Voltage Patents (Class 340/660)
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Publication number: 20140139346Abstract: A circuit is provided. The circuit includes a control circuit, a voltage sensor coupled to the control circuit, an indicator signal coupled to the control circuit, and at least one current source. The control circuit, responsive to the voltage sensor, is configured to detect a first classification voltage within a classification voltage range defined by a lower classification voltage limit and upper classification voltage limit, detect, after detecting the first classification voltage, an indexing voltage outside of the classification voltage range, and detect a second classification voltage within the classification voltage range. The at least one current source provides a first and second predetermined classification current responsive to the first classification voltage and the second classification voltage, respectively.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 27, 2014Publication date: May 22, 2014Applicant: Nevermore Solutions LLCInventors: Yair Darshan, Eli Ohana
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Patent number: 8723678Abstract: A battery load detecting device includes: a battery check pulse generator generating a check pulse in response to a check enable signal; a constant voltage regulator generating a battery status signal in response to a first battery check signal; and a battery detection determining unit comparing a predetermined reference signal with the battery status signal to generate a comparison result signal, using the comparison result signal and the check pulse to generate a second battery check signal, and using the second battery check signal to generate a battery detection signal indicating whether a chargeable battery is electrically connected to the constant voltage regulator.Type: GrantFiled: January 5, 2010Date of Patent: May 13, 2014Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.Inventors: Ho-Jung Ju, Jung-Woo Ha
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Patent number: 8718719Abstract: A system and method for managing battery slump in a battery-powered communications device including: an input configured for receiving battery voltage level information; an output configured for sending a signal for terminating a transmission; and a controller connected to the input and the output and configured to receive the battery voltage level information from the input; monitor the battery voltage level information; and send a signal via the output to terminate a transmission if the battery voltage level information crosses a predetermined threshold during the transmission. In particular, the system and method may further include an input connected to the controller and configured for receiving a signal indicating when a transmission is beginning or occurring and the controller is further configured to receive and monitor the battery voltage level information only when the transmission is occurring.Type: GrantFiled: September 27, 2011Date of Patent: May 6, 2014Assignee: BlackBerry LimitedInventors: Martin George Albert Guthrie, Richard C. Madter, Dusan Veselic, Christopher Simon Book, Kent Arnold Nickerson
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Patent number: 8692680Abstract: A residual-current circuit breaker includes at least one summation current transformer through which a first lead and a second lead of a network to be protected are guided. At least one secondary winding is arranged on the summation current transformer and operatively connected, at least indirectly, with an energy storage element. A trip element is operatively connected with break contacts in the first and second leads. In order to reduce expected cut-offs of a network to be protected, an electric signaling device is operatively connected, at least indirectly, with the energy storage element.Type: GrantFiled: June 17, 2009Date of Patent: April 8, 2014Assignee: Moeller Geräudeautomation GmbHInventors: Gerhard Dobusch, Michael Bartonek
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Publication number: 20140062708Abstract: A voltage gradient detector provides notice when a potentially hazardous voltage gradient is present in water, employing at least one pair of spaced-apart electrodes connected to an LED. The electrode spacing is selected such that, when exposed to a sufficiently large voltage gradient, the voltage between the electrodes causes activation of the LED. The LED can provide visual illumination, or can be a part of a switching device such as a photoMOS relay that in turn activates an alarm device such as an audible sounder or a high-intensity light. Sensitivity in multiple directions can be attained by employing a pair of LEDs between the electrodes, and by employing three pairs of electrodes and associated LED pairs, with the pairs of electrodes being spaced apart along substantially orthogonal axes. These pairs may be discrete or may share an electrode in common.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 7, 2013Publication date: March 6, 2014Inventor: George S. Cargill, III
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Publication number: 20140049398Abstract: An indicator system for an alternating current power bus includes an electret operatively associated with the alternating current power bus. The electret has an output with an alternating current voltage when the alternating current power bus is energized. A rectifier includes an input electrically interconnected with the output of the electret and an output having a direct current voltage responsive to the alternating current voltage of the output of the electret. An electroluminescent indicator includes an input electrically interconnected with the output of the rectifier and an indication output responsive to the direct current voltage of the output of the rectifier. A number of capacitors are electrically connected in parallel with the input of the electroluminescent indicator.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 17, 2012Publication date: February 20, 2014Inventors: John A. KOVACICH, Jerry H. SCHROEDER, Carl ANDERSON, John TRUBLOWSKI
