ACCESS BUSINESS GROUP INTERNATIONAL LLC Patent applications |
Patent application number | Title | Published |
20150341225 | DIRECT NETWORK TRACKING AND MARKETING TOOLS - A system is disclosed for tracking and modeling a network. A graphical model of one's network may be useful for tracking information about that network. The tracking system may include the assignment of a unique identifier (“ID”) to each node (e.g. person) within a network. The ID for each node may include information about that node. For example, a prefix/preamble or postfix/postamble added as part of the ID may identify other members connected to that node, such as an upline or downline in an MLM network. An interface (e.g. website) may receive information about a particular node for generating the ID for other nodes in that network. The network tracking may be applied to tracking a product or package utilizing a similar ID (e.g. on a tag) that can be read from or written to so that the ID can record interactions with the product/package. | 11-26-2015 |
20150313835 | COMPOSITIONS INCLUDING A BOTANICAL EXTRACT AND METHODS OF USING THE SAME IN SKIN WHITENING AND SKIN LIGHTENING APPLICATIONS - Compositions for topical use and having a melanin synthesis-inhibiting activity that include an amount of a botanical extract of at least one of | 11-05-2015 |
20150258158 | COMPOSITIONS AND METHODS FOR INHIBITION OF TRIGLYCERIDE SYNTHESIS VIA SYNERGISTIC COMBINATION OF BOTANICAL FORMULATIONS - Compositions and methods for inhibition of triglyceride synthesis via synergistic combination of botanical extracts are described. Specifically, the present invention relates to treating or preventing weight gain or obesity, promoting weight loss, appetite suppression, or the like, as well as managing skin oil production through a synergistic inhibition of diacylglycerol acyltransferase-I (DGAT-I) enzyme involved in the triglyceride synthesis and modulation of sterol regulatory element binding protein Ic (SREBP-Ic) and/or peroxisome proliferator activated receptor gamma coactivator I-alpha (PGCIα). | 09-17-2015 |
20150207333 | WIRELESS POWER CONTROL - A remote device in accordance with the present invention includes an adaptive power receiver that receives wireless power from the wireless power supply by induction. The adaptive power receiver may be switched among two or more modes of operation, including, for example, a high-Q mode and a low-Q mode. By controlling the switching between modes, the amount of energy received by the adaptive receiver may be controlled. This control is a form of adaptive resonance control or Q control. | 07-23-2015 |
20150194814 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR COMMUNICATION IN WIRELESS POWER SUPPLY SYSTEMS - The present invention relates to wireless power supplies adapted to supply power and communicate with one or more remote devices. The systems and methods of the present invention generally relate to a communication timing system that may ensure information being communicated does not overlap with that of another device, preventing data collisions and information from going undetected. With information being communicated in a way that addresses or avoids potential communication issues in multiple device systems, the wireless power supply may control operation to effectively supply wireless power. | 07-09-2015 |
20150108847 | WIRELESS POWER COMMUNICATION - A remote device in accordance with the present invention includes an adaptive power receiver that receives wireless power from the wireless power supply by induction. The adaptive power receiver may be switched among two or more modes of operation, including, for example, a high-Q mode and a low-Q mode. By controlling the duty cycle of the switching between modes, the amount of energy received by the adaptive receiver may be controlled to communicate to the wireless power supply. This control is a form of adaptive resonance communication or Q control communication. Distortion can be reduced or eliminated by ramping between duty cycles with adjustment to intermediate duty cycle values. | 04-23-2015 |
20150099947 | SKIN YOUTHFULNESS INDEX, METHODS AND APPLICATIONS THEREOF - The present invention relates to a Skin Youthfulness Index and methods of determining the same. The present invention also relates to methods of determining an apparent age of a subject and to methods for measuring an improvement of facial skin characteristics following a treatment by comparing the Skin Youthfulness Index values before and after the treatment. | 04-09-2015 |
20150086686 | INSOLUBLE FIBER COMPOSITION AND METHOD FOR MAKING SAME - A composition is described that includes at least about 10% of a dietary fiber component such that at least about 50% of the dietary fiber component is provided by insoluble fiber. A method for making such a composition is also described. | 03-26-2015 |
20150022980 | PRINT MEDIA WITH INDUCTIVE SECONDARY - An item of print media ( | 01-22-2015 |
20140377386 | PLANT-BASED INHIBITORS OF KETOHEXOKINASE FOR THE SUPPORT OF WEIGHT MANAGEMENT - A composition for inhibiting ketohexokinase, for example, ketohexokinase-C (KHK-C) activity, may include a plant extract exhibiting at least IC50 (i.e., 50% KHK-C inhibition at a concentration in the range of from about 0.1 μg/mL to about 1000 μg/mL. The composition may be in a form suitable for oral ingestion. A method for inhibiting KHK-C activity in a subject may include administering a plant extract that exhibits at least 50% KHK-C inhibition at a concentration from about 0.1 μg/mL to about 1000 μg/mL. The administering may be done to treat or prevent at least one of sugar addiction, obesity, or metabolic syndrome. The administering may be done to provide a diminished craving in the subject from at least one member selected from the group consisting of craving of sugar, fructose, fructose-containing sugars, carbohydrates, and combinations thereof. The subject may be pre-diabetic, diabetic and or insulin resistant. | 12-25-2014 |
20140368052 | WIRELESS POWER RECEIVER SYSTEM - A wireless power receiver capable of receiving wireless power from close-coupled and mid-range wireless power supplies. The wireless power receiver includes a principal and supplemental receiver circuits. The principle receiver circuit is adjustable to operate in a close-coupled mode or a resonator mode. In close-coupled mode, the principle receiver circuit is coupled to the power input of a remote device and functions as the principle power source. In resonator-mode, the principle power circuit is electrically disconnected/isolated from the remote device and forms a closed resonant loop to function as a resonator that amplifies an electromagnetic field from a mid-range wireless power supply. The supplemental receiver circuit is coupled to the power input of the remote device and is configured to receive wireless power from the resonator and function as the power source when the principle receiver circuit is in the resonator mode. | 12-18-2014 |
20140349573 | INTERFERENCE MITIGATION FOR MULTIPLE INDUCTIVE SYSTEMS - A system and method for mitigating interference between two or more inductive systems. Interference can be mitigated by, in response to an interference causing event, temporarily adjusting operation of one or more of the inductive sub-systems to reduce interference. A controller can receives communication from multiple inductive systems and instruct the systems to operate so as to reduce interference. The inductive systems can coordinate to operate out of phase with respect to one another to reduce interference. Communication from a data transfer inductive system can be mimicked by another inductive system so that both systems transmit the communication. Interference between multiple inductive systems can be mitigated by specific physical positioning of the transmitters of the inductive sub-systems. | 11-27-2014 |
20140333146 | INDUCTIVE POWER TRANSFER - A detection method for use in a primary unit of an inductive power transfer system, the primary unit being operable to transmit power wirelessly by electromagnetic induction to at least one secondary unit of the system located in proximity to the primary unit and/or to a foreign object located in said proximity, the method comprising: driving the primary unit so that in a driven state the magnitude of an electrical drive signal supplied to one or more primary coils of the primary unit changes from a first value to a second value; assessing the effect of such driving on an electrical characteristic of the primary unit; and detecting in dependence upon the assessed effect the presence of a said secondary unit and/or a foreign object located in proximity to said primary unit. | 11-13-2014 |
20140326348 | FLUID FLOW DIRECTOR - A fluid flow director for use in a water treatment system is provided. The fluid flow director is defined by a plastic sheet made up of a plastic substrate with a protective coating. The plastic substrate has fasteners disposed along two parallel edges thereof and the protective coating is substantially opaque to UV light. The plastic sheet is configured to be helically rolled such that the fasteners align and sealingly mate to form a tube. The fasteners are sized, constructed, and arranged to sealingly mate to form a substantially water-tight seam therebetween. In one embodiment, the plastic substrate is polyethylene and the UV opaque coating is polytetrafluoroethylene (“PTFE”). | 11-06-2014 |
20140300206 | MULTI-BRIDGE TOPOLOGY - A power supply with a multi-bridge topology configured to provide multiple different bridge topologies during operation. The power supply includes a plurality of half-bridge circuits connected to a controller. The controller can selectively configure the power supply between a plurality of different bridge topologies during operation by controlling the half-bridge circuit. | 10-09-2014 |
20140295199 | COMPOSITE METAL SURFACE - A composite metal surface that looks metallic, but permits effective transmission of an electromagnetic field. The composite metal surface can be integrated into various electronic equipment, such as telephones, remote controls, battery doors, keyboards, mice, game controllers, cameras, laptops, inductive power supplies, and essentially any other electronic equipment. The composite metal surface can also be integrated into non-electrically conductive heat sinks, high permeability shielding, and polished metal non-electrically conductive surfaces. | 10-02-2014 |
20140254696 | SYSTEM AND METHOD OF PROVIDING COMMUNICATIONS IN A WIRELESS POWER TRANSFER SYSTEM - A communication system that uses keyed modulation to encode fixed frequency communications on a variable frequency power transmission signal in which a single communication bit is represented by a plurality of modulations. To provide a fixed communication rate, the number of modulations associated with each bit is dynamic varying as a function of the ratio of the communication frequency to the carrier signal frequency. In one embodiment, the present invention provides dynamic phase-shift-keyed modulation in which communications are generated by toggling a load at a rate that is a fraction of the power transfer frequency. In another embodiment, the present invention provides communication by toggling a load in the communication transmitter at a rate that is phase locked and at a harmonic of the power transfer frequency. In yet another embodiment, the present invention provides frequency-shift-keyed modulation, including, for example, modulation at one of two different frequencies. | 09-11-2014 |
20140186433 | Cosmetic Treatment System and Methods - A cosmetic treatment system is provided having ingredients that may prevent signs of aging, improve the aesthetic appearance of skin, and promote recovery from environmental stresses. The composition includes natural ingredients, including at least one ingredient or extract from rosemary; at least one ingredient or extract from | 07-03-2014 |
20140172314 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR DETERMINING CALORIC INTAKE USING A PERSONAL CORRELATION FACTOR - Systems and methods are provided for determining an individual's personal correlation factor and, using the personal correlation factor, determining the individual's caloric intake. A method for determining a personal correlation factor includes determining a body composition change over a calibration period, converting the body composition change to an equivalent energy value, and dividing the equivalent energy value by a net caloric value for the same calibration period, wherein the net caloric value includes a caloric expenditure less a caloric intake. A method for determining a subsequent caloric intake includes converting a body composition change to an equivalent energy value, dividing the equivalent energy value by the personal correlation value, and adding to this quotient the individual's caloric expenditure, wherein each step is performed using a processor. | 06-19-2014 |
20140170955 | CONTROL METHODS FOR SETTING A REFERENCE VOLTAGE IN AN AIR TREATMENT SYSTEM - A control system and associated methods for an air treatment system. In one aspect, the present invention provides a control system and method for controlling blower speed as a function of separately determined smoke and dust concentrations. In one embodiment, the control system and method provides a variable delayed between changes in motor speed to address undesirable rapid changes between speeds. In another aspect, the present invention provides a system and method for calibrating a sensor to provide more uniform operation over time. In yet another aspect, the present invention provide a system and method for calibrating motor speed to provide more consistent and uniform motor speed over time. The present invention also provides a system and method for tracking filter life by as a function of time, motor speed and/or a sensed variable, such as particulate concentration in the environment. | 06-19-2014 |
20140169400 | SYSTEM AND METHOD OF APPROXIMATING CALORIC ENERGY INTAKE AND/OR MACRONUTRIENT COMPOSITION - Systems and methods for approximating caloric energy intake and/or macronutrient composition using thermogenesis. The system may include one or more sensors for tracking body temperature over a period of time, and may include a processor configured to determine caloric energy intake and/or macronutrient composition based on body temperature. The system may be configured to normalize body temperature readings to compensate for factors other than thermogenesis that might affect core body temperature. The system may include one or more sensors for measuring normalization factors, and a processor for normalizing raw body temperature readings based on the measured normalized factors. The method may include the steps of: (a) collecting body temperature data, (b) normalizing the raw body temperature data and (c) determining caloric energy intake and/or macronutrient composition from the normalized data. The system may be configured to account for user calibration data when characterizing macronutrient composition. | 06-19-2014 |
20140154194 | Skin Whitening Composition Containing Chia Seed Extract - A topical composition includes an alcohol-extracted | 06-05-2014 |
20140147526 | ANTIOXIDANT DIETARY SUPPLEMENT AND RELATED METHOD - A supplement including a blend of turmeric, quercetin and rosemary, or holy basil, wasabi, and broccoli seed extract which are present in a balanced and predetermined ratio, and which stimulate the Antioxidant Response Element (ARE), Quinone Reductase, and/or induce related gene expression, for example, heme oxygenase-1 (HMOX-1) expression. The blend of ingredients can be formed as or in a dietary supplement adapted for administration to a subject. The dietary supplement can be formulated so that the turmeric, quercetin and rosemary are present in a predetermined ratio of 1:3:5, or holy basil, wasabi, and broccoli seed extract in a predetermined ratio of 1:1:0.2. Additional ingredients can be included in the supplement. The supplement can synergistically affect natural antioxidant response pathways within cells of a subject to whom the supplement is administered. A related method of use is also provided. | 05-29-2014 |
20140117760 | INDUCTIVE POWER SUPPLY SYSTEM WITH MULTIPLE COIL PRIMARY - An inductive power supply including multiple tank circuits and a controller for selecting at least one of the tank circuits in order to wirelessly transfer power based on received power demand information. In addition, a magnet may be used to align multiple remote devices with the inductive power supply. In one embodiment, different communication systems are employed depending on which coil is being used to transfer wireless power. | 05-01-2014 |
