Plural Magnets Patents (Class 335/207)
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Patent number: 10893937Abstract: An implantable prosthesis, including an implantable component including an implantable magnet assembly, wherein the magnet assembly includes a magnet plated with a metallic substance, the magnet assembly includes a housing made at least in part of a polymer, wherein at least a portion of the housing made out of the polymer is in direct contact with the metallic substance, and the implantable component is configured to be implanted in a human such that the housing is exposed to body fluids thereof.Type: GrantFiled: April 20, 2017Date of Patent: January 19, 2021Assignee: Cochlear LimitedInventor: Charles Roger Aaron Leigh
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Patent number: 10837984Abstract: A transducer for high-voltage measuring technology, including a housing having a parallelepipedal basic contour, input connections arranged on the housing and carrying input measurement signals in the high-voltage range, output connections arranged on the housing and carrying output signals in the low-voltage range, a transducer circuit arranged in the housing and implemented on a printed circuit board and being contact-connected to the input and output connections. The parallelepipedal basic contour of the housing is designed as an upright construction. The printed circuit board is arranged upright between opposite side walls of a dome formed in the housing. The input connections are arranged facing away from one another on the outer sides of the side walls within the basic contour of the housing, and in a manner engaging through the respective side wall of the dome are in contact with contact elements of the transducer circuit on the printed circuit board.Type: GrantFiled: June 22, 2017Date of Patent: November 17, 2020Assignee: KNICK ELEKTRONISCHE MESSGERÄTE GMBH & CO. KGInventor: Jens-Hendrik Schiffer
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Patent number: 10674287Abstract: An implantable medical device, such as a cochlear implant, a bone conduction device or a middle ear implant, including a magnet, and an electromagnetic communication wire forming, with respect to two dimensions, an enclosed boundary, wherein the magnet is located outside of the enclosed boundary. In an exemplary embodiment, the magnet is located in a container, and can revolve within the container.Type: GrantFiled: November 23, 2016Date of Patent: June 2, 2020Assignee: Cochlear LimitedInventors: Charles Roger Aaron Leigh, Grahame Michael David Walling
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Patent number: 10577834Abstract: The disclosed computer-implemented method may include a magnetic insertable lock component with a magnet-sensing lock housing. By using a magnet within a pin and a magnetic field sensor within the lock housing, the apparatus may accurately detect the state of the lock. In some embodiments, the apparatus may determine the pin is inserted fully into the lock, the pin is inserted partially into the lock, the pin is not inserted in the lock, and/or that a foreign object that is not the pin is inserted into the lock. By using a magnet within the pin to track the state of the lock, the apparatus may improve both the user experience and the security of the lock. Various other methods, systems, and computer-readable media are also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: April 19, 2019Date of Patent: March 3, 2020Assignee: LYFT, INC.Inventors: Peter Rex Luedtke, Andrew Paul Rosenkranz, Richard Stephen Chelminski, James Jeng-Yeu Peng
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Patent number: 10504672Abstract: A knob switch device includes a knob portion and a control circuit portion. The control circuit portion is electrically connected to an encoder and at least one switching component. The knob portion includes a knob configured to control the encoder, and further includes a trigger mechanism configured to trigger the switching component. The knob drives the trigger mechanism to trigger the switching component by an axial movement. The knob transforms a change in a mechanical rotation angle into an electrical signal, and the functional mode of the intelligent closestool is switched by pressing or pulling the knob in the axial direction. In this way, the multiple functions of the intelligent closestool are flexibly controlled by using a single knob, and the knob switch device has a compact and small structure, thereby shortening the distance between a person and the intelligent closestool.Type: GrantFiled: October 20, 2016Date of Patent: December 10, 2019Assignee: XIAMEN AXENT CORPORATION LIMITEDInventor: Jianru Hu
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Patent number: 10495254Abstract: A latch with magnetically-assisted operation is described. In some embodiments, a latch may include: a first magnetic device fixedly coupled to a first portion of an Information Handling System (IHS); a second magnetic device coupled to a second movable portion of the IHS; and a carrier, comprising: a compression bracket fixedly coupled to the first portion of the IHS, the compression bracket having a slot configured to accommodate the second magnetic device, at least one guidepost configured to receive a return spring, and at least one stopping pin; and a actuator bracket movably coupled to compression bracket, the actuator bracket having a button configured to translate the second magnetic device with respect to the first magnetic device, at least one orifice configured to engage with the at least one guidepost, and at least one detent configured to engage with the at least one stopping pin.Type: GrantFiled: October 11, 2017Date of Patent: December 3, 2019Assignee: Dell Products, L.P.Inventors: Christopher A. Torres, Timothy M. Radloff, Jason Scott Morrison, Weijong Sheu
