| Littelfuse, Inc. Patent applications |
| Patent application number | Title | Published |
|---|
| 20160141275 | SEMICONDUCTOR POWER MODULE USING DISCRETE SEMICONDUCTOR COMPONENTS - An electronic power module is disclosed. The module includes a baseplate and a plurality of internally isolated discrete electronic devices mounted to the baseplate such that their electrical leads are oriented away from the baseplate. Electrical leads may be coupled to a printed circuit board (PCB). Other features disclosed include a thermal interface material and an application-specific heat sink. The assembly may be overmolded via injection molding or potted using an encapsulant. Example electronic devices include thyristors, diodes, and transistors. | 05-19-2016 |
| 20160141140 | INSERT FOR FUSE HOUSING - The present disclosure includes an insert for a fuse structure. In one approach, a fuse, includes a housing having a cavity, a fuse element disposed within the cavity, a plurality of terminals extending out of the housing and electrically connected to the fuse element, and an insert disposed in the cavity, the insert including a pin extending through an opening of the housing. In some approaches, the insert includes a separating wall defining first and second cavities of the insert. | 05-19-2016 |
| 20160141138 | HIGH-CURRENT FUSE WITH ENDBELL ASSEMBLY - A fuse includes a fuse element and a fuse body. A portion of the fuse element is housed in a fuse body. The fuse element includes a first terminal and a second terminal disposed outside of the fuse body. The first terminal and the second terminal electrically connects the fuse element to a circuit to be protected and a power source. A first endbell and a second endbell is coupled to the fuse element. A predetermined amount of arc quenching material is disposed within the fuse body. The arc quenching material contacts at least a portion of the fuse element. The predetermined amount of the arc quenching material is less than a total volume size of the fuse tube. The arc quenching material is compacted. A remaining air gap in the fuse tube is filled with a liquid adhesive and cured to a solid state. | 05-19-2016 |
| 20160071678 | MECHANICAL DISCONNECT SWITCH WITH INTEGRATED FUSE PROTECTION - A circuit protection assembly (CPA) is disposed between a source of power and a circuit to be protected. The CPA comprises a mounting block having a bore extending therethrough and a recess cavity on a first surface of the mounting block. A post having a first end is disposed within the recess cavity and a body portion extends through the bore. The body portion configured to receive a terminal and the second end configured to receive a securing mechanism. A fuse having a centrally disposed aperture is configured to receive the body portion of the post and to receive the terminal for connection to a circuit to be protected. An insulator disposed on the terminal and disposed beneath the securing mechanism. The insulator configured to isolate the post from the terminal and the fuse while allowing the securing mechanism to apply an amount of torque. | 03-10-2016 |
| 20160005561 | LAMINATED ELECTRICAL FUSE - A fuse may include a layer stack comprising a plurality of layers defining an air gap, the layer stack including an inner layer. The inner layer may include an insulative substrate, and at least one fusible element connecting to a first terminal on a first end of the fuse and to a second terminal on a second end of the fuse. A first portion of the at least one fusible element may be disposed on a first planar surface of the insulative substrate and a second portion of the at least one fusible element disposed on a second planar surface of the insulative substrate opposite the first planar surface, wherein the first portion is electrically connected to the second portion through at least one via within the insulative substrate. | 01-07-2016 |
| 20160003664 | FLOATLESS PULSED WAVE GUIDE LIQUID LEVEL MEASUREMENT - A waveguide arrangement may include a tank defining a chamber for holding a liquid; and a pulsed waveguide (PWG) disposed at least partially within the chamber, the PWG comprising: an inner cylinder, the inner cylinder being grounded. The waveguide may also include an electrically conductive coil wrapped around the inner cylinder, wherein the pulsed waveguide is arranged to generate a first delay between a first initial pulse and a first reflected pulse when an upper surface of the liquid is at a first level, and to generate a second delay between a second initial pulse and a second reflected pulse when the upper surface of the liquid is a second level. | 01-07-2016 |
| 20150362447 | PULSED WAVE GUIDE LIQUID QUALITY MEASUREMENT - A waveguide system may include an inner core, and a conductor wound around the inner core in conductive coils having a coil length, wherein a voltage pulse received by the pulsed waveguide propagates as an induced wave having a group velocity, the group velocity being below a threshold velocity, wherein a reflection signal or an end of line signal generated within the conductor from the induced wave is detectable from the initial voltage pulse. | 12-17-2015 |
| 20150357143 | FOAM FUSE FILLER AND CARTRIDGE FUSE - Fuses having a melamine-coated-steatite foam filler are described. In particular, melamine-coated-steatite foam filler for use in a fuse comprising steatite coated in a melamine compound (e.g., plasticized melamine resin) and then heated to form crystalline foam filler are described. The foam filler may comprise steatite of substantially 3 times the melamine compound by weight and may be heated and then cooled to form the foam filler. | 12-10-2015 |
| 20150340188 | POROUS INLAY FOR FUSE HOUSING - A fuse may include a housing having a cavity. The fuse may also include a fuse element disposed within the cavity; a plurality of terminals extending out of the housing and electrically connected to the fuse element; and porous material disposed in the cavity adjacent to the fuse element, the porous material having a plurality of pores, the porous material further comprising an open pore structure wherein at least some of the pores are disposed on an outer surface of the porous material facing the fuse element. | 11-26-2015 |
| 20150308952 | UREA CONCENTRATION SENSOR - A sensor to measure a liquid. The sensor may include a light source operably coupled to a lumen disposed in a liquid solution, the light source configured to emit light and communicate the light to the lumen; a light detector operably coupled to the lumen, the light detector configured to receive at least a portion of the light from the lumen; and a controller configured to determine a concentration or quality of the liquid solution based on the light emitted by the light source and the portion of light received by the light detector. | 10-29-2015 |