20140103870 | WIRELESS CHARGING SYSTEM - The present invention provides wireless power supply systems that wirelessly supply power to a remote device for rapidly charging a charge storage capacitor, which charges a battery with the power stored in the charge storage capacitor. This allows the remote device to be positioned near the inductive power supply for rapid charging of the charge storage capacitor and allows battery charging to continue even after the remote device is removed from the inductive power supply. | 04-17-2014 |
20140103867 | WIRELESS POWER DISTRIBUTION AND CONTROL SYSTEM - A wireless power distribution and control system may be used to supply power wirelessly to various devices. The devices in the system may have control over the system and/or over certain features of other devices. For example, a smartphone charging in the wireless power distribution and control system may have access to and control over other devices in the system, such as the overhead lights, or a projector in a conference room. The identification of other devices, as well as commands for controlling these devices may be communicated over the wireless power link. The type and degree of control of each device in that system may vary based on access control levels for the power supplies and connected devices. The devices that receive power may be configured to automatically connect with the power distribution system and to monitor the other devices connected to the system. | 04-17-2014 |
20140086565 | SELECTIVE WATER TEMPERATURE COMPONENT FOR USE WITH WATER TREATMENT SYSTEMS - A water heating system is provided. The water heating system includes an inlet connectable to a supply of untreated water, supply and return lines connectable to a point-of-use water treatment system, and an output for dispensing a supply of treated and optionally heated water. An internal heating element is adapted to heat the treated water to one of a plurality of pre-selected temperature settings. Temperature control can be achieved by cycling the power applied to the heating element and/or controlling the flow rate of treated water through the heating element. The water heating system includes additional improvements in electrical compatibility, energy consumption, and remote failure detection. | 03-27-2014 |
20140084949 | SURFACE IMPEDANCE SYSTEMS AND METHODS - A surface impedance sensor and method are provided. The surface impedance sensor generally includes first and second electrodes, a driver circuit to drive the electrodes at a plurality of driving frequencies, and a detection circuit to measure the impedance across the first and second electrodes for comparison against a plurality of reference profiles. The method generally includes measuring the localized surface impedance for each of a plurality of driving frequencies to generate a measured profile, and correlating the measured profile with a reference profile. The system and method can verify contact with a particular surface and can be used with a variety of host devices, including for example ultrasound delivery devices. | 03-27-2014 |
20140077696 | INDUCTIVELY COUPLED BALLAST CIRCUIT - A ballast circuit is disclosed for inductively providing power to a load. The ballast circuit includes an oscillator, a driver, a switching circuit, a resonant tank circuit and a current sensing circuit. The current sensing circuit provides a current feedback signal to the oscillator that is representative of the current in the resonant tank circuit. The current feedback signal drives the frequency of the ballast circuit causing the ballast circuit to seek resonance. The ballast circuit preferably includes a current limit circuit that is inductively coupled to the resonant tank circuit. The current limit circuit disables the ballast circuit when the current in the ballast circuit exceeds a predetermined threshold or falls outside a predetermined range. | 03-20-2014 |
20140077616 | INPUT PARASITIC METAL DETECTION - A system and method of controlling inductive power transfer in an inductive power transfer system and a method for designing an inductive power transfer system with power accounting. The method of controlling inductive power transfer including measuring a characteristic of input power, a characteristic of power in the tank circuit, and receiving information from a secondary device. Estimating power consumption based on the measured characteristic of tank circuit power and received information and comparing the measured characteristic of input power, the information from the secondary device, and the estimated power consumption to determine there is an unacceptable power loss. The method for designing an inductive power transfer system with power accounting including changing the distance between a primary side and a secondary side and changing a load of the secondary side. For each distance between the primary side and the secondary side and for each load, measuring a circuit parameter on the primary side in the tank circuit and a circuit parameter on the secondary side during the transfer of contactless energy. The method further including selecting a formula to describe power consumption in the system during the transfer of contactless energy based on coefficients and the circuit parameters, and determining the coefficients using the measured circuit parameters. | 03-20-2014 |
20140077615 | CONTROLLING INDUCTIVE POWER TRANSFER SYSTEMS - An inductive power transfer system comprises a primary unit, having a primary coil and an electrical drive unit which applies electrical drive signals to the primary coil so as to generate an electromagnetic field. The system also comprises at least one secondary device, separable from the primary unit and having a secondary coil which couples with the field when the secondary device is in proximity to the primary unit. A control unit causes a circuit including said primary coil to operate, during a measurement period, in an undriven resonating condition. In this condition the application of the drive signals to the primary coil by the electrical drive unit is suspended so that energy stored in the circuit decays over the course of the period. A decay measurement unit takes one or more measures of such energy decay during the measurement period. In dependence upon said one or more energy decay measures, the control unit controls the electrical drive unit so as to restrict or stop inductive power transfer from the primary unit. | 03-20-2014 |
20140053350 | ORAL HYGIENE DEVICE AND METHOD OF ASSEMBLY - An oral hygiene device includes a handle and a cleaning head supported on one end of the handle. A vibratory source is supported on the handle and is operative to generate vibratory output. A mounting element is disposed between the handle and the vibratory source. A connecting member extends between the vibratory source and the cleaning head, and is adapted to generate motion at the cleaning head in response to the vibratory output generated at the vibratory source. | 02-27-2014 |
20140045405 | INDUCTIVE TOY VEHICLE - An inductively powered vehicle and an inductive charging segment. The vehicle may include a secondary coil, a drive motor, an electrical power storage device connected between said secondary coil and said drive motor, and a wireless communications unit. The charging segment may include a primary coil, a sense circuit operable to detect the presence of the vehicle based on a change in the detected impedance of the primary coil, and a power control unit operable to provide a time-varying current to the primary coil when the vehicle traverses the charging segment. The primary coil is positioned adjacent a track upper surface. The vehicle drive motor may be operable at first and second speed settings, and a remote control device can provide operating instructions to the vehicle wireless communications unit. | 02-13-2014 |
20140042824 | INDUCTIVE POWER SUPPLY - There is disclosed an inductive power transfer system comprising a primary unit and a secondary device separable from the primary unit, the primary unit comprising a power transfer surface and more than two field generators each operable to generate an electromagnetic field, the field generators being located at different positions relative to the power transfer surface, the secondary device comprising a power receiver having a secondary coil, the system further comprising: determining means for determining at least one of the position and the orientation of the power receiver relative to the power transfer surface; and controlling means for controlling the field generators such that at least one first field generator and at least one second field generator, selected in dependence upon such determination, are active in a substantially opposite sense to one another so as to direct magnetic flux through the secondary coil thereby supplying power to the secondary device, and further such that a third one of the field generators is inactive so that fewer than all of the field generators are active simultaneously. | 02-13-2014 |
20140035387 | POWER SUPPLY - In one aspect, the present invention provides a universal power supply for wired and wireless electronic devices. In a second aspect, the present invention provides a universal power supply that is reconfigurable to provide a wide range of power supply options. | 02-06-2014 |
20140021911 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR INDUCTIVELY CHARGING A BATTERY - An inductive charging system for recharging a battery. The system includes a charger circuit and a secondary circuit. The secondary circuit includes a feedback mechanism to provide feedback to the charger circuit through the inductive coupling of the primary coil and the secondary coil. The charger circuit includes a frequency control mechanism for controlling the frequency of the power applied to the primary coil at least partly in response to the feedback from the feedback mechanism. | 01-23-2014 |
20130302265 | TOPICAL COMPOSITION AND METHOD FOR SKIN LIGHTENING - A topical cosmetic composition for skin whitening or skin lightening is described. The composition includes an aqueous extract of | 11-14-2013 |
20130279893 | DEVICES FOR POSITIONING SUBJECTS - Devices and methods for reproducibly positioning a subject are described. A device may include a first parallax bar assembly having a first wire and a second wire spaced a first distance and parallel to the first wire, and a second parallax bar assembly having a third wire and a fourth wire spaced a second distance and parallel to the third wire. The first and second wires are substantially perpendicular to the third and fourth wires, and an imaginary straight line intersects the first, second, third, and fourth wires. Some devices may include a chair and a headrest for positioning a subject. | 10-24-2013 |
20130272571 | HUMAN SUBMENTAL PROFILE MEASUREMENT - An imaging system captures images of a human submental profile in a dimension controlled environment and utilizes image analysis algorithms for detecting submental changes. Instead of implementing a strict posture control of a subject, the imaging system allows the subject to freely move his/her head in an up-and-down direction and a high speed camera captures this movement through a series of images at varying head-to-shoulder angles. The image analysis algorithms may accurately compare before and after images at similar head-to-shoulder angles to identify changes in a human submental profile using a series of measurements and checkpoints. | 10-17-2013 |
20130245459 | Quantification of Under-Eye Skin Color - Methods for quantitative measurement of under eye dark circles and other color related phenomena in eye area skin are described. The methods can be used to quantify the clinical efficacy of skin care products. | 09-19-2013 |
20130234532 | POWER SYSTEM - The present invention provides methods and apparatus for reducing power consumption. One method includes detecting the presence of an object, identifying whether the object is a valid device and restricting power if its not a valid device. Another method includes temporarily applying a low amount of power to the primary unit to detect a load, supplying more power to determine if its a valid secondary device, and restricting power if its not. An apparatus for reducing power consumption includes two power inputs, where the lower power input powers a sense circuit. A switch selectively decouples the higher power input from the primary subcircuit during detection mode and couples the higher power input to the primary subcircuit during power supply mode. | 09-12-2013 |
20130196009 | ANTI-INFLAMMATORY AND ANTIOXIDANT COMPOSITION AND RELATED METHOD OF USE - A composition having at least one of a high antioxidant capacity, an anti-inflammatory effect and/or a DNA protection function is provided. The composition includes an extract from plants of the genus | 08-01-2013 |
20130187474 | ELECTROMAGNETIC INTERFERENCE MITIGATION - A primary unit for transmitting power and/or data wirelessly by electromagnetic induction to a secondary unit separable from the primary unit, the primary unit comprising: a coil (L | 07-25-2013 |
20130136708 | CHIA SEED EXTRACT AND RELATED METHOD OF MANUFACTURE - Ethanolic chia ( | 05-30-2013 |
20130113423 | INDUCTIVE POWER SUPPLY - In one aspect, the present invention provides a wireless power supply having a plunger for mechanically interconnecting a remote device with the power supply. The plunger may be extendable/retractable to interfit with the remote device. In a second aspect, the present invention provides a wireless power supply with a movable primary that allows for close alignment between the primary and the secondary when the remote device is disposed within a range of different positions with respect to the charging surface. The movable primary may, for example, be coupled to the remote device by a peg, a plunger or a magnet. Alternatively, the position of the movable primary may be adjusted manually. In a third aspect, the present invention provides a charging bowl having a plurality of charging stations disposed about a common axis. Each charging station may include a movable primary that permits some freedom in positioning of the remote device on the charging surface. In a fourth aspect, the present invention provides a wireless power supply having a manually movable primary. | 05-09-2013 |
20130110283 | PILL DISPENSER | 05-02-2013 |
20130106364 | WIRELESS CHARGING SYSTEM WITH DEVICE POWER COMPLIANCE | 05-02-2013 |
20130095758 | ADAPTIVE INDUCTIVE POWER SUPPLY WITH COMMUNICATION - An adaptive inductive ballast is provided with the capability to communicate with a remote device powered by the ballast. To improve the operation of the ballast, the ballast changes its operating characteristics based upon information received from the remote device. Further, the ballast may provide a path for the remote device to communicate with device other than the adaptive inductive ballast. | 04-18-2013 |
20130093253 | COUNTER WOUND INDUCTIVE POWER SUPPLY - A contactless power supply is provided. The contactless power supply includes two or more primary coils for generating a region of cooperative magnetic flux generally therebetween. A portable device having a secondary coil can be positioned proximate this region of magnetic flux to receive wireless power from the contactless power supply. The spaced-apart primary coils can be wound in alternating directions about a common axis and driven in phase, or can be wound in a single direction about a common axis and driven approximately 180 degrees out of phase. The contactless power supply can include a plurality of primary coils in an adjustable array to accommodate multiple portable devices each with different secondary configurations and power consumption needs. | 04-18-2013 |
20130093252 | COUNTER WOUND INDUCTIVE POWER SUPPLY - A contactless power supply is provided. The contactless power supply includes two or more primary coils for generating a region of cooperative magnetic flux generally therebetween. A portable device having a secondary coil can be positioned proximate this region of magnetic flux to receive wireless power from the contactless power supply. The spaced-apart primary coils can be wound in alternating directions about a common axis and driven in phase, or can be wound in a single direction about a common axis and driven approximately 180 degrees out of phase. The contactless power supply can include a plurality of primary coils in an adjustable array to accommodate multiple portable devices each with different secondary configurations and power consumption needs. | 04-18-2013 |
