Abstract: There are provided a driving control portion configured to output a closing command for bringing a contact to a closed state to a first driving portion, and also to output to the first driving portion an opening command for bringing the contact to an open state and the closing command in an alternate and repeated manner until the current runs through the contact; a number-of-retries obtaining portion configured to obtain, as a number of retries, the number of times that the driving control portion repeated the opening command and the closing command until the current runs through the contact after the driving control portion outputted the closing command to the first driving portion; and a usable period estimating portion configured to estimate a usable period from the present time of a first relay in accordance with the number of retries.

Abstract: An apparatus for detecting an open neutral condition in a split phase power system is described. The apparatus includes two powered lines providing output electricity to an electrical distribution system and a shared neutral line providing a grounded neutral to the first and second powered lines. The apparatus is configured for detecting when an open neutral condition is present in the split phase power system by determining when a power current is present on one or both of the first and second powered lines while a return current is not present on the neutral line; and in response to detecting that the open neutral condition is present, causing an interrupter to interrupt the power supplied by the first and second powered lines or to generate a signal indicating an open condition.

Abstract: An improved pivot controller is described that solves existing deficiencies in pivot controllers. Specifically, a pivot controller that can interface with either a hot or neutral safety, detect failed contactors and relays, and verify the safety control circuit is described. The described improved pivot controller permits easier installation, safer operation, and faster diagnostics than existing pivot controllers.

Abstract: A computer program product includes a computer readable storage medium having program instructions embodied therewith, wherein the program instructions are executable by a processor to cause the processor to perform a method. The method comprises obtaining an activity level for each of a plurality of functions of an integrated circuit, wherein each function has a different physical location on the integrated circuit. The method further includes dynamically adjusting an amount of current supplied to the integrated circuit by each of a plurality of power stages of a DC voltage regulator to meet the current requirements of the plurality of functions and to control power losses between the power stages and the functions, wherein each power stage has a different physical location along a perimeter of the integrated circuit.

Abstract: Provided is a system for soft switching of an electromechanical relay in a lighting control system using a sensor to detect a specified non-zero position in the electrical input waveform. Following this non-zero position, an adaptive time delay is applied before activation of the relay coil. An error detection circuit measures a time error between relay operation and the zero electrical input condition. This error signal is used to update the adaptive time delay for future relay operations. Using such a procedure has been shown to limit electrical stress on the relay, and therefore lengthen its life.

Abstract: A multi-phase voltage regulator module system includes a VRM and a phase control circuit. The VRM is capable of outputting a load detecting voltage which is direct proportion to the load of the CPU. The phase control circuit outputs a first level phase switching signal to the VRM, and a core voltage outputted by the VRM to the CPU is changed from N phases to M phases when the load detecting voltage increases to a first voltage. The phase control circuit a second level phase switching signal to the VRM, and the core voltage outputted by the VRM to the CPU from M phases to N phases when the load detecting voltage decreases to a second voltage. The first voltage is higher than the second voltage. M is larger than N.

Abstract: A load control device for controlling an amount of power delivered from an alternating current (AC) power source to an electrical load includes a relay operable to be coupled in series electrical connection between the AC power source and the electrical load. The relay has one or more relay contacts. The load control device includes a zero-cross detector operable to detect zero crosses of the alternating current and to generate zero cross signals, and a controller operatively coupled to a control input of the relay and the zero-cross detector for rendering the controllably conductive device conductive and non-conductive. The controller determines a relay actuation adjustment such that the contact reliably completes bouncing just prior to a zero cross and may initiate an actuation of the relay based on the actuation adjustment and the zero cross signal.

Abstract: A motor programming tool is disclosed for associating with a connection block of a motor and sending signals to a programmable controller of the motor, where the connection block includes a plurality of terminals coupled to the controller. The programming tool includes a tool body with an interface generally corresponding with the connection block of the motor, wiring operable to carry the signals, and a plurality of terminal connecting assemblies to associate with the motor terminals. The programming tool includes circuitry disposed in the tool body. The circuitry is electrically connected to the wiring and includes a power transmission portion and a data transmission portion.

