Current Patents (Class 340/664)
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Patent number: 7705741Abstract: A system and method for detecting a broken wire in a communication cable coupling a powered device to power sourcing equipment. Powered Devices (PDs) may be powered by power sourcing equipment via communication cables as in power over Ethernet systems. A current share technique is employed at the Power Sourcing Equipment (PSE) side or the PD side of the Ethernet cable to force currents in twisted pairs of the communication cable to be equal. In one embodiment, first and second power supplies within a PSE are coupled to first and second powered device controllers (PDCs). A characteristic within the system that is indicative of first and second PDC input voltages is measured and the two measured characteristics are compared. If the two measured characteristics are not substantially the same, such indicates the presence of a broken wire.Type: GrantFiled: May 21, 2007Date of Patent: April 27, 2010Assignee: Texas Instruments IncorporatedInventor: Jean Picard
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Patent number: 7696892Abstract: A protection device for an oscillating power circuit, namely for a demining coil, such device incorporating circuit breaking means positioned between an alternating current supply network and the power circuit, such device wherein it comprises at least one means to measure and analyze the current supplying the power circuit, means able to detect the appearance of a direct current and connected to triggering means ensuring the opening of the circuit breaking means when the alternating current ceases.Type: GrantFiled: March 22, 2007Date of Patent: April 13, 2010Assignee: Nexter SystemsInventors: Guillaume Huet, François Orquera
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Publication number: 20100073178Abstract: The present invention provides a circuit interrupting device which comprises a leakage current detection and protection circuit containing a simulated leakage current generation circuit which is capable of automatically generating a simulated leakage current when the circuit interrupting device is properly wired and in a tripped state to automatically test the functions of the key components of the circuit interrupting device. The simulated leakage current generation circuit comprises a normally closed switch and a normally open switch. The leakage current detection and protection circuit further comprises a normal status indicator light and a power output indicator light to indicate whether the circuit interrupting device is working properly and/or reverse wired. The circuit interrupting device further comprises a reset switch, a pair of discharged metal pieces, and four pairs of circuit interrupting contacts.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 19, 2009Publication date: March 25, 2010Inventors: Huadao HUANG, Huayang LU
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Patent number: 7683796Abstract: An open-wire detection system and method includes a current transmitter that can be connected to one or more wires, wherein the current transmitter provides a minimum current and/or a current that is greater than the minimum current. An anti-aliasing filter is connected to an analog-to-digital converter, such that the anti-aliasing filter receives the minimum current provided by the current transmitter and provides an output signal to the analog-to-digital converter. A noise filter is generally connected to an open-wire threshold detector, wherein the noise filter and the open-wire threshold detector permit detection of input levels below the minimum current provided by the current transmitter. An output from the open-wire threshold detector can be sampled multiple times at intervals that correlate with a frequency of a plurality of digital signals to produce sampled data, such that if the sampled data is below the minimum current, one or more of the wires (e.g.Type: GrantFiled: October 4, 2006Date of Patent: March 23, 2010Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.Inventors: Benjamin J. Stad, Sudhir Thalore
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Patent number: 7683798Abstract: A current monitoring device (CMD) with a set of electromagnetic field sensors located within one or more grounded housings positioned within the combined electromagnetic fields generated by one or more electric power lines. The CMD includes electronics, typically located within the grounded housings, defining impedance networks that combine the measurements received from the field sensors to create output signal indicative of electric current values for the phase conductors. The housings can be conveniently attached and to transmission line towers, distribution line poles, and high voltage power line supports in transmission and distribution substations. The CMD controls response equipment, such as a circuit interrupter that responds to current disturbances detected by the CMD. The CMD may also include communication for sending the current values to a remote controller, such as a central control station, that implements a wide range of response equipment.Type: GrantFiled: July 9, 2007Date of Patent: March 23, 2010Assignee: SSI Power, LLCInventor: Joseph R. Rostron
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Patent number: 7684768Abstract: A self-powered current loop transmitter transmits a process variable over a wireless link, deriving operating power from the current which drives the loop. A storage capacitor is connected across the system input terminals through a switch to provide the operating power for the system components.Type: GrantFiled: June 19, 2007Date of Patent: March 23, 2010Inventors: Otto P. Fest, Noel Smith
