technology licensing/ patent acquisition opportunity – us 6,294,900 - bi-directional ac or dc...
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Technology Licensing/Patent Acquisition Opportunity –
US 6,294,900 - Bi-directional AC or DC voltage regulator
Greenwood Soar IP Limited (www.greenwoodsoarip.com)
June 1, 2009
Contents
Summary of opportunity
Background on Greenwood Soar IP, Ltd.
Overview of the technology and relevant markets
Overview of the patent portfolio
Licensing and sales process – timing and next steps
1
Greenwood Soar IP Limited is offering for license (or sale) solid state, bi-directional transformer/voltage regulator technology with broad applications to the aviation, marine, railway, power tool, and power distribution industries
Greenwood Soar IP Limited is offering for license (or sale) US 6,294,900 – Bi-directional AC or DC voltage regulator, and its 4 foreign counterparts (Europe, Japan, South Korea, and India). The technology/patent has not been previously licensed.
The patent provides for an apparatus which permits bi-directional power flow so as to be able to accommodate regenerative load currents. More specifically, the technology enables an AC or DC voltage regulator/converter, which while functionally analogous to conventional iron/copper AC transformers, benefits from solid state controls so as to permit a dramatic reduction in weight, size and cost while improving performance.
Potential applications for this technology include: power distribution systems (particularly
applications related to “smart grid” systems), aviation, marine, portable site/tool transformers, and railway traction power distribution systems and locomotives
Potential companies that are likely to be interested in this technology include: ABB, Aichi, Cooper Power Systems, General Electric, Hitachi, Howard Industries, Siemens, Toshiba, Westinghouse, EMD, NREC, L3 – among others.
Licenses are available for suitable industry partners to develop and market the technology worldwide. (Will also consider a portfolio sale.) See www.greenwoodsoarip.com for additional details or contact Red Chalk Group at (847) 390-0704.
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Contents
Summary of opportunity
Background on Greenwood Soar IP, Ltd.
Overview of the technology and relevant markets
Overview of the patent portfolio
Licensing and sales process – timing and next steps
4
Greenwood Soar IP Limited has a strong track record of developing innovative power supply related technologies
Greenwood Soar IP Ltd. provides energy efficient, reduced commodity use, low cost, controllable and novel solutions and IP for electrical and electronic energy management, power and lighting systems through client centred research, development and consultancy services. Simon Greenwood and Steve Soar are partners in Greenwood Soar IP Ltd.
Utilizing their extensive reservoir of experience and expertise in electrical and electronic engineering, Steve Soar and Simon Greenwood continue to research and develop client based and speculative, novel, electronic and electrical solutions with a particular focus on efficient, green energy management and electronic lighting. They also provide a consultancy service to companies, institutions and individuals offering: bespoke research, design, engineering for manufacture, IP development and management services.
This inventive partnership is characterized by a continued focus on future innovation, as the Greenwood Soar lighting and power supply IP portfolio continues to grow.– In 1999, Mr. Greenwood and Mr. Soar undertook a speculative development for a novel Electronic
Ballasting topology for High Intensity Discharge Lamps. The IP is licensed in the USA and Europe with current US sales exceeding $1.7million/month
– In the early 1990s Mr. Greenwood and Mr. Soar collaborated on speculative development of a switch mode 300 Amp MIG and TIG welding set which broke new ground in lightweight compact industrial welding power supplies at only 45kg and 450mm cube.
– Early collaboration between Mr. Greenwood and Mr. Soar involved a speed controlled 200kW AC induction motor rope haulage system for the UK coal mining industry which was first installed and tested at Bickershaw Colliery in the UK.
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GREENWOOD SOAR IP LIMITED
Simon Greenwood and Steve Soar developed the technology
Simon Greenwood - Chairman
Mr. Greenwood entered the electronics industry in 1974 as an apprentice electronics engineer working for a small subcontract engineering company in Stockport UK. His training encompassed practical bench manufacture skills and testing of military and medical equipment from pulse monitors to military aircraft skid control systems.
Mr. Greenwood became the chief engineer in charge of Research and Development at the age of 25. In this position he worked closely with the Manchester University School of Electrical Engineering on the development of Power Systems Modelling tools including Micro Machine controls, Analogue Computation Models of Steam and Hydro Turbines, Switch Mode Power Supplies for DC Motor Turbine Simulation and Micro Generator Time Constant Regulators. The system became the standard tool for both teaching and R&D of power systems from North America to Europe to Asia, being adopted by several teaching institutions and national power generation authorities in preference to the crude early digital modelling solutions.