Abstract: A system includes a relay, an actuation circuit, and an actuation delay circuit. The relay is coupled to a source of an input voltage or current waveform. The relay includes an actuation coil. The actuation circuit detects a peak or valley of a rectified voltage ripple waveform. The rectified voltage ripple waveform is generated from the input voltage or current waveform. The actuation circuit also causes an actuation voltage to be provided to the actuation coil. The actuation delay circuit delays the actuation circuit from providing the actuation voltage. The actuation delay circuit is configured based on the peak or valley of the rectified voltage ripple waveform. The actuation delay generated by the actuation delay circuit causes the relay to begin allowing current to flow to a load device at a time coincident with a zero-crossing time value of the input voltage or current waveform.

Abstract: An electrical relay contact arrangement for switching an electrical relay ‘on’ or ‘off’ at zero crossings of an AC mains supply, wherein the arrangement rather than immediately sending a control signal from a microprocessor to the input of the electrical relay to close or open the mechanical electrode contacts when switching is required, relies upon a time interval made up two delays, firstly when the microprocessor first recognizes switching is required there is a waiting period until the next zero crossing, and then a further delay which is the time difference between the lag times of the mechanical contact electrodes physically opening or closing and that of the next zero crossing.

Abstract: A method of controlling the opening or the closing of an AC electric circuit in an electricity meter by means of a relay is provided. The method times relay activation commands so as to take account of the inertial delay (di) of the relay, in such a manner that the actual activation command applied to the relay causes the relay actually to take action on the electric circuit when an electrical parameter of said circuit reaches a zero value, in order to limit the formation of electric arcs in the relay.

Abstract: An electric driving machine includes a remaining fastener sensor 257 which detects the amount of fasteners (e.g., nails) remaining, in an aligned and held manner, in a magazine 2 and which generates a residual-quantity signal (a signal showing depletion of fasteners) when the amount of remaining fasteners has decreased to a predetermined level or less; a remaining fastener detection circuit 406 which outputs a control signal (a signal of level 0) for controlling control means (299, 283, and other means) in accordance with an input of the residual-quantity signal (a switch-on signal) generated by the remaining fastener sensor 257; and a delay circuit 401 for delaying the remaining signal (the ON signal) generated by the remaining fastener sensor 257 by a predetermined period of time (e.g., 20 milliseconds) and inputs the thus-delayed remaining signal to the remaining fastener detection circuit 256 (406).

Abstract: A contactor control circuit is disclosed for controlling a contactor connecting an alternating current electrical power source to a load. The contactor control circuit comprises a switching circuit connected in series with the inductor for controlling the conduction of the contactor. The control circuit actuates conduction of current through the inductor for energizing the contactor to connect the alternating current electrical power source to the load. The invention is also incorporated into a circuit for switching a first and a second alternating current electrical power source to a load.

Abstract: An audio reproducing apparatus includes a power supply, an amplifier, a speaker, and a controller. The power supply is for supplying a voltage. The amplifier is for receiving the voltage and audio signals, amplifying the audio signals, and outputting amplified audio signals. The speaker is for reproducing sound after receiving the amplified audio signals. The controller is for receiving the voltage and generating a control signal to enable the amplifier. The controller includes a generator and a delay unit. The generator is for receiving the voltage and generating the control signal. The delay unit is for delaying the time of transferring the voltage from the power supply to the generator.

Abstract: The protection method and circuit provide a time delay after a first contact with the power source is made until full power is allowed connection to the trolling motor. This time delay is longer than the “bounce” time, or the time a user may “bounce” a contact on and off of a battery terminal, during a typical batter connection. Therefore, this delay prevents sparking at the battery terminal. During the time delay, an initial pre-charge brings the main capacitor's voltage up to the battery voltage in a low stress, no spark process prior to being connected directly across the battery source terminal by relay contacts.

Abstract: A method and system for proving a solenoid drive circuit. An exemplary solenoid drive circuit comprises a solenoid drive circuit input coupled to a primary switch. The primary switch comprises a first set of contacts residing in a first stable position. A remote control switch is coupled to an output of the primary switch and the remote control switch comprises a solenoid drive circuit having a predetermined delay. The predetermined delay energizes a solenoid after the primary switch contact transitions from a first stable position to a second stable position.

Abstract: A method for controlling a solenoid valve, particularly in a motor vehicle. The inventive method is characterized by applying a first voltage (U—1) to a coil (21) of the solenoid valve (22) until a first point in time (t—1) and then applying a second voltage (U—2) with a smaller value. The first point in time t—1 precedes the point in time at which the solenoid valve (22) reaches its final position.