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Patent number: 7656304Abstract: Techniques are disclosed to sense a current in a circuit. For instance, current sense circuit according to the teachings of the present invention includes a current sense resistor coupled to an input of the current sense circuit. The current sense resistor is coupled to receive a current to be sensed from the input of the current sense circuit. The current to be sensed is converted to a current sense voltage. A first PN junction diode is coupled to the current sense resistor. A light emitting diode (LED) is coupled to the first PN junction diode to provide a current sense threshold substantially proportional to a difference between a forward voltage drop of the LED and a forward voltage drop of the first PN junction diode. The first PN junction diode is coupled to be biased from the forward voltage drop of the LED. The LED is coupled to the current sense resistor to generate an output when the current sense voltage from the current sense resistor reaches the current sense threshold.Type: GrantFiled: November 13, 2007Date of Patent: February 2, 2010Assignee: Power Integrations, Inc.Inventors: Balu Balakrishnan, Arthur B. Odell
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Publication number: 20100019915Abstract: An electrometer for use in measuring current is provided. The electrometer includes an enclosure capable of containing various components of the electrometer. A pre-amplifier is present and is one of the components of the electrometer. The pre-amplifier is contained by the enclosure. The pre-amplifier has a pre-amplifier enclosure that contains the pre-amplifier and provides radio frequency shielding and magnetic shielding to the pre-amplifier.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 10, 2007Publication date: January 28, 2010Applicant: Savannah River Nuclear Solutions, LLCInventors: Joseph V. Cordaro, Michael B. Wood
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Publication number: 20100013649Abstract: A load control device for controlling the amount of power delivered from an AC power source to an electrical load comprises a non-visual, haptic sensory output structure for producing a variable human detectable output related to the amount of power being delivered to the load. Specifically, the load control device may comprise an audible sound generator for generating audible sounds having operational characteristics that are representative of the amount of power being delivered to the load. For example, the amplitude (or frequency) of the audible sounds may increase as the amount of power delivered to the load increases and may decrease as the amount of power delivered to the load decreases. The audible sound generator may generate a turn-on audible sound that increases in amplitude (or frequency) with respect to time when the load is turned on, and a turn-off audible sound that decreases in amplitude (or frequency) with respect to time when the load is turned off.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 21, 2009Publication date: January 21, 2010Inventor: Joel S. Spira
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Patent number: 7649470Abstract: A method and apparatus for detection of spark activity in an electrical machine having a shaft, wherein at least one of the shaft voltage and the shaft current is measured and analyzed for components which are characteristic of spark activity. The method uses the shaft voltages and/or shaft currents which are normally generally regarded only as being damaging has been found to be accurate and to be suitable for long-term monitoring of spark activities such as brush sparking, spark erosion, spark flashovers between parts of the shaft bearings and can be implemented physically very easily and in a reliable manner, since the existing grounding devices are used.Type: GrantFiled: March 10, 2005Date of Patent: January 19, 2010Assignee: Alstom Technology Ltd.Inventors: Max Hobelsberger, Ingo Kirchhoff
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Publication number: 20090323233Abstract: An insulation resistance detection system for use with a vehicle having a chassis. The system includes an electrical power source, an electrical system, and a detection circuit. The electrical system is electrically isolated from the chassis. The detection circuit is powered by the power source. The detection circuit includes a resistor electrically connected to the chassis. The detection circuit measures the voltage across the resistor to thereby determine insulation resistance between the electrical system and the chassis.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 26, 2008Publication date: December 31, 2009Inventors: Jim M. Shoemaker, Garn F. Penfold, Ronnie D. Stahlhut
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Patent number: 7633401Abstract: A diagnostic system for use in the electronic control circuit for motor actuated lift and/or recline mechanisms for chair wherein a hand controller is used to operate said lift and/or recline mechanisms, and wherein a series of LED indicators are situated at strategic locations in the circuit. The LED indicators can be used to determine whether electricity is flowing to such points in the circuit, which in turn will enable possible problems that might cause the hand control device not to work properly to be quickly more easily pinpointed by immediately narrowing the potential sources or causes of the problem.Type: GrantFiled: October 26, 2005Date of Patent: December 15, 2009Assignee: Golden Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Charles J. Copley, W. Edward Pollard
