Overvoltage Patents (Class 340/662)
  • Patent number: 11984903
    Abstract: To provide a variable reference voltage source for which a measuring instrument is unnecessary for calibration on the outside. A variable reference voltage source that generates a variable reference voltage corresponding to setting data set from outside includes a control unit including a calibration control unit that controls operation for calibrating an offset and a predetermined unit voltage inside the variable reference voltage source and an output control unit that controls operation for outputting the variable reference voltage, a reference voltage unit that outputs a reference voltage Vref, and an integrated-voltage generating unit that repeats, when the calibration control unit controls the operation, an integrating operation until an integrated voltage obtained by integrating the predetermined unit voltage becomes equal to the reference voltage Vref and outputs, when the output control unit controls the operation, the variable reference voltage corresponding to the setting data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2019
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2024
    Assignee: NIPPON TELEGRAPH AND TELEPHONE CORPORATION
    Inventors: Tadashi Minotani, Kenichi Matsunaga
  • Patent number: 11881702
    Abstract: A switching module includes a determiner to open a first bidirectional switch and close a second bidirectional switch from a first time point over a testing period to determine that the first bidirectional switch has a short circuit failure when a differential absolute value of voltage values detected by voltmeters is equal to a preset voltage threshold value or less, and to open the first bidirectional switch and close the second bidirectional switch from a second time point after a period of n+½ times, where n is a positive integer, the set cycle from the first time point elapses, over a testing period to determine that the first bidirectional switch has a short circuit failure when a differential absolute value of the voltage values detected by the voltmeters is equal to the voltage threshold value or less.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2021
    Date of Patent: January 23, 2024
    Assignee: MURATA MANUFACTURING CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Hideaki Nomura, Michiya Mori
  • Patent number: 11860211
    Abstract: Systems and methods are described for monitoring a high voltage electrical system in a vehicle. An interface circuit is configured to provide isolation between a high voltage component of the vehicle and a control module. The interface circuit comprises a high voltage constant current source, a voltage threshold detector and an electrical isolation circuit. The high voltage constant current source is configured to receive an input at a first voltage from the high voltage component. The voltage threshold detector is configured to receive an output from the high voltage constant current source and to output a signal to indicate whether the voltage of the high voltage component is at, or below, a desired voltage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2021
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2024
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Michael Robert Garrard, Christopher Michael John West
  • Patent number: 11536646
    Abstract: An electronic apparatus includes a wiring board. The wiring board also includes a first wiring pattern that is provided on the wiring board and includes a first wiring portion extending in a first direction. The wiring board further includes a second wiring pattern that includes a second wiring portion extending in the first direction. The wiring also includes a first via provided on the first wiring portion, and a second via provided on the second wiring portion. A power supply circuit applies a first voltage to the first wiring portion at periodic time intervals. A detection circuit outputs an alert signal when a current flows through the second wiring pattern.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2020
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2022
    Assignees: KABUSHIKI KAISHA TOSHIBA, TOSHIBA ELECTRONIC DEVICES & STORAGE CORPORATION
    Inventor: Masahide Takazawa
  • Patent number: 11302162
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to circuit that improves alarm systems by adding the flexibility through software to configure an output terminal for typical device functions of Alarm System Devices. With a number of these circuits on a single Circuit Board, installers can use fewer different Circuit Boards. Alarm systems may be constructed from many different components and sensors. These components and sensors may be connected either with wires or wireless networks. This present invention improves the ability to connect components and sensors for a Wired Alarm System. Present Alarm systems have dedicated terminals for each different sensor, keypad or human interface, Contacts for Windows and Doors, Solenoids to remotely unlock Doors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 2020
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2022
    Inventor: Keith Michael Konheim
  • Patent number: 11244556
    Abstract: A method, an apparatus, and a system for managing alarms is provided. In one aspect, the method includes detecting a fault in one of a plurality of alarm systems, wherein each of the alarm systems is configured to generate at least one alarm associated with an event in the technical installation. The method further includes invoking a proxy of the faulty alarm system upon detecting the fault condition, wherein the proxy, when invoked, is configured to perform the functions of the faulty alarm system. Additionally, the method includes processing, by the proxy, event data associated with the event in the technical installation. Furthermore, the method includes generating at least one alarm by the proxy based on the processing of the event in the technical installation and outputting an alarm condition on a device associated with a user of the technical installation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 2021
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2022
    Assignee: SIEMENS AKTIENGESELLSCHAFT
    Inventors: Ranjan MR, Supriya Murthy, Govindaraju B.V, Debasish Behera, Manivannan K, Pragnyasini Panigrahi, Sapna Vandakar
  • Patent number: 10868416
    Abstract: An electronic protection circuit includes a resettable fuse such as a positive temperature coefficient (PTC) thermistor or polymer PTC device. The resettable fuse enters a high-resistance tripped state in response to an overcurrent condition. One or more electrically controllable switches are placed in series with the resettable fuse. A monitoring and control circuit monitors voltage across the resettable fuse and to opens the switches when the voltage is outside of a predetermined range. The switches can remain open after the overcurrent event is resolved in order to allow the resettable fuse time to reset.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2018
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2020
    Assignee: Sierra Wireless, Inc.