| 20150294769 | ZINC OXIDE BASED VARISTOR AND FABRICATION METHOD - A varistor may include a varistor ceramic that includes zinc oxide having a molar percent greater than 90 percent and a set of metal oxides, where the set of metal oxides includes Bi | 10-15-2015 |
| 20150270082 | REED WITH HINGE FOR REED SWITCH - A reed for a reed switch and a reed switch are provided. The reed may include a first portion having a first thickness and a first length, a second portion having a second thickness and a second length, and a hinged portion disposed between the first portion and the second portion, the hinged portion having a third thickness and a third length, wherein the third length is less than 150% of the first thickness and the third thickness is less than each of the first thickness and the second thickness. The reed switch may include the reed disposed in an insulating housing with a reed deformer to deform the reed. | 09-24-2015 |
| 20150266440 | SEATBELT TENSION SENSOR PLATE - A plate type tension sensor having apertures, a spring structure, and a gap are provided. The spring structure allows the apertures to move relative to each other as tension is applied to a seat belt to which the plate is attached. The movement changes the width of the gap. The tension applied to a vehicle restraint system may be determined based on the gap width. | 09-24-2015 |
| 20150236548 | INTELLIGENT HIGH SPEED AUTOMATIC TRANSFER SWITCH - A transfer system may be provided. The transfer system may comprise a first transfer switch comprising first normally closed contacts and first normally open contacts. In addition, the transfer system may comprise a second transfer switch comprising second normally closed contacts and second normally open contacts. Furthermore, the transfer system may comprise third normally closed contacts with a solid state switch in parallel. A source monitor may be configured to monitor the quality of a primary source and a backup source. And a source control may be configured to operate the first transfer switch, the second transfer switch, the third normally closed contacts, and the solid state switch to transfer a load from the primary source to the backup source in response to the monitored quality of the primary source and the backup source. | 08-20-2015 |
| 20150228429 | SURGE PROTECTION DEVICE - A circuit protection device including a housing ( | 08-13-2015 |
| 20150200537 | SECONDARY BATTERY PROTECTION WITH PERMANENT DISABLE - Secondary battery protection circuits for protecting a battery from charging and/or discharging faults are provided. A secondary battery protection circuit may include a first terminal and a second terminal, a transistor electrically connected between the first terminal and the second terminal, a fuse electrically coupled to the gate of the transistor, and a fuse control circuit configured to cause current sufficient to open the fuse to pass through the fuse in the event of a fault condition. | 07-16-2015 |
| 20150200067 | CERAMIC CHIP FUSE WITH OFFSET FUSE ELEMENT - An improved ceramic chip fuse with offset fuse element comprising a plurality of non-conductive layers; a fuse element disposed between ones of the plurality of non-conductive layers such that more non-conductive layers are above the fuse element than below the fuse element relative to a vertical axis of the fuse; first and second conductive terminals electrically connected to the fuse element to connect the fuse to a circuit to be protected and a source of power. | 07-16-2015 |
| 20150155117 | MASTER DISCONNECT SWITCH WITH CONTACT WELD BREAKER - A switch is described. The switch may have first and second terminals to connect a source of power to a load, a shaft rotatable about a central axis and moveable longitudinally along the central axis, the shaft having a wing extending out orthogonally from the central axis, a contact plate to physically and electrically connect the first and second terminals when the shaft is moved longitudinally along the central axis, and a disengagement ramp to contact the wing when the shaft is rotated about the central axis, the disengagement ramp to force the shaft to move longitudinally along the central axis as the shaft is rotated to move the contact plate away from the first and second terminals. | 06-04-2015 |
| 20150130438 | OVERCURRENT DETECTION OF LOAD CIRCUITS WITH TEMPERATURE COMPENSATION - An improved current limiting circuit comprising a switch having a first terminal and a second terminal, the first and second terminal configured to connect a power supply to a load. A first resistor connected in series between the first terminal and a first constant current source. A second resistor connected in series between the second terminal and a second constant current source. A control circuit configured to measure a voltage drop across the first resistor and compare the voltage drop to a voltage drop across the switch. | 05-14-2015 |
| 20150116873 | CROWBAR DEVICE FOR VOLTAGE TRANSIENT CIRCUIT PROTECTION - A circuit protection component including a crowbar device for protecting electronic devices from transients is generally disclosed. The circuit protection component may include a steering diode bridge and a crowbar device electrically connected to the steering diode bridge. The crowbar device may have a base and an emitter formed on a first layer, the first layer defining a breakdown voltage, which when exceeded allows current to pass under the emitter and out the device through a hole formed in the emitter. | 04-30-2015 |
| 20150102896 | BARRIER LAYER FOR ELECTRICAL FUSES UTILIZING THE METCALF EFFECT - A fuse including a fuse element, a diffusion layer, and a barrier layer is provided. The barrier layer acts to slow down and/or prevent premature diffusion of the diffusion material into the fuse element during normal operation. As a result, the fuse may be operated in environments having higher ambient temperatures and/or higher currents than otherwise possible. some examples provide a fuse including a fuse element formed from a first conductive material, the fuse element, a barrier layer disposed on a surface of the fuse element, the barrier layer including first and second portions separated by a gap, the barrier layer formed from a second conductive material different from the first conductive material, and a diffusion layer disposed in the gap on the surface of the fuse element, the diffusion layer formed from a third conductive material different from the second conductive material and first conductive material. | 04-16-2015 |