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Publication number: 20090295591Abstract: The patent discloses a method of verifying that a dialysis machine audio alarm has been sounded. The method senses a waveform of electric power, such as a waveform of the current or voltage that drives a speaker. When the speaker produces sound, power consumption changes the waveform in a manner that is detectable by electrical and electronic sensors. The amplitude envelope and frequency or period of the waveform is specific to the electrical and mechanical characteristics of the speaker. The waveform may be detected by a current-sensing resistor in series with the speaker power source, by a non-contact current transformer or hall-effect sensor, or may be sampled by an ADC. A computer program then compares this resulting signal to an expected signal or waveform and verify the speaker is working. If the speaker is not working, the machine sends a visual alarm or places itself in a safe state.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 2, 2008Publication date: December 3, 2009Applicants: BAXTER INTERNATIONAL INC., BAXTER HEALTHCARE S.A.Inventor: John A. Bedingfield
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Patent number: 7616108Abstract: One embodiment of the present application includes a vehicle illumination system. The vehicle illumination system comprises an input keypad configured to receive at least one input provided by a user. The vehicle illumination system also comprises a controller configured to receive input commands provided by the input keypad and to sequentially control a state of a plurality of output device drivers corresponding to a respective plurality of vehicle lamps. The vehicle illumination system further comprises overvoltage protection circuitry configured to continuously monitor an electrical signal associated with each of the plurality of output device drivers relative to respective over-current condition thresholds and a summation over-current condition threshold. The summation over-current threshold can be less than a sum of the respective over-current condition thresholds associated with each of the plurality of outputs.Type: GrantFiled: January 4, 2007Date of Patent: November 10, 2009Assignee: Nartron CorporationInventors: David Shank, Edward Cox, John Washeleski
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Patent number: 7612654Abstract: A system and method for circuit protector monitoring and management includes at least one circuit protector defining an interruptible current path therethrough upon an occurrence of specified operating condition in a circuit; a status element associated with the circuit protector and adapted to monitor an operating state of the current path; and an electronic management system in communication with the status element, wherein the management system is adapted to automatically alert and summon responsible personnel when the circuit protector has operated to open the circuit path, and identify the location of the operated circuit protector.Type: GrantFiled: September 9, 2005Date of Patent: November 3, 2009Assignee: Cooper Technologies CompanyInventors: Robert Lawrence Bender, Timothy Hamilton Speno, Michael Craig Henricks, Robert Stephen Douglass, Joan Leslie Winnett Bender, Matthew R. Darr
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Patent number: 7590499Abstract: Aspects of the invention provide apparatuses, methods, and systems that support measuring and conveying energy consumption by an electrical device. An apparatus includes an energy sensor that measures an incremental energy value consumed by an electrical device. Apparatus obtains the incremental energy value, accumulates an energy usage measurement in accordance with the incremental energy value, provides requested information about energy consumption of the electrical device in response to a request from a network controller, and adjusts the energy usage measurement in accordance with the requested information. The total energy consumption may be partitioned into at least one energy component, in which the at least one energy component corresponds to the energy consumption of the electrical device during an associated time interval. A network controller may use the energy consumption information to determine a new set temperature for a thermostat unit that instructs the device control logic.Type: GrantFiled: June 28, 2007Date of Patent: September 15, 2009Assignee: Computime, Ltd.Inventors: Wai-leung Ha, Kairy Kai Lei
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Publication number: 20090146847Abstract: A system for utilizing human-recognizable material to interact with digital content may include human-recognizable content, an electric field generating device adapted to generate an electric field, an electric field emitting device adjacent to the human-recognizable content and in electrical communication with the electric field generating device, the electric field emitting device adapted to emit the electric field, and a host device configured to output digital content associated with the human-recognizable content. The host device may be in electrical communication with the electric field generating device. The host device may receive one or more instructions from the electric field generating device.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 20, 2008Publication date: June 11, 2009Inventors: Jason E. Barkeloo, Bradley Louis Chapman, Paul David Breneman, David A. Krauth