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Patent number: 10383560Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention provide magnetic lancet devices and methods for driving a lancet. For example, a magnetic lancet device may include a driving mechanism having a plurality of magnets and a lancet coupled to the driving mechanism. A magnetic interaction between the plurality of magnets is configured to drive the lancet from an engaged position to a penetrating position.Type: GrantFiled: June 6, 2017Date of Patent: August 20, 2019Assignee: Dynamic Magnetics, LLCInventor: Richard C. Paschal
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Patent number: 10240391Abstract: Embodiments of the present disclosure include a switching apparatus for a powered adjustment system of a window shading, wherein said switching apparatus includes: a magnetically actuated switch positioned externally to the powered adjustment system and having an on position and an off position, wherein said magnetically actuated switch actuates a drive mechanism of the powered adjustment system in the on position, the drive mechanism being configured to adjust a position of the window shading; and an alignment feature positioned on a housing for the window shading proximal to said magnetically actuated switch, said alignment feature being configured to position a magnet of a switching tool outside the housing to control the powered adjustment system by actuating said magnetically actuated switch between the on position and the off position.Type: GrantFiled: September 7, 2016Date of Patent: March 26, 2019Assignee: Comfortex Window FashionsInventors: Richard Watkins, Thomas Marusak
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Patent number: 10121620Abstract: An electronic control unit (1) or an electric actuator (2), respectively, have a switch-off device (4) which includes at least one reed switch (6, 18, 26) and at least one permanent magnet arranged outside the housing (3) and removable from the housing (3). If the permanent magnet (7) is removed from its position of usage at the housing (3), for example in order to perform maintenance of the electronic control unit (1) or of the actuator (2), respectively, the at least one reed switch (6, 18, 26) is opened, as result of which the supply link (8, 10) between the activating terminal (5) and the supply terminals (9, 11) of the control unit are interrupted in order to switch voltage-carrying functional elements of the control unit (1) and/or of the electric actuator (2) to be currentless and thus to effectively prevent an unwanted spark discharge.Type: GrantFiled: June 24, 2016Date of Patent: November 6, 2018Assignee: AUMA Riester GmbH & Co. KGInventors: Wilfried Platzer, Benjamin Hofmann
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Patent number: 9926728Abstract: A system for opening a door, in particular for the door of a household appliance, including a prong, integral with the door, and a device for locking and unlocking the door, having a mechanical module to hold or release the prong, respectively when the door is opened or is closed, the system having an unlocking mechanism arranged on the prong, the unlocking mechanism interacting with the mechanical module after their activation, to release the prong and open the door.Type: GrantFiled: March 27, 2013Date of Patent: March 27, 2018Assignee: BITRON S.p.A.Inventors: Fabrizio Promutico, Felice Paglia
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Patent number: 9861390Abstract: A growing rod for mounting between attachment mechanisms that are secured to anatomical structures of a patient having scoliosis. The growing rod includes an outer housing and an inner housing disposed within the outer housing. The inner housing includes a magnet assembly including a magnet having a first pole and a second pole and a gear reduction mechanism coupled to the magnet. A first rod is secured to the inner housing and a second rod is secured to the outer housing. The gear reduction mechanism reduces an output rotation of the magnet to rotate a driver that operates to move the inner housing along a longitudinal axis with respect to the outer housing.Type: GrantFiled: February 23, 2015Date of Patent: January 9, 2018Assignee: DePuy Synthes Products, Inc.Inventor: Markus Hunziker
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Patent number: 9818564Abstract: The present invention relates to a magnetic proximity switch, comprising a casing, and a balance plate is transversely provided in the middle within the casing; a dynamic magnet and a static magnet are disposed in parallel on the left and right sides above the balance plate; the left end of the balance plate is hinged within the casing; the lower surface of the right end of the balance plate is provided with a dynamic contact; the balance plate is connected to the dynamic magnet via an elastic component A; a wiring terminal A and a wiring terminal B are fixed in parallel on the left and right sides at the bottom in the casing; the top of the wiring terminal A is connected to the balance plate via an elastic component B; the upper portion of the wiring terminal B is transversely bent.Type: GrantFiled: October 13, 2014Date of Patent: November 14, 2017Assignee: CHUANDONG MAGNETIC ELECTRONICS CO., LTD.Inventors: Tianan Zhao, Kewen Long, Tianbao Yan