    Inventor: Raymond Li
  • Patent number: 10398010
    Abstract: Wireless lighting control systems and methods for controlling the illumination of one or more light fixtures are disclosed, including power loss detection of hardware. Embodiments include a zero-cross detection circuit including a timer, the timer reset by a zero-cross detection, and the zero-cross detection circuit detecting a loss of power of the AC supply upon the timer reaching a preset time without resetting. Embodiments further include a first voltage regulator having an input coupled to the AC supply and an output providing a first DC supply. Embodiments still further include a wireless transmitter having a power input, the wireless transmitter for communicating with at least one other component of the wireless device control system. The first capacitor provides energy storage sufficient to power the wireless transmitter for a duration long enough to transmit one message upon detecting the loss of power of the AC supply.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2018
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2019
    Assignee: RAB Lighting Inc.
    Inventors: Jason Oliver, Michael Theodore Case-Hayes
  • Patent number: 10338129
    Abstract: A deterioration detection device for a printed circuit board includes a monitoring conductor and a voltage supply conductor for supplying voltage/current arranged on the printed circuit board with an arbitrary clearance. A voltage Vx is applied to the voltage supply conductor at a plurality of points. A voltage (0 V) lower than the voltage Vx for the voltage supply conductor is applied to the monitoring conductor through a resistor. An amplifier circuit amplifies a voltage Vy for the monitoring conductor and outputs an output voltage Vout. If the printed circuit board is deteriorated and an insulation resistance Ry between the monitoring conductor and the voltage supply conductor is reduced, the output voltage Vout increases, so that deterioration of the printed circuit board can be detected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2017
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2019
    Assignee: FANUC CORPORATION
    Inventor: Yukio Shibata
  • Patent number: 10090086
    Abstract: The invention relates to a space-saving isolating arrester, having for at least two electronic components (EB1, EB2) to be monitored, with the electronic components to be monitored being fastened to a carrier (P) using a thermally softenable fixing means, with an energy accumulator (D1,D2) being arranged on each of the electronic components which—when a thermally softenable fixing means softens—displaces the associated electronic component substantially parallel to the carrier (P), thereby disconnecting the associated electronic component, and also having a mechanically displaceable display means (ANZ), with the mechanically displaceable display means indicating that one or more of the electronic components to be monitored has been disconnected, and with the mechanically displaceable display means (ANZ) being displaced by a disconnecting electronic component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2017
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2018
    Assignee: PHOENIX CONTACT GMBH & CO. KG
    Inventors: Jurgen Ahlemeyer, Peter Berg, Thorsten Heil, Ralf Lange, Andrei Siegel, Steffen Pfortner, Oliver Thoren
  • Patent number: 10001792
    Abstract: An occupancy schedule determining method and system that receives usage data indicating a quantity of a resource supplied by a utility that is used at the location over a plurality of days, each of the plurality of days being subdivided into a plurality of predetermined time periods, and the usage data indicating the quantity of the resource supplied by the utility that is used during each of the predetermined time periods, aggregates the usage data for each of the plurality of predetermined time periods over the plurality of days, and uses the aggregated usage data to determine the occupancy schedule at the location using a processor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2018
    Assignee: OPOWER, INC.