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Publication number: 20090128348Abstract: An overload alarm device is provided. The device is disposed in an electric auxiliary system for avoiding overload of the system. The device includes a current detection unit, a voltage comparison unit and an alarm unit. The current detection unit includes a non-contact sensor connected to the circuit of the system for sensing the current of the system so as to output a voltage signal corresponding to the current. The voltage comparison unit compares the value of the voltage signal with a preset value. As the value of the voltage signal exceeds the preset value, the voltage comparison unit drives the alarm unit to generate an alarm signal.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 20, 2007Publication date: May 21, 2009Inventor: Kang-Neng Hsu
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Patent number: 7535374Abstract: A cover and method for protecting objects is provided. The cover includes a flexible sheet, wherein the sheet comprises a lower layer of a carbon fiber weave material; and an alarm module attached to the lower layer, wherein the alarm module comprises at least one sensor electrically connected to carbon fibers in the lower layer of the sheet for detecting a change in at least one attribute of the sheet and generating a signal triggering a notification system when the change in the at least one attribute exceeds predetermined maximum threshold levels.Type: GrantFiled: October 4, 2006Date of Patent: May 19, 2009Assignee: The Boeing CompanyInventor: Lawrence J. Rieders
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Publication number: 20090115400Abstract: The sensitivity and accuracy of a status indicator for sensing a current in an electrical circuit is improved by shifting the reference level of the transformer output to maximize the input signal to a precision voltage detector and by reducing the hysteresis of the status indicator by balancing the burden of the current transformer during the positive and negative alternations of the AC signal and by driving secondary loads with a voltage to current converter.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 13, 2008Publication date: May 7, 2009Inventor: Phillip Hunter
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Publication number: 20090115620Abstract: A current switch is automatically calibrated when a flow of electric current is initiated in a power cable.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 13, 2008Publication date: May 7, 2009Inventors: Phillip Hunter, James Bernklau, David A. Bruno
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Patent number: 7528734Abstract: A system for automatically detecting power supply voltage includes a voltage divider connected to a power supply, an A/D converter connected to the voltage divider, a detection module connected to the A/D converter for comparing a digital signal converted by the A/D converter with a reference signal stored in the detection module, a relay driving circuit connected to the detection module, a relay connected to the relay driving circuit and the power supply respectively, and an outlet coupled to the relay for outputting voltage. If the digital signal matches the reference signal, the detection module controls the relay driving circuit to turn on the relay to output voltage at the outlet. Relevant method for detecting power supply voltage is also provided.Type: GrantFiled: December 20, 2005Date of Patent: May 5, 2009Assignee: Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.Inventor: Heng-Chen Kuo
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Patent number: 7522047Abstract: A display assembly for a retail product has a base and a platform adjustably mounted on an upper end of the base. The platform includes a lower housing which is pivotally supported in a cradle attached to the upper end of the base. The platform is pivotally mounted on the cradle by a pair of pivot pins, at least one of which is threaded to secure the platform in an adjusted titled position on the cradle. A plurality of notches are formed on the platform housing and selectively engage a detent formed on the cradle to retain the platform in an adjusted position. A sensor may be removably mounted on the platform and connected to the product and to the base by an expandable cord to actuate an alarm if the product is removed in an unauthorized manner from the sensor or base.Type: GrantFiled: December 19, 2006Date of Patent: April 21, 2009Assignee: InVue Security Products Inc.Inventors: Dennis D. Belden, Jr., Ronald M. Marsilio
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Patent number: 7511628Abstract: A load control device for controlling the amount of power delivered to an electrical load from an AC power source comprises a semiconductor switch having a control input, a triggering circuit, a timing circuit, and a status indicator circuit. Preferably, the status indicator circuit includes a light-emitting diode in a rectifier bridge. In a first embodiment, the status indicator circuit is coupled in series with a capacitor in the timing circuit such that the status indicator is illuminated to a dim level when the load is not powered and the status indicator is illuminated to a bright level when the load is powered. In a second embodiment, the status indicator circuit is coupled in series with a control input of the semiconductor switch such that the status indicator is not illuminated when the load is not powered and the status indicator is illuminated when the load is powered.Type: GrantFiled: May 8, 2006Date of Patent: March 31, 2009Assignee: Lutron Electronics Co., Inc.Inventor: Christopher J Salvestrini