| 20150055267 | CAPACITIVE DRIVEN NORMAL RELAY EMULATOR USING VOLTAGE BOOST - A normal relay emulator is described. The normal relay emulator may include a trigger circuit configured to detect a condition on a first power rail, the first power rail having a first voltage supply level. A boost converter electrically coupled to the first power rail and configured to boost the first voltage supply level to a second, higher, voltage supply level is provided. A bi-stable relay having a first terminal and a second terminal and an actuator electrically coupled to the boost converter and communicatively coupled to the trigger circuit is also provided. The actuator may be configured to energize the bi-stable relay using the second voltage supply level such that electrical contact between the first terminal and the second terminal changes between a first state and a second state based on the trigger circuit detecting the condition. | 02-26-2015 |
| 20150054615 | LOW-CURRENT FUSE STAMPING METHOD - A convenient, cost-effective method for manufacturing low-current fuse elements. The method may include the steps of stamping a substrate out of a sheet of material and stamping at least one hole in the substrate. The method may further include the steps of bonding a layer of fuse material to a surface of the substrate with a portion of the fuse material covering the hole, stamping a fuse element out of the portion of fuse material covering the hole, and separating an individual fuse from the fuse material and the substrate. A low-current fuse can thereby be obtained using an easily performed stamping process. | 02-26-2015 |
| 20150048840 | NEUTRAL GROUNDING RESISTOR MONITOR - A device for monitoring a neutral grounding resistor (NGR), including first and second NGRs electrically connected in parallel, a rectifier circuit electrically connected in series with the second NGR and a voltage source and a logic resistor electrically connected in series with the second NGR. A logic circuit measures current passing through the logic resistor and determines the resistance of the first NGR based on the measured current and the resistance of the second NGR. As such, a failed-open or failed-short condition of the first NGR may be identified based at least in part on the determined resistance of the first NGR. | 02-19-2015 |
| 20150009007 | LAMINATED ELECTRICAL FUSE - A compact, high breaking capacity fuse that includes a top insulative layer, at least one intermediate insulative layer, and a bottom insulative layer arranged in a vertically stacked configuration. The at least one intermediate layer may have a hole formed therethrough that defines a chamber having arc suppression material disposed therein. A first conductive terminal may be formed on a first end of the fuse and a second conductive terminal may be formed on a second end of the fuse. At least one fusible element may connect the first terminal to the second terminal, thus providing an electrically conductive pathway therebetween. A portion of the at least one fusible element may pass through the air gap defined by the hole in the at least one intermediate insulative layer. | 01-08-2015 |
| 20140368309 | CIRCUIT PROTECTION DEVICE - A circuit protection device, including a conductor connected to first and second terminals and a spring exerting force on the conductor to move the conductor away from the first and/or second terminals when an over-voltage or over-temperature condition occurs within a charging circuit. One or more heat generating resistive elements melts material associated with one or more connection points of the conductor thereby releasing the conductor such that the spring moves the conductor to create an open circuit. | 12-18-2014 |
| 20140361761 | AC/DC CURRENT TRANSFORMER - A method for processing output from a current transformer comprising deriving signal data from the output; converting the signal data from analog to digital format; removing a carrier signal from the signal data; squaring the signal data; and performing a recursive RMS algorithm on the signal data. | 12-11-2014 |
| 20140306721 | PROPAGATION VELOCITY COMPENSATED POSITION MEASUREMENT SENSOR - A position sensing system including a waveguide, a magnet movable relative to the waveguide, and a compensator configured to compensate for a change in propagation velocity of the waveguide in determining a position of the magnet relative to the waveguide. The compensator coupled to the waveguide and configured to receive a pulse, an end of line pulse corresponding to the pulse transmitted through the waveguide, and a reflected pulse corresponding to a reflection of the pulse at a point in the waveguide. The compensator configured to determine the point based at least in part on the pulse, the end of line pulse, and/or the reflected pulse. | 10-16-2014 |
| 20140300444 | LAMINATED ELECTRICAL FUSE - A compact, high breaking capacity fuse that includes a top insulative layer, at least one intermediate insulative layer, and a bottom insulative layer arranged in a vertically stacked configuration. The at least one intermediate layer may have a hole formed therethrough that defines a chamber having arc suppression material disposed therein. A first conductive terminal may be formed on a first end of the fuse and a second conductive terminal may be formed on a second end of the fuse. At least one fusible element may connect the first terminal to the second terminal, thus providing an electrically conductive pathway therebetween. A portion of the at least one fusible element may pass through the air gap defined by the hole in the at least one intermediate insulative layer. | 10-09-2014 |
| 20140266565 | LAMINATED ELECTRICAL FUSE - A compact, high breaking capacity fuse that includes a top insulative layer, at least one intermediate insulative layer, and a bottom insulative layer arranged in a vertically stacked configuration. The at least one intermediate layer may have a hole formed therethrough that defines an air gap within the fuse. A first conductive terminal may be formed on a first end of the fuse and a second conductive terminal may be formed on a second end of the fuse. At least one fusible element may connect the first terminal to the second terminal, thus providing an electrically conductive pathway therebetween. A portion of the at least one fusible element may pass through the air gap defined by the hole in the at least one intermediate insulative layer. | 09-18-2014 |
