For Rectifying Patents (Class 363/61)
  • Patent number: 5764501
    Abstract: An electrical power transfer apparatus for connecting to a multiphase power line carrying a AC signal having a period of T.sub.AC, the apparatus including: a capacitive storage circuit; a plurality of charge transfer circuits connected to the capacitive storage circuit and each of which is connected to a different phase of the multiphase power line, wherein during operation the charge transfer circuits resonantly transfer power to and from the multiphase power line and capacitive storage circuit, wherein the resonant transfers to and from the capacitive charge storage circuit occur with a resonant frequency at least as great as 1/T.sub.AC ; and a control circuit coupled to the plurality of charge transfer circuits and which during operation causes the plurality of charge transfer circuits to transfer power between different phases of the multiphase power line via the capacitive storage circuit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 1995
    Date of Patent: June 9, 1998
    Assignee: D.C. Transformation, Inc.
    Inventor: Rudolf Limpaecher
  • Patent number: 5742490
    Abstract: Flexible power converters in which many different output power configurations (i.e., different output voltages and currents) may be realized. In particular, a flexible power converter having an output stage configurable as a full bridge having series or parallel secondary windings, a current doubler having series or parallel secondary windings, or a voltage doubler having series or parallel secondary windings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 1996
    Date of Patent: April 21, 1998
    Assignee: Electronic Measurements, Inc.
    Inventors: Pradeep Madhav Bhagwat, Chadd Dial Justo
  • Patent number: 5703770
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for generating a high voltage by converting input power at a low voltage to output power at a high voltage, by: supplying input power to a low voltage unit to produce a periodic signal having a frequency; supplying the periodic signal to a rectifier voltage multiplier of a specific type to cause the rectifier voltage multiplier to produce the output power at a high voltage, wherein the ratio of output power to input power is a function of the frequency of the periodic signal; identifying the type of the rectifier voltage multiplier; and continually adjusting the frequency of the periodic signal toward a value which maximizes the ratio of output power to input power.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 30, 1997
    Assignee: Sames S.A.
    Inventors: Jean Pierre Burtin, Flavien Dobrowolski, Caryl Thome
  • Patent number: 5661348
    Abstract: A universal offline switch mode power supply including an input stage having an input filter inductor and a switch for switching between a first lower AC input voltage or a second higher AC input voltage. A bridge rectifier full-wave rectifies the higher AC voltage when the switch is in a first position, where the filter inductor serves to filter the higher AC voltage. The higher AC voltage is preferably approximately 230 V rms. The bridge rectifier and two bulk capacitors serve to double the lower AC voltage when the switch is in a second position, where the lower AC voltage is preferably approximately 115 V rms. Also, the input filter is bypassed for the lower AC voltage. The switch is preferably an SPST switch. In the preferred embodiment, the inductor is placed between one AC input line and one input of a bridge rectifier circuit. The outputs of the bridge rectifier circuit are placed across two series input bulk capacitors and to the input of a switchmode power converter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 1995
    Date of Patent: August 26, 1997
    Assignee: Dell USA L.P.
    Inventor: Alan E. Brown
  • Patent number: 5654884
    Abstract: The current invention provides circuitry for use in an integrated circuit controlled voltage doubler/bridge circuit such that during any period wherein a lack of AC supply voltage is detected by the circuitry and following a period of AC input voltage within a lower defined range of values, repeated triac firing pulses are provided such that the AC supply will be rectified and doubled as soon as such a supply returns, whether the supply returns with the same or opposite polarity to that which it had, just before being interrupted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 1995
    Date of Patent: August 5, 1997
    Assignee: SGS-Thomson Microelectronics Pte. Ltd.