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Patent number: 9576853Abstract: A magnetic trap is configured to arrange at least one diamagnetic rod. The magnetic trap includes first and second magnets on a substrate that forms the magnetic trap defining a template configured to self-assemble diamagnetic material. Each of the first and second magnets extends along a longitudinal direction to define a magnet length, and contact each other to define a contact line. The first magnet and the second magnet have a diametric magnetization in a direction perpendicular to the contact line and the longitudinal direction so as to generate a longitudinal energy potential that traps the diamagnetic rod along the longitudinal direction.Type: GrantFiled: May 31, 2016Date of Patent: February 21, 2017Assignee: INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MACHINES CORPORATIONInventors: Qing Cao, Oki Gunawan
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Patent number: 9569943Abstract: A magnet and magnetometer may be integrated into a smart home environment and allow it to be placed into an away mode of operation despite an entry point being semi-open. The disclosed implementations can detect a magnetic field strength and determine, based on the detected field strength, an approximate distance that a moveable partition is open. In some configurations, the presence of a second magnetic source can be detected. A notice may be generated based on one or more signals received from the magnetometer. The notice may be sent to a controller, a remote system, a remote device, and/or a client device as disclosed herein.Type: GrantFiled: December 30, 2014Date of Patent: February 14, 2017Assignee: GOOGLE INC.Inventors: Kevin Charles Peterson, Sophie Le Guen, Maxime Veron, Yash Modi, Lawrence Au, Mark Rajan Malhotra, Julia DeIuliis
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Patent number: 9497697Abstract: A handheld communication device includes first and second screens, a hinge to rotate the first and second screens between open and closed positions, and a permanent magnet to maintain the first and second screens in the closed position.Type: GrantFiled: September 26, 2012Date of Patent: November 15, 2016Assignee: Z124Inventors: Charles Becze, Michael J. O'Connor
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Patent number: 9460875Abstract: Magnetic switches are disclosed herein. An example apparatus includes a mount and a switch actuator assembly coupled to the mount. The switch actuator assembly includes a body, a trigger, and a first magnet oriented to be attracted to a second magnet. Movement of the body from a first position to a second position is to cause relative movement between the first magnet and the second magnet and relative movement between the trigger and a switch.Type: GrantFiled: February 5, 2013Date of Patent: October 4, 2016Assignee: GENERAL EQUIPMENT AND MANUFACTURING COMPANY, INC.Inventors: Bruce Robert Penning, Robert Lynn LaFountain, Michael John Simmons
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Patent number: 9452455Abstract: The present invention relates to a device for cleaning contaminants on a contact portion of an electromagnetic contactor, and more particularly, a device for cleaning contaminants on a contact portion of an electromagnetic contactor in which a magnetic force the acting direction of which is changed in time is generated to the outside of the electromagnetic contactor for cleaning contaminants generated at a contact portion thereof with an arc extinguishing method, thereby effectively and broadly performing the cleaning of contaminants.Type: GrantFiled: January 27, 2014Date of Patent: September 27, 2016Assignee: LSIS CO., LTD.Inventors: Jung Sik An, Hyun Woo Joo
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Patent number: 9362072Abstract: A float switch with a float housing having a magnetically-activated, hermetically-sealed reed switch secured within an interior cavity in a first orientation and a permanent magnet positioned in a second orientation. The permanent magnet is movable within a chamber in the interior cavity between a first activation position and a second non-activation position. For connection to a pump, electrical conductors extend from the float housing at one end and are electrically coupled to the reed switch.Type: GrantFiled: June 7, 2012Date of Patent: June 7, 2016Assignee: Pentair Flow Technologies, LLCInventors: Jason James Davis, Douglas Richard Rogers, Shane R. Vallen
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Patent number: 9355800Abstract: A control device for an enclosure is disclosed, where the control device includes a first portion positioned proximate to a back side of an enclosure surface of the enclosure, and a second portion positioned proximate to a front side of the enclosure surface. The first portion can include a plunger having a proximal end and a distal end, where the proximal end is adjacent to the enclosure surface. The first portion can also include a first magnet having a first polarity and disposed at the proximal end of the plunger. The first portion can further include at least one contact in communication with the distal end of the plunger, where the at least one contact has a first state and a second state. The second portion can include a second magnet having a second polarity, where the second magnet has an engaged position and a disengaged position.Type: GrantFiled: September 13, 2013Date of Patent: May 31, 2016Assignee: Cooper Technologies CompanyInventor: Lewis T. Henderson