| 20140266564 | LAMINATED ELECTRICAL FUSE - A compact, high breaking capacity fuse that includes a top insulative layer, at least one intermediate insulative layer, and a bottom insulative layer arranged in a vertically stacked configuration. The at least one intermediate layer may have a hole formed therethrough that defines an air gap within the fuse. A first conductive terminal may be formed on a first end of the fuse and a second conductive terminal may be formed on a second end of the fuse. At least one fusible element may connect the first terminal to the second terminal, thus providing an electrically conductive pathway therebetween. A portion of the at least one fusible element may pass through the air gap defined by the hole in the at least one intermediate insulative layer. | 09-18-2014 |
| 20140247057 | INTELLIGENT FUSE HOLDER AND CIRCUIT PROTECTION METHODS - An intelligent circuit protection system and method for automating component replacement and providing information to a user or operator about a load for circuit protection. The circuit protection method includes sensing current and voltage across a fuse protecting a load; sending at least one signal indicative of the current and voltage; and using the at least one signal to determine if the load is operating normally. | 09-04-2014 |
| 20140247005 | ADAPTIVE REMOTE BATTERY CHARGING - A battery charger device and controller is provided. The battery charger includes a DC/DC converter operative to convert an input current and an input voltage to an output current and an output voltage. The controller is configured to determine whether the input voltage is between a minimum voltage and a maximum voltage and dynamically adjust the output current based on the determination that the input voltage is between the minimum voltage and the maximum voltage. | 09-04-2014 |
| 20140240082 | COMPOSITE FUSE ELEMENT AND METHOD OF MAKING - An improved fuse element for use in a circuit protection fuse. The fuse element may include an insulating substrate portion and a conductive metallic portion disposed on at least one surface of the insulating substrate portion, wherein the metallic portion extends along, and is in continuous, intimate contact with the substrate portion. When the metallic portion melts and separates upon the occurrence of an overcurrent condition, the substrate portion bridges the resulting gap that is formed in the metallic portion and provides electrical arc suppression therein. | 08-28-2014 |
| 20140232512 | THERMAL METAL OXIDE VARISTOR CIRCUIT PROTECTION DEVICE - Exemplary embodiments of the present invention are directed to a circuit protection device. A circuit protection device may comprise a housing defining a cavity and a metal oxide varistor (MOV) disposed within the cavity. The circuit protection device may further comprise a first terminal electrically attached at a first end to the MOV by solder and extending outside of the housing at a second end. An arc shield is disposed within the housing between the first end of the first terminal and at least partially over the solder. The circuit protection device may further comprise a spring configured to bias the arc shield against a micro switch having an indicator portion disposed at least partially outside of the housing. When a voltage surge condition occurs, the MOV changes from a non-conductive state to a conductive state and current flows between the first terminal and a second terminal where the heat generated by the current flowing through the varistor melts the solder and the first end of the first terminal electrically separates from the varistor. | 08-21-2014 |
| 20140192451 | DEVICE AND METHOD FOR PREVENTING ARC FLASHES - A device for preventing arc flashes in electrical systems is provided. The device may include at least one heat sensor for measuring a temperature of an electrical conductor, and a controller operatively coupled to the at least one heat sensor and configured to arrest current in the electrical conductor if the measured temperature exceeds a predefined threshold temperature. | 07-10-2014 |
| 20140168830 | THREE-PHASE GROUND FAULT CIRCUIT INTERRUPTER - A three-phase GFCI device is disclosed. The three-phase GFCI device may include contactors, a contactor control module configured to cause the contactors to close during normal operation of the GFCI device and open based on receiving a fault signal, a current detection module, a transient suppression module, a miswire detection module, a ground-fault test module, a ground load detection module, and a fail-safe module. In some examples, the GFCI device may include the stated modules in accordance with the UL 943C standard. | 06-19-2014 |
| 20140134881 | FUSE ASSEMBLY - A circuit protection assembly includes a mounting block, a unitary fuse assembly, a post assembly and a plug connector. The unitary fuse assembly is disposed the mounting block and includes a plurality of fuses each of which is defined by a portion of a bus plate disposed on the lower surface of the mounting block to form a first terminal of the fuse, a second terminal disposed at least partially on the upper surface of the mounting block and a fuse element connecting the first terminal and the second terminal. The post assembly is disposed at least partially within the mounting block and a post extending from the block. The plug connector extends from a portion of the first terminal of at least one of the plurality of fuses. | 05-15-2014 |
| 20140077378 | LOW THERMAL STRESS PACKAGE FOR LARGE AREA SEMICONDUCTOR DIES - A low thermal stress package for large area semiconductor dies. The package may include a substrate and at least one pedestal extending from the substrate, wherein the pedestal may have a mounting surface that is smaller than a mounting surface of a semiconductor die that is mounted to the pedestal. The bonded area between the die and the pedestal is therefore reduced relative to conventional semiconductor package substrates, as is the amount of thermal stress sustained by the die during thermal cycling. | 03-20-2014 |
| 20130335187 | CIRCUIT PROTECTION DEVICE - A circuit protection device includes a conductive layer which is connected to first and second terminals. A spring is electrically connected to the first and second terminals. When an over-voltage or over-temperature condition occurs within a charging circuit, one or more heat generating resistive elements melts material associated with one or more of the ends of the spring thereby releasing the spring to create an open circuit. | 12-19-2013 |
| 20130257580 | FUSE END CAP WITH CRIMPABLE TERMINAL - A fuse end cap for providing an electrical connection between a fuse and an electrical conductor. The fuse end cap may include a mounting cuff defining a first cavity that is adapted to receive a fuse body. The mounting cuff may be configured to be mounted to the fuse body by friction fit, for example. The fuse end cap may further include a terminal defining a second cavity adapted to receive a conductor. The terminal may be configured to be crimped about the conductor to retain the conductor within the second cavity. | 10-03-2013 |