    Inventor: Muni Mohan
  • Patent number: 5627458
    Abstract: A low power amplifier system contains a number of amplifier stages, each having a control terminal, and a bias circuit parameter that can be measured as a voltage. A monolithic integrated circuit includes a plurality of bias control amplifiers, one for each of the amplifier stages. A positive supply voltage is fed into the integrated circuit, and in response thereto a negative supply voltage is generated, both voltages being then applied to each of the bias control amplifiers. A voltage feedback signal indicative of the bias current in each one of the respective external amplifier circuits is supplied to the corresponding one of the bias control amplifiers. Each bias control amplifier is then operable to compare the received voltage feedback signal with a reference voltage derived from the positive supply voltage and/or the negative supply voltage, for producing an error signal indicative of an error in the bias current in the respective external amplifier stage, and also for amplifying that error signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 1995
    Date of Patent: May 6, 1997
    Inventor: Larry J. Nevin
  • Patent number: 5604352
    Abstract: Apparatus for irradiating a substrate is compact, transportable, rugged, high powered, and highly efficient. It includes an improved high voltage inductor (1-230), an improved power transfer apparatus (230-294), an improved voltage multiplication apparatus (500-575), an improved auxiliary power supply (600-619) for the voltage multiplication apparatus, improved accessibility self-shielding (700), and improved methods for radiation processing of solid or liquid materials.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 1995
    Date of Patent: February 18, 1997
    Assignee: Raychem Corporation
    Inventor: Marlin N. Schuetz
  • Patent number: 5587893
    Abstract: This invention relates to a video display high voltage generator. In the generator, the primary coil, the high voltage coil and the multiple foil high voltage capacitors of the multiplier are sequentially formed into a trausformer assembly on the insulating tube. The stepup capacitors are formed through an electrostatic induction of the metallized foil in the assembly, the two groups of the stepup capacitors are wound on the high voltage coil in opposite directions so as to nullify the voltages magnetically induced thereon, forming the wound metallized foils into pure capacitors without causing electromagnetic interference on the other equipments. The transformer assembly is mounted on the center pole of the ferrite casing and accomodated in the space provided by the casing. The magnetic path is formed by the center pole bases and rim of the ferrite casing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 24, 1996
    Assignee: Chung-Chin Chen
    Inventor: David Teng
  • Patent number: 5572415
    Abstract: A circuit is provided for rectifying an AC input voltage to provide a substantially constant DC output voltage. A composite input voltage is derived from the AC input voltage, which is composed of a scaled input AC voltage shifted by a selected DC bias voltage such that the entire range of such input signal voltages is contained within the supply voltages-of detection circuitry which controls the rectifier circuitry. The detection is thus carried out during both the upper and lower excursions of the input AC voltage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 1994
    Date of Patent: November 5, 1996
    Assignee: SGS-Thomson Microelectronics Pte. Limited
    Inventor: Muni Mohan
  • Patent number: 5561597
    Abstract: A novel power conversion system includes an energy storage circuit including a plurality of capacitors forming multiple stages, wherein each of the multiple stages includes one or more of the capacitors; a charging circuit connected to the energy storage circuit and during a charging cycle charging the plurality of capacitors from a voltage source to a predetermined voltage; a circuit for inverting the polarity of the voltage across selected capacitors; and a discharging circuit connected to the energy storage circuit and during a discharging cycle extracting power from the plurality of connected capacitors at a transformed voltage. The energy storage circuit further includes an interstage coupling circuit that provides interconnections interconnecting the capacitor stages. During the charging cycle, the interstage coupling circuit assumes one of two modes and during the discharging cycle, it assumes the other of the two modes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 1994
    Date of Patent: October 1, 1996
    Assignee: D.C. Transformation, Inc.
    Inventor: Rudolf Limpaecher
  • Patent number: 5510944
    Abstract: A voltage doubler (2) having a series arrangement of two smoothing capacitors (C1,C2), is able to use less expensive smoothing capacitors (C1,C2) having a far lower rated voltage which is only slightly above the maximum voltage occurring during normal operation. To this end, a first and a second over-voltage prevention circuit (30,31) are coupled across the smoothing capacitors (C1,C2) of the voltage doubler (2) to protect the smoothing capacitors (C1,C2) against over-voltage if one of the smoothing capacitors (C1,C2) is short-circuited. The first and the second over-voltage prevention circuit (30,31 ) may both be an over-voltage detector, or an under-voltage detector each being coupled across one of the smoothing capacitors (C1,C2). It is also possible to combine an over-voltage detector coupled across one of the smoothing capacitors (C1,C2) to an under-voltage detector coupled across the same smoothing capacitor (C1,C2).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 23, 1996
    Assignee: U.S. Philips Corporation
    Inventors: Stefan G. Mozar, Tijmen C. Van Bodegraven
  • Patent number: 5506492