    Inventors: Ben Packer, Agustin Fonts, Erik Shilts, Garner Chung, Richard Tyler Curtis
  • Patent number: 9756478
    Abstract: A peer group of a user may be identified on the basis of geographic information and building occupancy information for the user and for possible peers of the user. Energy usage data for each peer group member may be compared with that of the user. A comparison result may be computed between each peer group member and the user. A representation of comparison results may be provided to the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2017
    Assignee: Google Inc.
    Inventors: Sayed Yusef Shafi, Todd Hester, Jonathan Ben-Meshulam, Sourav Raj Dey
  • Patent number: 9529028
    Abstract: Ground Potential Rise (GPR) sensors measure the GPR between the ground grid and the remote earth. A GPR sensor may provide a GPR measurement to an existing distance protection, which may operate based on this measurement automatically. A GPR sensor may comprise a potential transformer configured such that one wire of the high voltage side of the potential transformer is coupled to the ground grid of a substation. The second wire of the potential transformer is coupled to an insulated wire which is coupled to a ground rod or multiple of ground rods bonded together, that is driven into the earth. The low voltage side of the potential transformer is used to connect Distance Relays, Voltage Relays, DFR or Alarms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2016
    Assignee: SAN DIEGO GAS & ELECTRIC COMPANY
    Inventors: Girolamo Rosselli, Phil A. Patton, William J. Cook
  • Patent number: 9337714
    Abstract: A power converter with fast discharging to adapt to a load disconnect. The power converter comprises a magnetic component coupled between an input of the power converter and an output of the power converter. The magnetic component includes a primary winding and a secondary winding. A switch controls transfer of energy from the primary winding to the secondary winding according to on and off times of the switch. A discharge circuit is coupled to the output of the power converter. The discharge circuit is adapted to receive a signal indicative of whether the load is disconnected and to decrease an output voltage at the output of the power converter based on the signal indicative of whether the load is disconnected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 10, 2016
    Assignee: Dialog Semiconductor Inc.
    Inventor: Andrey Malinin
  • Patent number: 9252588
    Abstract: An arrangement for controllably disconnecting a utility power service from a load includes a utility meter housing, a switch and a processing circuit. The utility meter housing includes metrology circuitry configured to generate metering information regarding electrical power provided to the load. The switch is configured to controllably interrupt a connection between the utility power service and the load. The switch has an open state and a closed state. The processing circuit is configured to determine whether a line voltage varies from an expected value by more than a predetermined amount over a predetermined amount of time. The processing circuit is further configured to cause a change in state of the switch based on the determination.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 2, 2016
    Assignee: Landis+Gyr, Inc.
    Inventors: Akash Dani, Michael Anderson, John T. Voisine
  • Patent number: 9020654
    Abstract: The present invention provides a system and computer program product for implementing a smart transformer, comprising a processor, and a balancing algorithm residing on the processor, wherein the balancing algorithm is stored on a non-transitory computer readable medium having computer executable program code embodied thereon, the computer executable program code configured to cause the system to monitor and control an electric customer load and generation in order to optimize the performance of a distribution transformer, wherein the processor receives a plurality of system inputs and uses the balancing algorithm to determine a rating of the transformer and an amount of customer load.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 28, 2015
    Assignee: San Diego Gas & Electric Company
    Inventors: William Vincent Torre, Amanda Louise Myers, Michael James Colburn
  • Patent number: 8988234
    Abstract: An alarm system for alarming whenever there is a power leakage from an electronic device, includes a voltage decreasing circuit, a switch circuit and an alarm circuit. The voltage decreasing circuit receives a first voltage from a live wire output terminal and outputs a second voltage. The switch circuit outputs a control signal when the power leakage is detected. The switch circuit is electrically connected to a connection port. The connection port is electrically connected to the live wire output terminal and a neutral wire output terminal. The alarm circuit receives the control signal and alarms. If there is power leakage from the electronic device, the first voltage from the live wire input terminal flows into the ground wire input terminal via the electronic device; the switch circuit turns on and the alarm circuit is closed to alarm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2015
    Assignee: Zhongshan Innocloud Intellectual Property Services Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Ke-You Hu
  • Patent number: 8930153