Abstract: A period adjustment circuit of disconnection and restart IC comprises a second capacitor, which is connected to a resistor and a transistor connected in parallel. One end of the resistor is connected between the disconnection and restart IC and the first capacitor. When lockup of a fan motor occurs, in addition that an IC current source charges the first capacitor, the second capacitor also charges the first capacitor via the resistor until the voltage of the first capacitor reaches a disconnection voltage. The IC then enters into the disconnection state, and the voltages of the two capacitors are equal so that the second capacitor no longer charges the first capacitor. Next, the IC current source simultaneously charges the first and second capacitors until the voltage of the first capacitor reaches a system reset voltage. The first capacitor is then discharged to a restart voltage by the IC.

Abstract: A system and method are presented for sequentially applying electrical power to multiple loads. The system is capable of operating in conjunction with other such systems as either a slave or master. When operating as a master, the system is activated as soon as it is turned on, and begins sequentially applying power to the loads connected to its output channels. When operating as a slave, the system must first receive an enable input signal from the master to which it is connected. The master/slave assignment is switch-selectable; thus, series-connected units may be reconfigured from single to multiple masters, or vice-versa, with no wiring changes. The new system is believed to provide the benefits of improved reliability and reduced cost for power distribution networks, by eliminating startup current surges resulting from simultaneously powering-up all of the attached loads, thereby reducing stress on components.

Abstract: A method for controlling an electronic control using a circuit that includes a damper capacitor. The method includes substantially discharging the damper capacitor and enabling operation of the electronic control when the damper capacitor is substantially discharged.

Abstract: A method for controlling a solenoid using a single coil solenoid for both course and fine adjustment. A resistor or series of resistors may be used in parallel/for current controlled solenoids or in series for voltage controlled solenoids for allowing course or finite control of the solenoids.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for effecting an electronic drive control of a drive coil of a protection system using an electronic device which comprises a microcontroller. The aim of the invention is to increase the serviceable life of a protection system. To this end, the invention uses a randomly selected and constantly changing delay time (tx) that occurs after a time (t2, t3) at which the supply voltage is established on the electronic device.

Abstract: So that an actuator drive which holds an actuator element for actuating, for example, a charge cycle valve of an internal combustion engine, in a limit position by a coil, can be switched at the correct time into the other limit position, the energization of the coil is switched off a certain time period before the time at which the actuator element is to be released from the limit position. Here, the time period is selected as a function of the supply voltage of the actuator drive and/or of the coil current during the holding in the limit position. It is also possible to adapt the time period.

Abstract: A circuit and method for measuring the switch opening time, in cycles, of a medium voltage air circuit breaker. The circuit senses DC current feeding the trip coil in the circuit breaker. The timer starts a predetermined programmable time interval after the DC current starts flowing in the breaker trip coil circuit. The timer stops when the DC current stops flowing in the breaker trip coil circuit. The programmable time interval is a delay between the opening of the breaker's primary contacts and the opening of the trip coil circuit switch, and is used to determine the circuit breaker opening time from the starting and stopping of the timer. The timing device does not require connection to the circuit breaker's main power contacts.

Abstract: In an electromagnetic operating system having a coil for electromagnetically controlling a mechanical operating member for operating the processing of objects in response to an alteration in an electrical voltage condition, the control system is arranged for generating test command pulses of different magnitude, for registering a command code in accordance with a smallest magnitude test command pulse causing the operating member to move, and for subsequently correcting alterations in the voltage condition for controlling the operating member in accordance with the registered command code. The control system is responsive for effecting the corrections in the alterations of the voltage condition in accordance with the registered command code. This enables simple correction for differences in the response delay among different electromagnetic operating systems.

Abstract: An electrical control module and circuit for controlling a solenoid. The control circuit provides a constant voltage to a solenoid for a predetermined time period after which a pulse width modulated voltage is supplied. The circuit further includes components for reverse polarity protection, transient voltage protection, low gate drive voltage protection, reduced heat dissipation and improved magnetic drive under low input voltage conditions during application of the pulse width modulated voltage. The module may be used in conjunction with a single coil or a dual coil solenoid. The circuit may be utilized on a 12 volt or a 24 volt electrical system without adjustment.

