With Diverse Art-type Device Patents (Class 337/1)
-
Patent number: 11373826Abstract: A breaker comprises: a fixed piece having a fixed contact; a movable piece having a movable contact and pressing the movable contact against the fixed contact to contact therewith; a thermally-actuated element for shifting the movable piece from a conduction state in which the movable contact contacts with the fixed contact to a turn-off state; a PCT thermistor; and a resin case. The fixed piece has a contacting portion contacting with the PCT thermistor. The resin case has a bottom surface provided with a concave portion. In a planar view when the fixed piece is viewed from the PCT thermistor, the contacting portion is disposed within the concave portion. The concave portion has a bottom recessed from the bottom surface of the resin case to prevent the bottom from protruding outwardly from the bottom surface when the thermally-actuated element is deformed.Type: GrantFiled: December 18, 2018Date of Patent: June 28, 2022Assignee: Bourns KKInventor: Masashi Namikawa
-
Patent number: 11034260Abstract: A method of protecting an electric vehicle (EV) charger connector from excessive heat includes monitoring the internal temperature of an electrical connector, the electrical connector having pilot and pilot return signal lines, reducing a voltage between the pilot and pilot return signal lines in response to the internal temperature exceeding a first threshold, and reducing charging current provided through the electrical connector in response to the change in voltage so that the internal temperature exceeding the first threshold will result in a reduction of charging current through the connector.Type: GrantFiled: March 23, 2016Date of Patent: June 15, 2021Assignee: WEBASTO CHARGING SYSTEMS, INC.Inventors: Blake Edward Dickinson, Bradford M. Hori, Daniel D. Dresselhaus
-
Patent number: 10867766Abstract: Example embodiments relate a subsea fuse device exposed to a high ambient pressure when deployed. The fuse device comprises a metallic fuse housing enclosing a low-pressure hollow space and a fuse arranged in the low-pressure hollow space, the fuse having two electrical connectors, wherein one of the electrical connectors of the fuse is electrically and thermoconductively coupled to the metallic fuse housing so as to provide an electrical connection between the fuse connector and the housing and to dissipate heat from the fuse.Type: GrantFiled: June 18, 2019Date of Patent: December 15, 2020Assignee: SIEMENS AKTIENGESELLSCHAFTInventors: Ove Boe, Thomas Cox, Andreas Gurk, Thomas Ferstad Oevervaag, Eduardo Pimentel Silvestrow
-
Patent number: 10786953Abstract: A method of manufacturing a composite part having a curved or radiused corner to avoid wrinkling or bridging of outer-most composite plies during consolidation and cure, including laying up composite material on male or female tooling to form two flanges extending at a first angle relative each other and a curved or radiused corner extending between the two flanges. Then the method may include changing an orientation of one or both of the flanges of the composite material, such that the two flanges extend at a second included angle relative each other. The second included angle is smaller than the first angle. The method may also include a step of consolidating the composite material before, after, or during the step of changing the orientation of the composite material to the second angle, as well as a step of curing the composite material oriented at the second angle.Type: GrantFiled: July 31, 2018Date of Patent: September 29, 2020Assignee: SPIRIT AEROSYSTEMS (EUROPE) LIMITEDInventor: Mark Anthony Wadsworth
-
Patent number: 10580600Abstract: A miniature safety switch is used in motor vehicle electronics. The miniature safety switch has a housing base, from which a fixed contact arm and a bimetallic contact arm, which has a moving contact and a bimetallic snap disk attached thereto, are led out. A PTC resistor is brought into direct contact with the bimetallic snap disk by a compression spring and is electrically integrated in such a way that, as a result of the heat generated by the PTC resistor, the bimetallic snap disk remains in the open position thereof in the event of triggering.Type: GrantFiled: March 25, 2013Date of Patent: March 3, 2020Assignee: Ellenberger & Poensgen GmbHInventors: Wolfgang Ullermann, Helmut Kraus
-
Patent number: 10059065Abstract: A method of manufacturing a composite part having a curved or radiused corner to avoid wrinkling or bridging of outer-most composite plies during consolidation and cure, including laying up composite material on male or female tooling to form two flanges extending at a first angle relative each other and a curved or radiused corner extending between the two flanges. Then the method may include changing an orientation of one or both of the flanges of the composite material, such that the two flanges extend at a second included angle relative each other. The second included angle is smaller than the first angle. The method may also include a step of consolidating the composite material before, after, or during the step of changing the orientation of the composite material to the second angle, as well as a step of curing the composite material oriented at the second angle.Type: GrantFiled: May 9, 2016Date of Patent: August 28, 2018Assignee: Spirit AeroSystems, Inc.Inventor: Mark Anthony Wadsworth
-