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Patent number: 9324526Abstract: A permanent magnet is pivotally mounted in a top spacer layer of a switching device and rests on a flex arm created in an underlying flex circuit layer. The underside of the flex arm rests on a thin bar formed in a lower spacer layer beneath which lies a base layer including an electromagnet. Activation of the electromagnet causes rotation of the flex arm to thereby close and open electrical contacts formed respectively on the underside of the flex arm and on the top surface of the base layer.Type: GrantFiled: September 16, 2014Date of Patent: April 26, 2016Assignee: TELEPATH NETWORKS, INC.Inventors: Kevin Wilson, Robert Tarzwell, Patrick McGuire
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Patent number: 9281109Abstract: A magnetic assembly for use in a housing of an electronic device can include a first and a second magnet and a magnetic shield. The magnetic shield can reduce magnetic flux density from the first and the second magnets that can appear on the outside of the housing. A magnetic hinge assembly can include magnets configured to correlate with the first and second magnets. The magnetic hinge can magnetically attach to the housing by cooperating with the first and second magnets with magnets that can be included in the magnetic hinge.Type: GrantFiled: March 10, 2015Date of Patent: March 8, 2016Assignee: Apple Inc.Inventors: Florence W. Ow, Jeremy C. Franklin
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Patent number: 9257245Abstract: An electronic device includes a housing, a support member coupled to the housing, a trigger member coupled to the support member, a sliding member, a first magnet member coupled to the sliding member, and a second magnet member coupled to the support member. The first magnet member includes two first magnets and a second magnet coupled to the corresponding first magnet. The magnetic pole of the first magnets is opposite to the magnetic pole of the second magnet. The second magnet member includes a third magnet and two fourth magnets. The magnetic pole of the third magnet is same as the magnetic pole of the second magnet. The magnetic pole of the fourth magnets is same as the magnetic pole of the first magnets.Type: GrantFiled: August 20, 2014Date of Patent: February 9, 2016Assignees: Fu Tai Hua Industry (Shenzhen) Co., Ltd., HON HAI PRECISION CO., LTD.Inventors: Zhi-Guo Sun, Jun-Lin Peng, Yu-Lun Li
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Patent number: 9194685Abstract: A retractable assembly for immersion-, flow- and annex-measuring systems in analytical process technology for measuring at least one measured variable of a medium in a process containment, comprising an essentially cylindrical housing having a housing interior; an immersion tube, which is axially movable between a retracted service position in the housing and a process position extended from the housing. In the service position, the immersion tube is positioned in the housing interior; a closure element on an end region of the immersion tube facing the medium for sealing off the housing interior from the process containment when the immersion tube is located in the service position, and a proximity detector in or on the end region of the housing facing the medium for detecting the closure element in the service position.Type: GrantFiled: May 21, 2013Date of Patent: November 24, 2015Assignee: Endress + Hauser Conducta Gesellschaft fĂ¼r Mess- und Regeltechnik mbH + Co. KGInventors: Rainer Schlereth, Stefan Robl, Alejandro Vaca Torres, Martin Lohmann
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Patent number: 9157618Abstract: A luminaire may be carried by a lighting fixture and may have a generally concave elongate-shaped housing defining an optical chamber and an aperture. The luminaire may include a plurality of lighting devices each having a heat sink, a light source, and a magnetic attachment member. The magnetic attachment member may magnetically bind a lighting device to pads proximate to ferromagnetic material in the housing. Light emitted by the light source may enter the optical chamber and pass through the aperture in a generally orthogonal direction in relation to the orientation of the device. Electrical power may be delivered by one or more power supply unit of either an external or an on-board type, and by using either inductive or conductive coupling. Network interfaces may enable communication of control instructions among a multiple controllers located either within a single luminaire or distributed among multiple luminaires.Type: GrantFiled: March 15, 2013Date of Patent: October 13, 2015Assignee: LIGHTING SCIENCE GROUP CORPORATIONInventors: Eric Holland, Mark Penley Boomgaarden, Eric Thosteson
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Patent number: 9093237Abstract: A control device is provided that includes a plate and a control unit. The control unit has a rotary unit designed as a transmitter unit and a receiver unit. The transmitter unit has a top surface and a bottom side, wherein a base is formed on the bottom side in a center region and a first magnetizable element or a first magnet for positioning the transmitter unit at a predefined position over the receiver unit is arranged in the center region. In a rest position the transmitter unit rests with the base on the plate and the axis of rotation extends essentially parallel to the normal of the plate, or the transmitter unit is tilted into an operating position such that the base rests only partially on the plate and the axis of rotation is tilted relative to the normal of the plate.Type: GrantFiled: February 4, 2013Date of Patent: July 28, 2015Assignee: Micronas GmbHInventor: Yan Bondar