Abstract: Thermal management within an electrically powered systems requires monitoring, from time-to-time, both electrical power consumption and temperature within the system. The power consumption and temperature data thus obtained permits developing over time a thermal model for the system. After a thermal model for the system has been thus developed, the model together with the presently sensed electrical power consumption, and the system temperature are used to predict a thermal trend for the system. The predicted thermal trend thus obtained for the system is then used in effecting a temperature control strategy within the electrically powered system.

Abstract: A circuit for driving an electromagnetic solenoid valve, used as a fuel injector in an internal combustion engine, having a needle valve biased in a closing direction by a spring and a solenoid which moves the needle valve in an opening direction when energized to inject fuel into a cylinder of the engine. The circuit includes a first booster which boosts battery voltage to a first voltage to charge a capacitor. The charged voltage is applied to the solenoid for a time period to cause the needle valve to move in the opening direction. The circuit includes a second booster which boosts the battery voltage to a second voltage, less than the first voltage, to be supplied to the solenoid to maintain the first current, enabling the period of large current application to be freely determined to ensure reliable valve operation, whereby the fuel injection can be reliably effected.

Abstract: An in-wall mounted electric timer comprising a housing for mounting in an electric box in a wall. The electric timer comprises a user interface on the housing. The user-interface comprises an input panel and a display. The electric timer further includes a movable cover panel covering the user interface. The cover panel has a rearward extending post aligned with the input panel to operate the input panel by moving action of the cover panel, wherein at least a portion of the cover panel is transparent enabling observation of the display through the cover panel.

Abstract: A solenoid operated remote resetting device with a protective solenoid activation circuit is disclosed. The device includes a housing for enclosing and protecting a solenoid with a movable plunger, a movable mechanical operator having an operator arm extending through an opening defined in the housing and a circuit board on which a solenoid activation circuit is mounted. The solenoid activation circuit includes circuitry for protecting the solenoid from overheating due to intentional or unintentional prolonged current flow in the solenoid.

Abstract: A computer monitor system including an infrared motion detecting switch that deactivates the monitor after a predetermined delay during which no movement is detected in the vicinity of the monitor. The system is designed to prevent damage to the screens through excessive use.

Abstract: An electromagnet drive apparatus being characterized by a switching element 1 connected in series with a coil 3 of an electromagnet; a pulse signal generation circuit 16 which generates, on predetermined cycles, a pulse signal used for turning on the switching element; a regenerative circuit 4 which permits flow of a regenerated electrical current when the switch section is turned on and the switching element is turned off from a state in which the switch section and the switching element are in an on state and a source voltage is applied to the coil of the electromagnet, and which causes the power absorbing element to immediately reduce the regenerated electrical current flowing through the coil of the electromagnet when the switch section and the switching element are turned off; and a delay circuit 11 which turns on the switch section by application of the supply voltage and maintains the switch section in an on state until a predetermined period of time elapses after the application of the supply voltage

Abstract: A time delay relay circuit of the present invention includes a power supply terminal, a relay having a first terminal connected to the power supply terminal, and a timing circuit, for activating the relay for a preset duration, having a supply input for receiving power for the timing circuit. Also included is a means for connecting the supply input of the timing circuit to the power supply terminal during operation of the timing circuit and activation of the relay and disconnecting the supply input of the timing circuit from the power supply terminal during non-operation of the timing circuit. The means connecting the supply input to the power supply terminal may be a switch which is closed and opened to start the preset duration time running within the timing circuit. During the preset duration, the switch remains open. The relay is closed making a connection between the power supply terminal and the supply input.

Abstract: An arrangement for driving actuator coils for two or more driven devices employs a microprocessor or similar controller and an actuator driver circuit. The actuator driver circuit controls two or more relay actuator coils from a single microprocessor output terminal. This output terminal can provide a high, low, or pulse output signal. An amplifier switching device, such as a transistor, whose base is coupled to the output terminal of the microprocessor, drives the first relay actuator coil as its load. A rectifying diode is connected to one end of a capacitor and thence through a negative resistance device to a second relay actuator coil or other driven device. The coil impedances are selected so that the second coil has a significantly higher impedance than the first coil. When output pulses appear at the microprocessor output terminal, the transistor switch pulses on and off, and thus energizes the first coil.