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Patent number: 8634942Abstract: A device, a remote control unit and method for controlling a plurality of devices, the method including receiving one of a plurality of user commands as an input; and transmitting one of a first and a second of the plurality of control commands in response to the one of the plurality of user commands. The first of the plurality of control commands includes information for simultaneously controlling a first device of a manufacturer and a second device of the manufacturer. The second of the plurality of control commands includes information for controlling the first device without controlling the second device.Type: GrantFiled: October 20, 2009Date of Patent: January 21, 2014Assignee: LG Electronics Inc.Inventors: Su Dong Hong, Su Deok Jo, Kuk Ho Bae
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Publication number: 20130335230Abstract: A circuit is provided. The circuit includes a control circuit, a voltage sensor coupled to the control circuit, and an indicator signal coupled to the control circuit. The control circuit, responsive to the voltage sensor, is configured to detect a first classification voltage within a classification voltage range defined by a lower classification voltage limit and upper classification voltage limit, detect, after detecting the first classification voltage, an indexing voltage outside of the classification voltage range, and detect, after detecting the indexing voltage, a second classification voltage within the classification voltage range. The control circuit is further configured to set the indicator signal to a first predetermined state indicating a power type based on the detected first classification voltage, indexing voltage and second classification voltage.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 20, 2013Publication date: December 19, 2013Applicant: NEVERMORE SOLUTIONS LLCInventors: Yair Darshan, Eli Ohana
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Publication number: 20130328687Abstract: An electrical sensor is described. The electrical sensor including an electrical signal input configured to receive an electrical signal, an alarm, one or more inputs configured to set a configuration value corresponding to one or more indicators on the electrical sensor, and monitor. The monitor is coupled with the electrical signal input, the alarm, and the one or more inputs. Further, the monitor is configured to determine a characteristic of the electrical signal received on the electrical signal input. And, the monitor is configured to activate the alarm based on the configuration value set by the one or more inputs and the characteristic of the electrical signal.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 8, 2012Publication date: December 12, 2013Applicant: Neilsen-Kuljian, Inc.Inventors: Huy D. Nguyen, Roger Borders
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Patent number: 8599031Abstract: A system for detecting stray voltage in a conductive object is disclosed herein. The system includes a pick-up element, electrical circuitry, a housing for enclosing the circuitry, a support for mounting the housing, and an indicator. The pick-up element is separated from the conductive object and capable of detecting an electric field from the conductive object. The support of the housing is such that the pick-up element remains separated from the conductive object. The electrical circuitry determines a voltage level corresponding to the electric field detected by the pick-up element and generates, based on a comparison of the determined voltage level relative to a reference voltage level, an indicator signal representative of whether stray voltage is present in the conductive object. Based on the indicator signal, the indicator indicates to a user of the system whether stray voltage is present in the conductive object.Type: GrantFiled: November 16, 2010Date of Patent: December 3, 2013Assignee: NSTAR Electric CompanyInventors: Lawrence J. Gelbien, Werner J. Schweiger, Philip B. Andreas
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Patent number: 8599030Abstract: A communication apparatus includes a communication connector, a communication section, a connection section, a state detector, a controller and a warning section. The communication section controls communication performed through the communication connector, to which a communication plug is connected. The connection section connects the communication connector and the communication section. The state detector generates a state detection signal corresponding to a connection state of the communication plug relative to the communication connector. The controller determines which of a normal connection state, an improper connection state and a non-connection state the communication plug is in based on the state detection signal. The controller also controls an ON-OFF operation of the connection section. The warning section notifies a user of results determined by the controller.Type: GrantFiled: June 10, 2010Date of Patent: December 3, 2013Assignee: Oki Data CorporationInventors: Minoru Kanno, Kazuo Nakazawa
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Patent number: 8555522Abstract: A method for operating a laundry treating appliance, such as a clothes dryer, having a treating chamber, an air system for supplying and exiting air from the treating chamber, a heating element for heating the air to the treating chamber, and a controller determining an inlet temperature used as a control input for a cycle of operation.Type: GrantFiled: October 21, 2010Date of Patent: October 15, 2013Assignee: Whirlpool CorporationInventors: Ryan R. Bellinger, James P. Carow, Michele A. Paustian, David M. Williams