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Patent number: 7501959Abstract: A signal incoming direction estimation apparatus is constructed so as to comprise a sensor array having plural sensors and the impedance of each of the sensors being set to a predetermined value, respectively, and a variable impedance adjustment means having a variable impedance, being selectively connected to any one of the sensors of the sensor array, and controlling the current distribution of each of the above-mentioned sensors. Due to this, it becomes possible for the signal incoming direction estimation apparatus to carry out a beam scan only by manipulating at least one impedance without simultaneously manipulating all of the sensor impedances and thereby a high-speed beam scan (directional control) becomes possible.Type: GrantFiled: August 26, 2005Date of Patent: March 10, 2009Assignee: Fujitsu LimitedInventor: Kazuo Shirakawa
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Publication number: 20090039070Abstract: A breakdown precautionary system of a semiconductor equipment includes a semiconductor equipment with a coil heater, at least a voltage/current detector, and an alarm system. The voltage/current detector detects the voltage and current of the coil heater at the same time. An alarm system will send an alarm signal and initiate an interlock safety measure of the semiconductor equipment when the detected current of the coil heater is 0 ampere.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 6, 2007Publication date: February 12, 2009Inventors: Jung-Wen Tseng, Ching-Yuan Chen, Cheng-Chung Hung
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Publication number: 20090028551Abstract: Alerts, such as laser driver current alarms, are triggered in an optoelectronic device based on dynamic digital diagnostics, such as operating temperature. Optoelectronic devices may execute microcode structured to represent a formulaic relation between a first parameter (e.g., temperature) and an indicator value for a second parameter (e.g., laser driver current). The microcode may further be structured to cause the optoelectronic device to access the first parameter, calculate an indicator value for the second parameter based on the accessed first parameter using the formulaic relation, access the second parameter, and compare the indicator value with the second parameter to determine whether to trigger an alert. If the second parameter exceeds the indicator value, the alert may be triggered, and may be indicative of potentially imminent optoelectronic device failure.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 26, 2007Publication date: January 29, 2009Applicant: FINISAR CORPORATIONInventor: Suohai Mei
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Publication number: 20090002183Abstract: An exemplary surge current alarm circuit includes a detecting circuit to detect a surge current and convert the surge current into a digital signal with a pulse width corresponding to a duration of an over value part of the surge current when the surge current is over a limitative current value; a processing circuit connected to the detecting circuit to receive the digital signal and generate an alarm signal when the pulse width of the digital signal is over a limitative time; and an alarm circuit connected to the processing circuit to give an alarm upon receiving the alarm signal from the processing circuit.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 19, 2007Publication date: January 1, 2009Applicants: HONG FU JIN PRECISION INDUSTRY (ShenZhen) CO., LTD., HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD.Inventors: XIAN-MING WANG, GUANG-DONG YUAN, CHUNG-CHI HUANG
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Publication number: 20080309505Abstract: A relay device, installed at one end of a power line within a protected zone, includes a processor performing a transmitting process that transmits first sampling current data of the power line at the one end to another relay device installed at the other end, through a 2048-kbps transmission line, and a receiving process that receives second sampling current data of the power line at the other end from the another relay device through the transmission line; a calculator calculating a difference, used for detection of an occurrence of fault, between the first and the second sampling current data; and a human-machine interface capable of receiving and presenting information through a display unit. The processor transmits the first sampling current data in a transmission frame, and transmits, using an unused field not for the sampling current data in the transmission frame, display-related data output from the human-machine interface.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 18, 2008Publication date: December 18, 2008Applicant: Mitsubishi Electric CorporationInventors: Takashi Sorimachi, Takashi Hattori
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Patent number: 7446659Abstract: A theft deterrent device allows a customer to handle an item of merchandise to which the device is connected. The device is configured to protect items of merchandise having first and second pieces each of which are sufficiently valuable to warrant such protection. The device includes a base mountable on a support structure, an audible alarm, first and second connectors which attach respectively to the first and second pieces of the item of merchandise, lanyards for connecting the base to the first and second connectors and a removal sensor for sensing removal of one or both of connectors from the first and second pieces of the item of merchandise so that the alarm is activated when the connector or connectors are removed from the item of merchandise. The lanyards provide electrical communication between the alarm and the connectors, which may include plunger switches which serve as removal sensors.Type: GrantFiled: January 13, 2006Date of Patent: November 4, 2008Assignee: InVue Security Products Inc.Inventors: Ronald M. Marsilio, Dennis D. Belden, Jr.