Patent number: 9806515Abstract: Methods and apparatuses, including computer program code are disclosed herein that provide damage protection to cables and connectors. In one aspect, there is provided an apparatus. The apparatus may include an electrical connector comprising a power supply pin and at least one control pin. The apparatus may further include a protective element configured to change a state of the at least one control pin to cause the power supply pin to become inactive. The protective element may be integrated with the electrical connector and/or integrated at one or more locations along the length of a cable.Type: GrantFiled: December 24, 2013Date of Patent: October 31, 2017Assignee: Nokia Technologies OyInventors: Pekka E. Leinonen, Kai Inha, Timo T. Toivola, Pekka Talmola, Timo J. Toivanen
-
Patent number: 9007163Abstract: A device for protecting an electrical installation from surges. The device includes a protective component for protecting from overvoltages and two thermal disconnectors. Each thermal disconnector includes a respective mobile contact suitable to move from a closed position to an open position to disconnect the protective component from the electrical installation, and a respective thermosensitive element for making the mobile contact move from the closed position to the open position when the temperature of the protective component exceeds a predetermined threshold.Type: GrantFiled: April 8, 2011Date of Patent: April 14, 2015Assignee: ABB FranceInventors: Michael Duval, Alain Lagnoux
-
Publication number: 20150042441Abstract: An electrical switch having an activation component that closes and opens contact points within a switch housing. The activation component may include a front end and a rear end. The rear end may be within the switch housing and the front end may be protruding from the switch housing. The front end of the activation component may include a fuse slot. A fuse may be placed in the fuse slot and removed from the fuse slot.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 8, 2013Publication date: February 12, 2015Inventor: Palle Kohring Weinreich
-
Patent number: 8904781Abstract: An actuation system having a configuration of first and second components, each component having longitudinally extending fingers interlaced with one another. Relative longitudinal movement is permitted between the fingers in a manner to permit the second component to be movable longitudinally with respect to the first component between a first position and a second position. A biasing member is provided within the configuration that biases the second component towards the second position. A wire is wound about the fingers that restrains the second component in the first position. A release device selectively causes the wire to be loosened about the fingers such that the biasing member moves the second component from the first position to the second position. An actuator connected to the second component moves with the second component from the first position to the second position.Type: GrantFiled: July 13, 2012Date of Patent: December 9, 2014Assignee: Simmonds Precision Products, Inc.Inventor: Martin E. Buttolph
-
Publication number: 20140285308Abstract: A breaker (1) is provided with: a fixed piece (2) which has a fixed contact; a movable piece which has a movable contact at a front end portion and pushes the movable contact against the fixed contact to bring same into contact with each other; a thermally responsive element that deforms in accordance with a change in temperature and thereby actuates the movable piece so that the movable contact separates from the fixed contact; and a case body (71) of a resin case that accommodates the fixed piece (2), the movable piece, and the thermally responsive element. The case body (71) has recess portions (75, 77) which are recessed from a peripheral portion, and the fixed piece (2) has a withdrawal portion (25) that withdraws from the recess portions (75, 77) of the case body (71) by a predetermined first distance (D1) or more, and is embedded in the case body (71).Type: ApplicationFiled: October 12, 2012Publication date: September 25, 2014Inventor: Masashi Namikawa
-
Publication number: 20140240080Abstract: Provided is a semiconductor integrated circuit device including a fuse circuit whose area and cost are minimized by a simple circuit configuration. The fuse circuit includes a first fuse and a second fuse having substantially the same shape and different sheet resistances, which are connected in series between terminals with different potentials. In a state in which none of the fuses is cut, a potential of an output terminal is fixed to a potential of one of the terminals.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 26, 2014Publication date: August 28, 2014Applicant: Seiko Instruments Inc.Inventor: Minoru ARIYAMA
-
Patent number: 8803042Abstract: A solenoid valve for use in a hazardous environment requiring a surface temperature of the valve to not exceed a cutoff temperature, the valve comprising coil configured to physically move an armature using an field generated by the coil; a thermal cutoff device having a fusing temperature above the cutoff temperature; and a heating resistor sized and configured to raise thermal cutoff device's temperature to the fusing temperature before the surface temperature exceeds the cutoff temperature. A method of constructing a solenoid valve for use in a hazardous environment requiring a surface temperature of the valve to not exceed a cutoff temperature, the method comprising the steps of: selecting a thermal cutoff device having a fusing temperature above the cutoff temperature; and selecting and configuring a heating resistor to raise thermal cutoff device's temperature to the fusing temperature before the surface temperature exceeds the cutoff temperature.Type: GrantFiled: September 26, 2011Date of Patent: August 12, 2014Assignee: Automatic Switch CompanyInventors: Nicholas F. Buccheri, John J. Haller