In 1985 Mr. Greenwood started his own consultancy business undertaking client driven bespoke development of motion control systems using DC and AC inverters to drive a variety of conveyor and process control systems used in manufacturing industry. Other work encompassed vehicle engine management systems and later a concentration on electronic ballasting of fluorescent lamps, cold cathode lamps and emergency lighting systems.
Mr. Greenwood is an intuitive electronics design engineer with a range of skills including ground up design of analogue circuits, switch mode power electronics, integration of embedded control in switch mode power supplies, thermal management and product design for manufacture. He is named inventor on a considerable portfolio of US, EU, and worldwide patents in fields including switch mode power supplies and lighting applications.
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GREENWOOD SOAR IP LTD. LEADERSHIP TEAMSteve Soar – Managing Director
Mr. Soar entered the electrical engineering industry as a laboratory technician in 1957 and was sponsored by his employer British Industrial Calendar Cables to undertake an HND in electrical engineering, later becoming accessories design engineer for underground gas filled cable joints and terminations up to 132kV. Mr. Soar left BICC in 1962 to work for 3 years at Salford University High Voltage Laboratories under contract to the United Kingdom Atomic Energy Authority. Work was covered by NDA.
In 1965 Mr. Soar co-founded Magtor Ltd., specialising in toroidal and conventional bespoke transformer and inductor design and manufacture. He Founding Solec Products in 1974 and designed and manufactured a range of speculative and client driven designs for electronic industrial controls as well as successfully marketing an early design of electronic ignition system for vehicles.
In 1984 Mr. Soar bought Oldham Printed Circuits and integrated Solec Products into the company. The company designed and manufactured bespoke printed circuit boards for customers as well as internal product ranges. He was an early adopter of embedded micro controllers into both his and his customers’ products and has strong software development skills.
Mr. Soar is an intuitive electrical and electronics design engineer with a skill base which includes high voltage, switch mode power supply design, energy management, high frequency magnetic wound component design, software and embedded micro control. He is named inventor on a considerable portfolio of US, EU, and worldwide patents in fields including switch mode power supplies and lighting applications.
Contents
Summary of opportunity
Background on Greenwood Soar IP, Ltd.
Overview of the technology and relevant markets
Overview of the patent portfolio
Licensing and sales process – timing and next steps
7
The technology enables an AC or DC voltage regulator/converter, which while functionally analogous to conventional iron/copper AC transformers, benefits from solid state controls so as to permit a dramatic reduction in weight, size and cost while improving performance.
– In a patented topology using MOS gate switching devices and low loss high frequency ferrite cored transformer and inductor designs combined with programmable microcontroller, the problems of bulk and weight are addressed while adding the benefits of controllable and programmable performance.
– The “Bi-Directional Cuk Converter” topology mimics conventional iron/copper transformers in electrical performance with reactive loads while allowing ultra fast short circuit/earth fault protection.
– The programmable micro controller also allows for point on wave control of voltage/current
transformation ratio, harmonic correction, wattless synchronizing, zero crossing turn on/off, etc.
– Stackable in series or parallel for high voltage and/or high current.
– Small footprint, light weight
Greenwood Soar IP has developed a novel and innovative solid state, bi-directional transformer/voltage regulator technology
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SOLID STATE CONTROLLED, BI-DIRECTIONAL TRANSFORMER/VOLTAGE REGULATOR TECHNOLOGY
There are five potential markets for the technology
Power distribution systems
Aviation power systems (civil and military)
Marine power systems (civil and military)
Portable site/power tool transformers
Railway traction power distribution systems and locomotives
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RELEVANT MARKETS
The technology can be utilized in high voltage power grid and distribution systems
Power distribution systems have changed little in recent decades.
From generating set, to national grid, to substation, to local distribution to industry and domestic there exist several stages of voltage / current transformation, tap changers and circuit breakers.
Such transformers have substantially remained unchanged since invented by Michael Faraday in 1831, comprising copper wire wound on a magnetic iron core.
Similarly the circuit breakers and tap changes are also archaic relying on electromechanical arrangements.
Such means are bulky, heavy, and difficult to control and have limited sophistication in use.