    Abstract: A high output alternator and regulator for generating electrical power in a motor vehicle having a storage battery for providing stand-by power at a predetermined voltage. The alternator is a mechanically driven generator having stator windings across which a three-phase AC voltage is produced at an amplitude determined by the amount of current fed through a field winding. A first rectifier is for rectifying the three-phase AC voltage to provide a DC battery voltage to supply other DC voltage loads and a second rectifier rectifies the three-phase AC voltage and inputs into a voltage multiplier circuit which amplifies the rectified voltage. The voltage multiplier circuit inputs the amplified voltage into a voltage regulator having inputs which sense the battery voltage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 1993
    Date of Patent: April 9, 1996
    Inventor: Ronald R. Harris
  • Patent number: 5500721
    Abstract: A power supply circuit which converts an A.C. signal into an output signal that combines A.C. and D.C. voltages components. The circuit uses a voltage doubler topology with transistors. The transistors are controlled by waveform generators, which generate a series of pulses. By adjusting the duty cycle of the pulses, the appropriate D.C. voltages components can be formed. By adjusting the duty cycle of the positive output producing pulses and negative output producing pulses relative to each other, the required A.C. signal can be adjusted. A scavengeless developer in a xerographic machine requires three bias voltage inputs. The power supply circuit can be attached to a transformer connected to an appropriate A.C. power source to produce the required voltage signals to control the operation of the developer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 1995
    Date of Patent: March 19, 1996
    Assignee: Xerox Corporation
    Inventors: John M. Randall, Clifford K. Friend
  • Patent number: 5485364
    Abstract: A power supply for an AF sound stage includes a transformer and a charging capacitor for storing an operating voltage. A rectifier connects the secondary winding of the transformer to the charging capacitor. A voltage doubler circuit, which includes a series connection of a second capacitor and a first switching means, is in parallel with the secondary winding. A second switching means connects the junction of the second capacitor and the first switching means to the charging capacitor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 1995
    Date of Patent: January 16, 1996
    Assignee: Deutsche Thomson-Brandt GmbH
    Inventors: Jaromir Palata, Jean-Paul Louvel
  • Patent number: 5458217
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is an electrorheological fluid damping control system. The suspension control system is comprised of a transformer and a rectifier circuit, which is electrically connected to a secondary winding of the transformer and is provided with capacitors. A capacitive load is electrically connected to output terminals of the rectifier circuit. When voltage to be applied across the capacitive load is cut off, electric charges stored in the capacitors and in a capacitive component of the capacitive load are discharged through a resistive component of the capacitive load. The capacitance of each capacitor is determined such that a discharge time constant of a circuit comprised of tile capacitors and the capacitive load is a predetermined value or less.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 1994
    Date of Patent: October 17, 1995
    Assignee: Bridgestone Corporation
    Inventor: Masatoshi Ohishi
  • Patent number: 5434769
    Abstract: A phase adaptable AC/DC converter having three input terminals capable of connection to either a single phase or dual phase electrical power service. A feedback circuit in a control portion of the converter sums a first voltage and a second voltage which are proportional to first and second output voltages, respectively, to control a first bidirectional switch in a voltage boost circuit. The feedback circuit also sums the first and second voltage with a difference between the first and second output voltages to control a second bidirectional switch in the voltage boost circuit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 1993
    Date of Patent: July 18, 1995
    Assignee: Premier Power, Inc.
    Inventor: Alex J. Severinsky
  • Patent number: 5363286
    Abstract: A high voltage generator comprises a transformer unit for boosting an inputted AC voltage and a rectifier unit for rectifying the AC voltage boosted by the transformer unit, the transformer unit and the rectifier unit being assembled as high voltage components, wherein the high voltage components are molded by a solid insulation material with the high voltage components being separated from each other by a predetermined distance to thereby form the high voltage components to a single block member. An electric conductive layer is formed on an outside surface of the block member. The high voltage generator is utilized for an X-ray generator and a DC high voltage output generated from the rectifier unit serves as a power supply for generating X-rays. A filament heating transformer is further disposed as a high voltage component for supplying an AC power for heating filaments of the X-ray tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 1992
    Date of Patent: November 8, 1994
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba
    Inventor: Akira Tsuchiya
  • Patent number: 5335161
    Abstract: An unusually lightweight and readily portable X-ray machine is achieved through the use of a multi-stage DC voltage multiplier combined with a multi-stage AC filament current stepdown transformer, incorporating unique components and subassemblies. Multi-prong clamping inter-stage connectors couple diode strings to plural capacitor array junctions and to conductors matching interstage DC potentials between multiplier stages and transformer stages. A high voltage input transformer for the multiplier incorporates dual insulating layers, a relatively thick, heat-resistant Teflon layer exhibiting extremely low dielectric losses and a thinner Epoxy layer having a tractive outer surface supporting a large plurality of fine wire secondary winding turns. A laser target selector removably mountable on the X-ray tube's projection portal illuminates a target spot to allow adjusted aiming of the X-ray beam.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 1992