20130090281 | Phosphate And Phosphonate-Free Automatic Gel Dishwashing Detergent Providing Improved Spotting and Filming Performance - A phosphate and phosphonate-free gel automatic dishwashing detergent provides improved spotting and filming performance by including a spot reduction system that contains a combination of a polyacrylate and a carboxymethyl inulin. The gel detergent may also be free of a bleach ingredient (i.e., it does not contain either chlorine bleach or an oxygen bleach). | 04-11-2013 |
20130082536 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR IMPROVED CONTROL IN WIRELESS POWER SUPPLY SYSTEMS - A wireless power supply with an adaptive control system that is capable of adjusting various operating characteristics and that avoids operating at those operating characteristics that present adverse affects, such as impaired communications or interference with operation of the remote device. In one embodiment, the control system is capable of adjusting two or more of the operating frequency, duty cycle, rail voltage and switching circuit phase. In one embodiment, the wireless power supply control system is configured to detect operating characteristics that present adverse affects, maintain a record of those operating characteristics and avoid those operating characteristics once detected. In another embodiment, the remote device may be configured to advise the wireless power supply control system of certain “keep-out” ranges that adversely affect operation of the remote device. | 04-04-2013 |
20130079612 | Methods for Creating Recommended Dietary Regime - The present invention relates to a method of eating a personalized dietary regime that includes receiving personal information relating to the individual; determining the individual's metabolic profile from at least one of a noninvasive or an invasive measurement; and classifying the subject into a nutrition category selected from the group consisting of a low fat diet; a low carbohydrate diet; a high protein diet; or a balanced diet, wherein the invasive measurement does not include genetic testing. | 03-28-2013 |
20130076154 | INDUCTIVE POWER SUPPLY SYSTEM WITH MULTIPLE COIL PRIMARY - An inductive power supply including multiple tank circuits and a controller for selecting at least one of the tank circuits in order to wirelessly transfer power based on received power demand information. In addition, a magnet may be used to align multiple remote devices with the inductive power supply. In one embodiment, different communication systems are employed depending on which coil is being used to transfer wireless power. | 03-28-2013 |
20130044459 | INTERCHANGEABLE DISPLAY ASSEMBLY - A lighted display assembly for an appliance includes interchangeable display screens. Multiple light sources flash, turn on and turn off to indicate a status of the appliance by illuminating a selected one of the display screens. A display grid extends between the light sources and the selected display screen and defines light passages that are each uniquely associated with a corresponding light source. Light emitted by each light source is confined to a discrete area of the display screen by the corresponding light passage. The discrete areas of the interchangeable display screens may include any of a variety of markings, for example, markings in a different language. The assemblies may be tailored to the needs of a particular customer by selecting an appropriate display screen. | 02-21-2013 |
20130039395 | SYSTEM AND METHOD OF PROVIDING COMMUNICATIONS IN A WIRELESS POWER TRANSFER SYSTEM - A communication system that uses keyed modulation to encode fixed frequency communications on a variable frequency power transmission signal in which a single communication bit is represented by a plurality of modulations. To provide a fixed communication rate, the number of modulations associated with each bit is dynamic varying as a function of the ratio of the communication frequency to the carrier signal frequency. In one embodiment, the present invention provides dynamic phase-shift-keyed modulation in which communications are generated by toggling a load at a rate that is a fraction of the power transfer frequency. In another embodiment, the present invention provides communication by toggling a load in the communication transmitter at a rate that is phase locked and at a harmonic of the power transfer frequency. In yet another embodiment, the present invention provides frequency-shift-keyed modulation, including, for example, modulation at one of two different frequencies. | 02-14-2013 |
20130037474 | FILTER ASSEMBLY - A filter assembly for a water treatment system includes a first end cap and a second end cap that secure about the ends of a filter. A central member extends through a central void in the filter. The filter assembly has corresponding non-adhesive locking mechanisms that interact to secure the filter assembly together. Two gaskets may sandwich the filter and a reflector may be positioned within the central member. An ultraviolet lamp may also be positioned within the central member. | 02-14-2013 |
20130017292 | MULTICAROTENOID BEADLETS AND RELATED METHOD - A controlled release beadlet that sequentially releases carotenoids over time within the gastrointestinal tract of a subject, as well as a method of administering the carotenoids. The beadlet provides a specific ratio of carotenoids which release from the beadlet at preselected times during passage through the gastrointestinal tract. The method includes releasing the carotenoids in preselected ratios at specific time intervals in the gastrointestinal tract to mitigate competition between the carotenoids for their uptake, and/or to potentially maximize the uptake of individual carotenoids within a mixed carotenoid formulation. | 01-17-2013 |
20120319500 | ADAPTING PORTABLE ELECTRICAL DEVICES TO RECEIVE POWER WIRELESSLY - Wireless power receiving apparatus | 12-20-2012 |
20120313577 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR DETECTING, CHARACTERIZING, AND TRACKING AN INDUCTIVE POWER RECEIVER - A system and method for detecting, characterizing, and tracking an inductive power receiver proximate to an inductive charging surface of an inductive charger. One or more resonators and one or more sensors provide information that can be utilized to detect, characterize, and track the inductive power receiver. The resonators can be configured to determine position of a remote device using magnitude or phase of sensors associated with resonators. In addition, by monitoring the inductive power transmitter and the resonators, the charger can differentiate between whether parasitic metal is present, a remote device is present, or both are present. | 12-13-2012 |
20120286571 | POWER SUPPLY - A power supply to provide electrical power to one or more loads. The power supply may include a resonant air core transformer to provide an adjustable and adaptable source of power to electronic devices. The power supply may include isolated primary-side circuitry and secondary-side circuitry. The primary-side circuitry may include control circuitry that, among other things, provides drive waveforms for the primary-side switching circuitry. In embodiments configured to produce AC output, the secondary-side circuitry may also include switching circuitry. The primary-side control circuitry may provide drive waveforms for the secondary-side switching circuitry. The secondary-side circuitry may include measurement circuitry that measures the current and/or voltage of the output and provides those measurements to the control circuitry through isolation circuitry. The control circuitry may adjust the drive waveforms for the primary-side and/or secondary-side switching circuitry as a function of the measured values. | 11-15-2012 |
20120286112 | MOTOR SHIPPING CLIP - A shipping clip is provided that includes at least one finger extending between portions of the rotor and stator to prevent unwanted movement therebetween. The finger may extend from a base portion, and the base portion may be configured to attach to a particular structure on the motor. For example, the base portion may include a receptacle that receives a mounting post on the motor, and the finger may extend from the base to fit between a ledge on the stator and the upper surface of the rotor. The finger prevents further insertion of the stator into the rotor. | 11-15-2012 |
20120259735 | METERED DELIVERY OF WIRELESS POWER - A system is disclosed for charging or billing for access to wireless power. The device requiring power communicates with the power provider and the billing method is determined. A consumer may be required to provide billing information, or if the billing information is already associated with an existing account, the consumer account is automatically charged for the wireless power. The account may include prepaid charging minutes that are debited as wireless power is provided, or the account may be billed for the wireless power that is provided. The charging/billing for the wireless power may be used to receive value for the power that is provided, while remaining consumer friendly. | 10-11-2012 |
20120249097 | ADAPTIVE INDUCTIVE POWER SUPPLY - A contactless power supply has a dynamically configurable tank circuit powered by an inverter. The contactless power supply is inductively coupled to one or more loads. The inverter is connected to a DC power source. When loads are added or removed from the system, the contactless power supply is capable of modifying the resonant frequency of the tank circuit, the inverter frequency, the inverter duty cycle or the rail voltage of the DC power source. | 10-04-2012 |
20120235408 | SELF-POWERED MINIATURE LIQUID TREATMENT SYSTEM WITH CONFIGURABLE HYDROPOWER GENERATOR - A liquid treatment system that may be self-powered includes a hydro-generator. A flow of liquid may be used to rotate the hydro-generator to generate electric power. The hydro-generator may include an outer housing and an inner housing. The inner housing may include a first hub removeably engaged with a second hub. A plurality of paddles may be replaceably engaged between the first hub and the second hub. An electrical generator may be disposed in the inner housing. A flow of liquid may strike the paddles causing the inner housing to rotate. During rotation of the housing, the electrical generator may produce electrical power. | 09-20-2012 |
20120234166 | HUMIDIFIER WITH ULTRAVIOLET DISINFECTION - A humidifier for treating humidified air with germicidal light is provided. The humidifier includes a water reservoir, an atomizer to atomize a supply of water, and an ultraviolet light source to expose the atomized water to germicidal light. The ultraviolet light source extends vertically within a cylindrical channel to irradiate the atomized water dissipating upwardly from the atomizer. The water reservoir can include a carbon filter and a hardness-removing module for removing containments and metal oxides from the water supply. A control panel indicates the remaining useful life of the ultraviolet light source, the carbon filter and the hardness-removing module based on historical humidifier usage and water quality levels. | 09-20-2012 |
20120205989 | ADAPTIVE INDUCTIVE POWER SUPPLY WITH COMMUNICATION - An adaptive inductive ballast is provided with the capability to communicate with a remote device powered by the ballast. To improve the operation of the ballast, the ballast changes its operating characteristics based upon information received from the remote device. Further, the ballast may provide a path for the remote device to communicate with device other than the adaptive inductive ballast. | 08-16-2012 |
20120186658 | WATER TREATMENT SYSTEM - A water treatment system is provided including a disinfection system, a filter and a turbine generator. A manual pump is positioned downstream of the filter to create negative pressure to draw water through the filter. The manual pump also creates positive pressure to dispense treated water from the outlet of the system. The movement of the water through the system powers the turbine generator. The power generated can be used to monitor a characteristic of the water treatment system. | 07-26-2012 |
20120181876 | MAGNETIC POSITIONING FOR INDUCTIVE COUPLING - A magnetic positioning system for use in inductive couplings. The magnetic positioning system having a magnet that provides sufficient magnetic force, but does not have enough electrical conductivity to overheat in the presence of the anticipated electromagnetic field. The magnet may be a bonded magnet or a shielded magnet. In another aspect a plurality of magnets are used to provide magnetic attraction forces and said magnetic repulsion forces that cooperate to align the inductive power supply and the remote device. In another aspect, a sensor allows differentiation between different positions of the remote device or inductive power supply. In another aspect, multiple magnets in the inductive power supply interact with multiple magnets in the remote device to position the remote device in different positions. | 07-19-2012 |
20120179665 | HEALTH MONITORING SYSTEM - A health monitoring system can include an intake tracker, an output tracker, a personal monitor, and a recommender. The health monitoring system can track food, exercise, and personal characteristics in order to provide health assessments and recommendations. The intake tracker can include a camera for capturing images of products. A data acquisition system can be used to acquire data about products that are photographed using a variety of methods. The data can be entered into a database with a picture of the product for later look-up. The data acquisition system can include a user-assisted segmentation method of an image to identify the product. | 07-12-2012 |
20120179519 | MAILABLE ITEM WITH PRODUCT INFORMATION - A method for product information retrieval with a mailable item. The method includes providing a mailable item with a communication system and memory, transferring product usage information from the product to the mailable item, and mailing the mailable item to a recipient who can retrieve and analyze the product information. Incentives can be offered to entice a user to obtain the mailable item and/or to return the mailable item. | 07-12-2012 |
20120175967 | INDUCTIVE POWER TRANSFER - A detection method for use in a primary unit of an inductive power transfer system, the primary unit being operable to transmit power wirelessly by electromagnetic induction to at least one secondary unit of the system located in proximity to the primary unit and/or to a foreign object located in said proximity, the method comprising: driving the primary unit so that in a driven state the magnitude of an electrical drive signal supplied to one or more primary coils of the primary unit changes from a first value to a second value; assessing the effect of such driving on an electrical characteristic of the primary unit; and detecting in dependence upon the assessed effect the presence of a said secondary unit and/or a foreign object located in proximity to said primary unit. | 07-12-2012 |
20120150670 | WIRELESS POWER DELIVERY DURING PAYMENT - A system is disclosed for providing wireless power during a payment process. A device requiring power communicates with the power provider and provides payment information for a purchase. The device receives wireless power form the power provider. A consumer may be required to confirm the purchase, the payment information, and receipt of the wireless power. | 06-14-2012 |
20120149303 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PROVIDING COMMUNICATIONS IN A WIRELESS POWER SUPPLY - A wireless power transfer system with a remote device having a communication transmitter configured to initiate communications with a framing pulse to prevent noise from being mistaken for legitimate data. The communication system may employ a bi-phase modulation scheme, and the framing pulse may be generated to present no transitions in the communication signal during a specified period of time. The communication transmitter may produce the framing pulse by applying a load in the remote device. The present invention also provides a method for transmitting communication signals in a wireless power supply system including the general steps of: (a) preceding each communication with a framing pulse configured to present a bit sequence that does not exist in legitimate data communications, (b) maintaining the framing pulse for a period of time sufficient to effectively “reset” the communications receiver and (c) transmitting communications following the framing pulse. | 06-14-2012 |