-
Publication number: 20140159855Abstract: An air heater fuse for diesel engines for easier starting of a diesel engine inlet air needs to be warmed. In large diesel engines an electric heater is therefore installed into an inlet manifold due to protection in case of excessive electric current and warming of the housing. The fuse of the invention is characterised in that the fusible link (9) is fastened to the air heater by the fastening screw (5), wherein the fusible link (9) is arranged between the head of the fastening screw (5) and the housing (1) of the air heater, and the fusible link (9) is insulated from the shaft of the fastening screw (5) by the insulating spacer (12a) or another insulating material.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 18, 2014Publication date: June 12, 2014Applicant: HIDRIA AET DRUZBA ZA PROIZVODNJO VZIGNIH SISTEMOV IN ELEKTRONIKE D.O.O.Inventors: Elvis GREGORCIC, Janez URBAS
-
Patent number: 8717729Abstract: In one embodiment, a computing device includes a circuit board having a heat-generating component and a mechanical shut-off switch configured to cut power to the heat-generating component when a temperature within the computing device rises above a threshold temperature.Type: GrantFiled: February 12, 2008Date of Patent: May 6, 2014Assignee: Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P.Inventors: Mark S. Tracy, Keith A. Sauer, Jeffrey A. Lev
-
Publication number: 20140055227Abstract: A subsea fuse assembly is provided. The subsea fuse assembly is adapted to be operated in a pressurized environment. The subsea fuse assembly includes an enclosure adapted to be filled with a dielectric liquid, and a pressure compensator including a flexible element for pressure compensation. The subsea fuse assembly also includes a first penetrator and a second penetrator each passing through a wall of the enclosure for leading a first electric conductor and a second electric conductor, respectively, into the enclosure. The subsea fuse assembly includes a fuse arranged inside the enclosure and connected between the first electric conductor and the second electric conductor.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 22, 2012Publication date: February 27, 2014Inventors: Ove Boe, Sivert Eliassen, Espen Haugan, Oddvar Lenes, Boerge Sneisen, Gunnar Snilsberg
-
Publication number: 20140022044Abstract: A liquid food of beverage preparation machine that includes an electric supply circuit connectable to an electric power source; a heater powered by the electric supply circuit; and a thermal fuse device in thermal communication with the heater and associated with the electric supply circuit, the fuse device being arranged to interrupt the electric supply circuit from the power source when the heater exceeds a temperature limit. The thermal fuse device is reversible and includes a switch for automatically interrupting the electric supply circuit when the heater exceeds the temperature limit, the switch being operable by a user to close the electric supply circuit when the heater has a temperature that has returned below the temperature limit.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 27, 2013Publication date: January 23, 2014Applicant: Nestec S.A.Inventors: Stefan ETTER, Urs GAUDENZ, Gilles GAVILLET, Thomas HODEL, Alexandre KOLLEP, Peter MÕRI, Renzo MOSER, Peter PREISIG, Robin SCHWAB
-
Publication number: 20120299689Abstract: A safety control structure for heater wire comprises a switch, a first heating wire, a second heating wire, and an over-current protection element, which are sequentially connected in series connection. An insulation and fusible layer is interposed between the first heating wire and the second heating wire. Accordingly, under normal condition, the switch is triggered by triggering the circuit, so as to have the first heating wire and the second heating wire then be heated up within a preset temperature range. When the first heating wire and the second heating wire produce exceptionally high temperatures to fuse the insulation and fusible layer, the current is increased instantaneously because the first heating wire and the second heating wire are short-circuited. Therefore, the circuit is interrupted by the over-current protection element to show a broken circuit status in order to stop heating up.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 6, 2011Publication date: November 29, 2012Inventor: Ching-Chuan WANG
-
Patent number: 8217740Abstract: An electromagnetic relay comprises a coil generating magnetic force when power is distributed, a contact point part opened and closed by the magnetic force, and a fuse functional part having a conductor wired electrically in series with the contact point part and disconnected when predetermined heat quantity is received, and the fuse functional part is disposed at a position which receives arc heat generated in the contact point part when switching the contact point part from conduction state to cut-off state. Thereby, a small electromagnetic relay which enables interruption of current in all current value range can be provided.Type: GrantFiled: May 26, 2010Date of Patent: July 10, 2012Assignee: Denso CorporationInventor: Eiji Nakagawa