    Date of Patent: August 2, 1994
    Assignee: Lorad Corporation
    Inventors: Anthony J. Pellegrino, Earl C. Mayes, Donald E. Sharpe, George H. Bantz
  • Patent number: 5313384
    Abstract: A high-voltage generating circuit suitable for a light receiving circuit includes a pulse oscillating circuit, a current drive circuit, a first capacitor, a second capacitor, a Cockcroft-Walton circuit, a low-pass filter. The pulse oscillating circuit produces a train of repetitive pulses. The current drive circuit produces a train of repetitive pulses which are in phase opposite to the train of repetitive pulses. The first capacitor couples the current drive circuit with the first input terminal of the Cockcroft-Walton circuit. The second capacitor couples the pulse oscillating circuit with the second input terminal of the Cockcroft-Walton circuit. The Cockcroft-Walton circuit boost the pulse voltage applied between the first and second inputs to produce a high direct current voltage. The low-pass filter removes the ripple components of the high direct current voltage. The Cockcroft-Walton circuit can be formed with a small number of circuit components.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 1992
    Date of Patent: May 17, 1994
    Assignee: Oki Electric Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Kazuro Takeda, Katsuhiro Ishimura
  • Patent number: 5309065
    Abstract: A ballast circuit system provides for efficient starting and operation of high voltage discharge lamps using a common 120 volt AC power source. As a result of this improved ballast circuit system, the necessary high voltage is generated from a normal 120 volt AC in such a way that there is low power loss. The system efficiency allows for use of plastic fixtures and small size packaging of the discharge lamp.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 1992
    Date of Patent: May 3, 1994
    Assignee: Hubbell Incorporated
    Inventors: Joe A. Nuckolls, Yan Wang
  • Patent number: 5285370
    Abstract: A circuit arrangement for generating a high DC voltage utilizes a voltage multiplier cascade which requires two alternating, non-overlapping pulse trains which are generated by a pulse generator. For given applications, for example, contactless chip cards, the supply voltage is derived from an ac voltage induced into a coil and rectified by means of a bridge rectifier. This gives rise to a voltage drop. When the pulse generator operates utilizing the supply voltage, the amplitude of the output pulses is lower, i.e. a further voltage drop occurs. Therefore, in order to overcome this limitation, the pulse generator does not derive the pulses for feeding the cascade from the rectified operating voltage, but directly from the ac voltage. This results in a higher amplitude and a better efficiency. Another feature includes the blocking of the pulse generator so that it does not represent a load to the ac voltage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 1992
    Date of Patent: February 8, 1994
    Assignee: U.S. Philips Corporation
    Inventors: Klaus Axer, Klaus Sickert
  • Patent number: 5231564
    Abstract: A power supply for producing excitation of an X-ray tube filament of an unusually lightweight and readily portable X-ray machine is achieved through the use of multiple voltage multiplying-rectifying stages powered by a transformer driven at 25 kHz. A four amp-four volt electrical current is applied across the X-ray tube filament by the use of a multi-stage filament transformer array driven at 33 kHz. The multi-stage filament transformer array is interconnected to the multiple voltage multiplying-rectifying stage so as to limit the voltage potential between stages. The use of 25 kHz and 33 kHz driving signals eliminates cross talk between signal producing circuits.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 1992
    Date of Patent: July 27, 1993
    Assignee: Lorad Corporation
    Inventors: Anthony J. Pellegrino, Earl C. Mayes, Donald E. Sharpe, George H. Bantz
  • Patent number: 5166965
    Abstract: A high voltage high power DC source includes a magnetic flux pole structure responsive to a high frequency, relatively low voltage source inductively coupled to the pole. Multiple AC to DC converters inductively coupled to the pole are connected in series, stacked relationship with each other, to derive the high voltage, high power DC output. Each stage includes a pair of oppositely wound planar coils on opposite sides of a printed circuit board. The printed circuits of the different stages are displaced from each other and a coil driven by the high frequency source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 1991
    Date of Patent: November 24, 1992
    Assignee: Varian Associates, Inc.
    Inventor: John A. Collier
  • Patent number: 5162984
    Abstract: A rectifier power supply automatically adjusts to operate over either of two separate ranges of AC line voltages by reconfiguring filter capacitors so as to charge the capacitor serially when operated over the higher range of voltages and to charge the capacitors separately over each half cycle when operated over the lower voltage range. A triac device, used to control charging of the capacitors, is selectively activated only during a small portion of each half cycle to minimize power consumption. The device includes a bridge rectifier circuit receiving an AC line voltage and supplying pulsating DC to the serially connected two filter capacitors. The triac is used as a switch and is connected between one input terminal of the diode bridge and a node point between the two capacitors. An AC line voltage range detector and triac control circuit responsive to the range detector causes the triac to conduct when the AC line voltage is detected within the lower range.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 1991
    Date of Patent: November 10, 1992
    Assignee: SGS-Thomson Microelectronics S.A.