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Patent number: 9053880Abstract: Proximity switches include a hermetically sealed unit that can be used in harsh environments and under significant pressures, such as underwater and in nuclear power facilities, without having any parts that would require replacement or periodic maintenance. The proximity switches are preferably switches actuated by physical movement of a contact in response to changing magnetic forces. The switches are preferably disposed in a body tube optionally including a hermetic seal assembly to seal an open end of the body tube and/or a ferrule that prevents electrical wires attached to the switch inside the body tube from being pulled away from the switch. Further, the switches preferably maintain a contact pressure between electrical contacts sufficient to withstand acceleration seismic testing of 10 g with no contact discontinuity.Type: GrantFiled: December 27, 2012Date of Patent: June 9, 2015Assignee: General Equipment and Manufacturing Company, Inc.Inventors: Robert Lynn LaFountain, Gregory Curtis Merrifield
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Patent number: 9035731Abstract: The invention relates to a spring (1), in particular for a push button, for fixing to a carrier (2) and for registering a vertical force (F). The spring (3) is designed in such a way that when actuated it converts a vertical movement into a horizontal movement that can be detected by sensor means (4).Type: GrantFiled: July 8, 2011Date of Patent: May 19, 2015Assignee: ams AGInventors: Manfred Brandl, Jean Marc Lucchini
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Patent number: 9019052Abstract: A magnetic switch device and an electronic device having the same are disclosed. The electronic device includes an upper case which includes a first element and a lower case. The magnetic switch device includes a switch part and a driving part, wherein the switch part is mounted on the lower case and includes a second element that can be attached to the first element through magnetic force. The driving part is mounted on the lower case, such that when the driving part is moved, the switch part is enabled by the driving part to make the second element correspond to the first element, allowing the upper case to attach to the lower case; or the switch part is disabled by the driving part to not make the second element correspond to the first element, allowing the upper case not to attach to the lower case.Type: GrantFiled: March 25, 2014Date of Patent: April 28, 2015Assignee: Wistron CorporationInventors: Kuang-Hung Chen, Tsung-Ying Tsai
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Patent number: 8991040Abstract: A reusable electronic circuit assembling system facilitates assembly and testing of electronic circuits. The system has at least one baseboard and one or more assembling blocks magnetically or mechanically attached to the baseboard. Each assembling block has at least two electrically connected conductive clips located separately in the opening holes of the assembly block. Discrete electronic components are connected by selectively inserting the electrodes of the to-be-connected electronic components into the clips of the assembling blocks. A complete circuit is constructed by attaching the above block-component assemblies on the baseboard and connecting them in accordance with the desired circuit diagram.Type: GrantFiled: May 29, 2012Date of Patent: March 31, 2015Assignee: 5eTek, LLCInventor: Erli Chen
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Publication number: 20150077203Abstract: A control device for an enclosure is disclosed, where the control device includes a first portion positioned proximate to a back side of an enclosure surface of the enclosure, and a second portion positioned proximate to a front side of the enclosure surface. The first portion can include a plunger having a proximal end and a distal end, where the proximal end is adjacent to the enclosure surface. The first portion can also include a first magnet having a first polarity and disposed at the proximal end of the plunger. The first portion can further include at least one contact in communication with the distal end of the plunger, where the at least one contact has a first state and a second state. The second portion can include a second magnet having a second polarity, where the second magnet has an engaged position and a disengaged position.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 13, 2013Publication date: March 19, 2015Inventor: Lewis T. Henderson
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Patent number: 8970332Abstract: An electrical plug and receptacle relying on magnetic force from an electromagnet to maintain contact are disclosed. The plug and receptacle can be used as part of a power adapter for connecting an electronic device, such as a laptop computer, to a power supply. The plug includes electrical contacts, which are preferably biased toward corresponding contacts on the receptacle. The plug and receptacle each have a magnetic element. The magnetic element on one of the plug or receptacle can be a magnet or ferromagnetic material. The magnetic element on the other of the plug or receptacle is an electromagnet. When the plug and receptacle are brought into proximity, the magnetic attraction between the electromagnet magnet and its complement, whether another magnet or a ferromagnetic material, maintains the contacts in an electrically conductive relationship.Type: GrantFiled: July 29, 2013Date of Patent: March 3, 2015Assignee: Apple Inc.Inventors: John DiFonzo, Bartley K. Andre, Kanye Lim, Matthew Dean Rohrbach, Mark Edward Doutt, Jean-Marc Gery