| 20130164923 | LOW VOLTAGE PNPN PROTECTION DEVICE - A low voltage protection device that includes a silicon substrate comprises an inner layer of a first dopant type. The device also includes a first outer layer of a second dopant type disposed adjacent a first surface of the inner layer and a second outer layer of the second dopant type disposed adjacent a second surface of the inner layer opposite the first surface. The device further includes a first mesa region disposed in a peripheral region of a first side of the low voltage protection device. The first mesa region includes a first area that includes a peripheral portion of a cathode of the low voltage protection device, the cathode formed by diffusing a high concentration of dopant species of the first type on a first surface of the silicon substrate, and a second area comprising a high concentration of diffused dopant species of the second type. | 06-27-2013 |
| 20130128406 | Integrated Thermistor and Metallic Element Device and Method - A circuit protection device includes a fuse element placed in parallel with a PTC thermistor layer. The element and PTC thermistor layer are provided on one or more insulating substrate, such as an FR-4 or polyimide substrate. First and second conductors connect the fuse element and PTC thermistor layer electrically in parallel, such that current (i) initially under normal flows mainly through the fuse element and PTC thermistor layer at a lower drop in voltage and (ii) after an opening of the fuse element flows under normal operation through the PTC thermistor layer at a higher drop in voltage. | 05-23-2013 |
| 20130106565 | Fuse with Insulated Plugs | 05-02-2013 |
| 20130106564 | FUSE WITH CAVITY BLOCK | 05-02-2013 |
| 20120299692 | FUSE PROVIDING OVERCURRENT AND THERMAL PROTECTION - A fuse in one embodiment includes first and second leads. A fuse element provides electrical communication between the first and second leads. The fuse element includes a material with a melting point of less than 250.degree. C. and acts as both an overcurrent fuse and a thermal fuse by melting when subjected to a predetermined current or upon reaching a predetermined temperature. A body houses the fuse element and portions of the first and second leads | 11-29-2012 |
| 20120299573 | AC/DC Current Transformer - A single-coil, toroid-type current transformer circuit for detecting both AC and DC current. The current transformer circuit may include a current transformer and an oscillator electrically connected to the current transformer. The current transformer circuit may further include an open and short CT detection circuit electrically connected to the oscillator for facilitating determination of the connection and stability state of the current transformer. A processor may be electrically connected to an output of the open and short CT detection circuit for performing a series of operations on signal data generated by the open and short CT detection circuit and manipulating the operation of an electrical power system accordingly. | 11-29-2012 |
| 20120256231 | LOW VOLTAGE PNPN PROTECTION DEVICE - A low voltage protection device that includes a silicon substrate comprises an inner layer of a first dopant type. The device also includes a first outer layer of a second dopant type disposed adjacent a first surface of the inner layer and a second outer layer of the second dopant type disposed adjacent a second surface of the inner layer opposite the first surface. The device further includes a first mesa region disposed in a peripheral region of a first side of the low voltage protection device. The first mesa region includes a first area that includes a peripheral portion of a cathode of the low voltage protection device, the cathode formed by diffusing a high concentration of dopant species of the first type on a first surface of the silicon substrate, and a second area comprising a high concentration of diffused dopant species of the second type. | 10-11-2012 |
| 20120218113 | INTEGRATED FUSE STATUS INDICATION IN AN OPEN FUSE BLOCK - An open fuse block is provided having a visual indicator or light assembly connected in parallel with a replaceable fuse mounted in the fuse block. When the fuse is blown, the corresponding visual indicator is illuminated to identify the blown fuse, thereby facilitating quick and easy replacement of the fuse. Since the visual indicator is connected in parallel with the fuse element, when the fuse is blown, the fuse results in an open circuit and the flow of electricity is rerouted through the visual indicator. The visual indicator is thereby illuminated and the corresponding blown fuse can be easily identified. The visual indicator or light assembly can include, for example, a neon bulb, light emitting diode, fluorescent bulb, incandescent bulb, or any other visual indicator that emits light. | 08-30-2012 |
| 20120176718 | TRANSIENT VOLTAGE SUPPRESSOR - A transient voltage suppressor may include a silicon controlled rectifier (SCR) having an anode coupled to Vcc. The SCR may include a PNP transistor (Q | 07-12-2012 |
| 20120064771 | FUSE ASSEMBLY - A circuit protection assembly includes a mounting block, a unitary fuse assembly, a post assembly and a plug connector. The unitary fuse assembly is disposed the mounting block and includes a plurality of fuses each of which is defined by a portion of a bus plate disposed on the lower surface of the mounting block to form a first terminal of the fuse, a second terminal disposed at least partially on the upper surface of the mounting block and a fuse element connecting the first terminal and the second terminal. The post assembly is disposed at least partially within the mounting block and a post extending from the block. The plug connector extends from a portion of the first terminal of at least one of the plurality of fuses. | 03-15-2012 |
| 20120044037 | BLADE FUSE - A blade fuse includes a first terminal includes an outer edge and an inner edge, the inner edge includes a first portion notched away from the inner edge beneath the first portion; a second terminal includes an outer edge and an inner edge, the inner edge include a second portion notched away from the inner edge beneath the second portion; an element extending from the first portion of the inner edge of the first terminal to the second portion of the inner edge of the second terminal; and a housing covering the element. | 02-23-2012 |