    Inventors: Thierry Castagnet, Jean-Claude Bielli
  • Patent number: 5142163
    Abstract: A high speed load transfer system for use with critical loads, e.g. computers, includes a high speed transfer logic circuit which has rapid sensing and rapid contactor energizing means; so that in the event of power failure, power to the critical load can be switched instantaneously to an alternative power supply. A solid state sensor, responsive to a step change, detects instantaneous power failure and operates an output to a contactor. A voltage doubler circuit using an AC input capacitor and a DC output capacitor is provided at the contactor, with the DC capacitor connected across the contactor; so that when a transfer signal is received at the contactor, the DC capacitor is discharged across the contactor, so as to provide a surge of power through the switch means when the switch means closes and to minimize contactor response time--as well as to ensure connection to the critical load. The power supply can be a commercial AC line, or a hot standby inverter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 1987
    Date of Patent: August 25, 1992
    Inventor: Alfred M. Hase
  • Patent number: 5122946
    Abstract: A quasi push-pull single switch current-fed fly-back converter is used as the power supply for the magnetron of a microwave oven. A voltage doubler output circuit has a high impedance. A small magnetic circuit includes a transformer having a primary winding in series with an IGBT switch means and in series with an inductor. A single diode is connected in series with the inductor. A secondary winding is connected to the voltage doubler. A tertiary winding is coupled to a pulse width modification, i.e. for controlling the conductor sequence of the IGBT.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 1991
    Date of Patent: June 16, 1992
    Assignee: International Rectifier Corporation
    Inventor: Brian E. Taylor
  • Patent number: 5122947
    Abstract: A flyback transformer comprising a magnetic core assembled by joining together a pair of first and second U-shaped core halves each having two leg portions with end surfaces respectively joined in mutually abutting confrontation with respective gap spacers interposed therebetween at first and second core joint parts and a coil wound around the core joint parts. The coil includes, as an input winding, a primary winding divided into first and second primary windings which are wound at least around the two core joint parts of the core and are connected in parallel. By this arrangement, the magnetic fluxes generated at the two core joint parts cancel each other, and reduce the leakage flux field. Optionally, the two divided windings of the primary winding are each divided further into two windings wound around the leg portions on opposite sides of the spacers. At the same time, the first primary winding on the leg portion on one side and the second primary winding on the other side are connected in series.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 1990
    Date of Patent: June 16, 1992
    Assignee: Victor Company of Japan, Ltd.
    Inventor: Hideo Hishiki
  • Patent number: 5119283
    Abstract: A voltage-doubler rectifier includes an ac fullbridge diode rectifier and a dc-to-dc converter having two output boost circuits. One of the output boost circuits is coupled between the rectifier and a dc link, and the other output boost circuit is coupled, with opposite polarity, between the rectifier and the circuit common. Two series-connected filter capacitors are also coupled between the dc link and the circuit common. In a preferred embodiment, the two output boost circuits each comprise either a series, parallel, or combination series/parallel resonant circuit and a rectifier. A switch is coupled between the junction joining one pair of diodes of the rectifier and the junction joining the two filter capacitors. For a relatively high ac line voltage, the switch is open, and the circuit operates in a low boost mode. For a relatively low ac line voltage, the switch is closed, and the circuit operates in a high boost, or voltage-doubling, mode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 1991
    Date of Patent: June 2, 1992
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Robert L. Steigerwald, Charles S. Korman
  • Patent number: 5113336
    Abstract: A temperature compensated level detector is disclosed in which a voltage multiplying rectifier is provided for rectifying and smoothing a high-frequency input voltage to obtain a DC output, and a bias voltage generator is added to said voltage multiplying rectifier, for providing a forward bias voltage. The bias voltage generator has a temperature compensating function.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 1991
    Date of Patent: May 12, 1992
    Assignee: Kokusai Electric Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Sunao Takahashi, Mikio Takano
  • Patent number: 5097402
    Abstract: A power supply operable from power mains voltages generally within two voltage ranges according to which the power supply automatically switches between a full wave and a voltage doubler. Furthermore, the power supply provides automatic mode selection on a cycle-by-cycle basis, sensing the mains signal during an initial portion of the mains input cycle and causing the power supply to select a mode of operation during that cycle. Thus, the present invention provides rapid response to changing mains voltages. Moreover, the voltage doubler mode is inhibited during the initial power up period, providing a margin of safety when initially energized or when connected to rapidly changing mains voltages.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 1990
    Date of Patent: March 17, 1992
    Assignee: AVP/Megascan
    Inventors: J. Stanley Kriz, James Ripp
  • Patent number: 5079687
    Abstract: A multi-stage insulating transformer type high voltage generating apparatus comprising a plurality of magnetic cores interconnected through transmitting coils and receiving coils. The receiving coil of a first one of the magnetic cores is connected to a driver. A plurality of rectifier circuits are connected to the magnetic cores through individual secondary coils, respectively. These rectifier circuits are successively connected in series to provide a high DC voltage. Each magnetic core has a potential fixed equal or close to an output potential of the rectifier circuit of the plurality of rectifier circuits wound therearound which puts out a mean potential. A position betwen the transmitting coil and receiving coil interconnecting adjacent magnetic cores has a potential fixed equal or close to an output potential of a final rectifier circuit provided for a preceding magnetic core.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 1990
    Date of Patent: January 7, 1992
    Assignee: Shimadzu Corporation
    Inventors: Masakatsu Sakisaka, Hiroyuki Fujita, Yoshio Takami
  • Patent number: 5053727