-
Patent number: 8217750Abstract: The 3-electrode surge protective device includes: a surge protective device body including: an earth electrode; a ceramic cylinder; and a pair of line electrodes; and a fail-safe spring including: an elastic mount portion; and a short-circuit portion, a conductive material that is sandwiched between the fail-safe spring and the body; and a pair of first lead pins provided on the pair of line electrodes; a second lead pin provided on the earth electrode. In a normal state, the conductive material support the short-circuit portion at a separation position where the short-circuit portion is separated from the outer peripheral face of the body and the first lead pins. In case where the body is overheated and the conductive material is melted, the short-circuit portion is moved to a contact position where the short-circuit portion comes into contact with the second lead pin and the first lead pins.Type: GrantFiled: March 12, 2010Date of Patent: July 10, 2012Assignee: Shinko Electric Industries Co., Ltd.Inventor: Kazuhiko Machida
-
Publication number: 20120112870Abstract: A solenoid valve for use in a hazardous environment requiring a surface temperature of the valve to not exceed a cutoff temperature, the valve comprising coil configured to physically move an armature using an field generated by the coil; a thermal cutoff device having a fusing temperature above the cutoff temperature; and a heating resistor sized and configured to raise thermal cutoff device's temperature to the fusing temperature before the surface temperature exceeds the cutoff temperature. A method of constructing a solenoid valve for use in a hazardous environment requiring a surface temperature of the valve to not exceed a cutoff temperature, the method comprising the steps of: selecting a thermal cutoff device having a fusing temperature above the cutoff temperature; and selecting and configuring a heating resistor to raise thermal cutoff device's temperature to the fusing temperature before the surface temperature exceeds the cutoff temperature.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 26, 2011Publication date: May 10, 2012Applicant: AUTOMATIC SWITCH COMPANYInventors: John J. HALLER, Nicholas F. BUCCHERI
-
Publication number: 20120086540Abstract: A device for protecting an electrical installation from surges, includes two terminals, a protective component connected to the terminals, and a thermal disconnector having a conductive contact blade maintained in a first position in which the contact blade ensures an electrical connection between the protective component and one of the two terminals. The thermal disconnector can be provided for making the contact blade go to a second position when the temperature of the protective component exceeds a predetermined threshold, wherein the contact blade and the one of the two connection terminals are part of a single and same piece.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 8, 2011Publication date: April 12, 2012Applicant: ABB FranceInventors: Michael DUVAL, Alain Lagnoux
-
Publication number: 20120086539Abstract: A device for protecting an electrical installation from surges. The device includes a protective component for protecting from overvoltages and two thermal disconnectors. Each thermal disconnector includes a respective mobile contact suitable to move from a closed position to an open position to disconnect the protective component from the electrical installation, and a respective thermosensitive element for making the mobile contact move from the closed position to the open position when the temperature of the protective component exceeds a predetermined threshold.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 8, 2011Publication date: April 12, 2012Applicant: ABB FranceInventors: Michael DUVAL, Alain LAGNOUX
-
Publication number: 20120068806Abstract: A device may include a metal-oxide varistor (MOV), wherein the MOV increases in temperature as a voltage applied across the MOV exceeds a rated voltage. The device may include a first conductor contacting the MOV and a second conductor contacting the MOV. The second conductor may be configured to disconnect from the MOV when the MOV reaches a threshold temperature. The device may include an enclosure to surround the MOV, the first conductor, and the second conductor, wherein the enclosure includes a non-conductive fluid to suppress arcing.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 15, 2011Publication date: March 22, 2012Applicant: THOMAS & BETTS INTERNATIONAL, INC.Inventors: Marco Antonio Guarniere, Martin William Guy
-
Publication number: 20100231346Abstract: The 3-electrode surge protective device includes: a surge protective device body including: an earth electrode; a ceramic cylinder; and a pair of line electrodes; and a fail-safe spring including: an elastic mount portion; and a short-circuit portion, a conductive material that is sandwiched between the fail-safe spring and the body; and a pair of first lead pins provided on the pair of line electrodes; a second lead pin provided on the earth electrode. In a normal state, the conductive material support the short-circuit portion at a separation position where the short-circuit portion is separated from the outer peripheral face of the body and the first lead pins. In case where the body is overheated and the conductive material is melted, the short-circuit portion is moved to a contact position where the short-circuit portion comes into contact with the second lead pin and the first lead pins.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 12, 2010Publication date: September 16, 2010Applicant: SHINKO ELECTRIC INDUSTRIES CO., LTD.Inventor: Kazuhiko Machida