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POWER DISTRIBUTION SYSTEMS
A 115 kV to 41.6/12.47 kV 5000 kVA 60 Hz substation with circuit switcher, regulators, re closers and control building
Today’s approach In a patented topology using MOS gate switching devices and low
loss high frequency ferrite cored transformer and inductor designs combined with programmable microcontroller, the problems of bulk and weight are addressed while adding the benefits of controllable and programmable performance.
The “Bi-Directional Cuk Converter” topology mimics conventional Iron / Copper transformers in electrical performance with reactive loads while allowing ultra fast short circuit / earth fault protection.
The programmable micro controller also allows for point on wave control of voltage / current transformation ratio, harmonic correction, wattless synchronizing, zero crossing turn on / off, etc.
Stackable in series or parallel for high voltage and / or high current. Requires development of communication protocol etc. to enable
control and optimization of large grid systems with programmed fault detect, disconnect clearance and reconnect strategy.
Greenwood Soar technology
Key benefits include:- Fault detection and
disconnection- Automatic voltage control
(tighter voltage regulation)- Smaller footprint- Lighter weight (for e.g. rural
distribution or pole mounting)
Prototype 3kVA module
The technology provides many benefits for high voltage grid and distribution systems
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SOLID STATE CONTROLLED, BI DIRECTIONAL AC & DC VOLTAGE REGULATOR USE IN POWER DISTRIBUTION SYSTEMS The Bi Directional AC & DC Voltage Regulator as disclosed in various worldwide patents is analogous of an
iron and copper transformer whilst allowing many added performance and safety features due to solid state power electronics control techniques. There is also a demonstrable size and weight advantage over conventional iron and copper transformers.
Voltage transformation ratio is continuously variable within the limits of the semiconductors used and can be controlled on a “point on wave” basis if desired so as to accommodate harmonic correction or load voltage regulation.
It is envisaged that the technology disclosed might be used for applications from <1kVA to >500kVA in a single stage module at >2kV >250A with presently available power semiconductor technology.(see: http://www.pi.hitachi.co.jp/ps/images/pdf/IGBT/MBN600H65E.pdf)
By arranging the modules in parallel or series, or combinations of series parallel, it is possible to realize substantially higher kVA ratings per phase.
The single phase modules or combinations of serial/parallel modules may be connected as 3 phase transformer systems in delta or star configurations.
The modules may be designed with or without galvanic isolation.
Switching on or off of the output may be accomplished electronically thus reducing the need for switchgear and problems and cost associated with high voltage electromechanical circuit breakers.
Soft switch on may be implemented by either zero voltage crossing start up or by ramping the voltage up.
Ultra fast fault detection may be implemented such that transmission line faults may be cleared with minimal arcing and fault recovery may be tested at lower voltage/current limit prior to re-establishing the output fully.
Control of fault detection, fault clearance, load current limiting, may be programmed locally or via communications link from central "Smart Grid" / distribution control system.
While the technology will require additional development, many of the issues have already been overcome in existing technologies
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ANTICIPATED ISSUES FOR DEVELOPMENT OF HIGH VOLTAGE GRID/DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM USING THE BI DIRECTIONAL AC & DC VOLTAGE REGULATOR A working prototype with a rating of 3kVA has been developed to prove the principals and provide a practical
demonstration of the disclosure. However, it is anticipated that with high voltage grid and distribution systems, it would be necessary to overcome the following problems:
– Hi voltage stacking and galvanic isolation of modules: With a practical limit of voltage capability for the modules set by present semiconductor technology, it is anticipated that modules would have to be stacked electrically and mechanically in a serial arrangement such that insulation available at each serially connected module is suitable for the voltage stress at that point in the serial chain.
– Thermal management: Such arrangements would have to take into account requirements for heat sinking of the switching devices, magnetic cores and windings.
– Power Supply: Requirements for isolated power supplies for the local gate drive electronics on the modules might be locally derived via various means from the local magnetic components in each module.
– Signal Transfer: Signal transfer from the common control electronics and communication system to the power modules might be realized via optical fiber so as to avoid galvanic isolation problems with the signal transfer.
None of the above issues are insurmountable. They have largely been overcome in high voltage inverter/ converter technology currently used for HVDC and AC grid links such as built by Siemens Power Transmission and Distribution, Inc. where power is converted from AC to 500kV (half million volt) DC for transmission and back to AC.
Importantly, investment in development of “smart grid” technologies is accelerating
The current electricity grid is an aggregate of multiple networks and multiple power generation companies with multiple operators employing varying levels of communication and coordination, most of which is manually controlled.