    Abstract: A circuit comprising an oscillator having a load coupled thereto by means of at least one voltage-dependent coupling element that exhibits a high impedance at relatively low voltages and low impedance at relatively higher voltages. The voltage-dependent coupling element can comprise two series connected Zener diodes connected such that the anodes of the diodes are coupled together. The voltage-dependent coupling element can also comprise a varistor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 1990
    Date of Patent: October 1, 1991
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Wolfango Jann, Kurt Rottner
  • Patent number: 5043858
    Abstract: A high-voltage generating circuit for generating a high voltage from a power voltage with a high efficiency is disclosed. The high-voltage generating circuit comprises a series circuit of a plurality of field effect transistors connected in series between a power voltage terminal and a high-voltage output terminal, a plurality of capacitors having one end connected to intermediate nodes of the field effect transistors, and first and second clock signal generators for generating first and second clock signals having larger value than the power voltage and different phases. The first and second clock signals are applied to the other ends of the respective two adjacent capacitors, respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 1989
    Date of Patent: August 27, 1991
    Assignee: NEC Corporation
    Inventor: Takeshi Watanabe
  • Patent number: 5023768
    Abstract: A high voltage, high power DC power supply includes a single turn primary winding driven through a resonating capacitor by an AC source having a frequency in excess of about 100 kHz. The primary winding includes a pair of concentric cylindrical metal walls having opposite ends electrically connected to each other. A volume between the walls includes plural secondary winding assemblies, having different axial positions along the walls. Each of the assemblies includes an annular magnetic core surrounding the interior wall, a winding on the core and a voltage doubler rectifier. DC voltages developed across each secondary winding assembly by the rectifier are added together to provide the high voltage, high power output. The power supply energizes an X-ray tube having a grounded anode and a cathode at a DC voltage of approximately -150 kV, with a power requirement of between 15 and 60 kW.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 1989
    Date of Patent: June 11, 1991
    Assignee: Varian Associates, Inc.
    Inventor: John C. Collier
  • Patent number: 5008800
    Abstract: A high voltage multistage cascade rectifier power supply is provided which maintains uniform potential between the stages of the rectifier, and thus uniformly grades the electric potential, by providing equipotential conductor plates on each side of each stage of the power supply. The plates include both AC and DC plates, with capacitors being provided between each pair of plates defining a stage. Discrete capacitors may be provided between each pair of plates or the plates may form part of the capacitors with dielectric material being provided between the plates. The plates are selectively interconnected by diodes to form the cascade rectifier. Stray capacitance in the cascade rectifier is compensated for with an inductor across the input to the rectifier, which inductor is selected to tune out the stray capacitance. The frequency of the input drive may be automatically adjusted to compensate for changes in the system, including changes in stray capacitance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 1990
    Date of Patent: April 16, 1991
    Assignee: Science Research Laboratory, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert W. Klinkowstein
  • Patent number: 5003141
    Abstract: A magnetron (M) serving as the microwave source in a microwave oven is driven by a Switch Mode Power Supply (SMPS). The resonance circuit of the Power Supply contains a transformer (Tr), the secondary side of which is connected to the magnetron via a voltage multiplier consisting of a rectifier and voltage doubler circuit (C3, C4, D3, D4). In order to obtain a feedback signal which is proportional to the power fed to the magnetron thereby to regulate this power, a current transformer (ST) is connected in series with one of the diodes (D3) in the rectifier and voltage doubler circuit. The output signal of the current transformer is compared in a control circuit (K) with a reference signal and the result of the comparison is used to control the switch frequency and thereby the magnetron power.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 1989
    Date of Patent: March 26, 1991
    Assignee: U.S. Philips Corporation
    Inventors: Eckart Braunisch, Jan nnegren
  • Patent number: 5003452
    Abstract: In an electrical device for supplying x-ray tubes, the primary and secondary windings of the transformer are wound on circular coil forms which are adapted to fit within two half-shells. The half-shells are constituted by a recessed annular structure in which capacitors are housed. The output terminals of the secondary windings are placed on one side in order to be connected to the capacitors and to diodes over very short distances.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 1990
    Date of Patent: March 26, 1991
    Assignee: General Electric CGR S.A.
    Inventors: Jacques Sireul, Hans Jedlitschka
  • Patent number: 4992923
    Abstract: Disclosed is an electrical power supply for use, for example, for a flash fusing device in an electrophotographic recording apparatus, in which a DC high voltage is generated from a low voltage of an AC power supply so that the high voltage DC energy is momentarily consumed or discharged. The electrical power supply is configured in a manner so that, in order to make unnecessary a charging capacitor and a current limiting resistor for preventing rectifier elements from being damaged, at least some of the rectifier elements are constituted by rectifying control elements such as thyristors or transistors and a control signal is given to those rectifying control elements so as to make the rectifying control elements be in an isolated state. By use of such a configuration, the electrical power supply can be reduced in size as well as in power loss. The effect can be fully exhibited not only in a fusing apparatus employing the electrical power supply but in a recording apparatus employing such a fusing apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 1989
    Date of Patent: February 12, 1991
    Assignees: Hitachi, Ltd., Hitachi Koki Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Teruaki Mitsuya, Yasuro Hori, Takao Kumasaka, Shinichi Nishino, Shigetaka Fumiwara
  • Patent number: 4967333
    Abstract: The ripple factor in an electrical power supply of a dc-dc voltage raising type is reduced by using two double alternation dc/ac converters driven in phase quadrature with respect to each other. The signals delivered by the dc/ac converters are then combined by two transformers, the secondary coils of which are series connected. It is shown that the ripple factor is reduced and, similarly, that the reactive energy due to the commutation of th dc/ac converters is reduced even if it so happens that the power transmitted is doubled.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 1989
    Date of Patent: October 30, 1990
    Assignee: General Electric CGR S.A.