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Publication number: 20150054608Abstract: An electronic device includes a housing, a support member coupled to the housing, a trigger member coupled to the support member, a sliding member, a first magnet member coupled to the sliding member, and a second magnet member coupled to the support member. The first magnet member includes two first magnets and a second magnet coupled to the corresponding first magnet. The magnetic pole of the first magnets is opposite to the magnetic pole of the second magnet. The second magnet member includes a third magnet and two fourth magnets. The magnetic pole of the third magnet is same as the magnetic pole of the second magnet. The magnetic pole of the fourth magnets is same as the magnetic pole of the first magnets.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 20, 2014Publication date: February 26, 2015Inventors: ZHI-GUO SUN, JUN-LIN PENG, YU-LUN LI
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Patent number: 8963666Abstract: Connectors and methods of coupling electronic devices and cables are provided. In one embodiment, a connector has a first coded magnet on a first surface of a first device. The first coded magnet has at least two different polarity regions on the first surface. A second coded magnet on a second surface of a second device is also provided. The second coded magnet is configured to provide identifying information regarding the device on which it is located.Type: GrantFiled: July 21, 2011Date of Patent: February 24, 2015Assignee: Apple Inc.Inventors: Brett Bilbrey, Aleksandar Pance, Peter Arnold, David I. Simon, Jean Lee, Michael D. Hillman, Gregory L. Tice, Vijay Iyer, Bradley Spare
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Publication number: 20150048911Abstract: A permanent magnet assembly for an arc driver assembly of an electric switching device, having a permanent magnet and a cover made of electrically insulating material, wherein the cover is connected directly to the permanent magnet.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 28, 2012Publication date: February 19, 2015Applicant: EATON ELECTRICAL IP GMBH & CO. KGInventors: Klaus Dauer, Anke Juelich
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Publication number: 20150048910Abstract: Proximity switches include a hermetically sealed unit that can be used in harsh environments and under significant pressures, such as underwater and in nuclear power facilities, without having any parts that would require replacement or periodic maintenance. The proximity switches are preferably switches actuated by physical movement of a contact in response to changing magnetic forces. The switches are preferably disposed in a body tube optionally including a hermetic seal assembly to seal an open end of the body tube and/or a ferrule that prevents electrical wires attached to the switch inside the body tube from being pulled away from the switch. Further, the switches preferably maintain a contact pressure between electrical contacts sufficient to withstand acceleration seismic testing of 10 g with no contact discontinuity.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 25, 2014Publication date: February 19, 2015Inventors: Robert Lynn LaFountain, Gregory Curtis Merrifield
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Patent number: 8953310Abstract: A cover is described that is magnetically attached to a tablet device. The cover includes at least as flap. In the described embodiment, the flap includes a plurality of segments where the first segment includes a first plurality of edge attach magnets arrayed along a first edge of the flap and where a second segment includes a second plurality of edge attach magnets arrayed along a second edge of the flap opposite the first edge.Type: GrantFiled: September 12, 2012Date of Patent: February 10, 2015Inventors: Samuel G. Smith, Jared A. Sartee, Florence W. Ow, Andrew D. Lauder, Jeremy C. Franklin
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Publication number: 20150008997Abstract: Apparatus for floor cleaning, having a cavity that opens on the dashboard, a plurality of mechanically similar interchangeable keys, and suitable to be inserted completely into and operate with said cavity, two or more Hall-effect sensors arranged outside said cavity, at least one first key containing at least one magnet, and at least one second key including at least one respective second magnet, which are in functional correspondence with respective predefined sensors. Said magnets do not interfere with sensors to which they are not geometrically connected, and for this purpose they are aligned on a same straight line, and the insertion of said keys causes a movement of said magnets toward the respective sensors with a motion orthogonal to said straight line.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 22, 2014Publication date: January 8, 2015Applicant: NILFISK-ADVANCE A/SInventors: Paolo VALCARENGHI, Filippo MARCHETTI