“Smart grids” will increase the connectivity, automation, and coordination between these suppliers, consumers, and networks to improve consumption efficiency, management of power flows, and provide the bi-directional metering needed to compensate local power producers and enable alternative/renewable energy generation.
Existing grid contains gross inefficiencies (e.g., the U.S. grid loses 7% of energy production through faulty transmission, theft, and mechanical problems) that can be mitigated through the development of advanced, IT enabled technologies – ultimately reducing demand for energy production
U.S. spend on “smart energy enterprises” estimated at $50 billion - $150 billion over the next five years– Companies range from large, multi-national conglomerates (e.g., GE, Siemens, ABB) to venture capital funded start-up
companies– Opportunities for traditional power T&D suppliers, metering companies, communications companies, networking companies,
software companies, hardware companies, security, etc. – Well established companies traditional like Cisco entering market– Significant focus on developing industry standards– Significant government investment
DOE has developed a smart grid roadmap which includes:– Smart meters enabled with two-way communications– Intelligent home and smart appliances– Demand side management and distributed power generation– Automatic correction for voltage, frequency, and power loss factors– Superconducting cables for long distance transmission– Access to affordable pollution-free, low carbon electricity generation– Affordable energy storage devices available to anyone
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BACKGROUND ON “SMART GRID” TECHNOLOGY
The technology can be utilized in civil and military aviation applications
With the increased drive towards fuel efficient aircraft, compact & lightweight power supply and distribution systems are increasingly a requisite. Integration with onboard control systems for power flow control and load management means this new technology is readily adapted for this market.
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SOLID STATE VOLTAGE REGULATOR FOR CIVIL AND MILITARY AIRCRAFTCurrent situation
In a patented topology using MOS gate switching devices and low loss high frequency ferrite cored transformer and inductor designs combined with programmable microcontroller, the problems of bulk and weight are addressed whilst adding the benefits of controllable and programmable performance.
The “Bi-Directional Cuk Converter” topology mimics conventional Iron / Copper transformers in electrical performance with reactive loads whilst allowing ultra fast short circuit / earth fault protection. The programmable micro controller also allows for point on wave control of voltage / current transformation ratio, harmonic correction, zero crossing turn on / off, etc.
Stackable series or parallel modules for high voltage and / or high current.
Key benefits include:- Programmable fault detection and disconnection - Automatic programmable voltage control- Smaller footprint - Lighter weight
Greenwood Soar technology
The technology can be utilized in civil and military marine applications
With the increased drive towards fuel efficient civil and naval shipping, compact & lightweight power supply and distribution systems are increasingly a requisite.
Integration with onboard control systems for power flow control and load management means this new technology is readily adapted for this market.
Shore to ship power systems may also benefit from this technology allowing smaller, lightweight and portable shore or onboard based adaptable power supply systems for onboard power maintenance in port.
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SOLID STATE VOLTAGE REGULATOR FOR CIVIL AND MILITARY MARINE APPLICATIONS Current situation
In a patented topology using MOS gate switching devices and low loss high frequency ferrite cored transformer and inductor designs combined with programmable microcontroller, the problems of bulk and weight are addressed whilst adding the benefits of controllable and programmable performance.
The “Bi-Directional Cuk Converter” topology mimics conventional Iron / Copper transformers in electrical performance with reactive loads whilst allowing ultra fast short circuit / earth fault protection.
The programmable micro controller also allows for point on wave control of voltage / current transformation ratio, harmonic correction, zero crossing turn on / off, etc.
Stackable series or parallel modules for high voltage and / or high current.
Key benefits include:- Programmable fault detection and disconnection - Automatic programmable voltage control- Smaller footprint - Lighter weight
Greenwood Soar technology
The technology can be utilized as an on-site portable transformer for use with power tools
Site tools in the EU are required to operate from mains isolated, 110VAC centre tapped ground, transformer supplies.
These (Yellow Box) site transformers are heavy, bulky and use technology that is little changed since Michael Faraday invented electrical transformer in 1831.
With increasing commodity costs these transformers are often stolen even if just for the meltdown scrap value of the copper.
They offer no active electrical safety features to protect the tool operator in the event of an electrical fault or the connected tool from abuse other than a simple thermal overload shutdown.