    Abstract: A metering device includes a first transformer that receives an analog waveform and generates a first stepped-down output signal; a second transformer that receives the analog waveform and generates a second stepped-down output signal; first biasing circuitry that receives the first output signal from the first transformer and generates a first digital signal within a first range, wherein the first biasing circuitry includes a switching device for switching between a first and second operational sub-range; second biasing circuitry that receives the second output signal from the second transformer and generates a second digital signal within a second range; and a processor assembly in communication with the first biasing circuitry, wherein if the first digital signal saturates the first operational sub-range, the processor assembly controls the switching device to process the first output signal in the second operational sub-range.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2015
    Assignee: Electro Industries/Gauge Tech
    Inventors: Erran Kagan, Tibor Banhegyesi, Hai Zhu
  • Patent number: 8842017
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a device and method for displaying the lifecycle of a surge protection device, and more particularly to a device and method for displaying the lifecycle of a surge protection device, which detects an increase in leakage current according to a deterioration in performance of the surge protection device in order to provide notice of a replacement time for the surge protection device. According to the present invention, it is possible to for a user to provide notice of a replacement time by displaying the lifecycle of a surge protection device (SPD) to the outside. Additionally, as another effect of the present invention, it is possible to confirm an amount of leakage current flowing into the ground of the SPD and whether the SPD is properly installed on a ground line by using a current and ground state detecting sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2014
    Assignee: Sungjin Techwin Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Myung Wook Lee, Young Jun Lee, Sei Hyun Lee
  • Patent number: 8823535
    Abstract: Apparatus and method for directly detecting the atmospheric conditions leading to creep corrosion of printed circuit boards (PCBs) well before the PCBs in the computers start suffering from creep corrosion. The embodiment indicates the propensity of the air towards creep corrosion on PCBs. Additionally, to avoid the false reading due to condensed moisture, condensed moisture may be avoided by using a heater attached to the creep corrosion monitor that keeps the creep corrosion monitor above the dew point temperature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2014
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Levente Klein, Prabjit Singh, Jing Zhang
  • Patent number: 8786447
    Abstract: A high voltage detection assembly is worn by a user to provide a warning signal when high voltage is detected in close proximity to the user. The assembly includes a housing having a bottom, a top, and a perimeter wall extending between the bottom and the top defining an interior space. A voltage sensor is coupled to the housing. A processor is positioned in the interior space of the housing and electrically coupled to the voltage sensor. A speaker is coupled to the housing and operationally coupled to the processor. The processor transmits an audible signal through the speaker when the voltage sensor detects ambient voltage in excess of a pre-determined voltage level.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2014
    Inventor: Bryan C. Wise
  • Patent number: 8788102
    Abstract: An air conditioner includes an indoor unit and a remote controller connected to the indoor unit through two lines to receive power from the indoor unit and perform communication with the indoor unit. The indoor unit includes a first modulation switching element to modulate power according to a communication signal that is transmitted to the remote controller, a first demodulation switching element that is driven according to a communication signal transmitted from the remote controller, and a first distribution resistor to demodulate the communication signal transmitted from the remote controller. The remote controller includes a second modulation switching element to modulate power according to a communication signal that is transmitted to the indoor unit, a second demodulation switching element that is driven according to modulated power transmitted from the indoor unit, and a second distribution resistor to demodulate modulated power transmitted from the indoor unit to obtain a communication signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2014
    Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Seung Kwan Lee
  • Publication number: 20140152449
    Abstract: Apparatus and method for directly detecting the atmospheric conditions leading to creep corrosion of printed circuit boards (PCBs) well before the PCBs in the computers start suffering from creep corrosion. The embodiment indicates the propensity of the air towards creep corrosion on PCBs. Additionally, to avoid the false reading due to condensed moisture, condensed moisture may be avoided by using a heater attached to the creep corrosion monitor that keeps the creep corrosion monitor above the dew point temperature.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 5, 2012
    Publication date: June 5, 2014