20120145618 | GRAVITY FEED WATER TREATMENT SYSTEM WITH OXIDATION AND DISINFECTION STEPS - A portable water treatment system includes at least one sub-system to treat water including a primary disinfection system and a residual disinfection system. The water treatment system may include multiple sub-systems for treating water that feed into one another. The residual disinfectant may be administered to the water at a level below the taste threshold to prevent backgrowth of bacteria while leaving the taste of the water unaffected. The portable water treatment system may be designed to dispense water at a high-flow rate. | 06-14-2012 |
20120133324 | INDUCTIVE POWER SUPPLY SYSTEM WITH BATTERY TYPE DETECTION - An inductive power supply system to wirelessly charge a remote device based on detected battery characteristics. The system includes an inductive power supply with a primary coil capable of inductively providing power to a secondary coil in a remote device. The inductive power supply and remote device include communication means for wirelessly communicating. The system further includes a remote device, having a battery with detectable battery characteristics. In operation, the remote device is capable of detecting the battery characteristics by applying a qualification charge to the battery. The inductive power supply system is capable of identifying the battery installed in the remote device by analyzing the detected battery characteristics. The inductive power supply system selects an appropriate charging algorithm based on the analyzed characteristics. | 05-31-2012 |
20120132575 | FOAM WATER TREATMENT SYSTEM - A foam filter is provided that may form a radial flow or a stacked flow filter. In the radial flow configuration, the foam may be wrapped around an inner support core. The inner support core may define holes to allow the water to enter the support core and exit the filter. More than one foam layer may be used, and a single sheet of foam wrapped in a spiral may form a multi-layer configuration. A non-permeable flexible layer may be positioned between adjacent foam layers to facilitate flow through the filter. In the stacked flow configuration, multiple foam layers may be used and water can flow successively or simultaneously through the foam layers. Functional layers may be added to provide other filtration functions. | 05-31-2012 |
20120132573 | POINT-OF-USE WATER TREATMENT SYSTEM - A water treatment system is capable of meeting the particular needs of a variety of water treatment system applications. For instance, the water treatment system may include a customizable display, multiple interchangeable filters and disinfection systems. In one embodiment, a vessel containing the filters and disinfection assembly can be easily removed from a base that supplies water to the vessel. In another embodiment, the water treatment system includes a plate that includes at least one electrical connection. One or more electronics bricks with sensors, displays and the like can be removably attached to the plate such that each electronics brick is in electrical communication with said brick. In another embodiment, the water treatment system incorporates one or more stackable and interchangeable filter blocks that direct water flowing into the vessel through each filter media. | 05-31-2012 |
20120119588 | INDUCTIVE POWER SUPPLY WITH DUTY CYCLE CONTROL - An inductive power supply that maintains resonance and adjusts duty cycle based on feedback from a secondary circuit. A controller, driver circuit and switching circuit cooperate to generate an AC signal at a selected operating frequency and duty cycle. The AC signal is applied to the tank circuit to create an inductive field for powering the secondary. The secondary communicates feedback about the received power back to the primary controller. The power transfer efficiency may be optimized by maintaining the operating frequency substantially at resonance, and the amount of power transferred may be controlled by adjusting the duty cycle. | 05-17-2012 |
20120112553 | WIRELESS POWER SYSTEM AND METHOD WITH IMPROVED ALIGNMENT - A wireless power system that may align a portable electronic device with an inductive wireless power supply. The induction coils used for transferring power wirelessly may be used as DC electromagnets to align the portable electronic device with the inductive wireless power supply. A DC current may be supplied to the primary coil and to the secondary coil to generate DC electromagnetic fields and attractive force between the primary and secondary coils. This attractive force may be used for alignment. | 05-10-2012 |
20120112552 | SELECTIVELY CONTROLLABLE ELECTROMAGNETIC SHIELDING - A selectively controllable electromagnetic shield having an electromagnetic shielding material and a mechanism for selectively generating an aperture in the shield. The mechanism for selectively generating an aperture may be a magnetic field source that generates a magnetic field of sufficient strength to substantially saturate all or a portion of the shielding material. For example, a permanent magnet or DC electromagnet may be used to selectively saturate the shield. In its un-saturated state, the magnetic shield has a high permeability and functions as a flux path for the magnetic field. Once saturated, the permeability of the shield is substantially reduced so that the magnetic field lines are no longer drawn into the shield to the same degree. As a result, once saturated, a substantially greater amount of the electromagnetic field may flow through or around the shield in the saturated region. | 05-10-2012 |
20120104868 | INDUCTIVE POWER SUPPLY WITH DEVICE IDENTIFICATION - An inductive power supply system to identify remote devices using unique identification frequencies. The system can inductively provide power to a remote device at different frequencies, and can sense reflected impedance of the remote device. The system further includes a plurality of different remote devices, each having a unique resonance frequency. In operation, the AIPS is capable of identifying the type of remote device present in the inductive field by applying power to a remote device at a plurality of unique identification frequencies until the remote device establishes resonance in response to one of the identification frequencies. The AIPS can recognize when resonance has been established by evaluating sensor data, which is representative of the reflected impedance of the remote device. The AIPS may pull operating parameters for the remove device from memory to ensure efficient operation and to assist in recognizing fault conditions. | 05-03-2012 |
20120080430 | COOKING VESSEL WITH CONDENSATION COLLECTOR - A cooking vessel with a selectively configurable condensation collector. In one configuration, the condensation collector collects condensation impeding it from reaching the content of the cooking vessel. In another configuration, condensation is allowed to reach the content of the cooking vessel. A movable reservoir can be configured to either be flush with the lid preventing condensation from reaching the reservoir or configured to form a gap between the reservoir wall and the lid so that condensation can collect in the reservoir. Alternatively, a condensation collector can be detachably connected to a cooking vessel lid so that when it is attached condensation collects and when it is detached condensation reaches the content of the vessel. Alternatively, a condensation collector can be permanently attached to a replacement cooking vessel lid that is swappable with a conventional cooking vessel lid. | 04-05-2012 |
20120076876 | CHIA SEED EXTRACT AND RELATED METHOD OF MANUFACTURE - Ethanolic chia ( | 03-29-2012 |
20120072535 | System and Markup Language For Information Extraction From Stand-Alone Devices in Webspace - A system and markup language for information extraction from stand-alone devices in webspace is disclosed. Devices are provided with Internet accessibility, thus becoming web objects, able to send and receive data through the Internet. A web object is assigned a static and dynamic serial number by its manufacturer which contains data pertaining to the web object/device. Also, the web object has the capability to report on its status, making such information available over the Internet. Thus, the device's owner can monitor the device by accessing it through the Internet and a web page, and the manufacturer or other authorized user can also securely access the device/web object to monitor its status. The web object can thus report that maintenance is required, a service part should be ordered, and maintains this information within the dynamic portion of its serial number, which updates based on changes to its status. | 03-22-2012 |
20120068551 | ELECTRICAL-ENERGY STORAGE DEVICES - An electrical-energy storage device configured for use in a time-varying electromagnetic field, the storage device comprising: an electrode at least part of which is configured so as to hinder the ability of eddy currents induced by said field to circulate therein. | 03-22-2012 |
20120068536 | CONTROLLING INDUCTIVE POWER TRANSFER SYSTEMS - An inductive power transfer system comprises a primary unit operable to generate an electromagnetic field and at least one secondary device, separable from the primary unit, and adapted to couple with the field when the secondary device is in proximity to the primary unit so that power can be received inductively by the secondary device from the primary unit without direct electrical conductive contacts therebetween. The system detects if there is a substantial difference between, on the one hand, a power drawn from the primary unit, and on the other hand, a power required by the secondary device or, if there is more than one secondary device, a combined power required by the secondary devices. Following such detection, the system restricts or stops the inductive power supply from the primary unit. Such a system can detect the presence of unwanted parasitic loads in the vicinity of the primary unit reliably. | 03-22-2012 |
20120043827 | ADAPTIVE INDUCTIVE POWER SUPPLY WITH COMMUNICATION - An adaptive inductive ballast is provided with the capability to communicate with a remote device powered by the ballast. To improve the operation of the ballast, the ballast changes its operating characteristics based upon information received from the remote device. Further, the ballast may provide a path for the remote device to communicate with device other than the adaptive inductive ballast. | 02-23-2012 |
20120041843 | METERED DELIVERY OF WIRELESS POWER - A system is disclosed for charging or billing for access to wireless power. The device requiring power communicates with the power provider and the billing method is determined. A consumer may be required to provide billing information, or if the billing information is already associated with an existing account, the consumer account is automatically charged for the wireless power. The account may include prepaid charging minutes that are debited as wireless power is provided, or the account may be billed for the wireless power that is provided. The charging/billing for the wireless power may be used to receive value for the power that is provided, while remaining consumer friendly. | 02-16-2012 |
20120032524 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR FOOD PREPARATION - A food preparation system includes a non-contact power supply for energizing a cooking appliance. The food preparation system includes a communication system for enabling communication between a food appliance and the system. The appliance transmits an identifier to the system. If the appliance does not have a transmitter, the system attempts to determine the type of appliance from a characterization of the power consumption by the appliance. If the appliance cannot be characterized, the food preparation system can be operated manually. | 02-09-2012 |
20120019202 | RETENTION OF RECHARGEABLE DEVICES - There is disclosed a system and method for retaining portable rechargeable devices to recharging stations wherein one or other or both of the recharging station and the portable device are provided with connecting means adapted for temporary releasable connection of the two. This is particularly advantageous when used with recharging stations which permit the device to be recharged in multiple places on the recharging station, providing a positive means of retaining the device. This is particularly advantageous if the recharging station is to be used in a mobile environment such as a car, or on a wall or ceiling. | 01-26-2012 |
20120007437 | INDUCTIVE POWER SUPPLY - There is disclosed an inductive power transfer system comprising a primary unit and a secondary device separable from the primary unit, the primary unit comprising a power transfer surface and more than two field generators each operable to generate an electromagnetic field, the field generators being located at different positions relative to the power transfer surface, the secondary device comprising a power receiver having a secondary coil, the system further comprising: determining means for determining at least one of the position and the orientation of the power receiver relative to the power transfer surface; and controlling means for controlling the field generators such that at least one first field generator and at least one second field generator, selected in dependence upon such determination, are active in a substantially opposite sense to one another so as to direct magnetic flux through the secondary coil thereby supplying power to the secondary device, and further such that a third one of the field generators is inactive so that fewer than all of the field generators are active simultaneously. | 01-12-2012 |
20120001644 | SPATIAL TRACKING SYSTEM AND METHOD - The specification discloses a simple and effective system for tracking position and rotation of an object or portable device located within an electromagnetic field. The electromagnetic field may be produced by a primary coil, which inductively couples with one or more secondary coils located within a portable device. The relative strength of this inductive coupling may be used to determine the position, rotation, or both of the portable device relative to the primary coil. | 01-05-2012 |
20120001562 | INDUCTIVELY COUPLED BALLAST CIRCUIT - A ballast circuit is disclosed for inductively providing power to a load. The ballast circuit includes an oscillator, a driver, a switching circuit, a resonant tank circuit and a current sensing circuit. The current sensing circuit provides a current feedback signal to the oscillator that is representative of the current in the resonant tank circuit. The current feedback signal drives the frequency of the ballast circuit causing the ballast circuit to seek resonance. The ballast circuit preferably includes a current limit circuit that is inductively coupled to the resonant tank circuit. The current limit circuit disables the ballast circuit when the current in the ballast circuit exceeds a predetermined threshold or falls outside a predetermined range. | 01-05-2012 |
20120000903 | SMART COOKWARE - An inductively powered cooking appliance and an associated wireless power supply for producing an electromagnetic field. The cooking appliance may include a secondary and a metal portion where the wireless power supply is capable of providing power to both. The cooking appliance may communicate with the wireless power supply to control the temperature of the metal portion and the amount of power transferred to the secondary. A smart handle connected to the secondary may be capable of performing various functions. The smart handle may also be capable of displaying and monitoring temperature. | 01-05-2012 |
20110304216 | COIL CONFIGURATIONS FOR INDUCTIVE POWER TRANSER - An inductive power supply system in which the receiving unit includes a secondary coil and a plurality of resonating circuits with different characteristics. Each of the resonating circuits may include a resonating coil and a resonating capacitor. The resonating coils may be inductively coupled to the secondary coil so that energy may be transferred from one or more of the resonating coils to said receiving unit. The plurality of resonating circuits are configured to provide improved power transfer efficiency or performance at different distances between the primary coil and secondary coil. The present invention may also provide a method for tuning the wireless power system including the general steps of measuring an operating characteristic in the primary unit, measuring an operating characteristic in the receiver unit and tuning one or more of the components in the primary unit and the secondary unit based on a comparison of the two measurements. | 12-15-2011 |