-
Publication number: 20100116903Abstract: A thermal fuse integrated into an electrical circuit powering a heater element having a positive temperature coefficient includes at least one terminal in electrical connection with the heater element thereby connecting the heater element to a power source, and a solder jacket that mechanically retains the electrical connection between the terminal and heater element, wherein a biasing load is applied to the terminal when retained by the solder jacket, and wherein the terminal breaks connection with the heater element under the force of the bias when the solder jacket melts should the heater element overheat. By selecting the solder material forming the solder jacket according to its melt temperature, a temperature specific overheat protection for a heated fuel injector can be provided. Since the injector's metering circuit is separate from the thermal fuse circuit, the fuel injector remains operational even after the heater circuit is opened.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 12, 2008Publication date: May 13, 2010Inventor: Jason C. Short
-
Patent number: 7471184Abstract: An apparatus comprising a microelectromechanical system (MEMS) device. The MEMS device includes a substrate having an anchoring pad thereon and a structural element. The structural element has a beam that includes a first part and a second part. The first part is attached to both the anchoring pad and to the second part. The second part is movable with respect to the substrate and made of an electrically conductive material. Additionally, at least one of the following conditions hold: the first part is made of a material having: a first yield stress that is greater than a second yield stress of the electrically conductive material of the second part; a fatigue resistance that is greater than a second fatigue resistance of the electrically conductive material of the second part; or, a creep rate that is less than a second creep rate of the electrically conductive material of the second part.Type: GrantFiled: October 2, 2007Date of Patent: December 30, 2008Assignee: Lucent Technologies Inc.Inventors: Vladimir Anatolyevich Aksyuk, Flavio Pardo, Maria Elina Simon
-
Patent number: 6747541Abstract: An improved spool assembly for non-explosive actuators used in electro-mechanical structural separation devices. The spool assembly includes two spool halves each having external surfaces and a generally flat internal surface, a unitary and integral internal member made of an electrically conductive material and having a link-wire portion and two electrical terminal portions, and an external wrap-wire wound around the two spool halves and having a connecting end connected to the link-wire portion of the unitary and integral internal member such that the wrap-wire tightly binds the two spool halves together to form a spool for retaining an external structural member.Type: GrantFiled: December 6, 2002Date of Patent: June 8, 2004Assignee: G&H Technology, Inc.Inventors: Andrew Holt, Jui-Yu Wu, Matthew Dalton, Patrick Laughlin
-
Patent number: 6674032Abstract: A manual call point having a housing base (1), a cover and an alarm insert with a fragile panel (4), a printed-circuit board (3), a switching element (6) and an actuating mechanism. The actuating mechanism for the switching element (6) is formed by a pivoting lever (7) resting on a lateral edge of the panel (4), the pivoting lever (7) pressing on the switching element (6) in the normal state of the manual call point and holding the switching element (6) in a closed position. When the panel (4) is smashed the pivoting lever (7) pivots, so the switching element (6) is opened. The switching element (6) is arranged on the printed-circuit board (3) and comprises a flexible end switch. The manual call point also contains a device for triggering a test alarm comprising a switching lever (9) to displace the panel (4) until the pivoting lever (7) is released and comprises a member (10) to actuate the switching lever (9).Type: GrantFiled: August 29, 2002Date of Patent: January 6, 2004Assignee: Siemens Building Technologies AGInventors: Christoph Pfenninger, Heinz Diener
-
Publication number: 20030076215Abstract: Split spool release apparatus for retaining and deploying a deployable appendage. Exemplary apparatus comprises a housing which houses a split spool clamping device, a release nut attached to the deployable appendage, a locking mechanism or fuse assembly, and an actuator. The split spool clamping device comprises a plurality of separable sections that secure the release nut and deployable appendage using the restraining wire that is wrapped around them. In one embodiment, the split spool clamping device may comprises a threaded split-nut. The restraining wire is preferably wrapped using variable pretension, having low tension at the fuse end and higher tension at the nut end (load application end). The fuse assembly is coupled to the restraining wire at a location that is distal from the deployable appendage, and is activated by the actuator to release the restraining wire.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 22, 2001Publication date: April 24, 2003Inventor: Varouj G. Baghdasarian
