of the analog-to-digital converter is connected to the data input of the shift register. With a shift register, fluorescent light and scattered light can be temporally distinguished in an economical manner.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 20, 2012
    Publication date: August 21, 2014
    Inventors: Gunter Möhler, Dietmar Schmidt, Oliver Holub, Robert Hauschild
  • Publication number: 20140236371
    Abstract: A power measuring apparatus includes a line connector connected to a power source line, which supplies power to equipment; and a measuring circuit, which measures a voltage and a current supplied to the equipment by means of the connected power source line. The power measuring apparatus also includes a calculator which calculates, on the basis of the measured voltage and current, power consumed by the equipment; and a transmission line connector connected to a transmission line that transmits data used for the purpose of monitoring the equipment. Furthermore, the power measuring apparatus also includes a transmitter that transmits data indicating the calculated power to the transmission line. Consequently, the power measuring apparatus can be installed in equipment at lower cost than before.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 31, 2012
    Publication date: August 21, 2014
    Applicant: Mitsubishi Electric Corporation
    Inventors: Masahiro Ishihara, Yoshiaki Koizumi, Kazuhiro Komatsu
  • Patent number: 8810447
    Abstract: A calibration device, capable of calibrating a gain of a radiometer, includes an actuator and a micro-electromechanical-system (MEMS) unit. The actuator receives a calibration signal outputted from a control unit. The MEMS unit is coupled to the actuator, in which the actuator enables the MEMS unit to shield an antenna of the radiometer according to the calibration signal, such that the radiometer generates an environmental signal according to an equivalent radiant temperature received from the MEMS unit, and the control unit calibrates the gain of the radiometer according to the environmental signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2014
    Assignee: Industrial Technology Research Institute
    Inventors: Chun-Yen Huang, Chin-Chung Nien, Li-Yuan Chang, Chen-Ming Li, Ya-Chung Yu
  • Publication number: 20140225594
    Abstract: An integrated galvanically isolated meter devices and method for making integrated meter devices are disclosed. An embodiment of an integrated meter device includes a carrier, a control chip disposed on the carrier, a first measuring device chip disposed on the carrier, the first measuring device chip galvanically isolated from the control chip and configured to measure at least one first parameter of a first wire of a power line and a package encapsulating the control chip and the first measuring device chip.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 14, 2013
    Publication date: August 14, 2014
    Applicant: INFINEON TECHNOLOGIES AUSTRIA AG
    Inventors: Sergio Rossi, Renato Bessegato
  • Patent number: 8803506
    Abstract: A voltage detecting apparatus detects a detected AC voltage generated in a detected object. The voltage detecting apparatus includes a detection electrode that is disposed facing the detected object, and is capacitively coupled to the detected object. The voltage detecting apparatus also includes a bootstrap circuit that operates using a floating power supply generated with a reference voltage, and outputs a detection signal whose amplitude changes in accordance with an AC potential difference between the detected AC voltage and the reference voltage. The voltage detecting apparatus further includes an insulating circuit that inputs the detection signal and outputs an insulated detection signal that is electrically insulated from the detection signal, and a voltage generating circuit that amplifies the insulated detection signal to reduce the AC potential difference and generate the reference signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2014
    Assignee: Hioki Denki Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Koichi Yanagisawa
  • Patent number: 8803504
    Abstract: A device for diagnosing signal status includes a transformer, a signal generating unit, a device-to-be-driven, a current measuring unit, and an intermediate tap. The transformer includes a primary coil and a secondary coil. The signal generating unit is arranged for generating an alternating voltage and is connected to the primary coil. The device-to-be-driven is arranged for performing measurement, drive, or control and is connected to the secondary coil. The current measuring unit is arranged for measuring change in the current of the primary coil caused by electric power consumed for an action of the device-to-be-driven. In at least one embodiment, diagnosis of signal status in the measurement, drive, or control by the device-to-be-driven is performed based on the measurement result of said change in current. The intermediate tap is provided to the primary coil and configured to be connected to the current measuring means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2014
    Assignee: Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd.
    Inventor: Hideaki Emoto