20110303589 | GRAVITY FEED WATER TREATMENT SYSTEM - A portable water treatment system includes at least one sub-system to treat water including a flocculation system, a chlorination system, and a bio-sand filter system. The water treatment system may include multiple sub-systems for treating water that feed into one another. The sand filter system may include a mini bio-sand filter, a foam filter, or a pressed block filter. The flocculation system may include a tank bottom that urges settling particles toward a sump and a ladle that removes settled particles. A manual pump or siphon may be included in the water treatment system. | 12-15-2011 |
20110298298 | ADAPTIVE INDUCTIVE POWER SUPPLY WITH COMMUNICATION - An adaptive inductive ballast is provided with the capability to communicate with a remote device powered by the ballast. To improve the operation of the ballast, the ballast changes its operating characteristics based upon information received from the remote device. Further, the ballast may provide a path for the remote device to communicate with device other than the adaptive inductive ballast. | 12-08-2011 |
20110297844 | INDUCTIVELY COUPLED DIELECTRIC BARRIER DISCHARGE LAMP - A dielectric barrier discharge lamp assembly for a fluid treatment system. The lamp assembly can include an inductive secondary, first and second electrodes coupled to the inductive secondary, and a lamp including a dielectric barrier interposed between the first and second electrodes. The dielectric barrier can define a discharge chamber including a discharge gas, and one of the first and second electrodes can extend within the discharge chamber. The inductive secondary can be adapted to receive power from a nearby inductive primary to promote a dielectric barrier discharge in the discharge chamber. The resulting dielectric barrier discharge can generate ultraviolet light for the treatment of air or water, or for other applications. | 12-08-2011 |
20110291491 | CIRCUITRY FOR INDUCTIVE POWER TRANSFER - Circuitry for use in a primary unit of an inductive power transfer system to generate an electromagnetic field so as to transfer power wirelessly by electromagnetic induction to one or more secondary units of the system, the or each secondary unit being separable from the primary unit, the circuitry comprising: a plurality of drivable portions, each portion comprising a primary coil or a dummy coil; driving means operable to supply both or at least two of said portions with drive signals so as to cause those driven portions that have a said primary coil to generate said electromagnetic field; and control means operable, in dependence upon a feedback signal indicative of a characteristic of the primary or dummy coil of one or more of the driven portions, to control the circuitry so as to tend to regulate said feedback signal, wherein the circuitry is configured so that; those portions that are driven are connected together in parallel and have a tuned resonant response; and said control tends to regulate such a characteristic of each of said driven coils. | 12-01-2011 |
20110285214 | CONTROLLING INDUCTIVE POWER TRANSFER SYSTEMS - An inductive power transfer system comprises a primary unit, having a primary coil and an electrical drive unit which applies electrical drive signals to the primary coil so as to generate an electromagnetic field. The system also comprises at least one secondary device, separable from the primary unit and having a secondary coil which couples with the field when the secondary device is in proximity to the primary unit. A control unit causes a circuit including said primary coil to operate, during a measurement period, in an undriven resonating condition. In this condition the application of the drive signals to the primary coil by the electrical drive unit is suspended so that energy stored in the circuit decays over the course of the period. A decay measurement unit takes one or more measures of such energy decay during the measurement period. In dependence upon said one or more energy decay measures, the control unit controls the electrical drive unit so as to restrict or stop inductive power transfer from the primary unit. | 11-24-2011 |
20110285210 | CIRCUITRY FOR INDUCTIVE POWER TRANSFER - Circuitry for use in a primary unit of an inductive power transfer system to generate an electromagnetic field so as to transfer power wirelessly by electromagnetic induction to one or more secondary units of the system, the or each secondary unit being separable from the primary unit, the circuitry comprising: a plurality of drivable portions, each portion comprising a primary coil or a dummy coil; driving means operable to supply both or at least two of said portions with drive signals so as to cause those driven portions that have a said primary coil to generate said electromagnetic field; and control means operable, in dependence upon a feedback signal indicative of a characteristic of the primary or dummy coil of one or more of the driven portions, to control the circuitry so as to tend to regulate said feedback signal, wherein the circuitry is configured so that; those portions that are driven are connected together in parallel and have a tuned resonant response; and said control tends to regulate such a characteristic of each of said driven coils. | 11-24-2011 |
20110282860 | DATA COLLECTION, TRACKING, AND ANALYSIS FOR MULTIPLE MEDIA INCLUDING IMPACT ANALYSIS AND INFLUENCE TRACKING - A system is disclosed for data collection, media analysis, and web tracking. The collected data may include a broad search for a reference database and a narrow search for a comparative database. A contact relationship management database is used to store and distribute profiles for individuals and companies. An RSS feed database may update frequently and provide relevant search results. The system may analyze the collected data and tracking of that data. Analysis may be used to identify relevant data. Profiling of users and businesses may be used for targeting and generating profile data that may include specific information for a user or business. Monitoring and/or tracking may be used for identifying changes in data. The system may provide an analysis of impact of an event/source based on user impressions or web hits in view of a particular event/source. The impact may include a social influence value. In another embodiment, a return on investment (“ROI”) in view of the influence is provided. | 11-17-2011 |
20110278950 | ADAPTIVE INDUCTIVE POWER SUPPLY - A contactless power supply has a dynamically configurable tank circuit powered by an inverter. The contactless power supply is inductively coupled to one or more loads. The inverter is connected to a DC power source. When loads are added or removed from the system, the contactless power supply is capable of modifying the resonant frequency of the tank circuit, the inverter frequency, the inverter duty cycle or the rail voltage of the DC power source. | 11-17-2011 |
20110277679 | HAND HELD PARTICLE SENSOR DEVICE - A hand held particle sensing device includes a housing having a component portion that encloses a particulate sensor, and a handle portion extending from the component portion for enabling the device to be carried by a user. An onboard power source may be housed within the handle portion. A display is positioned on the housing for outputting a signal, such as a visual or audible signal, corresponding to the level of particulates sensed by the sensor. The device may include an air flow path extending through the device, which may be air tight and separate from the rest of the device. A controller may be connected to the power source, the particulate sensor and the display for operating the particulate sensor and the output display. | 11-17-2011 |
20110275319 | ADAPTIVE INDUCTIVE POWER SUPPLY WITH COMMUNICATION - An adaptive inductive ballast is provided with the capability to communicate with a remote device powered by the ballast. To improve the operation of the ballast, the ballast changes its operating characteristics based upon information received from the remote device. Further, the ballast may provide a path for the remote device to communicate with device other than the adaptive inductive ballast. | 11-10-2011 |
20110273138 | WIRELESS CHARGING SYSTEM - The present invention provides wireless power supply systems that wirelessly supply power to a remote device for rapidly charging a charge storage capacitor, which charges a battery with the power stored in the charge storage capacitor. This allows the remote device to be positioned near the inductive power supply for rapid charging of the charge storage capacitor and allows battery charging to continue even after the remote device is removed from the inductive power supply. | 11-10-2011 |
20110273026 | ADAPTIVE INDUCTIVE POWER SUPPLY WITH COMMUNICATION - An adaptive inductive ballast is provided with the capability to communicate with a remote device powered by the ballast. To improve the operation of the ballast, the ballast changes its operating characteristics based upon information received from the remote device. Further, the ballast may provide a path for the remote device to communicate with device other than the adaptive inductive ballast. | 11-10-2011 |
20110269399 | ADAPTIVE INDUCTIVE POWER SUPPLY WITH COMMUNICATION - An adaptive inductive ballast is provided with the capability to communicate with a remote device powered by the ballast. To improve the operation of the ballast, the ballast changes its operating characteristics based upon information received from the remote device. Further, the ballast may provide a path for the remote device to communicate with device other than the adaptive inductive ballast. | 11-03-2011 |
20110267002 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR INDUCTIVELY CHARGING A BATTERY - An inductive charging system for recharging a battery. The system includes a charger circuit and a secondary circuit. The secondary circuit includes a feedback mechanism to provide feedback to the charger circuit through the inductive coupling of the primary coil and the secondary coil. The charger circuit includes a frequency control mechanism for controlling the frequency of the power applied to the primary coil at least partly in response to the feedback from the feedback mechanism. | 11-03-2011 |
20110260469 | ENERGY HARVESTING SEATING - Seating systems in which energy is harvested from the physical movement of the seat. The seating system includes a seating article, an electrical generator, a drive mechanism, and a battery. The generator, the drive mechanism, and the battery are supported on the seating article. The generator is powered by the drive mechanism in response to movement of the user. For example, the drive mechanism may be responsive to the vertical movements of a seat. | 10-27-2011 |
20110259960 | POINT OF SALE INDUCTIVE SYSTEMS AND METHODS - Systems and methods for the identification, powering and control of products and product packaging. The systems can include a point of sale display having a contactless power supply. The contactless power supply can provide a source of wireless power for products and product packaging. The products and product packaging can include light emitting diodes, e-ink displays and printed speaker circuits that activate as the operating frequency of the contactless power supply varies. Other embodiments include product level sensors, inductive reader networks, printed temperature sensors, product alignment systems, passive identification circuits and methods for controlling operation of the same. | 10-27-2011 |
20110259953 | POINT OF SALE INDUCTIVE SYSTEMS AND METHODS - Systems and methods for the identification, powering and control of products and product packaging. The systems can include a point of sale display having a contactless power supply. The contactless power supply can provide a source of wireless power for products and product packaging. The products and product packaging can include light emitting diodes, e-ink displays and printed speaker circuits that activate as the operating frequency of the contactless power supply varies. Other embodiments include product level sensors, inductive reader networks, printed temperature sensors, product alignment systems, passive identification circuits and methods for controlling operation of the same. | 10-27-2011 |
20110248674 | INDUCTIVE POWER SUPPLY WITH DEVICE IDENTIFICATION - An inductive power supply system to identify remote devices using unique identification frequencies. The system includes an AIPS and a tank circuit capable of inductively providing power to a remote device at different frequencies, and a sensor for sensing the reflected impedance of the remote device at tank circuit. The system further includes a plurality of different remote devices, each having a unique resonance frequency. In operation, the AIPS is capable of identifying the type of remote device present in the inductive field by applying power to a remote device at a plurality of unique identification frequencies until the remote device establishes resonance in response to one of the identification frequencies. The AIPS includes a controller that recognizes when resonance has been established by evaluating sensor data, which is representative of the reflected impedance of the remote device. Once the identity of a remote device is determined, the AIPS may pull operating parameters for the remove device from memory to ensure efficient operation and to assist in recognizing fault conditions. | 10-13-2011 |
20110233935 | MINIATURE HYDRO-POWER GENERATION SYSTEM - A miniature hydro-power generation system includes an outer housing and an inner housing. The outer housing may receive a flow of liquid flowing in a first direction at a predetermined range of pressure. The flow of liquid may be decreased by a predetermined amount of pressure and increased by a predetermined amount of velocity and channeled to a hydro-generator included in the inner housing with an inlet nozzle. The flow of liquid may be channeled with the inlet nozzle to flow in a second direction that is substantially perpendicular to the first direction. Upon transfer of kinetic energy in the flow of liquid to the hydro-generator, the inner housing may rotate in the second direction. The flow of liquid may then be channeled back to the first direction and out of the housing with an outlet nozzle. The outlet nozzle configured to increase the pressure and decrease the velocity of the flow of liquid to minimized non-laminar flow characteristics. | 09-29-2011 |
20110210619 | ADAPTING PORTABLE ELECTRICAL DEVICES TO RECEIVE POWER WIRELESSLY - Wireless power receiving apparatus 150 is retrofitted to a portable electrical device 100 to enable the device to receive power wirelessly. The apparatus comprises a power-receiving element 200 adapted to be attached to the device, e.g. by adhesive 201, and also being adapted to receive power wirelessly from a transmitter of power when the element and transmitter are in proximity with one another. One or more power connectors 203 are connected electrically to the power-receiving element and are adapted to be connected, when the apparatus is in use, to one or more corresponding power connectors 101 of the portable electrical device to deliver power received by the element to the device. The power-receiving element may be in the form of a sticker or may be carried by or incorporated in a replacement cover portion for the portable electrical device. | 09-01-2011 |
20110204711 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR DETECTING DATA COMMUNICATION OVER A WIRELESS POWER LINK - A wireless power supply system that detects communications in the input power to the switching circuit. In this aspect of the invention, the wireless power supply includes a detector for generating a signal indicative of the current in the input to the switching circuitry, a band-pass filter for filtering the detected signal, an amplifier for amplifying the filtered signal, a filter for filtering the amplified signal and a comparator for converting the final signal into a stream of high and low signals that can be passed to a controller for processing as binary data stream. In a second aspect, the wireless power supply system includes a detector for generating a signal that varies in dependence on changes in the phase relationship between the current and the voltage in the primary-side tank circuit, a band-pass filter for filtering the signal, an amplifier for amplifying the filtered signal, a filter for filtering the amplified signal and a comparator for converting the final signal into a stream of high and low signals that can be passed to a controller for processing as binary data stream. | 08-25-2011 |