| 20110298577 | FUSE WITH COUNTER-BORE BODY - An improved fuse having one or more counter bores in an interior wall of a hollow tube used as the fuse housing. The fuse includes a fusible element disposed within a cavity defined by the interior wall. The fusible element is electrically connected to first and second end caps via solder. The first and second end caps are attached to respective ends of the hollow tube. The one or more counter bores provide more space for the solder to cover the fusible element resulting in a more reliable electrical connection. | 12-08-2011 |
| 20110285496 | FUSE ASSEMBLY - A circuit protection assembly employs a post arrangement that is easier to manufacture and has a built-in insulating fuse configuration. The circuit protection assembly is disposed between a source of power and a circuit to be protected. The circuit protection assembly includes comprises a mounting block having a bore extending therethrough and a recess cavity on a first surface of the mounting block. A post having a first end is disposed within the recess cavity and a body portion extends through the bore. A fuse having a centrally disposed aperture is configured to receive the body portion of the post. The post has a second end configured to receive a terminal for connection to a circuit to be protected. | 11-24-2011 |
| 20110279218 | DOUBLE WOUND FUSIBLE ELEMENT AND ASSOCIATED FUSE - An improved fusible element for use within a circuit protection device is provided which includes a double wound fusible element configured to withstand high surge current associated with inductive and capacitive loads. The fusible element includes an insulated core having a longitudinal axis, a first wire wound about the core along the longitudinal axis of the core, and a second wire wound substantially orthogonally about a longitudinal axis of the first wire such that the fusible element is configured to withstand an over-current surge condition. | 11-17-2011 |
| 20110121936 | CIRCUIT PROTECTION DEVICE - A circuit protection device includes a conductive layer which is connected to first and second terminals. A spring is electrically connected to the first and second terminals. When an over-voltage or over-temperature condition occurs within a charging circuit, one or more heat generating resistive elements melts material associated with one or more of the ends of the spring thereby releasing the spring to create an open circuit. | 05-26-2011 |
| 20110084549 | FLEXIBLE POWER DISTRIBUTION MODULE - A power distribution module for a vehicle includes an insulating housing including a component grid, the component grid defining a plurality of circuit protection footprints, the housing further including at least one connector mount or terminal mating location; a printed circuit board (“PCB”) located within the housing and beneath the component grid, the PCB holding a plurality of fuse mounting terminals and at least one connector mounting terminal, the PCB including a plurality of conducting traces connecting the fuse mounting terminals to the at least one connector mounting terminal; and a cover that threadingly engages the housing, the threading engagement leading to a locking of the cover to the housing that tends to prevent the cover from loosening from the housing when the vehicle is being driven, the locking of the cover able to be overcome by a person so that the cover can be unthreaded readily from the housing. | 04-14-2011 |
| 20110063070 | METAL FILM SURFACE MOUNT FUSE - A chip fuse includes a plurality of parallel fusible link layers disposed between a corresponding plurality of insulating glass layers deposited on a substrate and laminated together. The fusible link layers are interconnected between the glass layers without the need for vias. A first of the plurality of fusible link layers extends beyond a cover disposed over the chip fuse and one of the glass layers to form a first electrical terminal connection. Another of the plurality of the fusible link layers also extends beyond the cover and another of the glass layers to form a second electrical terminal connection. | 03-17-2011 |
| 20100245025 | SOLDERLESS SURFACE MOUNT FUSE - A surface mount fuse in one embodiment includes an insulative body, first and second conductive and caps attached to the insulative body, each end cap defining an aperture, and a fuse element extending (i) through the insulative body and the apertures and (ii) along outside surfaces of the first and second conductive end caps in such a way that solder used to attach the first and second conductive end caps to an external medium also fastens the fuse element to the first and second end caps. | 09-30-2010 |
| 20100219930 | TUNING FORK TERMINAL SLOW BLOW FUSE - A fuse employing a plurality of tuning fork terminal configurations with an improved current capacity within a smaller footprint and a housing design to provide the terminals with insert protection and strain relief. | 09-02-2010 |
| 20100194519 | HIGH VOLTAGE/HIGH CURRENT FUSE - A fuse for a high voltage/high current application, such as a hydro-electric vehicle (“HEV”) application is provided. The fuse employs a variety of arc quenching features to handle a large amount of arcing energy that is generated When such fuse is opened due to a fuse opening event. In one embodiment, an insulative substrate, such as a melamine substrate, is metalized with a fuse element. The fuse element extends to multiple surfaces of the substrate. A fuse opening portion of the element is located so that the arcing energy is forced to travel along multiple insulative planes, increasing an impedance across the opening of the element and decreasing the likelihood of a sustained arc. Also, the substrate and element are disposed in a sealed housing, which is packed in one embodiment with an arc quenching material, such as sand. | 08-05-2010 |
| 20100164678 | WATER RESISTANT IN-LINE FUSE HOLDER - Embodiments for an in-line fuse holder each include at least one housing and two mating pieces, which can snap-fit together and be held moveably together via a strap. Each embodiment houses at least one fuse, such as an automotive fuse. In one example, the fuse includes a first housing forming a first cavity, which is configured to house a first portion of the fuse. The first housing also includes a projection having sides that taper outwardly as the sides extend away from the first housing. The fuse holder also includes a second housing forming a second cavity, which is configured to house a second portion of the fuse. The second housing includes a channel having sides that taper outwardly as the sides extend into the second housing. The projection and channel snap-fit together in a water resistant relationship. | 07-01-2010 |