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Patent number: 8558711Abstract: A monitoring system for a NAC (Notification Appliance Circuit) is provided. The monitoring system includes a system controller, and a NAC comprised of notification appliances that may be in a series. The NAC and its appliances may be operatively coupled to the system controller. The system controller is operable to determine whether a notification appliance has sufficient voltage at a low voltage operation.Type: GrantFiled: July 5, 2007Date of Patent: October 15, 2013Assignee: SimplexGrinnell LPInventors: Kenneth E. Savage, Jr., Anthony J. Capowski, Mark P. Barrieau
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Patent number: 8547242Abstract: A detecting circuit includes an indicating light, a switch component, and a control component. The indicating light indicates whether a voltage rail output by a power supply is within a predetermined voltage range. The switch component has a first terminal connected to the voltage rail, a second terminal connected to the indicating light, and a control terminal. The control component is connected to the control terminal of the switch component. The control component switches on the switch component to power on the indicating light when the voltage rail is within the predetermined voltage range, or switches off the switch component to power off the indicating light when the voltage rail is out of the predetermined voltage range.Type: GrantFiled: February 11, 2011Date of Patent: October 1, 2013Assignees: Hong Fu Jin Precision Industry (ShenZhen) Co., Ltd., Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.Inventors: Ling-Yu Xie, Xing-Ping Xie
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Patent number: 8543251Abstract: Aspects of the present invention provide a solution for controlling electricity to a device. A sensor is associated with a device that is independently coupled to an electricity distribution network. The sensor senses electricity usage for the device. Based on the sensed electricity usage for the device, an electricity usage pattern is identified for the device. This electricity usage pattern is used to identify a classification of the device. Based on this device classification the supply of electricity to the device can be controlled as needed by the provider.Type: GrantFiled: December 20, 2010Date of Patent: September 24, 2013Assignee: International Business Machines CorporationInventor: Laurence J. Plant
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Patent number: 8537022Abstract: The invention provides a method for configurable ground monitoring of a workbench, and the method comprises the steps as follows. The step of detecting if each of monitored objects of a monitor device is enable should be performed first. A digital value of each of the monitored objects according to detecting result is then calculated and accumulated. The step of detecting if each of the monitored objects reaches a predetermined number of samples is performed, and the step of calculating an average value of each of the monitored objects according to detecting result is followed. The average measured value is compared with a predetermined digital limit-value of each of the monitored objects; furthermore, a corresponding alarm will be sounded when the average measured value exceeds the predetermined digital limit-value. The digital value and a compared result are then sent, and then the step of detecting if the operator ground connection is enabled is performed.Type: GrantFiled: April 15, 2011Date of Patent: September 17, 2013Inventor: Tony-Sheng Lin
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Patent number: 8519857Abstract: Systems and methods of controlling a fan in an electronic system are disclosed. One example method includes obtaining a control setting of the fan and current speed of the fan. The example method further includes determining a fan speed threshold associated with the obtained control setting. The example method further includes comparing the fan speed threshold to the current speed. The example method further includes generating an alert based on the comparison.Type: GrantFiled: September 3, 2008Date of Patent: August 27, 2013Assignee: Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P.Inventors: Steven S. Homer, Jeffrey A. Lev, Mark H. Ruch, Mark S. Tracy
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Publication number: 20130214922Abstract: An electrical safety monitor for monitoring electrical energy potentials of one or more electrical power input lines of an A.C. circuit. The electrical safety monitor including one or more detector circuits, each including one or more capacitors corresponding to one or more electrical power input lines arranged to charge responsive to an electrical energy potential on the corresponding line and a discharge circuit electrically communicating with the one or more capacitors to cause a capacitor discharge at a predetermined capacitor voltage. A plurality of solid-state light-emitting devices disposed in a human-viewable arrangement, each light emitting device electrically communicating with a selected capacitor and producing a light output responsive to capacitor discharge of the corresponding capacitor. A testing circuit generates a test current through the one or more detectors circuits providing verification of the electrical safety monitor integrity.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 17, 2012Publication date: August 22, 2013Inventor: Roger S. Clarke