20110200381 | HEATING AND DISPENSER SYSTEM - A heating and dispenser system including base unit and an applicator assembly. The applicator assembly may include an applicator tip, a dispensing module, and an applicator housing. The applicator assembly may be integral or separable, and may also house a heating module. Alternatively, the heating module may be separate from the applicator assembly. The system also includes a control system for heating and dispensing various products. The applicator assembly may be replaceable, interchangeable, or single-type for applying product to a surface. The applicator may also be constructed of materials that impact heat transfer or storage. | 08-18-2011 |
20110196544 | INPUT PARASITIC METAL DETECTION - A system and method of controlling inductive power transfer in an inductive power transfer system and a method for designing an inductive power transfer system with power accounting. The method of controlling inductive power transfer including measuring a characteristic of input power, a characteristic of power in the tank circuit, and receiving information from a secondary device. Estimating power consumption based on the measured characteristic of tank circuit power and received information and comparing the measured characteristic of input power, the information from the secondary device, and the estimated power consumption to determine there is an unacceptable power loss. The method for designing an inductive power transfer system with power accounting including changing the distance between a primary side and a secondary side and changing a load of the secondary side. For each distance between the primary side and the secondary side and for each load, measuring a circuit parameter on the primary side in the tank circuit and a circuit parameter on the secondary side during the transfer of contactless energy. The method further including selecting a formula to describe power consumption in the system during the transfer of contactless energy based on coefficients and the circuit parameters, and determining the coefficients using the measured circuit parameters. | 08-11-2011 |
20110189954 | ADAPTIVE INDUCTIVE POWER SUPPLY WITH COMMUNICATION - An adaptive inductive ballast is provided with the capability to communicate with a remote device powered by the ballast. To improve the operation of the ballast, the ballast changes its operating characteristics based upon information received from the remote device. Further, the ballast may provide a path for the remote device to communicate with device other than the adaptive inductive ballast. | 08-04-2011 |
20110181240 | INDUCTIVE CHARGING SYSTEM FOR ELECTRIC VEHICLE - A charging system for an electric vehicle that assists in aligning a primary charging coil and a secondary coil. The system may include a wheel chock that raises the primary coil into alignment with the secondary coil when a tire enters the wheel chock. The system may include a primary that is recessed below the surface supporting the vehicle and is protected by a cover. The secondary coil may be protected and supported by a skid plate mounted to the vehicle. The system may include a charging circuit that is controlled by signals transmitted by a garage door opener transmitter or a garage door opener. The system may include sensors that detect the presence of an animal or object in the space between the primary coil and the secondary coil. | 07-28-2011 |
20110178411 | METHOD FOR DETERMINING SKIN GLYCATION - A method for the measurement and analysis of skin fluorescence across multiple subjects. The method includes illuminating each subject with an excitation wavelength, detecting a peak fluorescence level within a corresponding emission wavelength range, determining relative levels of skin glycation for each subject, and evaluating the efficacy of a skin treatment based on the relative levels of skin glycation. The method can include ranking and normalizing the peak fluorescence levels for each subject, and the method is suitable for use in placebo-controlled studies of anti-glycation skin therapies. | 07-21-2011 |
20110177783 | ADAPTIVE INDUCTIVE POWER SUPPLY WITH COMMUNICATION - An adaptive inductive ballast is provided with the capability to communicate with a remote device powered by the ballast. To improve the operation of the ballast, the ballast changes its operating characteristics based upon information received from the remote device. Further, the ballast may provide a path for the remote device to communicate with device other than the adaptive inductive ballast. | 07-21-2011 |
20110177782 | ADAPTIVE INDUCTIVE POWER SUPPLY WITH COMMUNICATION - An adaptive inductive ballast is provided with the capability to communicate with a remote device powered by the ballast. To improve the operation of the ballast, the ballast changes its operating characteristics based upon information received from the remote device. Further, the ballast may provide a path for the remote device to communicate with device other than the adaptive inductive ballast. | 07-21-2011 |
20110175458 | ADAPTIVE INDUCTIVE POWER SUPPLY - A contactless power supply has a dynamically configurable tank circuit powered by an inverter. The contactless power supply is inductively coupled to one or more loads. The inverter is connected to a DC power source. When loads are added or removed from the system, the contactless power supply is capable of modifying the resonant frequency of the tank circuit, the inverter frequency, the inverter duty cycle or the rail voltage of the DC power source. | 07-21-2011 |
20110164471 | INTEGRATED WIRELESS POWER SYSTEM - The present configuration provides an integrated wireless power system for powering or charging a portable device. The integrated wireless power system includes 1) an integrated wireless power appliance that both provides power as well as additional functionality, such as timekeeping, radio, and alarm functionality and 2) a portable device capable of receiving wireless power from the integrated wireless power appliance. | 07-07-2011 |
20110115303 | MULTIPLE USE WIRELESS POWER SYSTEMS - A wireless power system having at least one of a remote device with multiple wireless power inputs capable of receiving power from a different wireless power source, a remote device including a hybrid secondary that can be selectively configured for multiple uses, a remote device including a hybrid secondary, a far field wireless power source having a low power mode, a remote device having the capability of communicating with multiple different wireless power sources to indicate that a wireless power hot spot is nearby, a wireless power supply including multiple wireless power transmitters. | 05-19-2011 |
20110050382 | FLUX CONCENTRATOR AND METHOD OF MAKING A MAGNETIC FLUX CONCENTRATOR - A flux concentrator and method for manufacturing a flux concentrator is provided. The method can include combining powdered soft magnetic material, a binder, a solvent, a internal lubricant; mixing the materials to create a mixture, evaporating the solvent from the mixture, molding the mixture to form a flux concentrator, and curing the flux concentrator. The flux concentrator may be laminated and broken into multiple pieces, which makes the flux concentrator more flexible. Breaking the flux concentrator does not significantly affect the magnetic properties. Since the permeability of the binder is very similar to that of air, adding tiny air gaps between the fractions is not significantly different than adding more binder. | 03-03-2011 |
20110043163 | WIRELESS POWER DISTRIBUTION AND CONTROL SYSTEM - A wireless power distribution and control system may be used to supply power wirelessly to various devices. The devices in the system may have control over the system and/or over certain features of other devices. For example, a smartphone charging in the wireless power distribution and control system may have access to and control over other devices in the system, such as the overhead lights, or a projector in a conference room. The identification of other devices, as well as commands for controlling these devices may be communicated over the wireless power link. The type and degree of control of each device in that system may vary based on access control levels for the power supplies and connected devices. The devices that receive power may be configured to automatically connect with the power distribution system and to monitor the other devices connected to the system. | 02-24-2011 |
20110042280 | Bag Path Fluid Filter Assembly - A fluid filter assembly including a flexible and formable enclosure so as to be useable in many filter applications. The enclosure defines a portion of a fluid flow path residing entirely within the filter assembly, eliminating any fluid contact within the remaining portions of the filter assembly. This flow path is advantageous to reduce the possibility of contamination and to ease in cleaning and maintenance of a device utilizing the filter assembly. The enclosure may be formed of UV-transparent material to allow for UV treatment of fluid passing though the filter assembly. Electronic controls may be combined with the filter assembly to control and monitor fluid flow. Check valves or other closure devices also may be included with the filter assembly to facilitate easy filter changes. | 02-24-2011 |
20110018360 | POWER SUPPLY - In one aspect, the present invention provides a universal power supply for wired and wireless electronic devices. In a second aspect, the present invention provides a universal power supply that is reconfigurable to provide a wide range of power supply options. | 01-27-2011 |
20110006613 | CONTROLLING INDUCTIVE POWER TRANSFER SYSTEMS - An inductive power transfer system comprises a primary unit | 01-13-2011 |
20110006611 | INDUCTIVE POWER SUPPLY - In one aspect, the present invention provides a wireless power supply having a plunger for mechanically interconnecting a remote device with the power supply. The plunger may be extendable/retractable to interfit with the remote device. In a second aspect, the present invention provides a wireless power supply with a movable primary that allows for close alignment between the primary and the secondary when the remote device is disposed within a range of different positions with respect to the charging surface. The movable primary may, for example, be coupled to the remote device by a peg, a plunger or a magnet. Alternatively, the position of the movable primary may be adjusted manually. In a third aspect, the present invention provides a charging bowl having a plurality of charging stations disposed about a common axis. Each charging station may include a movable primary that permits some freedom in positioning of the remote device on the charging surface. In a fourth aspect, the present invention provides a wireless power supply having a manually movable primary. | 01-13-2011 |
20100320963 | CONTACT-LESS POWER TRANSFER - There is disclosed a system and method for transferring power without requiring direct electrical conductive contacts. There is provided a primary unit having a power supply and a substantially laminar charging surface having at least one conductor that generates an electromagnetic field when a current flows therethrough and having an charging area defined within a perimeter of the surface, the at least one conductor being arranged such that electromagnetic field lines generated by the at least one conductor are substantially parallel to the plane of the surface or at least subtend an angle of 45° or less to the surface within the charging area; and at least one secondary device including at least one conductor that may be wound about a core. Because the electromagnetic field is spread over the charging area and is generally parallel or near-parallel thereto, coupling with flat secondary devices such as mobile telephones and the like is significantly improved in various orientations thereof. | 12-23-2010 |
20100314947 | MULTIPHASE INDUCTIVE POWER SUPPLY SYSTEM - A multiphase inductive power supply wirelessly transmits power in multiple phases. A primary circuit energizes multiple tank circuits in an out of phase relationship. A secondary circuit receives the power and recombines the power. The amount of energy in each phase is reduced compared to transferring the same amount of power using a single phase inductive power supply. | 12-16-2010 |
20100295311 | MINIATURE HYDRO-POWER GENERATION SYSTEM - A miniature hydro-power generation system includes an outer housing and an inner housing. The outer housing may receive a flow of liquid flowing in a first direction at a predetermined range of pressure. The flow of liquid may be decreased by a predetermined amount of pressure and increased by a predetermined amount of velocity and channeled to a hydro-generator included in the inner housing with an inlet nozzle. The flow of liquid may be channeled with the inlet nozzle to flow in a second direction that is substantially perpendicular to the first direction. Upon transfer of kinetic energy in the flow of liquid to the hydro-generator, the inner housing may rotate in the second direction. The flow of liquid may then be channeled back to the first direction and out of the housing with an outlet nozzle. The outlet nozzle configured to increase the pressure and decrease the velocity of the flow of liquid to minimized non-laminar flow characteristics. | 11-25-2010 |
20100285080 | COSMETIC TREATMENT SYSTEM AND METHODS - A cosmetic treatment system is provided having ingredients that may prevent signs of aging, improve the aesthetic appearance of skin, and promote recovery from environmental stresses. The composition includes natural ingredients, including at least one ingredient or extract from rosemary; at least one ingredient or extract from | 11-11-2010 |
20100259217 | SELECTABLE COIL ARRAY - An inductive wireless power system using an array of coils with the ability to dynamically select which coils are energized. The coil array can determine the position of and provide power to one or more portable electronic devices positioned on the charging surface. The coils in the array may be connected with series resonant capacitors so that regardless of the number of coils selected, the resonance point is generally maintained. The coil array can provide spatial freedom, decrease power delivered to parasitic loads, and increase power transfer efficiency to the portable electronic devices. | 10-14-2010 |
20100219791 | CONTACT-LESS POWER TRANSFER - There is disclosed a system and method for transferring power without requiring direct electrical conductive contacts. There is provided a primary unit having a power supply and a substantially laminar charging surface having at least one conductor that generates an electromagnetic field when a current flows therethrough and having an charging area defined within a perimeter of the surface, the at least one conductor being arranged such that electromagnetic field lines generated by the at least one conductor are substantially parallel to the plane of the surface or at least subtend an angle of 45° or less to the surface within the charging area; and at least one secondary device including at least one conductor that may be wound about a core. Because the electromagnetic field is spread over the charging area and is generally parallel or near-parallel thereto, coupling with flat secondary devices such as mobile telephones and the like is significantly improved in various orientations thereof. | 09-02-2010 |
20100185322 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR DISPENSING FLUID COMPOSITIONS - A miniaturized fluid dispensing system for dispensing customized fluids. The dispenser may include first and second reservoirs containing constituent fluids; a drive motor; at least two pump assemblies commonly driven by the drive motor and in communication with the first and second reservoirs; first and second valve assembly in communication with the first and second pump assemblies; and a control system for selectively controlling the valve assemblies to blend and discharge a composition from the constituent fluids. The system may include a dispensing header to house the valves and to define ‘discharge’ and ‘recirculation’ flow paths for each constituent fluid. The present invention also provides a method for dispensing a fluid regimen (e.g. a plurality of compositions) by periodically blending and discharging varying compositions over time. | 07-22-2010 |
20100172168 | POWER SYSTEM - The specification discloses a wireless power charging system in which undesired frequencies in the primary coil are cancelled. Exemplary undesired frequencies are the harmonics of the primary coil drive signal. The system includes a sense transformer/coil, an injection transformer/coil, and a compensation signal generator. The sense transformer/coil senses the signal in the primary coil. The compensation signal generator receives the sensed signal and generates an injection signal whose constituent parts are equal in amplitude to, but pi phase different from, each undesired frequency. The combined signal is injected into the primary through the injection transformer/coil so that the injection signal cancels the undesired frequencies in the primary coil. | 07-08-2010 |