-
Patent number: 6538552Abstract: A thermostat, in particular for electric household appliances, including a mechanical switch and an analog regulating circuit having a variable-ratio reference divider. The reference divider includes a reference resistor and a variable-resistance resistive element; and the mechanical switch connects the variable-resistance resistive element to the reference resistor.Type: GrantFiled: December 27, 2000Date of Patent: March 25, 2003Assignee: ITW Industrial Components S.r.l.Inventors: Raoul Bianchi, Roberto Malpetti, Alfredo De Pasca, Marco Sclip
-
Publication number: 20010053061Abstract: A push-button switch having an overload protection function and a circular type actuation mechanism is disclosed. The switch comprises a conduction lead to be actuated by circularly rotating actuators. The actuators rotate in response of each sliding cycle of the button. Thus, a switch that occupies least space, reduces wearing and increases lifetime, is obtained.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 12, 2001Publication date: December 20, 2001Inventor: Tsung-Mou Yu
-
Patent number: 6295003Abstract: A socket has one or more socket members received in an enclosure, and a current indicator disposed in coupled to the socket members for indicating the current through the socket members and for indicating the overload of the socket. The current indicator includes a coil, and a rotatable indicator to be actuated by the coil to indicate the current of the socket. A device may detect the temperature of the socket and a device may generate a warning signal when the socket is overload. The indicator may shield a photoresistive member when the socket is overload.Type: GrantFiled: May 5, 2000Date of Patent: September 25, 2001Inventor: Hsien Chung Wu
-
Patent number: 6205030Abstract: A PC card includes a housing bounding a compartment. The housing includes a top cover plate, a bottom cover plate, and a border frame extending therebetween. A circuit board having electrical circuitry formed thereon is disposed within the compartment of the housing. An electrical connector configured for coupling with an electrical apparatus is mounted on the housing in electrical communication with the circuit board. A fuse slot is formed at least partially on the border frame and is configured to removably receive a fuse. The fuse slot communicates with the exterior through an opening. Disposed within the fuse slot are spaced apart first and second fuse contacts. The fuse contacts are each disposed in electrical communication with the circuit board. The fuse contacts are also configured to engage the fuse in electrical communication when the fuse is received within the fuse slot.Type: GrantFiled: May 26, 1999Date of Patent: March 20, 2001Assignee: 3Com CorporationInventor: Tim Urry Price
-
Patent number: 6133818Abstract: A highly reliable release apparatus which is used to stow or release desired devices such as, for example, solar arrays, antenna positioning mechanisms, reflectors, found on satellites, space stations or spacecraft. Deployment of the desired device is prevented or allowed by respectively restraining or releasing a first member under tension. The apparatus comprises a support member having an opening and a first face arranged about the opening. A second member is located within the opening when the first member is in tension and is adapted to be attached to an end of the first member. At least three locking members such as fuse wires are arranged on the first face of said support member for restraining the second member within the opening in order to maintain tension on the first member. The second member is attached to the first member in a manner such that at least two of the fuse wires must be severed before the restraint on the second member is released.Type: GrantFiled: August 11, 1999Date of Patent: October 17, 2000Assignee: Space Systems/Loral, Inc.Inventors: Cindy Hsin-I Hsieh, Varouj G. Baghdasarian
-
Patent number: 6093896Abstract: A system (10) for establishing bypass of a failed battery cell (18) includes a failed cell sensor (26) which on sensing a failed cell generates an electric signal that destroys clamping relation of two retaining wire spools (24) to release retaining means (14,16). Such release enables a unitary plunger assembly (28) to be moved by a spring (49) to position a cylindrical pin contact (52) in electrical shorting relation to the first and second electrodes (57,58) connected across the cell (18).Type: GrantFiled: April 5, 1999Date of Patent: July 25, 2000Inventors: Jui-Yu Wu, Matthew B. Dalton
-
Patent number: 6034602Abstract: A computer monitor system including an infrared motion detecting switch that deactivates the monitor after a predetermined delay during which no movement is detected in the vicinity of the monitor. The system is designed to prevent damage to the screens through excessive use.Type: GrantFiled: September 8, 1998Date of Patent: March 7, 2000Inventor: Stephan Brice Quibodeaux
-