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PORTABLE SITE/POWER TRANSFORMERS
Typical site transformer
Today’s approach In a patented topology using MOS gate switching devices and low loss high
frequency ferrite cored transformer and inductor designs combined with programmable microcontroller, the problems of bulk and weight are addressed whilst adding the benefits of programmable performance, tool protection, tool recognition and safety monitoring.
The “Bi-Directional Cuk Converter” topology mimics conventional Iron / Copper transformers in electrical performance with reactive power tool loads whilst allowing ultra fast short circuit / earth fault protection and key operator comfort and safety features along with improved tool life and protection.
The programmable micro controller also allows for tool recognition and protection features which would present new opportunities and benefits for the construction industry and site tool hire industry including programmable hire period based on hours use or date and rendering both site power tools and transformers useless in the event of theft.
Development of tool communication is readily achieved with existing technology such as Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, Power Line Control or proprietary contactless data communications protocols. Such communication enabled tool and transformer sets would allow for the key benefits below and give construction companies and tool hire companies control over tool use, hire, security and maintenance etc.
Greenwood Soar technology
Key benefits include:- Increased operator safety- Improved tool life- Reduced operator fatigue- Increased site electrical safety- Tool overload and abuse
shutdown.- Controlled ramp up / anti kick
start.Product representation
- Programmable Tool recognition- Tool thermal modeling and duty
cycle control- Programmable tool hire control- Tool abuse reporting- Scheduled maintenance- Theft prevention
The technology can be utilized in railway traction power distribution systems and locomotives
Traction Power Distribution Systems Increasingly railways switch from hi carbon emission
diesel traction to cleaner electric traction locomotives. The power supplies and distribution for these railway
systems is highlighted as an area where significant opportunities exist for refinement and the use of sophisticated energy management and control systems.
The opportunity for seamless solid state switching of track section supplies to reduce high voltage catenary/ third rail losses, improved railway safety, controlled voltage regulation, and solid state ultra fast fault clearance and reconnect should not be overlooked.
Easy integration with central control systems for power flow control, regenerative braking energy recovery, and load management means this new technology is readily adapted for this market as the railways are forced to adopt energy efficient technologies.
Traction Locomotives With required increasing sophistication of electric traction
locomotives it can be envisaged that a single step conversion from the typical 25kV catenary power supply to DC traction motors with control of voltage / load current would be beneficial to this application. Such a single step conversion could be accomplished with this patented topology. Integration of regenerative braking energy recovery is also possible with the addition of active rectification at the DC traction motors.
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SOLID STATE POWER SUPPLY/VOLTAGE REGULATOR FOR RAILWAY TRACTION POWER DISTRIBUTION SYSTEMS AND LOCOMOTIVESCurrent situation
In a patented topology using MOS gate switching devices and low loss high frequency ferrite cored transformer and inductor designs combined with programmable microcontroller, the problems of bulk and weight are addressed whilst adding the benefits of controllable and programmable performance.
The “Bi-Directional Cuk Converter” topology mimics conventional Iron / Copper transformers in electrical performance with reactive loads whilst allowing ultra fast short circuit / earth fault protection.
The programmable micro controller also allows for point on wave control of voltage / current transformation ratio, harmonic correction, zero crossing turn on / off, etc.
Stackable series or parallel modules for high voltage and / or high current.