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Patent number: 7439874Abstract: A load status indicator is disclosed for determining whether power is available to, and current is flowing through, a load. A first visual status indicator may light up when power is available to the load but current is not flowing through the load. A second visual status indicator may light up when power is available to the load and current is flowing through the load. A bi-color light-emitting diode may comprise the first and second visual status indicators. Transistors may be used to permit or prevent current from flowing through the visual status indicators. In some embodiments, a reed switch or a hall-effect sensor may be used to determine whether current is flowing through the load.Type: GrantFiled: July 12, 2006Date of Patent: October 21, 2008Inventor: George Sotiriou
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Publication number: 20080255782Abstract: Certain exemplary embodiments can provide a system, which can comprise a set of electrical energy monitoring devices. Each of the set of electrical energy monitoring devices can be adapted to be mounted in a circuit breaker panel substantially adjacent to a corresponding circuit breaker. The system can comprise an energy monitoring master controller adapted to be communicatively coupled to each of the set of electrical energy monitoring devices.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 14, 2008Publication date: October 16, 2008Inventors: Mario Bilac, Paul Terricciano, Bin Zhang
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Publication number: 20080239668Abstract: An outdoor equipment cabinet includes a housing with an equipment compartment therein. An intake air vent and an exit air vent are formed in the housing. A fan is mounted within the housing for pulling air into the intake air vent, moving an air stream through the equipment compartment, and pushing air out of the exit air vent. A membrane is disposed adjacent the intake air vent. The membrane allows air to pass therethrough, but resists the passage of water and contaminants therethrough. In some embodiments, a baffling plate is disposed to direct the air stream within the equipment compartment, and/or the fan speed is controlled by a temperature sensor, and/or a clogging of the membrane is monitored and reported, and/or the intake air vent is located in a first door and the exit air vent is located in a second door of the cabinet.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 27, 2008Publication date: October 2, 2008Inventors: Mark HENDRIX, Alan Skrepcinski
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Patent number: 7423546Abstract: A device is described, for monitoring a household electric user (COT, LB, AU), in particular a household appliance, presenting an electric load, where said monitoring device (AI) is connected between a source of electric energy (PDC) and said electric load, said monitoring device (AI) comprising measuring means (A) for detecting the quantity of electric power or current absorbed by said user (COT, AL, AU), characterized in that said monitoring device (AI) comprises control means (SC), which are programmed for: comparing the absorption of electric power ou current measured through said measuring means (A) with reference values of electric power or current, which are stored within said control means; generating, in function of said comparison, information which being representative of the present status or phase of operation of said electric user (COT, LB, AU); allowing said information to be read from outside said device (AI).Type: GrantFiled: February 1, 2000Date of Patent: September 9, 2008Assignee: Indesit Comapny S.p.A.Inventor: Valerio Aisa
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Publication number: 20080197815Abstract: A vehicle electrical system includes an alternator, a rectifier connected to the alternator, a battery which is connectable to the output connections of the rectifier, and a reverse polarization detector connected to the battery. The reverse polarization detector includes a diode. In addition, the reverse polarization detector has a threshold-value element connected in series with the diode.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 24, 2008Publication date: August 21, 2008Inventors: Steffen Liebstueckel, Herbert Labitzke, Helmut Suelzle
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Patent number: 7403129Abstract: A circuit breaker includes a first lug and second and third acoustic lugs electrically connected to a power circuit. Separable contacts are electrically connected in series between the first lug and the second acoustic lug. An operating mechanism opens and closes the separable contacts. A first acoustic sensor is coupled to the second acoustic lug and senses a first acoustic signal from the second acoustic lug. A second acoustic sensor is coupled to the third acoustic lug and senses a second acoustic signal from the third acoustic lug. The first and second acoustic signals are operatively associated with a power circuit fault. A current sensor senses a current flowing between the first and second lugs. A circuit inputs the sensed acoustic signals and the sensed current and detects and distinguishes a parallel arc fault or a series arc fault from the sensed acoustic signals and the sensed current.Type: GrantFiled: May 10, 2006Date of Patent: July 22, 2008Assignee: Eaton CorporationInventors: Xin Zhou, Jerome K. Hastings, Joseph C. Zuercher
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Patent number: 7403130Abstract: An automatic circuit recloser is automatically removed from service prior to battery failure. Logic implemented on the automatic circuit recloser is used to determine whether a battery of the automatic circuit recloser may power operation of the automatic circuit recloser in place of a primary power source of the automatic circuit recloser is determined. The logic is also used to signal for the automatic circuit recloser to be automatically tripped when the battery may not power operation of the automatic circuit recloser in place of the primary power source. The logic also may be used to determine whether the battery is of a marginal quality in which the capability of the battery to power operation of the automatic circuit recloser is compromised, and to issue an alarm to indicate that the battery is of the marginal quality.Type: GrantFiled: August 20, 2004Date of Patent: July 22, 2008Assignee: Cooper Technologies CompanyInventor: David Stephen Brucker