20100171461 | WIRELESS CHARGING SYSTEM WITH DEVICE POWER COMPLIANCE - A method of controlling an inductive charging system on those occasions in which the combined power requests of a plurality of secondary devices exceed the power capacity of the power supply. The method includes at least one of (a) powering each device at a level below its requested level, (b) powering each device sequentially, and/or (c) powering each device in a repetitive pattern (e.g. time multiplexing). Also disclosed is a method of controlling an inductive charging system at least partially as a function of information received from the power management unit (PMU) of each secondary device. | 07-08-2010 |
20100171369 | COMMUNICATION ACROSS AN INDUCTIVE LINK WITH A DYNAMIC LOAD - The present invention provides a load used for communication in a remote device having a dynamic communication load configuration. In one embodiment, the dynamic communication load configuration vanes as a function of a characteristic of power in the remote device. The remote device toggles between load configurations to communicate with the inductive power supply. A sensor in the remote device detects a characteristic of power in the remote device and configures the communication load based on the sensor output. In another embodiment, the remote device adjusts the dynamic communication load configuration in the remote device in response to a failure to receive a response from the inductive power supply. | 07-08-2010 |
20100170822 | GIFT CARD PRESENTER - A gift card presenter includes a base portion folded along a fold line and having an inner and outer surface. A support portion is folded along a fold line and includes opposite ends on either side of the support portion fold line, which are secured to the inner surface of the base portion on opposite sides of the base portion fold line. The support portion defines an opening adapted to receive and support a card, which travels through the opening until it engages the base portion. The unfolding of the base portion causes the support portion to unfold and move toward the base portion, which forces the card back through the opening and outward from the support portion, thus creating a pop-up effect. | 07-08-2010 |
20100139779 | VALVE SYSTEM - A valve system enables use of a standard single line faucet with a water treatment system, protects water treatment systems and other fluid flow devices from unnecessary fluid pressure, and regulates or prevents fluid flow to a dispenser or outlet in response to a particular event, such as a leak. The valve system includes a housing having ports for: (1) receiving a supply fluid, (2) supplying the fluid to a device, such as a water treatment system, (3) receiving the fluid from the device and (4) supplying fluid to a dispenser. The valve system also includes an automatic shutoff device within the housing that prevents water from flowing into the housing and the water treatment system when the dispensing outlet is closed and that allows water to flow through the housing and into the water treatment system when the outlet is open. The valve system may also include a second actuator connected to the automatic shutoff that is capable of moving the automatic shutoff to a partially or fully closed position. | 06-10-2010 |
20100130096 | INDUCTIVE TOY VEHICLE - An inductively powered toy vehicle and an associated track with inductive charging segment. The vehicle may include a secondary coil, a drive motor, an electrical power storage device connected between said secondary coil and said drive motor, and a wireless communications unit. The charging segment may include a primary coil, a sense circuit operable to detect the presence of the vehicle based on a change in the detected impedance of the primary coil, and a power control unit operable to provide a time-varying current to the primary coil when the vehicle traverses the charging segment. The primary coil is positioned within the race track adjacent the track upper surface. The vehicle drive motor may be operable at first and second speed settings, and a remote control device can provide operating instructions to the vehicle wireless communications unit. | 05-27-2010 |
20100116369 | FAUCET VALVE SYSTEM - A valve system enables use of a standard single line faucet with a water treatment system. The valve system may include a housing having ports for receiving untreated supply water, supplying water to a water treatment system, receiving treated water from the water treatment system and supplying treated water to a dispenser. The valve system includes an automatic shutoff device that prevents water from flowing into the water treatment system when the dispensing faucet is closed and allows water to flow into the water treatment system when the faucet is open. The valve system may include a pressure relief mechanism that removes pressure from the water treatment system when the faucet is closed and a check valve for maintaining a desired amount of pressure within the valve system. | 05-13-2010 |
20100112105 | Antimicrobial efficacy of aframomum Melegueta extract against propionibacterium acnes - The use of compositions containing one or more phytochemicals such as gingerols, paradols, and mixtures thereof for aiding in the control, reduction or elimination of | 05-06-2010 |
20100109444 | ELECTROMAGNETIC INTERFERENCE SUPPRESSION - An inductive power transmitter for transmitting electrical power to a device by electromagnetic induction, the transmitter being configured to receive power conductively by way of a current via an electrical conduit from an external power source, the transmitter including a field generator configured to generate a fluctuating electromagnetic field having a fundamental frequency; and at least one impedance element connected along an electrical path of the transmitter configured to carry said current, the impedance element or a combination of the impedance elements having a high enough impedance at the fundamental frequency such that, in use, electromagnetic noise experienced at the power source is substantially suppressed, such noise arising from coupling between the electromagnetic field and a circuit having said path and linking the power source to the transmitter. | 05-06-2010 |
20100103702 | ADAPTIVE INDUCTIVE POWER SUPPLY - A contactless power supply has a dynamically configurable tank circuit powered by an inverter. The contactless power supply is inductively coupled to one or more loads. The inverter is connected to a DC power source. When loads are added or removed from the system, the contactless power supply is capable of modifying the resonant frequency of the tank circuit, the inverter frequency, the inverter duty cycle or the rail voltage of the DC power source. | 04-29-2010 |
20100096246 | CONTROL PANEL ASSEMBLY - An illuminated control button with an eccentric switch and a button spring configured to substantially balance the mechanical resistance of the switch when the button is depressed. The switch may be a conventional push-button switch having a stem directly contacting a portion of the control button. The button spring may include an integral reflector and may have a rim that defines a surface engaging the button. The control button may include a fixed light source and the reflector may move about the light source when the control button is depressed. The present invention also provides a control button with a light source at least partially contained within an integrating sphere. In one embodiment, the integrating sphere includes a somewhat cup-shaped diffusely reflective surface that cooperates with a diffusely reflective surface on the back surface of the button to substantially evenly distribute light from the light source throughout the integrating sphere. | 04-22-2010 |
20100096116 | Heat Diffuser with Silicone Handle - A heat diffuser for use with a cooking implement is disclosed. The heat diffuser may be positioned using its handle between a heat source and a cooking container to counteract high temperature zones within the cooking container. The diffuser thus aids in even heat distribution throughout a cookware container for more even cooking and provides the user with more control over the heat applied to the cookware container. | 04-22-2010 |
20100086448 | AIR FRESHENER POWERED VASE - An air freshener device is provided which includes a portion to display cut flowers or other decorative accents, as well as an optionally-powered portion that contains fragrance and one or more of a variety of fragrance dispersal devices. The air freshener device may include an inductive charging system to allow for the device to be electrically charged and placed remotely from its charging base station relying on on-board electrical power storage. Other power sources such as AC or DC power supplies, batteries, or capacitors may also be used to power the air freshener device. | 04-08-2010 |
20100084918 | POWER SYSTEM - The present invention provides methods and apparatus for reducing power consumption. One method includes detecting the presence of an object, identifying whether the object is a valid device and restricting power if its not a valid device. Another method includes temporarily applying a low amount of power to the primary unit to detect a load, supplying more power to determine if its a valid secondary device, and restricting power if its not. An apparatus for reducing power consumption includes two power inputs, where the lower power input powers a sense circuit. A switch selectively decouples the higher power input from the primary subcircuit during detection mode and couples the higher power input to the primary subcircuit during power supply mode. | 04-08-2010 |
20100042262 | CONTROL METHODS FOR CALIBRATING MOTOR SPEED IN AN AIR TREATMENT SYSTEM - A control system and associated methods for an air treatment system. In one aspect, the present invention provides a control system and method for controlling blower speed as a function of separately determined smoke and dust concentrations. In one embodiment, the control system and method provides a variable delayed between changes in motor speed to address undesirable rapid changes between speeds. In another aspect, the present invention provides a system and method for calibrating a sensor to provide more uniform operation over time. In yet another aspect, the present invention provide a system and method for calibrating motor speed to provide more consistent and uniform motor speed over time. The present invention also provides a system and method for tracking filter life by as a function of time, motor speed and/or a sensed variable, such as particulate concentration in the environment. | 02-18-2010 |
20100037769 | CONTROL METHODS FOR TRACKING FILTER LIFE IN AN AIR TREATMENT SYSTEM - A control system and associated methods for an air treatment system. In one aspect, the present invention provides a control system and method for controlling blower speed as a function of separately determined smoke and dust concentrations. In one embodiment, the control system and method provides a variable delayed between changes in motor speed to address undesirable rapid changes between speeds. In another aspect, the present invention provides a system and method for calibrating a sensor to provide more uniform operation over time. In yet another aspect, the present invention provide a system and method for calibrating motor speed to provide more consistent and uniform motor speed over time. The present invention also provides a system and method for tracking filter life by as a function of time, motor speed and/or a sensed variable, such as particulate concentration in the environment. | 02-18-2010 |
20100037679 | CONTROL METHODS FOR SETTING A REFERENCE VOLTAGE IN AN AIR TREATMENT SYSTEM - A control system and associated methods for an air treatment system. In one aspect, the present invention provides a control system and method for controlling blower speed as a function of separately determined smoke and dust concentrations. In one embodiment, the control system and method provides a variable delayed between changes in motor speed to address undesirable rapid changes between speeds. In another aspect, the present invention provides a system and method for calibrating a sensor to provide more uniform operation over time. In yet another aspect, the present invention provide a system and method for calibrating motor speed to provide more consistent and uniform motor speed over time. The present invention also provides a system and method for tracking filter life by as a function of time, motor speed and/or a sensed variable, such as particulate concentration in the environment. | 02-18-2010 |
20100033023 | ADAPTIVE INDUCTIVE POWER SUPPLY WITH COMMUNICATION - An adaptive inductive ballast is provided with the capability to communicate with a remote device powered by the ballast. To improve the operation of the ballast, the ballast changes its operating characteristics based upon information received from the remote device. Further, the ballast may provide a path for the remote device to communicate with device other than the adaptive inductive ballast. | 02-11-2010 |
20100025490 | AIR CARE UNIT ALLOWING FOR CUSTOMIZATION OF FRAGRANCE STRENGTH AND CHARACTER - An air freshener with customizable fragrances is disclosed. The air freshener accepts a plurality of fragrance modules, which allow a user to create customized fragrant environments. A fan and/or heating element are included to increase fragrance dispersal. Additional components may be included into the air freshener to provide enhancements to the user experience, including but not limited to a clock, timer, or a music player. The air freshener obtains power from a number of sources, such as AC mains or DC batteries. Energy storage devices located on board the air freshener may be charged by inductive or solar power. The air freshener may also include lighting elements and styling cues to integrate into the local environment. | 02-04-2010 |
20100007307 | WIRELESS CHARGING SYSTEM - The present invention provides wireless power supply systems that wirelessly supply power to a remote device for rapidly charging a charge storage capacitor, which charges a battery with the power stored in the charge storage capacitor. This allows the remote device to be positioned near the inductive power supply for rapid charging of the charge storage capacitor and allows battery charging to continue even after the remote device is removed from the inductive power supply. | 01-14-2010 |
20090322158 | CONTROLLING INDUCTIVE POWER TRANSFER SYSTEMS - An inductive power transfer system ( | 12-31-2009 |
20090289055 | INDUCTIVELY-HEATED APPLICATOR SYSTEM - An inductively-heated applicator system including a heating module and an applicator, such as an applicator pen. The heating module include a dock for seating the applicator. The heating module includes circuitry to selectively generate an electromagnetic field to wirelessly provide energy to the applicator when it is positioned in the dock. The heating module may also include temperature control circuitry to monitor and/or control the temperature of the applicator. The applicator pen includes a heating element that it heated through energy provided by the electromagnetic field. The heating element may be directly inductively heated by the electromagnetic field. The heating element may be a roller element that heats and applies the product. Alternatively, the applicator may include a secondary in which electrical power is induced when the electromagnetic field is present. In this alternative, the power may be applied to the heating element to produce resistive heat. | 11-26-2009 |
20090278355 | MINIATURE HYDRO-POWER GENERATION SYSTEM - A miniature hydro-power generation system includes an outer housing and an inner housing. The outer housing may receive a flow of liquid flowing in a first direction at a predetermined range of pressure. The flow of liquid may be decreased by a predetermined amount of pressure and increased by a predetermined amount of velocity and channeled to a hydro-generator included in the inner housing with an inlet nozzle. The flow of liquid may be channeled with the inlet nozzle to flow in a second direction that is substantially perpendicular to the first direction. Upon transfer of kinetic energy in the flow of liquid to the hydro-generator, the inner housing may rotate in the second direction. The flow of liquid may then be channeled back to the first direction and out of the housing with an outlet nozzle. The outlet nozzle configured to increase the pressure and decrease the velocity of the flow of liquid to minimized non-laminar flow characteristics. | 11-12-2009 |