Greenwood Soar technology
Key benefits include:- Programmable solid state fault
detection and disconnection - Programmable voltage / power
control - Smaller footprint - Lighter weight - Regenerative energy recovery
braking - Integration with power distribution
control systems - Single step conversion from HV to
DC traction motor
There are a large number of potentially interested licensees/buyers of the technology
Power T&D ABB (Switzerland) Aichi (Japan) Alstom (France) BHEL (India) Cooper (USA) Crompton-Powels (Belgium) Daihen (Japan) Fuji (Japan) GE (USA) Hitachi (Japan) Howard (USA) Kuhlman (USA) Meidensha (Japan) Mitsubishi (Japan) Nissan (Japan) Schneider (France) Siemens (Germany) Takaoka (Japan) Toshiba (Japan) Waukesha (USA)
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POTENTIAL LICENSEES/BUYERSPortable site/power tool transformers (partial list) Airlink transformers (UK) Birchwood Products (UK) Chinalux (China) Electrowind (UK) JMS transformers (UK) Juche Group (China) Newmarket Transformers (UK) SIGA (Electronics) Ltd. (UK) Shangyu Rongxin Electrical (China) Taylor Transformers (UK)
Marine power (partial list) ElecRay Technology Inc. (China) Eti Elektroteknik (Turkey) Euroelettro S.r.l (Italy) Houston Transformer (US) Jefferson Electric (US) L-3 Communications Power
Paragon (US) Magcon Engineering (US) MPW Group (UK) Neeltran (US) ProMariner (US) R Baker Electrical (UK) Schott Magnetics (US) Seark Transformers (India) SNC Manufacturing (US) Stewart-transformers (UK) Tinicum Magnetics (US)
Aviation power (partial list) Able Coil & Electronics (US) Acutran (US) American Aerospace Controls (US) Atco Technologies (US) Avionic Instruments (US) Communication Coil (US) Electronic Craftsmen (Canada) Electronic Transformer (US) Foster Transformer (US) Gettysburg Transformer (US) Glen Magnetics (US) Houston Transformer (US) L-3 Comm. Power Paragon (US) MC Davis (US) Precision Electronics (US) Tinicum Magnetics (US) Tranex (US) Triad Magnetics (US)
PRELIMINARY
Railway traction ABB (Switzerland) American Railroad Equipment (US) American Traction Systems (US) Brush Traction (UK) ELEKTRIM-VOLT (Poland) EMCO (India) Howells Railway Products Ltd (UK) Permali Wallace (India) Sai Electricals (India) Shandong Luneng Mount. Tai
Electric Equipment Co., Ltd (China)
Locomotives AGL Manufacturing Ltd
(US) American Railroad
Equipment (US) American Traction
Systems (US) Bombardier (Germany) Brush Traction (UK) Chittaranjan Locomotive
Works (India) Diesel Locomotive Works
(India) EMD (US) GE Transportation
Systems (US) JMC Products (US) Matrix Railway (US) National Railway
Equipment Co. (NREC) (US)
Siemens (Germany)
Contents
Summary of opportunity
Background on Greenwood Soar IP, Ltd.
Overview of the technology and relevant markets
Overview of the patent portfolio
Licensing and sales process – timing and next steps
19
This technology is patented in the U.S., Europe*, Japan, South Korea, and India
20
PATENTS FOR LICENSE/SALE
Country Type StatusPublication
NumberPublication
Date Application Number Application Date Title
Next Renewal
DateUSA Patent Granted US 6294900 9/25/2001 09/623,777 3/1/1999 Bi-directional AC or DC Voltage Regulator 3/25/2013
Europe* Patent Granted EP 1084531* 5/13/2009 99939234.3 3/1/1999 Bi-directional AC or DC Voltage Regulator 3/1/2010Japan Patent Granted JP 4246914 2000-536130 3/1/1999 Bi-directional AC or DC Voltage Regulator 1/16/2016
South Korea Patent Granted 588233 2000-7009944 3/1/1999 Bi-directional AC or DC Voltage Regulator 6/2/2009India Application Granted 223905 IN/PCT/2000/00300 3/1/1999 Bi-directional AC or DC Voltage Regulator 3/1/2010USA Patent Granted US 5942884 8/24/1999 08/979,981 11/26/1997 Electronic transformer/ regulator 2/24/2011
* Following countries are designated: Great Britain, Germany, France, Italy, Austria, Belgium, Switzerland, Cyprus, Denmark, Spain, Finland, Greece, Ireland, Luxembourg, Monaco, Netherlands, Portugal, and Sweden. Steps are in hand to bring the granted patent into force in Great Britain, France and Germany. We have until 13 August 2009 to bring it into force in any or all of the other designated countries.
* Following countries are designated: United Kingdom, Germany, France, Italy, Austria, Belgium, Switzerland, Cyprus, Denmark, Spain, Finland, Greece, Ireland, Luxembourg, Monaco, Netherlands, Portugal, and Sweden. Efforts underway to bring the granted patent into force in United Kingdom, Germany, France, Spain, Italy, and the Netherlands. Filing deadline for additional countries is 13 August, 2009
The patent provides for an apparatus which permits bi-directional power flow so as to be able to accommodate regenerative load currents. More specifically, the technology enables an AC or DC voltage regulator/converter, which while functionally analogous to conventional iron/copper AC transformers, benefits from solid state controls so as to permit a dramatic reduction in weight, size and cost while improving performance.