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Patent number: 8508370Abstract: Synthetic thermoelectric materials comprising phononic crystals can simultaneously have a large Seebeck coefficient, high electrical conductivity, and low thermal conductivity. Such synthetic thermoelectric materials can enable improved thermoelectric devices, such as thermoelectric generators and coolers, with improved performance. Such synthetic thermoelectric materials and devices can be fabricated using techniques that are compatible with standard microelectronics.Type: GrantFiled: June 9, 2011Date of Patent: August 13, 2013Assignee: Sandia CorporationInventors: Ihab F. El-Kady, Roy H. Olsson, Patrick Hopkins, Charles Reinke, Bongsang Kim
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Publication number: 20130201027Abstract: A low cost method and apparatus for detecting faults in a solar module comprising the steps of monitoring the voltage across each string of cells within the module's junction box and signaling an alarm at the module and or at a remote location if any of the voltages across the strings of cells drop below an acceptable voltage threshold, thereby indicating a fault condition.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 3, 2012Publication date: August 8, 2013Inventor: Charles E. Bucher
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Patent number: 8502688Abstract: The disclosure relates to a process of configuring a standalone self-supplied numeric controlled relay for providing phase and earth over current protection to electrical systems by accurate current measurement. The arrangement for current measurement with control algorithms is provided for power control by providing amplified and conditioned current for optimization between the current to power an electronic circuit and the fidelity of a measured current waveform so that they both are at the acceptable levels at the same time. This disclosure describes the current sensing and associated algorithm for power control in a truly self-powered relay.Type: GrantFiled: August 16, 2010Date of Patent: August 6, 2013Assignee: ABB Technology LtdInventors: Niraj Suthar, Vijay Shah, Maulik Vyas, Bernhard Deck
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Patent number: 8502689Abstract: The present invention provides a system and method for the detection of plasma excursions, such as arcs, micro-arcs, or other plasma instability, during plasma processing by directly monitoring direct current (DC) bias voltage on an RF power electrode of a plasma processing chamber. The monitored DC bias voltage is then passed through a succession of analog filters and amplifiers to provide a plasma excursion signal. The plasma excursion signal is compared to a preset value, and at points where the plasma excursion signal exceeds the preset value, an alarm signal is generated. The alarm signal is then fed back into a system controller so that an operator can be alerted and/or the processing system can be shut down. In certain embodiments, multiple processing regions can be monitored by a single detection control unit.Type: GrantFiled: September 23, 2010Date of Patent: August 6, 2013Assignee: Applied Materials, Inc.Inventors: Jian J. Chen, Mohamad Ayoub
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Patent number: 8502649Abstract: Systems and methods convey information from a controller to at least one slave unit using a single wire referenced to an alternating current (AC) power supply. A control signal has a high voltage and a low voltage. The high voltage is greater than a voltage midpoint of the AC power supply and the low voltage is less than the voltage midpoint. The control signal is conveyed through the single wire to each of the at least one slave unit. At each slave unit, a comparison voltage, representative of the voltage midpoint, is generated by dividing substantially midway the potentials between the power lines of the AC power supply and the control signal is compared to the comparison voltage to determine low and high states of the control signal; the low and high states represent the information.Type: GrantFiled: August 29, 2012Date of Patent: August 6, 2013Assignee: Albeo Technologies, Inc.Inventor: Peter Van Laanen
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Patent number: 8488428Abstract: An optical article comprising a first file encoded on the optical article comprising data structure information; a second file encoded on the optical article comprising a backup of the first file; wherein at least one of the first file or the second file must be fully readable for the player to read the data on the optical article; and a mark disposed on at least a portion of the optical article where the first file is encoded and at least a portion of the optical article where the second file is encoded; wherein the mark comprises an optical state change material; wherein the optical state change material undergoes a change in its optical state when exposed to an activation signal selected from one or more of a laser, thermal energy, infrared rays, X-rays, gamma rays, microwaves, visible light, ultraviolet light, ultrasound waves, radio frequency waves, electrical energy, chemical energy, magnetic energy, and mechanical energy; wherein the optical article is transformed from a pre-activated state to an activType: GrantFiled: May 14, 2008Date of Patent: July 16, 2013Assignee: NBCUniversal Media, LLCInventors: Marc Brian Wisnudel, Ben Purushotam Patel, Kasiraman Krishnan, James Mitchell White, Andrea Jeannine Peters, Matthew Jeremiah Misner, Mark Rogers Johnson
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Patent number: 8456315Abstract: A monitoring device (6,10) monitors the functioning of a reporting system (1). The reporting system (1) includes a plurality of reporting devices (4) and/or signaling devices, supply lines (3), and a voltage source. The reporting devices (4) and/or signaling devices are connected to the voltage source via the supply lines (3), and the reporting devices (4) and/or signaling devices are connected in parallel to one another and to the voltage source. A test signal device (6) connects a reference resistor (R) into the supply lines (3) in parallel with the reporting devices (4) and/or signaling devices, and/or connects the reference resistor (R) as a termination of the supply lines (3). An evaluation device (10) detects and evaluates the system response of the reporting system (1) to the connecting of the reference resistor (R).Type: GrantFiled: November 24, 2008Date of Patent: June 4, 2013Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbHInventors: Stefan Kriz, Ingo Knopp, Marcus Preisinger