Patent number: 6006661Abstract: A stamp-making apparatus is provided in which a transparent presser plate is arranged such that the presser plate is parallel with a stamp-making object material, an ink ribbon having a stamp image formed thereon is urged against the stamp-making object material via the presser plate, and exposure of the stamp-making object material to light is carried out via the ink ribbon as a mask. A ribbon feeder rolls out an ink ribbon wound around one end portion thereof to a position facing the stamp-making object material, and then rolls up the ink ribbon around another end portion thereof. A relative translation of the presser plate and the stamp-making object material is made toward each other by moving at least one of the presser plate and the stamp-making object material to thereby urge the ink ribbon against the stamp-making object material. A guide guides the ink ribbon when the ink ribbon is fed, to space between the presser plate and the stamp-making object material.Type: GrantFiled: January 17, 1997Date of Patent: December 28, 1999Assignees: Seiko Epson Corporation, King Jim Co., Ltd.Inventors: Eiji Tukahara, Hideki Oikawa, Kenichi Nakajima, Hiroshi Kuriyama, Kenji Watanabe, Takanobu Kameda, Chieko Aida, Tomoyuki Shimmura
-
Patent number: 5867083Abstract: A small-size high-performance electronic protective device (10) is provided for use in protecting communication equipment including an exchange servicing module against application of abnormal surge current due to accidental shorts between adjacent ones of power feed lines in a communications system. The protective device (10) includes positive thermistors (3a, 3b) connected between communication link input terminals (1a, 1b) and output terminals (1c, 1d) coupled to an associative equipment being protected. The protective device (10) also includes thick-film resistive elements (5a, 5b), which are connected in parallel with the thermistors (3a, 3b), respectively.Type: GrantFiled: June 28, 1996Date of Patent: February 2, 1999Assignee: Murata Manufacturing Co., Ltd.Inventors: Haruyuki Takeuchi, Michio Miyazaki, Tadao Bekku
-
Patent number: 5844463Abstract: The present invention relates to a process for regulating the temperature of a fluid circuit comprising a thermostatic valve, which consists in maintaining a leak rate through the valve once the valve has been opened a first time in order to eliminate the temperature fluctuations of the fluid around a regulation temperature. Two thermodilatable elements with different expansion temperature thresholds are used. The invention further relates to a thermostatic valve intended to regulate the temperature of a fluid around at least one value and comprising at least a first thermodilatable element. The valve further includes a second thermodilatable element for maintaining a controlled leak rate as soon as the valve has been opened (a first time).Type: GrantFiled: September 27, 1996Date of Patent: December 1, 1998Assignee: Institute Francais du PetroleInventor: Jean Trapy
-
Patent number: 5754089Abstract: A fuse structure is described in which a metallic frame is inserted between the insulation layers, through which the fuse window passes, and the final passivation layer. This frame is used as a mask during fuse window formation so alignment is simplified and problems arising from the presence of insulating residues on the surface of the fuse window layer are avoided.Type: GrantFiled: March 24, 1997Date of Patent: May 19, 1998Assignee: Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company Ltd.Inventors: Der-Cheng Chen, Peng-Cheng Chou
-
Patent number: 5748066Abstract: A controller (24) is provided to selectively release an initiator (12) having first and second members (14,16) that clampingly engage an object (18) preventing it from moving in an urged direction. A spring wire coil (20) holds the members (14,16) tightly about the object, one coil end affixed to one of the members and the other coil end is held by a pair of link wire loops (82,86) of the controller (24) which is also removably secured to one of the members (14,16) by a bolt (36). When it is desired to release the object (18) an electric current is passed through the link wire loops (82,86) of sufficient magnitude to cause the loops to break, releasing the coil (20) to unwind and, in turn, release the object for urged movement.Type: GrantFiled: September 9, 1996Date of Patent: May 5, 1998Assignee: G & H Technology, Inc.Inventor: Andrew J. Holt
-
Patent number: 5734312Abstract: An overtemperature protection assembly with a mount, a solder terminal and a bridging connector. The mount is a block of ceramic material with a slot extending therethrough. The solder terminal has an end that is located in the slot and forms a frictional connection therein. The bridging connector has a busing terminal and a spring contact. The busing terminal has an end that is located in the slot. The spring contact has a first end connected to the busing terminal and a second end that is deflected towards the solder terminal and soldered thereto. If the solder connecting the second end of the spring contact to the solder terminal melts from excessive heat, the spring contact deflects away from the solder terminal thereby breaking electrical connection between the solder terminal and the busing terminal.Type: GrantFiled: June 26, 1995Date of Patent: March 31, 1998Assignee: Black & Decker Inc.Inventors: Peter A. Czerner, Richard I. Farrington, James E. Chasen
-