    Inventors: Bernard Callier, Jean-Pierre Maynard
  • Patent number: 4945464
    Abstract: A DC power supply for a traveling wave tube having cathode, collector and helix electrodes responds to a DC power source and a high frequency switching source. A switch controlled by the switching source is opened and closed at a fixed frequency and variable duty cycle determined by the helix-cathode voltage. A flyback choke is connected to the switch and DC power supply so current flows between the power source via the choke to the switch and a series resonant circuit while the switch is closed. First and second capacitors in separate branch circuits of the resonant circuit are respectively connected to first and second AC to DC converter and voltage multiplier stacks; each multiplier in the stacks includes a pair of branches with oppositely poled plural signal switching diodes and a capacitor. The cathode and helix are respectively connected to output terminals of the first and second stacks, while the collector is connected to a terminal between the first and second stacks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 1988
    Date of Patent: July 31, 1990
    Assignee: Varian Associates, Inc.
    Inventor: Bradley R. Gunn
  • Patent number: 4937731
    Abstract: An automatic input switching circuit for a power supply includes a transformer with two primary windings, normally connected in series and connectible in parallel by relay contacts for operation in a doubler mode. The secondary winding supplies a rectifier for developing a DC output voltage and a voltage doubler for developing a higher voltage than the output voltage. The voltage doubler charges a capacitor that stores energy for operating the relay when a transistor switch is closed. The transistor switch is normally held in a nonconductive state by an inhibit transistor driven from a comparator that switches states when the voltage across the capacitor reached a predetermined level. A voltage sensing arrangement compares the rectifier output voltage with a reference voltage and when it reaches a certain level, another comparator switches states to activate a disable transistor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 1989
    Date of Patent: June 26, 1990
    Assignee: Zenith Electronics Corporation
    Inventor: John G. Konopka
  • Patent number: 4933832
    Abstract: An automatic line monitor for use in conjunction with a power supply for electronic components automatically accommodates either of two voltage ranges. Since the power supply may operate in domestic voltage ranges of about 100 volts or in international voltage ranges of about 120, the automatic line monitor senses and automatically switches to a voltage-doubling mode for the domestic range or a non-voltage-doubling mode for the higher international range. A latch may latch the line monitor in a non-voltage doubling mode once the higher voltage range is sensed. A monitor of a preferred embodiment eliminates almost all of the high-power-handling elements of the switch so that almost all of the operative elements of the switch may be incorporated on a single integrated circuit chip.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 1989
    Date of Patent: June 12, 1990
    Assignee: Compaq Computer Corp.
    Inventors: Michael E. Schneider, Richard A. Faulk
  • Patent number: 4908752
    Abstract: A DC-to-DC voltage-increasing power source suitable for use in an audio device mounted on an automobile or a portable type audio device includes a DC power source, a drive pulse generation circuit for generating drive pulses which are in 180 degree phase relationship, a switching circuit of a push-pull connection supplied with operating voltage from the DC power source and driven between an on-state and an off-state in response to the drive pulses, a charge and discharge circuit including capacitors charged by being connected in parallel to the DC power source and discharging a sum voltage by being connected in series to the DC power source and an output takeout circuit for taking out this sum voltage as a voltage-increasing DC output. The switching circuit is constructed of voltage-controlled type elements whose on-state is changed in response to the level of an on-pulse in the drive pulses and the drive pulse generation circuit includes a pulse level changing circuit for changing the level of the on-pulse.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 1989
    Date of Patent: March 13, 1990
    Assignee: Yamaha Corporation
    Inventors: Eiichi Suzuki, Kenji Yokoyama, Masao Noro
  • Patent number: 4903186
    Abstract: A power supply having a low ripple component to minimize waste power and improve efficiency. In a full wave power supply, additional circuitry is provided for decreasing the time between charging episodes of the output capacitor. The circuitry is comprised of additional capacitors and diodes, and is connected between taps on the transformer and the output capacitor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 1989
    Date of Patent: February 20, 1990
    Inventor: Keats A. Pullen, Jr.