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Patent number: 8446286Abstract: A digital voltage detector system that is compatible with existing Armament Circuits Preload Test Sets is described. Adjustment of under and over voltage trip points is accommodated in accordance with conventional means. The digital voltage detector is compatible with all conventional Voltage Detector interface cables and adapters. Unlike the conventional voltage detector of existing Armament Circuits Preload Test Sets, over-voltage trips do not blow a fuse, eliminating the need to have replacement fuses or redundant conventional voltage detectors in an Armament Circuits Preload Test Set. Additionally, the digital voltage detector provides a digital voltage readout allowing the user to view the input voltage during a Presence of Voltage test. The digital voltage detector system facilitates timely and efficient execution of the Armament Circuits Preload Test series.Type: GrantFiled: May 23, 2012Date of Patent: May 21, 2013Assignee: Williams-Pyro, Inc.Inventor: Andrew W. Stell
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Patent number: 8427332Abstract: A circuit where a rotary push switch module with first and second switches are closed and first and second terminals of a NAND gate receive high level signals. An output terminal of the NAND gate outputs a low level signal. A light emitting diode (LED) is not lit. A voltage output terminal outputs a standby voltage. When the first switch is opened, and the second switch is closed, the first and the second input terminals of the NAND gate respectively receive a high level signal and a low level signal. The output terminal of the NAND gate outputs a high level signal. The LED is lit. The voltage output terminal does not output the standby voltage.Type: GrantFiled: May 10, 2011Date of Patent: April 23, 2013Assignees: Hong Fu Jin Precision Industry (ShenZhen) Co., Ltd., Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.Inventors: Xiang Cao, Hai-Qing Zhou
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Patent number: 8421645Abstract: An electrostatic protector used in a portable electronic device includes an electrostatic conducting unit and an electrostatic protecting unit connected to the electrostatic conducting unit. The electrostatic protecting unit includes at least one protecting circuit, each protecting circuit includes a diode, and the diode has a cathode connected to the electrostatic conducting unit and an anode grounded. Electrostatic charges on the portable electronic device are transmitted to the electrostatic conducting unit and generate a voltage on the cathode of the diode to break down the diode, such that the electrostatic charges are transmitted to the ground via the broken down diode and the voltage on the cathode of the diode is reduced.Type: GrantFiled: May 21, 2010Date of Patent: April 16, 2013Assignee: FIH (Hong Kong) LimitedInventor: Hsing-Yuan Hsieh
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Patent number: 8421639Abstract: A power meter for monitoring current in a power cable annunciates an alarm if the current transgresses one or more alarm current limits. False alarms are avoided by delaying the activation of the alarm for a delay interval following determination that current is flowing in the monitored conductor.Type: GrantFiled: November 20, 2009Date of Patent: April 16, 2013Assignee: Veris Industries, LLCInventors: Michael Bitsch, Marc Bowman
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Publication number: 20130076520Abstract: An indicator system for an alternating current power bus includes an electret operatively associated with the alternating current power bus. The electret includes an output having an alternating current voltage when the alternating current power bus is energized. A rectifier includes an input electrically interconnected with the output of the electret and an output having a direct current voltage responsive to the alternating current voltage of the output of the electret. An indicator includes an input electrically interconnected with the output of the rectifier and an indication output responsive to the direct current voltage of the output of the rectifier.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 23, 2011Publication date: March 28, 2013Inventors: John A. Kovacich, John Trublowski
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Patent number: 8395520Abstract: A device for monitoring a voltage of a motherboard includes a first monitoring circuit, a second monitoring circuit, and an indicating circuit. The first and monitoring circuits are connected to output a control voltage. A value of the control voltage is determined according to a value of the voltage of the motherboard. The control voltage is reduced to control the indicating circuit. The indicating circuit indicates whether the voltage of the motherboard is normal.Type: GrantFiled: December 4, 2009Date of Patent: March 12, 2013Assignees: Hong Fu Jin Precision Industry (ShenZhen) Co., Ltd., Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.Inventor: Jin-Liang Xiong