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Patent number: 8854163Abstract: The invention relates to an operating element (10) for a regulating and/or switching functionality having at least two switching or regulating stages, comprising: an actuating part (4) which can be actuated manually and thereby moved out of a rest position; at least three permanent magnets (1, 2, 3), comprising: a first movable permanent magnet (1), which is driven synchronously in its range of movement by the actuating part (4); a second movable permanent magnet (2), which, in a first partial range of the range of movement of the first permanent magnet (1), is synchronously entrained by it through magnetic force, and whose further movement is inhibited in at least one second partial range of the range of movement of the first permanent magnet (1) by at least one stop (5a); a third permanent magnet (3), which is stationary relative to the actuating part (4), for generating a magnetic return force on the at least first permanent magnet (1).Type: GrantFiled: June 3, 2011Date of Patent: October 7, 2014Assignee: Preh GmbHInventors: Volker Gessner, Thilo Schultheis, Arthur Klossek
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Patent number: 8847715Abstract: A permanent magnet is pivotally mounted in a top spacer layer of a switching device and rests on a flex arm created in an underlying flex circuit layer. The underside of the flex arm rests on a thin bar formed in a lower spacer layer beneath which lies a base layer including an electromagnet. Activation of the electromagnet causes rotation of the flex arm to thereby close and open electrical contacts formed respectively on the underside of the flex arm and on the top surface of the base layer.Type: GrantFiled: September 26, 2012Date of Patent: September 30, 2014Assignee: Telepath Networks, Inc.Inventors: Kevin Wilson, Robert Tarzwell, Patrick McGuire
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Patent number: 8816804Abstract: A switch assembly includes a magnet, a first Hall device, and a second Hall device. The first and second Hall devices are proximate the magnet. The first Hall device is configured to switch in relation to a first magnetic field threshold. The second Hall device is configured to switch in relation to a second magnetic field threshold. The first magnetic field threshold differs from the second magnetic field threshold.Type: GrantFiled: September 19, 2012Date of Patent: August 26, 2014Assignee: Tyco Electronics CorporationInventors: Salvador Hernandez-Oliver, Thomas Michael Banas, Roger L. Thrush
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Patent number: 8766751Abstract: Proximity switches are disclosed that preferably are provided in a hermetically sealed unit that can be used in harsh environments and under significant pressures, such as underwater and in nuclear power facilities, without having any parts that would require replacement or periodic maintenance. The proximity switches are preferably switches actuated by physical movement of a contact in response to changing magnetic forces. The switches are preferably disposed in a body tube optionally including a hermetic seal assembly to seal an open end of the body tube and/or a ferrule that prevents electrical wires attached to the switch inside the body tube from being pulled away from the switch. Further, the switches preferably maintain a contact pressure between electrical contacts sufficient to withstand acceleration seismic testing of 10 g with no contact discontinuity.Type: GrantFiled: December 27, 2012Date of Patent: July 1, 2014Assignee: General Equipment and Manufacturing Company, Inc.Inventors: Robert Lynn LaFountain, Gregory Curtis Merrifield
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Patent number: 8760248Abstract: The invention relates to an electromagnetic actuator to be mounted in a haptic-feedback control device (1) for transmitting a haptic feedback to a user, wherein said actuator (5a, 5b) comprises a fixed portion (9) and a mobile portion (11), said fixed (9) and mobile (11) portions forming a magnetic circuit defining at least one air gap (e) between said fixed (9) and mobile (11) portions. According to the invention, the actuator (5a, 5b) further comprises: at least two permanent magnets (23a, 23b) respectively generating first (B1) and second (B2) opposite magnetic fields; and an electric coil (25) provided between said magnets (23a, 23b) such that the winding of said coil (25) extends successively through said first (B1) and second (B2) opposite magnetic fields so that, when a current flows through said coil (25), the actuator (5a, 5b) is submitted to a resulting actuation force in a common driving direction for translating said mobile part (11) in said air gap (e).Type: GrantFiled: April 20, 2009Date of Patent: June 24, 2014Assignee: DAVInventor: Bruno Marie
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Patent number: 8762704Abstract: A method for providing customized content to an electronic device. The method may include activating the electronic device through a packaging that substantially surrounds the electronic device, without substantially damaging or removing the packaging. Once the device is activating, connecting the electronic device to a content and providing the content to the electronic device without substantially damaging or removing the packaging.Type: GrantFiled: September 29, 2011Date of Patent: June 24, 2014Assignee: Apple Inc.Inventors: Fletcher Rothkopf, Teodor Dabov
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Patent number: 8760251Abstract: A stacked field emission system having an outer surface includes at least three field emission structure layers having a stacked relationship that defines a field characteristic of the outer surface. The mechanisms holds the at least three field emission structure layers such that a plurality of interface surfaces of the at least three field emission structure layers correspond to a plurality of interface boundaries between adjacent field emission structure layers. Each of the at least three field emission structure layers includes a plurality of field emission sources having positions, polarities, and field strengths in accordance with a spatial force function that corresponds to a relative alignment of the at least three field emission structures layers in the stacked relationship. A movement of at least one of the at least three field emission structures varies the field characteristics of the outer surface.Type: GrantFiled: September 27, 2011Date of Patent: June 24, 2014Assignee: Correlated Magnetics Research, LLCInventors: Mark D. Roberts, Larry W. Fullerton