Patent number: 5621373Abstract: A link wire (20) arrangement for use in a non-explosive initiator (10) includes a link wire (20) received within a pair of tubes (24,26), each tube having its outer end formed into a loop (28) and its opposite end crimped (30) to physically and electrically secure the tubes to the included link wire (20). The tubes (24,26) are encapsulated within an insulating body (16).Type: GrantFiled: August 14, 1995Date of Patent: April 15, 1997Assignee: G & H Technology, Inc.Inventor: Larry L. McCormick
-
Patent number: 5606889Abstract: The initiator (32) has a hollow spool housing (34) with sidewall slots (42,44) and within which is received a shaft (54) to be releasably retained. Spool segments (46,48) are placed within slots (42,44) and have parts extending into the housing bore (50) obstructingly engaging the shaft (54) preventing its removal. A spring coil (82) wound over the spool segments (46,48) holds them in place. Cartridge assembly (62) is releasably secured to the housing (34) and includes a link wire (72) for securing one end of the coil (82). The link wire (72) is destructible by passing an electric current therethrough exceeding a certain value.Type: GrantFiled: September 19, 1995Date of Patent: March 4, 1997Assignee: G & H Technology, Inc.Inventors: Slawomir J. Bielinski, Larry L. McCormick, Roger C. Stephenson
-
Patent number: 5600306Abstract: An electrical receptacle unit includes at least one receptacle body (3) internally provided with a pair of slotted terminals (4) for insertion of a pair of blades (L) of a load-side electrical plug (P), a thermistor (7) encased in a protective tube (9) outwardly projectable from between the slotted terminals (4) of the receptacle body (3), a coil spring (13) for projecting the thermistor (7) out from the receptacle body (3), a relay (14) for enabling and disabling supply of electric power to the slotted terminals (4), a control circuit (19) which operates the relay (14) to cut off supply of electric power to the slotted terminals (4) when the temperature of the thermistor (7) reaches or exceeds a preset temperature, and a buzzer (23) operated by an output signal produced by the control circuit (19) when the temperature of the thermistor (7) reaches or exceeds the preset temperature.Type: GrantFiled: October 12, 1995Date of Patent: February 4, 1997Assignee: Nisso Industry Co., Ltd.Inventors: Minoru Ichikawa, Teruhiko Ishinaka
-
Patent number: 5550524Abstract: An adjustable thermostat range limit apparatus consists of a base member having a pair of adjustable temperature limit means. The thermostat range limit apparatus is attached in the proximity of a conventional thermostat so that the adjustable temperature limit means can come into contact with the temperature control level of a conventional thermostat. These adjustable temperature limit means will provide for a restriction in the temperature range in which the temperature control lever can be set.Type: GrantFiled: May 31, 1994Date of Patent: August 27, 1996Inventor: Ralph W. Zimmerman
-
Patent number: 5534840Abstract: A control and/or indicator unit with screw terminals includes a one-piece body forming a flange provided with an external screwthread for fitting it by means of a nut to a support and surrounded at the rear by a cap in which are openings for wires and for access to the screws whose axes are parallel to the axis of symmetry of the body. The screws cooperate with connecting areas of bent conductive members held eccentric to the axis of symmetry in the body which provides a cylindrical internal housing open on the same side as the conductive members for at least one mobile contact plunger or a mobile contact plunger and a luminous component or a luminous component.Type: GrantFiled: July 5, 1994Date of Patent: July 9, 1996Assignee: Schneider Electric SAInventor: Patrick Cuingnet
-
Patent number: 5471888Abstract: An electrical initiator (10) includes spool halves (12,14) releasably held together by a coiled retaining wire (42). A link wire (42) also holds a spool (46) fixed to spool half (12) against connector body 16 and the other spool half (16). A cavity on the interior of the two spools physically retain a tensilely loaded shaft (18). An electric current passing through the link wire (42) causes it to become brittle and break releasing the spool halves and contained shaft (18).Type: GrantFiled: April 12, 1994Date of Patent: December 5, 1995Assignee: G & H Technology, Inc.Inventor: Larry L. McCormick
-
Patent number: 5438173Abstract: The present invention is a cell bypass switch particularly designed for aerospace applications. The cell bypass switch can sense a battery cell failure and automatically opens an alternate path around the failed cell, bypassing the failure and allowing the remainder of the battery system to continue its function. The cell bypass switch is designed to be placed in parallel with the battery cell it protects. The present invention includes two electro-mechanical actuator assemblies which are mounted on the top end of the housing for operating two plungers respectively. Each of the electro-mechanical actuator assembly includes two spool halves which are held together by a tight winding of a restraining wire that terminates in a bridge wire connecting two electrical terminals of the electro-mechanical actuator. Each spool, by virtue of the restraining wire winding, can restrain a spring loaded plunger.Type: GrantFiled: January 27, 1994Date of Patent: August 1, 1995Assignee: G & H Technology, Inc.Inventors: Edward Rudoy, Leslie Kerek