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Publication number: 20130057409Abstract: The present invention relates to a watchdog timer dedicated to the display controller of a voltage detector wherein the watchdog determines a malfunction in the microcontroller and triggers a visual warning to be displayed via the display controller. This prevents inaccurate voltage information from being displayed in the case of a microcontroller malfunction and thereby the user from being exposed to the risk of extreme injury through, for example, a high-voltage shock.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 5, 2012Publication date: March 7, 2013Applicant: Fluke CorporationInventor: Lutz Rodehorst
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Patent number: 8390465Abstract: A residual-current circuit breaker includes at least one summation current transformer through which at least one first lead and one second lead of a network to be protected are guided. At least one secondary winding is arranged on the summation current transformer and operatively connected at least indirectly with at least one energy storage element. At least one discharging resistor is switched in parallel with the energy storage element. The residual-current circuit breaker has a trip element which is operatively connected with break contacts in the at least one first lead and the at least one second lead. In order to reduce unexpected cut-offs of a network to be protected, the at least one discharging resistor includes a first partial resistor, and a second partial resistor switched in series with respect to the first partial resistor, with a least one electric signaling device operatively connected, at least indirectly, with the first partial resistor.Type: GrantFiled: June 12, 2009Date of Patent: March 5, 2013Assignee: Moeller Gebaudeautomation GmbHInventors: Rainer Meisel, Georg Ritzinger
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Patent number: 8378819Abstract: A main electrode is located in a vehicle seat. A guard electrode is located between a grounded vehicle body and the main electrode. A detection unit selectively applies an alternating voltage signal to the main electrode and the guard electrode, sets the main electrode and the guard electrode to be in an open state or a grounded state, detects an electric current of one of the main electrode and the guard electrode, converts the selected electric current into a voltage value, and detects an overcurrent in the main electrode and the guard electrode. A control unit determines the main electrode and the guard electrode to be an open failure, a power supply short failure, a grounded failure, or a short failure with the guard electrode, according to one or a combination of the voltage value and detection or non-detection of an overcurrent.Type: GrantFiled: June 15, 2010Date of Patent: February 19, 2013Assignee: Denso CorporationInventor: Kouji Ootaka
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Patent number: 8374809Abstract: A transceiver module for monitoring a voltage distribution network that includes a voltage carrying power line and a transmitter along the voltage carrying power line for transmitting a first monitoring signal that includes information related to the condition of the voltage distribution network. The transceiver module comprises a receiver located along the voltage carrying power line at a distance from the transmitter, the receiver configured to receive the first monitoring signal; a sensor that monitors a condition of the voltage distribution network and produces a sensor signal that contains information related to the condition being monitored; and a monitor in communication with the receiver and the sensor thereby receiving the first monitoring signal and the sensor signal, the monitor configured to provide a second monitoring signal that includes the information contained in the first monitoring signal and the sensor signal.Type: GrantFiled: February 27, 2009Date of Patent: February 12, 2013Assignee: Electronic Technology, Inc.Inventors: David DeLeo, Franklin Miller
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Publication number: 20130015979Abstract: Apparatus and methods for detecting stray voltage anomalies in electric fields are provided herein. In some embodiments, an apparatus for detecting an electrical field may comprise: at least one sensor probe for generating data corresponding to an electrical field detected by the at least one sensor probe, wherein the at least one sensor probe comprises at least one electrode; a processor, coupled to the at least one sensor probe, for analyzing the data to identify a voltage anomaly in the electric field; and an indicator, coupled to the processor, for alerting a user to a presence of the voltage anomaly in the electric field.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 14, 2012Publication date: January 17, 2013Applicant: POWER SURVEY LLCInventors: DAVID KALOKITIS, LEONARD JOSHUA SCHULTZ, CHRISTOS ALKIVIADIS POLYZOIS, VINCENT PARAGANO
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Patent number: 8354936Abstract: A capacitive passenger detector includes: a capacitive sensor having main, sub and guard electrodes; a sensor characteristic measurement unit for applying an alternating voltage signal to each electrode and for converting a current in each electrode to a voltage; and a controller. The controller defines a current in the guard electrode as a reference current when voltages of the main and guard electrodes have a same potential. The controller defines a current flowing direction of the guard electrode to be negative when the voltage of the main electrode is higher than the guard electrode. The controller defines the current flowing direction of the guard electrode to be positive when the voltage of the main electrode is lower than the guard electrode. The controller corrects the voltage of the main electrode based on the current of the guard electrode so that a corrected voltage is set to be a passenger determination data.Type: GrantFiled: June 15, 2010Date of Patent: January 15, 2013Assignee: Denso CorporationInventor: Kouji Ootaka