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Patent number: 8736406Abstract: A latch for a washing machine or other appliance provides two interengaging elements on a lid and housing each having a magnet oriented for mutual repulsion. Proper repulsion of the magnets is necessary to signal that the lid is properly closed such as may be used to determine if the appliance may be locked and safely operated, for example, in a clothes spinning mode.Type: GrantFiled: February 25, 2011Date of Patent: May 27, 2014Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.Inventors: Kenyon A Hapke, Joel C Bragg, Michael K Hintz, Randy S McDonald, Mark R Heckenkamp, Jonathan H Olson, Adrian J. Tengler, Jarod M Sulik
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Patent number: 8729987Abstract: A magnetic switch device and an electronic device having the same are disclosed. The electronic device includes an upper case which includes a first element and a lower case. The magnetic switch device includes a switch part and a driving part, wherein the switch part is mounted on the lower case and includes a second element that can be attached to the first element through magnetic force. The driving part is mounted on the lower case, such that when the driving part is moved, the switch part is enabled by the driving part to make the second element correspond to the first element, allowing the upper case to attach to the lower case; or the switch part is disabled by the driving part to not make the second element correspond to the first element, allowing the upper case not to attach to the lower case.Type: GrantFiled: April 24, 2012Date of Patent: May 20, 2014Assignee: Wistron CorporationInventors: Kuang-Hung Chen, Tsung-Ying Tsai
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Patent number: 8717132Abstract: A method for plating magnets with metal is disclosed. In one embodiment, the metal is aluminum and the aluminum plating provides a number of aesthetic and structural advantages, over brittle magnetic materials, which are only plated with a thin, anti-corrosive metallic layer. More specifically, methods for creating multi-pole bar magnets and structural elements primarily with aluminum coated magnetic material are disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: September 26, 2012Date of Patent: May 6, 2014Assignee: Apple Inc.Inventor: Simon Regis Louis Lancaster-Larocque
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Patent number: 8704622Abstract: A switch arrangement for electric currents has at least two contacts to be closed and opened. At least one of the contacts is formed by sections of an electrically conductive pathway of a foil. At least one magnet assigned to the foil. At least one magnetic component is placeable in the magnetic field of the magnet and facing the magnet on the other side of the foil. When the magnetic body is placed in the magnetic field of the magnet it is attracted to the magnet causing the foil to be squeezed and the contacts to make contact, closing the switch.Type: GrantFiled: April 11, 2013Date of Patent: April 22, 2014Assignee: Johnson Electric S.A.Inventor: Martin Koepsell
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Patent number: 8674794Abstract: A high security switch for use with an alarm includes a switch assembly for mounting to a fixed structural member. The switch assembly includes a pressure sensitive switch; a magnetic attractive movable body; a cavity having a first end and second end, the cavity confining, directing, limiting and defining the travel of the movable body; and a biasing element near the first end of the cavity to position the moveable body adjacent the first end of the cavity. The switch also includes an actuating element coupled to a movable structural member. In response to moving the actuating element away from the switch assembly the moveable body is magnetically acted upon by the biasing and moved from the second end to the first end of the cavity. The electrical state of the pressure sensitive switch is changed and an alarm activated.Type: GrantFiled: October 14, 2011Date of Patent: March 18, 2014Inventors: Jennifer Oetjen, Randall Woods
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Patent number: 8665042Abstract: A wireless switch comprises a mechanical oscillator, a mechanical impulse deliverer, a first array of magnets positioned on a planar surface, a first conductor, and a power management circuit. The mechanical impulse deliverer delivers a mechanical impulse to the mechanical oscillator when the wireless switch is switched. The first array comprises a one dimensional or two dimensional array of magnets. The first conductor comprises a first serpentine conductor. The power management circuit provides DC power as a result of relative motion due to the mechanical oscillator between the first array of magnets and the first conductor.Type: GrantFiled: October 24, 2012Date of Patent: March 4, 2014Assignee: EcoHarvester, Inc.Inventors: Eri Takahashi, Shadrach Joseph Roundy, Jeffry Tola, Brian L. Bircumshaw, Stewart Carl