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Patent number: 7403106Abstract: The disclosed detection circuit for a seatbelt apparatus may include an attachment detection switch, first and second resistance elements, and an LED. The resistance value of the first resistance element may be set to a value which allows a current smaller than the maximum current value which cannot turn the LED on to flow through the LED when the attachment detection switch is in an OFF state. The resistance values of the first and second resistance elements can be set to values which allow a current larger than the minimum current value which can turn the LED on to flow through the LED when the attachment detection switch is in an ON state. A monitoring circuit may determine whether or not the tongue on the seat is attached to the buckle.Type: GrantFiled: February 27, 2006Date of Patent: July 22, 2008Assignee: Takata CorporationInventor: Eiji Yanagi
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Patent number: 7400227Abstract: A power supply for providing excitation to notification appliance circuits (NACs) in fire alarm applications meets revised national and international requirements for both NAC drive and auxiliary load drive tasks with a single circuit configuration. The requirements stipulate ability to tolerate inrush when activating strobe lights and horns of ten times the nominal output, while limiting short-circuit drive in AUX mode to eight amperes after five seconds. The novel power supply improves on the requirements, first by continuously testing for overcurrent NAC status and signaling faults in real time, and second by shutting off AUX drive in event of a short and retrying periodically without a requirement for manual reset. Thus testing for wiring errors is rendered safer and nondestructive, and correction of a wiring error can be quicker.Type: GrantFiled: August 1, 2005Date of Patent: July 15, 2008Assignee: GE Security, Inc.Inventors: Donald E. Becker, John P. Hewlin, Clifford D. Renfrew
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Patent number: 7397384Abstract: A current limiting system in accordance with the present invention comprises an accessory or canopy mount device that is permanently installed between a source of electrical power 1 and a track lighting system 2. The system may be installed integrally with a track lighting system to supply power to a plurality of lighting tracks from a plurality of power sources or circuits, as desired by a user or lighting designer. The system may also be configured to be compatible with a wide variety of track lighting system power tracks and is difficult to remove once properly installed, thereby making it tamper-proof.Type: GrantFiled: February 11, 2005Date of Patent: July 8, 2008Assignee: Genlyte Thomas Group, LLCInventors: Kenneth MacKenzie, IV, Alejandro Mier-Langner, Michael S. O'Boyle, James Edward Kuchar
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Publication number: 20080151444Abstract: An over-current protection device is provided that uses a micro-controller to sense and interrupt current flow used by motors. Because the same micro-controller that is operating the motors may be used for the overall application current monitoring, no significant hardware overhead is incurred. The micro-controller uses two input/output pins to perform the sensing and control.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 20, 2006Publication date: June 26, 2008Inventor: JOHN D UPTON
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Publication number: 20080150741Abstract: A device and method for detecting current-impressed useful signals, added to a DC supply current, for a digital alarm line security system are described.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 4, 2005Publication date: June 26, 2008Inventor: Gerhard Koida
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Patent number: 7391335Abstract: A system (10) and method for monitoring the operational life and/or performance of one or more light-emitting diodes (LEDs) (20) based on sensed parameters are disclosed. The remaining life of each LED may be predicted by counting the clock cycles during which the LED-based light is activated. LED current and/or temperature measurements may be used to control the clock signal and, thus, to compensate the predicted life value. Furthermore, operational characteristics of the LED-based light may be monitored based on LED current and/or voltage measurements. Such characteristics may include performance (e.g., intensity) and failure conditions (e.g., open or short circuits).Type: GrantFiled: August 18, 2005Date of Patent: June 24, 2008Assignee: Honeywell International, Inc.Inventors: Saed M. Mubaslat, Terence D. Kirkpatrick, Nicolo F. Machi
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Publication number: 20080136655Abstract: An over-current alerting circuit used in a hand held device includes a current sensor module, a photo sensor module and an alerting module. The current sensor module is used for sensing a loading current of the hand held device and outputting a photo signal according to the intensity of the loading current. The photo sensor module is used for generating a driving signal when the intensity of the photo signal is higher than a predetermined intensity. The alerting module is used for performing an alerting action after the driving signal is received. In addition, an over-current alerting method is also disclosed herein.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 30, 2007Publication date: June 12, 2008Inventors: Tai-Shui Ho, Shih-Kuang Tsai, Xin-Hai Sun