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Publication number: 20130010110Abstract: Apparatus and methods for detecting stray voltage anomalies in electric fields are provided herein. In some embodiments, an apparatus for detecting an electrical field may comprise: at least one sensor probe for generating data corresponding to an electrical field detected by the at least one sensor probe, wherein the at least one sensor probe comprises at least one electrode; a processor, coupled to the at least one sensor probe, for analyzing the data to identify a voltage anomaly in the electric field; and an indicator, coupled to the processor, for alerting a user to a presence of the voltage anomaly in the electric field.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 14, 2012Publication date: January 10, 2013Applicant: POWER SURVEY LLCInventors: DAVID KALOKITIS, LEONARD JOSHUA SCHULTZ, CHRISTOS ALKIVIADIS POLYZOIS, VINCENT PARAGANO
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Patent number: 8339270Abstract: An apparatus and method for protecting against electrocution hazards that arise when an appliance is electrically connected to a miswired single-phase AC electrical source which includes an energized ground lead are described. The apparatus includes one or more sensors that detect electrical energy in the ground lead combined with a miswiring condition in the hot and common leads. A tester embodiment is also illustrated. The method includes the steps of detecting if the putative ground of the electrical source is energized and whether the hot and common leads are reversed.Type: GrantFiled: December 21, 2007Date of Patent: December 25, 2012Assignee: General Wire Spring CompanyInventors: Arthur A. Silverman, Anton D. Pfeiffer
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Patent number: 8319638Abstract: A motion detector and a method for detecting a tampering of the motion detector. The tampering can include a spraying or brushing of a lens of the motion detector. The motion detector comprises a lens, a single sensing section for detecting infrared signals within a protected area, and detecting vibrations on the lens in the form of acoustic signals, the vibrations and the infrared signal causing a voltage change in the single sensing section, a first and second amplifier for amplifying the voltage change for processing for tampering and motion, respectively, first and second filter for filtering the voltage change for processing for tampering and motion, respectively, a microcontroller for determining if the detected voltage change is consistent with a pattern that is indicative of tampering or motion and alarm generating section for generating a tamper alarm or a motion alarm based upon the determination by the microprocessor.Type: GrantFiled: November 14, 2007Date of Patent: November 27, 2012Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.Inventor: Richard A. Smith
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Publication number: 20120286962Abstract: An input device including a control unit and an indicator is illustrated. The indicator further includes an indicating unit and a driving unit. The control unit is configured to receive a control signal and trigger an indication voltage according to the control signal to output an indication current to the driving unit. The indicating unit has multiple indication faces. The driving unit is electronically connected with the control unit and is coupled to the indicating unit, and is used to drive the indicating unit to switch to one of the multiple indication faces based on the direction of the received indication current.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 3, 2011Publication date: November 15, 2012Applicants: LITE-ON TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION, SILITEK ELECTRONIC (GUANGZHOU) CO., LTD.Inventors: ER-HAO CHEN, TAO-CHENG YEN, CHIN-FA WU
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Patent number: 8305222Abstract: A device for detecting and signaling malfunctions in use of electrical appliances which have a cyclical or a continuous central measuring and processing unit connected to two input/output ports for connecting between a source of electrical power and an electrical appliance respectively. The central unit is connected to at least one signaling element controlled by a malfunction occurrence signal that is processed by the central unit.Type: GrantFiled: November 23, 2007Date of Patent: November 6, 2012Inventors: Pierluigi Ansaldi, Ezio Lazzareschi
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Patent number: 8290695Abstract: Probe data is analyzed to derive Longitudinal Speed Profiles (LSPs) and an Optimal Longitudinal Speed Profile (18) for each road segment or link in a digital map network. The Longitudinal Speed Profiles (LSPs) profiles are calculated during defined time spans whereas the Optimal Longitudinal Speed Profile (18) is based on the LSP for the time span corresponding only to free flow traffic conditions. All of the LSPs can used to create a respective energy cost for each time span, or only the OLSP (18) can be used (or alternatively the RRDSL 16 or LRRDSL 17) to calculate an energy cost for the free flow conditions only. The energy cost can be used to predict the energy required by a vehicle to traverse the link. Navigation software can use the energy cost to plan the most energy efficient route between two locations in the digital map. Sensory signals can be activated if a driver strays from the Optimal Longitudinal Speed Profile (18) to achieve extremely high levels of energy efficiency.Type: GrantFiled: January 13, 2010Date of Patent: October 16, 2012Inventors: Volker Hiestermann, Robert Joannes Van Essen, Edwin Bastiaensen, Stephen T'Siobbel