| 20100102920 | MODERATELY HAZARDOUS ENVIRONMENT FUSE - A fuse for a moderately hazardous environment comprising includes: (i) a fuse element; (ii) first and second terminals connected to the fuse element; and (iii) a metal enclosure places around the fuse element, the enclosure configured to protect the environment from an opening of the fuse element, and wherein the first and second terminals extend from the metal enclosure. | 04-29-2010 |
| 20100090792 | THERMALLY DECOUPLING FUSE HOLDER AND ASSEMBLY - In one aspect of the present invention, subminiature fuses are soldered to a PCB via clips attached to the fuse end caps. The clips are physically attached to the PCB pads, enabling the fuse to be replaced if needed and providing thermal decoupling between the fuse and the heating sinking solder/PCB pads. The fuse and clips can also be picked and placed in one operation. In another aspect, improved fuse clips are provided that include tabs that separate the housing portions of the clips from the heating sinking solder/PCB pads. Such improved clips further enhance thermal decoupling. In a further aspect, an improved fuse is provided, in which the thermal decoupling tabs just described are provided directly with the fuse. In yet a further aspect, a thermally insulative fuse body is provided to further decouple the fuse element from its surroundings. | 04-15-2010 |
| 20100085143 | VARISTOR AND PRODUCTION METHOD - A varistor has a disc of ceramic material having opposed faces with face edges. There is an electrode on each face with a gap between each electrode and the edge of the face. Glass passivation is on at least one face in the gap, the passivation not extending from one electrode to the other electrode around the surface of the disc. Because the passivation is only on the planar opposed disc faces, it may be applied in a simple operation such as screen printing. Indeed, the screen printing may be performed while the discs are in the same nest plates as are used for printing of electrode paste. Even though the passivation does not extend from one electrode to the other, it nevertheless breaks a potentially conductive path between the electrodes caused by interaction between the ceramic and encapsulant materials. | 04-08-2010 |
| 20100033291 | HOUSING SECURING APPARATUS FOR ELECTRICAL COMPONENTS, ESPECIALLY FUSES - An electric component includes: an insulating housing; a conductive member inserted into the housing until hitting a stop provided by the housing, the conductive member configured to mate with a conductive portion of a device that mates with the electrical component, the mating device thereby applying a force to the conductive portion, the conductive member including a wall, the wall defining a projection that is at least substantially coplanar with the wall; and wherein the housing includes a catch that flexes when the conductive member is inserted into the housing to allow the projection to move past the catch so that the conductive member can hit the stop, at which point the catch unflexes into locking engagement with the projection. | 02-11-2010 |
| 20100023286 | INTELLIGENT FUSE HOLDER AND CIRCUIT PROTECTION METHODS - A circuit protection method includes: (i) sensing current and voltage across a fuse protecting a load; (ii) sending at least one signal indicative of the current and voltage; and (iii) using the at least one signal to determine if the load is operating normally. | 01-28-2010 |
| 20100023284 | INTELLIGENT FUSE HOLDER AND CIRCUIT PROTECTION SYSTEMS - A circuit protection device includes: (i) a housing configured to hold a fuse; (ii) a first contact configured to connect the fuse to a power source; (iii) a second contact configured to connect the fuse to a load; and (iv) a sensing circuit placed in parallel with the fuse, the sensing circuit configured to operate on a leakage current running through the circuit after the fuse opens. | 01-28-2010 |
| 20100019913 | CIRCUIT PROTECTION SYSTEM HAVING FAILURE MODE INDICATION - A circuit protection system includes: a fuse holder configured to hold at least one fuse; electronics programmed to: (i) monitor current across the fuse and (ii) determine a short circuit failure mode or a current overload failure mode when the fuse opens; and an indicator in communication with the electronics, the indicator configured to indicate whether the fuse opened due to the short circuit failure mode or the current overload failure mode. | 01-28-2010 |
| 20090269951 | FLEXIBLE POWER DISTRIBUTION MODULE - A power distribution module for a vehicle includes an insulating housing including a component grid, the component grid defining a plurality of circuit protection footprints, the housing further including at least one connector mount or terminal mating location; a printed circuit board (“PCB”) located within the housing and beneath the component grid, the PCB holding a plurality of fuse mounting terminals and at least one connector mounting terminal, the PCB including a plurality of conducting traces connecting the fuse mounting terminals to the at least one connector mounting terminal; and a cover that threadingly engages the housing, the threading engagement leading to a locking of the cover to the housing that tends to prevent the cover from loosening from the housing when the vehicle is being driven, the locking of the cover able to be overcome by a person so that the cover can be unthreaded readily from the housing. | 10-29-2009 |
| 20090251841 | INCORPORATING ELECTROSTATIC PROTECTION INTO MINIATURE CONNECTORS - Electrostatic discharge protection, also known as ESD protection, is provided in the form of a discrete array with a voltage variable material (VVM) or a VVM device. The array is fabricated with a common electrode for connection to ground, and one or more electrodes configured for connection to an electrical component. The electrical component is a connector attached to an electrical circuit containing devices subject to damage by ESD events. The array is placed into a pocket or space on the connector and is held in place mechanically by spring force or by soldering to leads or electrodes of the connector. The array may be soldered to a ground connection or held in place by pressure, such as from a spring or from an outer housing or shell. In some embodiments, the array is removable from the component without affecting component circuits other than removal of ESD protection. | 10-08-2009 |
| 20090189730 | LOW TEMPERATURE FUSE - A fuse is disclosed, the fuse made of a first metal, such as copper, and having a notched portion with an alloying element, such as tin, deposited in the notch. The alloying element helps to lower the voltage drop across the notch, allowing the fuse to generate less heat during operation without affecting its ability to protect a circuit to which it is connected. The fuse may also include a housing and terminals to connect into a circuit. | 07-30-2009 |