20090268356 | INPUT PROTECTION CIRCUIT - A voltage clamp protection circuit to protect against overvoltage conditions where there is insufficient current to blow a fuse. The voltage clamp protection circuit includes a voltage clamp and a thermal cutoff. The voltage clamp clamps any overvoltage to a clamping voltage. If an overvoltage condition persists for too long the voltage clamp dissipates a sufficient amount of heat to activate the thermal cutoff creating an open circuit that protects the rest of the circuit. The voltage clamp protection circuit may be used in combination with a variety of other protection circuits to provide increased protection. | 10-29-2009 |
20090230777 | INDUCTIVE POWER SUPPLY SYSTEM WITH MULTIPLE COIL PRIMARY - An inductive power supply including multiple tank circuits and a controller for selecting at least one of the tank circuits in order to wirelessly transfer power based on received power demand information. In addition, a magnet may be used to align multiple remote devices with the inductive power supply. In one embodiment, different communication systems are employed depending on which coil is being used to transfer wireless power. | 09-17-2009 |
20090212736 | INDUCTIVE POWER SUPPLY SYSTEM WITH BATTERY TYPE DETECTION - An inductive power supply system to wirelessly charge a remote device based on detected battery characteristics. The system includes an inductive power supply with a primary coil capable of inductively providing power to a secondary coil in a remote device. The inductive power supply and remote device include communication means for wirelessly communicating. The system further includes a remote device, having a battery with detectable battery characteristics. In operation, the remote device is capable of detecting the battery characteristics by applying a qualification charge to the battery. The inductive power supply system is capable of identifying the battery installed in the remote device by analyzing the detected battery characteristics. The inductive power supply system selects an appropriate charging algorithm based on the analyzed characteristics. | 08-27-2009 |
20090212637 | MAGNETIC POSITIONING FOR INDUCTIVE COUPLING - A magnetic positioning system for use in inductive couplings. The magnetic positioning system having a magnet that provides sufficient magnetic force, but does not have enough electrical conductivity to overheat in the presence of the anticipated electromagnetic field. The magnet may be a bonded magnet or a shielded magnet. In another aspect a plurality of magnets are used to provide magnetic attraction forces and said magnetic repulsion forces that cooperate to align the inductive power supply and the remote device. In another aspect, a sensor allows differentiation between different positions of the remote device or inductive power supply. In another aspect, multiple magnets in the inductive power supply interact with multiple magnets in the remote device to position the remote device in different positions. | 08-27-2009 |
20090212628 | System and method for inductive power supply control using remote device power requirements - An adaptive inductive ballast is provided with the capability to communicate with a remote device powered by the ballast. To improve the operation of the ballast, the ballast changes its operating characteristics based upon information received from the remote device. Further, the ballast may provide a path for the remote device to communicate with device other than the adaptive inductive ballast. | 08-27-2009 |
20090189565 | CONTACT-LESS POWER TRANSFER - There is disclosed a system and method for transferring power without requiring direct electrical conductive contacts. There is provided a primary unit having a power supply and a substantially laminar charging surface having at least one conductor that generates an electromagnetic field when a current flows therethrough and having an charging area defined within a perimeter of the surface, the at least one conductor being arranged such that electromagnetic field lines generated by the at least one conductor are substantially parallel to the plane of the surface or at least subtend an angle of 45° or less to the surface within the charging area; and at least one secondary device including at least one conductor that may be wound about a core. Because the electromagnetic field is spread over the charging area and is generally parallel or near-parallel thereto, coupling with flat secondary devices such as mobile telephones and the like is significantly improved in various orientations thereof. | 07-30-2009 |
20090188223 | AIR TREATMENT SYSTEM - An air treatment system includes features for maximizing efficiency and effectiveness. In one embodiment, a sensor air passage utilizes a low pressure region created by the blower to draw air through the passage. In another embodiment, a filter frame includes a plurality of connectors formed integrally with the filter frame. In another embodiment, a screen is positioned adjacent to the blower intake. The screen includes a plurality of angled strands oriented in a particular direction. In another embodiment, a remote control holder is formed integrally with the housing. In another embodiment, a gasket is positioned between the blower and the housing, forming a seal between the blower and the housing. | 07-30-2009 |
20090188222 | AIR TREATMENT SYSTEM - An air treatment system includes features for maximizing efficiency and effectiveness. In one embodiment, a sensor air passage utilizes a low pressure region created by the blower to draw air through the passage. In another embodiment, a filter frame includes a plurality of connectors formed integrally with the filter frame. In another embodiment, a screen is positioned adjacent to the blower intake. The screen includes a plurality of angled strands oriented in a particular direction. In another embodiment, a remote control holder is formed integrally with the housing. In another embodiment, a gasket is positioned between the blower and the housing, forming a seal between the blower and the housing. | 07-30-2009 |
20090188221 | AIR TREATMENT SYSTEM - An air treatment system includes features for maximizing efficiency and effectiveness. In one embodiment, a sensor air passage utilizes a low pressure region created by the blower to draw air through the passage. In another embodiment, a filter frame includes a plurality of connectors formed integrally with the filter frame. In another embodiment, a screen is positioned adjacent to the blower intake. The screen includes a plurality of angled strands oriented in a particular direction. In another embodiment, a remote control holder is formed integrally with the housing. In another embodiment, a gasket is positioned between the blower and the housing, forming a seal between the blower and the housing. | 07-30-2009 |
20090188218 | AIR TREATMENT SYSTEM - An air treatment system includes features for maximizing efficiency and effectiveness. In one embodiment, a sensor air passage utilizes a low pressure region created by the blower to draw air through the passage. In another embodiment, a filter frame includes a plurality of connectors formed integrally with the filter frame. In another embodiment, a screen is positioned adjacent to the blower intake. The screen includes a plurality of angled strands oriented in a particular direction. In another embodiment, a remote control holder is formed integrally with the housing. In another embodiment, a gasket is positioned between the blower and the housing, forming a seal between the blower and the housing. | 07-30-2009 |
20090177908 | WIRELESS POWER ADAPTER FOR COMPUTER - A wireless power adapter that mounts to the docking station port of a portable computer, such as a laptop computer, notebook computer or tablet computer. The wireless power adapter includes a docking port electrical connector selected to interface with the pre-existing docking port electrical connector on the portable computer. The adapter docking port electrical connector includes power pins to connect with the pre-existing power pins of the portable computer docking port electrical connector. The wireless power adapter may include an inductive secondary to wirelessly receive power from an inductive primary. The wireless power adapter may include a mechanical connector that interfaces with the pre-existing docking station mechanical connector on the portable computer. The present invention may also include a remote inductive power supply having a base adapted to support the laptop and adapter combination. The base may includes inductive power supply circuitry and an inductive primary to produce an inductive field to wirelessly provide power to the adapter and ultimately the portable computer. The remote inductive power supply may alternatively be embedded within a work surface, such as a desktop. | 07-09-2009 |
20090174263 | INDUCTIVE POWER SUPPLY WITH DUTY CYCLE CONTROL - An inductive power supply that maintains resonance and adjusts duty cycle based on feedback from a secondary circuit. A controller, driver circuit and switching circuit cooperate to generate an AC signal at a selected operating frequency and duty cycle. The AC signal is applied to the tank circuit to create an inductive field for powering the secondary. The secondary communicates feedback about the received power back to the primary controller. The power transfer efficiency may be optimized by maintaining the operating frequency substantially at resonance, and the amount of power transferred may be controlled by adjusting the duty cycle. | 07-09-2009 |
20090134713 | CONTROLLING INDUCTIVE POWER TRANSFER SYSTEMS - An inductive power transfer system comprises a primary unit | 05-28-2009 |
20090120851 | WATER TREATMENT SYSTEM WITH MOISTURE DETECTOR - A water treatment system including a UV bulb, a moisture detector, and a control circuit responsive to the moisture detector to terminate power to the bulb when moisture is detected. The moisture detector includes a nonconductive substrate and a pair of conductors on the substrate. When moisture is not present, the detector is nonconductive. However, when moisture accumulates on the detector, the moisture provides a conductive path between the conductors so that the detector becomes conductive. When moisture is detected, the control circuit terminates power to the bulb and/or provides an appropriate indication to the system user. | 05-14-2009 |
20090106567 | LAPTOP AND PORTABLE ELECTRONIC DEVICE WIRELESS POWER SUPPLY SYSTEMS - The present invention provides wireless power supply systems intended primarily for use in powering and charging laptops and other portable electronic devices. In one embodiment, the power supply system includes a laptop cradle that can be used in upright or reclined positions. The cradle may be generally J-shaped and may house the wireless power supply circuit with the channel defined in the cradle. The cradle may includes a plurality of primaries to provide the ability to supply power to more than one device and/or to permit flexibility in placement of devices on or in the cradle. The present invention may also provide handheld cradles sized to power handheld devices that can be separate, standalone power supply stations or they can receive power from the laptop cradle. In an alternative embodiment, the power supply station may be incorporated into an adjustable height desktop pedestal. In yet another embodiment, the power supply station may be incorporated into a flexible desktop mat. The power supply station may be incorporated into a power block having one or more magnets that draw the power block into alignment. In another alternative embodiment, the power supply station is incorporated directly into items of luggage. | 04-23-2009 |
20090085706 | PRINTED CIRCUIT BOARD COIL - A multilayer printed circuit board (“PCB”) coil that simulates a coil formed from litz wire. The PCB includes a plurality of alternating conductor and insulating layers interconnected to cooperatively form the coil. Each conductor layer includes a trace that follows the desired coil shape and is divided into a plurality of discrete conductor segments. The segments are electrically connected across layers to provide a plurality of current flow paths (or filaments) that undulate between the layers in a regular, repeating pattern. The coil may be configured so that each filament spends a substantially equal amount of time in proximity to the paired coil and therefore contributes substantially equally to the self or mutual inductance of the coil. Each conductor layer may include a plurality of associated traces and intralayer connector that interconnected so that each filament undulates not only upwardly/downwardly, but also inwardly/outwardly in a regular, repeating pattern. | 04-02-2009 |
20090045106 | WATER TREATMENT SYSTEM - A water treatment system (“WTS”) includes a prefilter, a carbon block filter and a microbiological interception (“MI”) filter that operate in combination to treat a fluid stream, such as water. The WTS may include two prefilters, for example, both a multi-layer nonwoven prefilter and a pleated fabric prefilter. The MI filter may include carbon particles and a binder, and the carbon particles may have a mean particle diameter ranging from about 60 microns to about 80 microns and with a particle size distribution in which no more than about 10% by weight of the particles are larger than about 140 mesh and no more than about 10% by weight are smaller than about 500 mesh. In one embodiment, the water treatment system further includes a volumetric end-of-life filter monitor that monitors the life of the MI filter. | 02-19-2009 |
20090010028 | INDUCTIVE POWER SUPPLY, REMOTE DEVICE POWERED BY INDUCTIVE POWER SUPPLY AND METHOD FOR OPERATING SAME - An inductive power supply includes a transceiver for sending information between the remote device and the inductive power supply. The remote device determines the actual voltage and then sends a command to the inductive power supply to change the operating frequency if the actual voltage is different from the desired voltage. In order to determine the actual voltage, the remote device determines a peak voltage and then applies a correction factor. | 01-08-2009 |
20080258681 | IMPLEMENT RACK AND SYSTEM FOR ENERGIZING IMPLEMENTS - An inductive charging rack for providing electrical power to an implement includes a back, an inductive primary attached to the back, and a hanger for holding the implement. The rack may include a control for energizing the inductive primary and a transceiver for providing communication to and from the implement. The inductive primary could be attached to the surface of the charging rack or it could be incorporated within the rack. | 10-23-2008 |
20080231211 | POWER SUPPLY - A power supply to provide electrical power to one or more loads. The power supply may include a resonant air core transformer to provide an adjustable and adaptable source of power to electronic devices. The power supply may include isolated primary-side circuitry and secondary-side circuitry. The primary-side circuitry may include control circuitry that, among other things, provides drive waveforms for the primary-side switching circuitry. In embodiments configured to produce AC output, the secondary-side circuitry may also include switching circuitry. The primary-side control circuitry may provide drive waveforms for the secondary-side switching circuitry. The secondary-side circuitry may include measurement circuitry that measures the current and/or voltage of the output and provides those measurements to the control circuitry through isolation circuitry. The control circuitry may adjust the drive waveforms for the primary-side and/or secondary-side switching circuitry as a function of the measured values. | 09-25-2008 |
20080226744 | DIETARY SUPPLEMENT AND RELATED METHOD - A composition including a unique combination of fruits, vegetables, herbs, and optionally vitamins, minerals and specialty ingredients. The composition can include a fruit ingredient, a vegetable ingredient and an herbal ingredient, wherein the fruit ingredient is at least one of pomegranate and citrus bioflavonoids, wherein the vegetable ingredient, is at least one of asparagus, lutein, lycopene and watercress, and wherein the herbal ingredient is at least one of basil, oregano and rosemary. The composition can be administered to subjects to correct a dietary deficiency of phytochemicals and other nutrients, improve plasma concentrations of antioxidant nutrients, and increase the activity of genetic mechanisms for DNA repair and stability. | 09-18-2008 |