  • Patent number: 4897774
    Abstract: A monolithic integrated circuit containing an inverting/non-inverting voltage doubler charge pump circuit is disclosed for converting a unipolar supply voltage to a bipolar supply voltage of a greater magnitude. The unipolar input voltage is placed across a first external transfer capacitor by a first set of MOS switches during a first time period. The unipolar input voltage source is placed in series with the first transfer capacitor and this series combination of voltages is placed across a first external reservoir capacitor by a second set of MOS switches during a second time period. The voltage appearing across the first external reservoir capacitor is placed on a second transfer capacitor during the first time period by a third set of MOS switches. The voltage across the second transfer capacitor is placed into a second external reservoir capacitor with its polarity inverted by a fourth set of MOS switches during the second time period.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 1988
    Date of Patent: January 30, 1990
    Assignee: Maxim Integrated Products
    Inventors: David Bingham, Charles M. Allen
  • Patent number: 4893227
    Abstract: A flyback converter high voltage power supply which includes two switches operating in push pull fashion to provide alternate polarity energy pulses to a load. A main component of the power supply is a transformer, the primary winding of which is divided into halves. The secondary may be also be split into halves, or may be configured without a split so long as the secondary and rectifier combination result in full wave rectification. The first of the two switches couples an input voltage across the first primary half to store energy in the magnetic core during a first time interval, and at the end of the first time interval disconnects the first primary half from the input voltage. During a second time interval, the energy stored in the magnetic core during the first time interval is delivered to the load via the secondary winding.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 1988
    Date of Patent: January 9, 1990
    Assignee: Venus Scientific, Inc.
    Inventors: George C. Gallios, Charles Lien, Remo Stella, Wendell Boucher
  • Patent number: 4890210
    Abstract: In a switching power supply including a step-up transformer having primary and secondary windings, wherein in each successive cycle of operation, during a first period of time a voltage pulse is applied across the primary winding for causing forward current in the secondary to flow through a shuttle capacitor and output capacitor connected in series with the secondary winding at this time, for charging the output capacitor to a voltage level approaching the voltage across the series circuit of the shuttle capacitor and secondary winding, and in an immediately following second period of time terminating the voltage pulse across the primary winding, and allowing flyback energy in the secondary winding to charge and be captured only by the shuttle capacitor for transfer to the output capacitor during the next cycle of operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 1988
    Date of Patent: December 26, 1989
    Assignee: Gilbarco, Inc.
    Inventor: Howard M. Myers
  • Patent number: 4888821
    Abstract: A synchronization circuit for a resonant flyback high voltage supply for use in providing a high voltage output for a CRT. The circuit includes driving circuitry including an input power filter providing power to a coupled inductor which transmits power to a four stage multiplier circuit. Power is switched on and off by a power FET. The synchronization circuit reduces power loss in the FET by using variations in operational frequency to meet varying loads. By reducing the frequency as load increases, the flyback waveform is allowed to complete its resonant cycle before turning on the power FET. An anode resonant flyback regulator including a pulse width modulator controls the FET in response to signals provided by a negative slope detector circuit and feedback voltage. Over current shutdown capability is further provided by a current sensing latch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 1988
    Date of Patent: December 19, 1989
    Assignee: Honeywell Inc.
    Inventors: Charles H. Hamp, III, Paul F. L. Weindorf
  • Patent number: 4873609
    Abstract: An electronic unit for the treatment of venomous snakes, insects, spiders, and allergic reaction associated with plants. The electronic treatment is used also for the pain associated with arthritis, gout, headaches, and nerve pain. The unit consists of electric DC current powered by a 9 volt battery. This unit will provide DC current between 18 and 25 kv. A pulsating current with low amperage. The battery is one 9 volt battery rechargeable preferred or the Energizer battery (not included). To install battery open the base of the unit, install battery and replace the cover. To test push switch and you will hear and see an electrical discharge between the two inside electrodes. The suggested use for treatment of snake bites, place 1 electrode on skin as close to the bite as possible. The other electrode on the skin to use as a ground. Both electrodes touching the skin. Push the spring loaded trigger ON to release the current. Hold in contact with skin for 2 seconds, release 10 seconds.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 1988
    Date of Patent: October 10, 1989
    Inventor: Clifford R. Mackey
  • Patent number: 4864488
    Abstract: A power supply for producing a single level D.C. output voltage in response to a 110 or 220 A.C. input voltage is disclosed. The power supply automatically selects a full wave diode bridge or voltage doubler configuration and provides series capacitors to filter the D.C. output voltage. The selection is controlled by a switch which responds to the charge on one of the output capacitors. Latching means are also provided to prevent the power supply from switching to the voltage doubler configuration once 220 volts is applied.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 1988
    Date of Patent: September 5, 1989
    Assignee: NCR Corporation
    Inventors: David J. Bulmahn, David A. Schaffner