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Patent number: 7385518Abstract: A fused disconnect switch assembly includes a pull out fuse assembly and a switch housing assembly. The fuse assembly includes a line side conducting portion, a load side conducting portion, and a fuse element therebetween. The switch housing assembly includes a fuse receptacle for receiving the fuse, a first contact assembly coupled to the line side conducting portion of the fuse and a second contact assembly coupled to the load side conducting portion of the fuse when the fuse is inserted into the receptacle. An open fuse indication device is in communication with conducting portions of the fuse, and an alarm terminal output extends from the switch assembly housing and is in communication with the open fuse indication device. The open fuse indication device provides local fuse state indication and the alarm terminal output facilitates remote fuse state indication when coupled to external circuitry.Type: GrantFiled: March 30, 2006Date of Patent: June 10, 2008Assignee: Cooper Technologies CompanyInventors: Jaime Alberto Torrez, Ronald E. Mollet, B. Heath Scoggin
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Patent number: 7378977Abstract: A current overload detecting system and method applicable in a data processing device connected with a plurality of electronic devices is disclosed, each of the electronic devices having a USB interface. The data processing device has a plurality of USB ports corresponding to and connected with the USB interfaces, a plurality of USB control units for controlling the operations of the USB ports, and a basic input/output system (BIOS) for executing a POST process. The current overload detecting system includes a signal-detecting unit for detecting if the USB control unit of the data processing device is outputting an over-current when the BIOS of the data processing device is executing the POST process, outputting a control signal if the USB control unit is detected to be outputting the over-current signal; and a display unit for receiving the control signal and displaying corresponding messages according to the control signal.Type: GrantFiled: March 23, 2006Date of Patent: May 27, 2008Assignee: Inventec CorporationInventor: Kun-Hung Huang
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Publication number: 20080068212Abstract: A system for measuring temperature and current at coupling points in an electric distribution network. A monitor device is connected to a series of measuring devices using radio waves. The monitor device sequentially interrogates measuring devices to determine the temperature and current of each one. The measuring devices include a core surrounding the conductor which provides power by induction to each measuring device and also provides a measure of the current. A temperature sensor connected to the core provides the temperature measurement.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 30, 2006Publication date: March 20, 2008Inventors: Boon Hou Tay, Zengjun Li
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Patent number: 7336193Abstract: A device for monitoring a leakage current of a surge arrester has a measuring element for detecting a leakage current in a leakage current circuit. A filter assembly filters the leakage current in order to extract a third harmonic oscillation which is evaluated by an evaluation circuit with respect to the value thereof. The evaluation circuit delivers at least one warning signal to a display device. In a preferred embodiment, three display devices operating as a signaling light are provided. A power supply for the used circuits is obtainable by way of a transformer which extracts a necessary auxiliary zero-potential energy contained in the leakage current and with the aid of a main power supply unit connected to the transformer.Type: GrantFiled: September 16, 2004Date of Patent: February 26, 2008Assignee: Siemens AktiengesellschaftInventors: Haiko Schillert, Matthias Schubert, Kai Steinfeld
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Patent number: 7336192Abstract: A system that monitors at least a household electric user, in particular a household appliance, includes a monitoring device that is connected between a source of electric energy and the electric user, the monitoring device including a metering means for detecting one or more electric quantities being associated with the operation of said user, and further including a control means that is programmed for (i) comparing the electric quantity or quantities being measured through the metering means with reference values of said electric quantity or quantities which are stored within the control means; (ii) generating, in function of the comparison, information being representative of the current operating status or phase of operation of the electric user; and (iii) allowing for the reading or transmission of the information to the outside of said device.Type: GrantFiled: December 6, 2005Date of Patent: February 26, 2008Assignee: Wrap, S.p.A.Inventor: Valerio Aisa
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Patent number: 7327275Abstract: A controller suitable for identifying an abnormal operational condition in a bathing system is provided. The controller includes a memory unit adapted for storing measurements indicative of electrical currents drawn by the bathing system under normal operating conditions, each measurement being indicative of the electrical current being drawn by a respective bathing unit component in the bathing system. The controller also includes a processing unit for modifying the measurements stored in the memory unit and for detecting an abnormal operational condition associated with the bathing system at least in part on the basis of measurements stored on the memory unit. In specific implementations, sensing circuitry adapted for obtaining measurements associated to components, such as relays and fuses, is provided.Type: GrantFiled: February 2, 2004Date of Patent: February 5, 2008Assignee: Gecko Alliance Group Inc.Inventors: Christian Brochu, Benoit Laflamme, Daniel Gaudreau, Martin Hardy, Louis Nollet, Florent Gougereau, Michel Authier