Abstract: An air circulation system for an RAID system, having fan motors driving fans for circulating air inside the RAID and a power supply for the fan motors, includes: a sensing circuit for producing electrical signals proportional to the environmental conditions of the RAID's interior; a controller for producing control signals for controlling the direction of rotation of the fan motors when the signal exceeds a preset reference value; and a switching circuit for changing the polarity of the power supply, and thus the direction of rotation of the fan motors, in response to control signals from the controller.

Abstract: A priority control system is disclosed for controlling multiple secondary load devices, and one priority load device. The secondary load devices can be randomly controlled at any time, except when the priority load device is activated, in which case, all secondary load devices are deactivated. The priority control system has a first relay which relays power to a plurality of secondary relays corresponding to the secondary load devices. The first relay is biased such that it normally provides power to the secondary relays. The first relay also has a priority position which is the non-biased position, for providing power to the priority load device. The first relay is activated by a priority control device which switches system power from the secondary relays to the priority load device. A priority timer circuit is provided to limit the time the first relay is in the priority position, regardless of a possible malfunction in the priority control device.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method of protecting against circuit breaker failure, said circuit breaker having contacts capable of moving between a closed position and an open position, and vice versa, and being fitted with protection apparatus including fault detector apparatus for putting into operation an opening electromagnetic coil that actuates circuit breaker contact drive apparatus, with position-indicator contacts of monitor apparatus being changed over as soon as the circuit breaker contacts start to move. According to the invention, in the event of a fault being detected, a time delay is generated from the indicator contacts changing over, and at the end of said time delay it is verified whether the fault current has become zero, and if not an alarm is generated.

Abstract: A fail-safe circuit (10) comprises a storage battery (11) for electrical charges as well as a first charge path (12) which optionally connects the storage battery (11) to a first potential (UL). A second charge path (14) and a third charge path (15) optionally connect the storage battery (11) with a second or third potential (UE1, UE2). The first and second switching devices (16, 17), which operate as function of the first and second switching events (TA, TB), each comprise a first and second switching contact (A1, B1) in the first charge path (12) and a second switching contact (A2, B2) in the second and third charge path (14, 15). The actuation coils (LC, LD) of the third and fourth switching devices (18, 19) are in the second and third charge path (14, 15) and each have a first switching contact (C1, D1) in the first charging path (12) and a second contact (C2, C2', D2, D2').

Abstract: A device for controlling a switching relay to deliver power to a load. The switching relay selectively couples a hot leg of a utility power supply to the load. The load is coupled to a neutral wire of the utility power supply. The device includes a sensor for detecting whether an area is occupied. If the sensor indicates that the area is occupied and the load is powered off, the device monitors the line voltage for a zero crossing. Upon detecting a zero crossing, an amount of time to a subsequent zero crossing is measured and stored. Then, the device waits the amount of time between zero crossings, less a delay time for closing the contacts of the relay, and initiates a closing of the contacts of the relay. Similarly, when the sensor detects that the area has not been occupied for a predetermined amount of time and the load is powered on, the line voltage is monitored for a zero crossing and a time to a subsequent zero crossing is measured and stored.

Abstract: A solenoid control circuit is disclosed for providing the initial pull-in power to a magnetically-held solenoid and thereafter providing a release-pulse upon power loss to the circuit to release the solenoid. The solenoid control circuit has an AC input which is converted to a DC power supply. Power is supplied to an energy storage device after an initial time delay. After the time delay, the magnetic solenoid is tripped to its hold-in position. After being tripped, the magnetic solenoid is held in its hold-in position by the magnetic properties of the solenoid. Upon power interruption to the circuit, the solenoid is held in its tripped position for a desired period of time. After the time delay has expired, the energy storage device is discharged in an opposite direction through the magnetic solenoid, such that the magnetic solenoid is returned to its extended position.

Abstract: An automatic vehicle power and headlight controlling device with delay effect, including a delay circuit, an in-car sensing circuit, an out-car sensing circuit and a power supply circuit. The delay circuit is connected to both the in-car sensing circuit and the power supply circuit, while the out-car sensing circuit is connected to the in-car sensing circuit and powered thereby. After the delay circuit works, the in-car sensing circuit and the power supply circuit are delayedly energized. Only when the in-car sensing circuit works, the out-car sensing circuit is energized. Accordingly, at the stage of initially starting the vehicle, the excessive load on the battery is avoided so that the damage of the battery resulting from the excessive load can be obviated.