| 20090179728 | BLADE FUSE - A blade fuse includes a first terminal includes an outer edge and an inner edge, the inner edge includes a first portion notched away from the inner edge beneath the first portion; a second terminal includes an outer edge and an inner edge, the inner edge include a second portion notched away from the inner edge beneath the second portion; an element extending from the first portion of the inner edge of the first terminal to the second portion of the inner edge of the second terminal; and a housing covering the element. | 07-16-2009 |
| 20090179727 | BLADE FUSE - A blade fuse includes a first terminal includes an outer edge and an inner edge, the inner edge includes a first portion notched away from the inner edge beneath the first portion; a second terminal includes an outer edge and an inner edge, the inner edge include a second portion notched away from the inner edge beneath the second portion; an element extending from the first portion of the inner edge of the first terminal to the second portion of the inner edge of the second terminal; and a housing covering the element. | 07-16-2009 |
| 20090108980 | FUSE PROVIDING OVERCURRENT AND THERMAL PROTECTION - A fuse in one embodiment includes first and second leads. A fuse element provides electrical communication between the first and second leads. The fuse element includes a material with a melting point of less than 250° C. and acts as both an overcurrent fuse and a thermal fuse by melting when subjected to a predetermined current or upon reaching a predetermined temperature. A body houses the fuse element and portions of the first and second leads | 04-30-2009 |
| 20090072943 | FUSES WITH SLOTTED FUSE BODIES - A configuration for fuses and a method of manufacturing is disclosed. A fuse body is made with slots on the ends, allowing solder a greater surface area to grip the body and form an excellent bond. The slots communicate with a central cavity in the fuse body. The improvements relate primarily to surface mount fuses because of the great volume of such fuses in commerce, but may be applied to fuses of any size. | 03-19-2009 |
| 20090045906 | MODERATELY HAZARDOUS ENVIRONMENT FUSE - A fuse for a moderately hazardous environment comprising includes: (i) a fuse element; (ii) first and second terminals connected to the fuse element; and (iii) a metal enclosure placed around the fuse element, the enclosure configured to protect the environment from an opening of the fuse element, and wherein the first and second terminals extend from the metal enclosure. | 02-19-2009 |
| 20090027821 | INTEGRATED THERMISTOR AND METALLIC ELEMENT DEVICE AND METHOD - A circuit protection device includes a fuse element placed in parallel with a PTC thermistor layer. The element and PTC thermistor layer are provided on one or more insulating substrate, such as an FR-4 or polyimide substrate. First and second conductors connect the fuse element and PTC thermistor layer electrically in parallel, such that current (i) initially under normal flows mainly through the fuse element and PTC thermistor layer at a lower drop in voltage and (ii) after an opening of the fuse element flows under normal operation through the PTC thermistor layer at a higher drop in voltage. | 01-29-2009 |
| 20080297301 | HIGH VOLTAGE FUSE - A high voltage fuse is disclosed. The high voltage fuse is compact and includes a molded plastic housing that holds connecting terminals, a fuse element, and optionally, a spring between one of the terminals and the fuse element or thin wire. When the fuse opens upon melting of the fuse element, the spring pulls apart ends of the wire and separates them as far as the spring and housing allow. The terminals may be mounted in separated parts of the housing, separated in some embodiments by the spring acting as an arc barrier. When the fuse element melts and the ends are pulled apart, the separation itself, or the arc barrier, prevents arcing between ends of the fuse element. In another embodiment, the housing itself furnishes a non-conducting plastic spring which urges the fuse link apart, the spring itself dividing the housing into two separate parts to prevent arcing. | 12-04-2008 |
| 20080268671 | FUSE CARD SYSTEM FOR AUTOMOTIVE CIRCUIT PROTECTION - A fuse assembly includes: (i) a junction box including a battery B+ board having a plurality of metallized slots and a distribution board having a plurality of metallized slots; and (ii) a plurality of fuses releasably secured within the metallized slots, the fuses each including a substrate, first and second contacts positioned on the substrate, each contact in electrical communication with one of the metallized slots, and a fuse element in electrical communication with the first and second contacts. | 10-30-2008 |
| 20080258856 | MULTIPLE CONDUCTOR INDICATOR - One embodiment of the present invention provides a fuse having opened-fuse indication, which places two or more coils or conductors in parallel and in thermal contact with an indicating material. The multiple conductors allow a lower level of current to produce sufficient heat or sufficient electrical resistance to transform the indicating material. The multiple conductors can also be made of a reduced diameter, resulting in surge protection at a lower device temperature. The multiple conductor indicator in an embodiment includes a base material. First and second conductors contact the base material. An indicating material thermally couples to the first and second conductors. The indicating material can be on the inside or outside of the fuse body. If on the outside, the body can define a recess, wherein the indicator resides within the recess. The indicator can operate with fuses and other types of circuit protection devices. | 10-23-2008 |
| 20080218304 | WATER RESISTANT IN-LINE FUSE HOLDER - Embodiments for an in-line fuse holder each include at least one housing and two mating pieces, which can snap-fit together and be held moveably together via a strap. Each embodiment houses at least one fuse, such as an automotive fuse. In one example, the fuse includes a first housing forming a first cavity, which is configured to house a first portion of the fuse. The first housing also includes a projection having sides that taper outwardly as the sides extend away from the first housing. The fuse holder also includes a second housing forming a second cavity, which is configured to house a second portion of the fuse. The second housing includes a channel having sides that taper outwardly as the sides extend into the second housing. The projection and channel snap-fit together in a water resistant relationship. | 09-11-2008 |