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Patent number: 8284035Abstract: Systems and methods convey information from a controller to at least one slave unit using a single wire referenced to an alternating current (AC) power supply. A control signal has a high voltage and a low voltage. The high voltage is greater than a voltage midpoint of the AC power supply and the low voltage is less than the voltage midpoint. The control signal is conveyed through the single wire to each of the at least one slave unit. At each slave unit, a comparison voltage, representative of the voltage midpoint, is generated by dividing substantially midway the potentials between the power lines of the AC power supply and the control signal is compared to the comparison voltage to determine low and high states of the control signal; the low and high states represent the information.Type: GrantFiled: September 26, 2008Date of Patent: October 9, 2012Assignee: Albeo Technologies, Inc.Inventor: Peter Van Laanen
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Patent number: 8279074Abstract: A system, apparatus, and method for generating backup power in a wireless communications system such as a wireless communications service base station includes a communications interface, a primary power interface, a generator, rectifiers, and a battery circuit. During normal operation, the communications interface is powered from the primary power interface. During a power outage, the communications interface is powered from either the generator or the battery circuit. A battery circuit monitoring circuit detects and/or predicts loose, corroded, intermittent, high resistance, arcing, open, shorted, and/or the like connections.Type: GrantFiled: February 3, 2009Date of Patent: October 2, 2012Assignee: T-Mobile USA, Inc.Inventor: Steve Fischer
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Publication number: 20120224709Abstract: A communication system and a voice activation system and method for the communication system include a headset and a microphone. The voice activation system includes an adjustable first input voltage and a second input voltage. A controller compares the adjustable first input voltage and the second input voltage and generates an alert indicating an adjustment to the adjustable first input voltage.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 2, 2012Publication date: September 6, 2012Applicant: DAVID CLARK COMPANY INCORPORATEDInventors: Natan Keddem, Nicholas J. Cannata
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Patent number: 8258970Abstract: A method of detection of the presence of a contactless communication element by a terminal emitting an electromagnetic field, in which an oscillating circuit of the terminal is excited at a frequency which is made variable between two values surrounding a nominal tuning frequency of the oscillating circuit; a signal representative of the load of the oscillating circuit being interpreted to detect that a reference voltage has not been exceeded, which indicates the presence of an element in the field. A presence-detection circuit and a corresponding terminal.Type: GrantFiled: July 23, 2009Date of Patent: September 4, 2012Assignee: STMicroelectronics (Rousset) SASInventors: Alexandre Charles, Jérôme Conraux, Alexandre Malherbe, Alexandre Tramoni
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Patent number: 8248261Abstract: A digital voltage detector system that is compatible with existing Armament Circuits Preload Test Sets is described. Adjustment of under and over voltage trip points is accommodated in accordance with conventional means. The digital voltage detector is compatible with all conventional Voltage Detector interface cables and adapters. Unlike the conventional voltage detector of existing Armament Circuits Preload Test Sets, over-voltage trips do not blow a fuse, eliminating the need to have replacement fuses or redundant conventional voltage detectors in an Armament Circuits Preload Test Set. Additionally, the digital voltage detector provides a digital voltage readout allowing the user to view the input voltage during a Presence of Voltage test. The digital voltage detector system facilitates timely and efficient execution of the Armament Circuits Preload Test series.Type: GrantFiled: June 10, 2008Date of Patent: August 21, 2012Assignee: Williams-Pyro Inc.Inventor: Andrew W. Stell
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Patent number: 8223031Abstract: A device and method for detecting ground potential rise (GPR) comprising a first electrode, a second electrode, and a voltage attenuator. The first electrode and the second electrode are both electrically connected to the voltage attenuator. A means for determining the presence of a dangerous ground potential is connected to the voltage attenuator. The device and method further comprises a means for enabling one or more alarms upon the detection of the dangerous ground potential. Preferably, a first transmitter/receiver is connected to the means for enabling one or more alarms. Preferably, a second transmitter/receiver, comprising a button, is electromagnetically connected to the first transmitter/receiver. Preferably, the means for determining the presence of a dangerous ground potential comprises a means for determining the true RMS voltage at the output of the voltage attenuator, a transient detector connected to the output of the voltage attenuator, or a combination thereof.Type: GrantFiled: July 27, 2011Date of Patent: July 17, 2012Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Department of EnergyInventors: Zachery Warren Allen, Gary Allen Zevenbergen
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Patent number: RE43638Abstract: A system for indicating a power condition in a conductor includes an indicator constructed to provide notification to a user of a utility power condition, and a sensor non-electrically connected to a utility conductor to control operation of the indicator in response to detection of power in the utility conductor.Type: GrantFiled: June 17, 2011Date of Patent: September 11, 2012Assignee: Reliance Controls CorporationInventor: Neil A. Czarnecki