Abstract: Upon initiation of operation of a contactor from an unactuated condition to an actuated condition, the maximum magnitude of an initial current conducted to the coil of the contactor is determined. Once the contactor has been operated to the closed condition, the holding current is checked to determine if it exceeds a reference current. The reference current is a predetermined function of the maximum initial current. If the reference current is less than the holding current, a malfunction signal is provided. In another embodiment of the invention, a sensor is provided to sense the position of movable contacts connected with an armature of the contactor.

Abstract: A method of controlling a motion of an armature away from an electromagnet of an electromagnetic actuator includes the following steps: passing an electric current through a solenoid of the electromagnet for holding the armature at the electromagnet against a resetting force; interrupting the current flow through the solenoid at a desired moment for releasing the armature from the electromagnet; and impressing a current pulse of reverse polarity on the solenoid after interrupting the current flow for launching the armature from the electromagnet.

Abstract: A headlight circuit for an automobile which has two versions. One version can be used in automobiles which do not have daytime running lights and the other version can be used in automobiles which have daytime running lights. The circuit includes headlights which have high beam and low beam filaments, a high beam switch, a low beam switch, a battery, a turn signal switch, and three relays.

Abstract: A solenoid driver circuit is provided that operates a solenoid in a quiet operation by reducing solenoid armature velocity. A pulse signal and a ramp signal are provided by a frequency generator and a ramp generator, respectively. A frequency switching circuit receives the pulse and ramp signals and responsively provides a time varying pulse signal that has a duty cycle that decreases with time. A dwell circuit allows the frequency switching circuit to control the solenoid for a first time period and then provides an on signal to the solenoid, maintaining the solenoid in the on position. The solenoid driver circuit is particularly suitable for use with solenoid controlled valves.

Abstract: This invention discloses a versatile power and control circuit for an electric door strike that is operable in four different modes with readily adjustable release times. In addition, the invention is directed toward the provision of a highly efficient power supply that permits miniaturization and prevents overheating in the confined space that is available for installation in a door jamb.

Abstract: An automobile safety device that includes an input wireable to the windshield wiper motor that automatically independently activates each headlight and the rear window defogger.

Abstract: A device for controlling the release of a drag racer which is adapted for use in elapsed time starts as well as standard starts. The race crew inputs the opponent's established elapsed time and their own established elapsed time into the invention, as well as the standard timing-light/reaction-time delay. The device then calculates the handicap by which a faster car will be held and adds that time to the timing-light/reaction-time delay. This permits the driver to begin release timing from his opponent's Christmas tree lights. The driver may use his own Christmas tree if he wishes by setting the ET timers to zero, to equal values, or by setting the opponent's ET lower than his own.

Abstract: An apparatus for controlling a switching device provided for breaking or closing a power line connecting a power source to a load in an electric power system includes a switching timing control unit for controlling the timing to apply a breaking signal to said switching device in response to a breaking signal externally applied thereto so that the contacts of said switching device are opened during a period of time when the current flowing through said power line first reaches its peak value from a zero value and for controlling the timing of applying a closing signal to said switching device in response to a closing command preferably externally applied thereto so that the contacts of said switching device are closed when the voltage of said power source becomes a predetermined value depending upon whether said load is capacitive or inductive, and an operating unit for opening and closing said contacts of said switching device in response to said breaking and closing signals, respectively.

Abstract: For dislodging of particulate material from precipitator plates, high voltage electrodes, hoppers, conveyance ductwork, etc., an electro-mechanical rapper module is removably combined with an electronic controller module in a single cylindrical unit that can be controlled and operated independently of any central controller. The rapper is preferably of the type that utilizes a spring-loaded hammer upstroke: being largely independent of gravity it can operate in any orientation. The controller drives the rapper in repetitive bursts at a rate of about 3 impacts per second, and provides selection of impact amplitude, on time and on delay. The unit can be controlled from a remote switch closure, and can be actuated manually by a pushbutton test switch on a control panel inside a top cover. The controller and rapper can be readily separated by removing a clamp, and can be operated as separate electrically-connected units.