    Applicant: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Levente Klein, Prabjit Singh, Jing Zhang
  • Patent number: 8692680
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2014
    Assignee: Moeller Geräudeautomation GmbH
    Inventors: Gerhard Dobusch, Michael Bartonek
  • Publication number: 20140085096
    Abstract: A surge protector for use with a two line signal path or control circuit. The surge protector has two terminals for connecting to both line signals as well as provisions for earth grounding. The surge protector has a surge protection stage and a short detection stage for detecting imbalances in the signal. The surge protector also includes a trigger stage which activates an electromechanical device to disconnect the two terminals from the rest of the surge protector when the short detection stage detects a short. The surge protector further includes visual indicators for indicating an operating status and a short detection.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 23, 2013
    Publication date: March 27, 2014
    Applicant: Transtector Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Jonathan L. Jones, Chris Penwell
  • Publication number: 20140076449
    Abstract: A monitoring circuit for detecting degradation of a hose assembly a hose assembly and a hose assembly incorporating such a monitoring circuit are disclosed. The monitoring circuit includes a voltage source connected to a first connection location of a hose assembly. A capacitor is electrically connected between the second connection location connected to the second conductive layer of a hose assembly and a ground. The capacitor is selected such that a change in resistance of the hose assembly changes a voltage carried by the capacitor. The monitoring circuit includes a voltage sampling circuit configured to periodically detect a voltage at the capacitor. Upon detecting a change in the voltage above a predetermined threshold, the voltage sampling circuit generates an alarm indicative of potential failure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 13, 2013
    Publication date: March 20, 2014
    Inventors: JAMES DEAN BETSINGER, NICHOLAS ADAM BURTYK
  • Publication number: 20140062705
    Abstract: A fire detecting system can mix fire detectors, such as smoke, flame, or, thermal detectors on a common loop, or zone, with gas detectors. Signals indicative of gas can have one amplitude while those indicating fire can have a different amplitude. Duty cycles can be varied to indicate other conditions, such as trouble conditions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 30, 2012
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Applicant: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventors: Timothy A. Rauworth, Fred Nathan Merkle, Deborah Renee Taylor, Robert J. Selepa
  • Patent number: 8600562
    Abstract: A household energy management system uses measurements of the household electricity supply to identify and to determine the energy consumption of individual household appliances. From these measurements, models can be built of the behavior of the occupants of the house, the thermal properties of the house and the efficiency of the appliances. Using the models, the household appliances—in particular heating and cooling appliances—can be controlled to optimize energy efficiency; and maintenance programs for the appliances and for the house itself can be recommended to the householder or arranged with a service company.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2013
    Assignee: Alertme.com Ltd
    Inventor: James Ian Oswald
  • Patent number: 8599030
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2013
    Assignee: Oki Data Corporation
    Inventors: Minoru Kanno, Kazuo Nakazawa
  • Patent number: 8599031
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2013
    Assignee: NSTAR Electric Company
    Inventors: Lawrence J. Gelbien, Werner J. Schweiger, Philip B. Andreas
  • Patent number: 8598835
    Abstract: It is presented a protection circuit for a drive circuit of a permanent magnet motor being powered by a main DC source. The protection circuit comprises a protection circuit DC source; a changeover switch being arranged to select an input to a gate of a main drive switch of the drive circuit, the input being selectable between an output of the protection circuit DC source and a second control signal; and a changeover control device connected to control the changeover switch, which changeover control device is arranged to ensure that the changeover switch is connected to the output of the second side of the protection circuit DC source when an overvoltage is detected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2013
    Assignee: Kollmorgen AB
    Inventors: Thord Agne Gustap Nilson, Miroslaw Hrywniak
  • Patent number: 8593270
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a tester, its use and a method for testing signal lines of a flight control system for a trimmable horizontal stabilizer (THS) motor of an aircraft. The tester comprises at least one test-relay (52, 54) to be connected with a relay socket of the flight control system, when the signal lines of the flight control system are to be tested, and at least one indicator (60, 70, 80, 90) being electrically connected with the at least one test-relay (52, 54) for indicating whether a voltage being applied to the test-relay (52, 54) is equal to or larger than a predetermined voltage. The method according to the invention comprises the steps of connecting at least one test-relay (52, 54) of a tester (1), in place of the original relay, with the relay socket of the flight control system, applying a voltage to the at least one test-relay (52, 54) and determining whether a voltage being applied to the at least one test-relay (52, 54) is equal to or larger than a predetermined voltage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2013
    Assignee: Airbus Operations GmbH
    Inventor: Sven Knoop
  • Patent number: 8570182
    Abstract: A server includes a motherboard, a first test unit, and an indication device. The first test unit is connected to a first voltage terminal of the motherboard to receive a first voltage. The first test unit determines whether the received first voltage is within a range between a first predetermined voltage and a second predetermined voltage. If the first voltage is not within the range between the first predetermined voltage and the second predetermined voltage, the indication device indicates that the first voltage is abnormal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2013
    Assignees: Hong Fu Jin Precision Industry (ShenZhen) Co., Ltd., Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Zuo-Lin Hou, Song Yu
  • Patent number: 8547242
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2013
    Assignees: Hong Fu Jin Precision Industry (ShenZhen) Co., Ltd., Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Ling-Yu Xie, Xing-Ping Xie
  • Patent number: 8543246
    Abstract: The present disclosure is concerned with controlling distributing of electrical power in a power distribution region. To effectively control the distribution of power in the distribution region, the substation of the region is provided with a distribution controller or Intelligent Substation Control System (ISCS). The distribution controller is connected to various process devices, which in turn are connected to primary devices of the region. The process devices send data corresponding to the primary devices to the distribution controller, and the distribution controller includes a processor which proposes a set of actions based on the received data. Further, the distribution controller includes a coordinating device which selects the final action from the set of proposed actions. The final action is implemented on the primary devices of the distribution region.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2013
    Assignee: ABB Research Ltd.
    Inventors: Cherry Yuen, Andrew Paice, Mats Larsson, Christian Frei
  • Publication number: 20130201028
    Abstract: The detection device comprises an electrical power reserve, a voltage regulator configured to regulate the voltage supplied by the electrical power reserve, at least one capacitor charged by the voltage regulator, a detection circuit powered by the capacitor and a switch. The switch is configured to deactivate the regulator when the capacitor's charge is greater than a predefined value, such that the detection circuit is then only supplied with electricity by each said capacitor. The switch can be configured to open the circuit comprising the power reserve upstream of the regulator, and the switch comprises a means of comparing the electrical charge of each capacitor with a predefined value and/or the switch comprises a transistor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 2, 2011
    Publication date: August 8, 2013
    Applicant: FINSECUR
    Inventors: Stèphane Di Marco, Laurent Pichard, Jean-François Duhamel
  • Patent number: 8502688
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2013
    Assignee: ABB Technology Ltd
    Inventors: Niraj Suthar, Vijay Shah, Maulik Vyas, Bernhard Deck
  • Patent number: 8446286
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2013
    Assignee: Williams-Pyro, Inc.
    Inventor: Andrew W. Stell
  • Patent number: 8421639
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2013
    Assignee: Veris Industries, LLC
    Inventors: Michael Bitsch, Marc Bowman
  • Patent number: 8373570
    Abstract: Load current from an electrical AC supply circuit is monitored so that both high frequency (10-100 kHz), and low frequency (60 Hz) signal current components are measured over certain time periods. A high frequency energy component is measured in an integral fashion, e.g., summing a plurality of samples taken. A certain amount of high frequency energy during a half-cycle is required to indicate an arc event. A certain number of these arc events per half-cycle must occur within a specific time period to indicate the presence of an arc. The root-mean-square (RMS) value of the low frequency energy component is used to determine the severity of the arc. The higher the amperage of the load current arc, the faster the arc fault circuit interrupter (AFCI) will respond by disconnecting the arcing load from the AC supply circuit, e.g., fewer number of arc events necessary for tripping of the AFCI.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2013
    Assignee: Cooper Technologies Company
    Inventors: Carlos Eduardo Restrepo, Kallikuppa Muniyappa Sreenivasa, Kantesh Vittal Agnihotri, Manishkumar Natwarlal Shah, Srikanth Soma
  • Patent number: 8373569
    Abstract: A method and system for remotely monitoring the status of a standby generator. The system includes a PLC transmitter in communication with the control unit for the generator. The PLC transmitter receives error codes from the control unit of the generator and transmits encoded error codes over the power distribution network in a home using a PLC frequency. A remote status display device can be connected to the power distribution network in the home at any convenient location. The remote status display device includes a PLC receiver that decodes the error codes. The decoded error codes are displayed on a display of the remote status display device for viewing by the home occupant at a location remote from the standby generator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2013
    Assignee: Briggs & Stratton Corporation
    Inventor: Richard J. Gilpatrick
  • Patent number: 8339270
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2012
    Assignee: General Wire Spring Company
    Inventors: Arthur A. Silverman, Anton D. Pfeiffer
  • Patent number: 8310371
    Abstract: A power supply protection device for an electric appliance includes a switching circuit for establishing an electrical connection to receive an external voltage from the external power supply and output the external voltage to the electric appliance, a detecting circuit for disabling the switch circuit to break the electrical connection when determining the external voltage is equal to or higher than a predetermined value, and an alert circuit for generating an alert signal when the electrical connection is broken and outputting the alert signal to a user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2012
    Assignees: Hong Fu Jin Precision Industry (ShenZhen) Co., Ltd., Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Lung Dai, Yong-Song Shi, Qiao-Lin Deng, Yong Xiong
  • Publication number: 20120274472
    Abstract: A power supply system includes a current detection module, an analog-to-digital converter, a control module and a display module. The current detection module detects current signals output from the power supply system and converts the current signal to voltage signal. The analog-to-digital converter converts the analog voltage signal to digital voltage signal. The control module receives the digital voltage signal output from the analog-to-digital converter and converts the digital voltage signal to digital current digital, and calculates the actual output power of the power supply system. The display module displays the actual output power of the power supply system. A method for displaying the power of a power supply system is also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 29, 2011
    Publication date: November 1, 2012
    Applicants: HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD., HONG FU JIN PRECISION INDUSTRY (ShenZhen) CO., LTD.
    Inventor: MING-XIANG HU
  • Patent number: 8279074
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2012
    Assignee: T-Mobile USA, Inc.
    Inventor: Steve Fischer
  • Patent number: 8248261
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2012
    Assignee: Williams-Pyro Inc.
    Inventor: Andrew W. Stell
  • Patent number: 8248260
    Abstract: An electrical tripping mechanism for protecting an electrical device from mechanical and over temperature problems. The tripping mechanism includes a copper conductor encased within an insulative layer, where the insulative layer is provided with a helically wound metallic strip amenable to easy tearing when subjected to mechanical damage. When the continuity of the strip is broken, a sensor detects the damage and shuts-down the electrical device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2012
    Inventor: Ralph E. Pope
  • Patent number: 8232887
    Abstract: A process is provided for the electronic monitoring of the on-board power supply system, or parts of the on-board power supply system, of a motor vehicle with respect to voltage peaks or voltage drops. The value of the electric voltage is continuously recorded, and a comparator circuit continuously compares a first earlier voltage value with a subsequently determined second voltage value. The comparator circuit keeps available for a predetermined time period the highest voltage value recorded up to that point-in-time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2012
    Assignee: Bayerische Motoren Werke Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Mathias Baer, Robert Kellner, Rainer Drees
  • Patent number: 8223031
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2012
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Department of Energy
    Inventors: Zachery Warren Allen, Gary Allen Zevenbergen
  • Patent number: 8184011
    Abstract: An arc fault detector includes a means for repeatedly measuring an elapsed time. The arc fault detector also includes at least one means to perform arc detection at each repeated elapsed time. Means for initiating a tripping mechanism is activated after the elapsed time. When a fault occurs, means for generating at least one fault code is activated. The fault code is stored in at least one non-volatile memory. The fault code is selected from a group consisting of an arc fault interrupt code, a ground fault interrupt code, and a push-to-test interrupt code. The arc fault detector includes at least one means to display the fault code such as at least one LED. At least a first LED indicates an arc fault interrupt code and at least a second LED indicates a ground fault interrupt code. At least a third LED indicates a push-to-test interrupt code.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2012
    Assignee: Siemens Industry, Inc.
    Inventors: Amit Nayak, Carlos Restrepo, Brian Timothy McCoy