Issued: 09/25/2001 Filed: 03/01/1999 Priority date: 03/01/1999
Assignee: Simon R. Greenwood, Stephen Soar
Inventor(s): Simon R. Greenwood, Stephen Soar
Abstract: The invention provides a bi-directional voltage regulator having a controller, an input circuit and an output circuit, the input and output circuits being capacitively coupled one to the other and being symmetrical one relative to the other, wherein each circuit comprises two terminals (AC1, AC2; AC3, AC4) across which are connected a capacitor (C2a; C2b) and, in parallel with the capacitor (C2a; C2fc), a series connection of an inductor (LI; L2) and a switching network (SI; S2) controlled by the controller. Each switching network (SI; S2) has two branches in anti-parallel, of which each branch permits only uni-directional current flow and at least one branch comprises a switching means. If one branch only of each switching network comprises a switching means then the regulator of the invention is a DC regulator which has the advantage over conventional Cuk converters in that it permits bi-directional power flow. II both branches of each switching network comprise switching means, then the device may be constructed as an AC or DC regulator/ transformer which retains the capacity to permit bi-directional power flow.
First Claim: A bi-directional AC or DC voltage regulator having a controller, an input circuit and an output circuit, the input and output circuits being capacitively coupled one to the other and being symmetrical one relative to the other, wherein each circuit comprises two terminals (AC1, AC2; AC3, AC4) across which are connected a capacitor (C2a; C2b) and, in parallel with the capacitor (C2a; C2fc), a series connection of an inductor (LI; L2) and a switching network (SI; S2) controlled by the controller, wherein; each switching network (SI; S2) has two branches in anti-parallel, and each branch comprises a switching means (Q1,Q2; Q3,Q4) for permitting only uni-directional current flow, CHARACTERIZED IN THAT: the controller operates at high frequency the switching means (Ql or Q2) in the input circuit which, if closed, would permit current flow through the switching network (SI), and simultaneously operates the oppositely aligned switching means (Q4 or Q3) in the output circuit so that it is in the opposite switching state to the high frequency operated switching means (Ql or Q2) in the input circuit.
US 6,294,900 – BI-DIRECTIONAL AC OR DC VOLTAGE REGULATOR
Contents
Summary of opportunity
Background on Greenwood Soar IP, Ltd.
Overview of the technology and relevant markets
Overview of the patent portfolio
Licensing and sales process – timing and next steps
22
The initial licensing and sales process will take place over the next two quarters with the objective of securing an initial license (or sale) by 12/31/2009
23
LICENSING/SALES PROCESS
Step 1 Step 2 Step 3
Market portfolio Due diligence Negotiation and closing
Activities• Technology introduced and
offered to prospective licensees/purchasers
• Red Chalk Group to conduct follow up meeting with interested parties
• Red Chalk Group to coordinate technical discussions as required with prospective licensees and purchasers and Greenwood Soar IP
• Prospective licensees and purchasers conduct detailed due diligence
• Prospective licensees and purchasers submit non-binding offer- Offer should clearly
specify terms and conditions
• All bids formally reviewed by Greenwood Soar IP and Red Chalk Group
• Red Chalk Group to follow-up with qualified bidders
Timing
Begin7/1/2009
Bids due10/1/2009
Target first closing12/31/2009
Step 4
Bids submitted and evaluated
• Red Chalk Group to facilitate negotiation process as needed
• Close transaction
Note that Red Chalk Group and Greenwood Soar IP, Ltd. reserve the right to change the process with or without notice. Notwithstanding the dates defined above, Red Chalk Group or its client reserve the right to accept any bid at any time.
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To obtain additional information related to this asset sale, please contact the following:
John KoepkePartner
Office: (847) 390-0704Mobile: (847) 571-8631
Raymond ZenkichPartner
Office: (847) 390-0702Mobile: (847) 332-2885
Red Chalk Group – Leadership Team
John Koepke is a Partner with Red Chalk Group, LLC and has approximately 10 years of
experience serving senior executives and investment professionals address intellectual
property related issues, including 3 years at Howrey, LLP, the premier IP litigation firm. John
also built and established three early-stage technology companies. Previously, John spent 6
years as a consultant at McKinsey & Co., Inc. John received an MBA from Harvard Business
School and a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Illinois.
Raymond Zenkich is a Partner with Red Chalk Group, LLC and has over 13 years of
experience serving senior executives and investment professionals address technology and
intellectual property related issues. Raymond also spent 5 years with McKinsey & Company
assisting senior executives address a wide range of business and technology issues.
Previously, Raymond held consulting positions at Accenture where he led multiple full life-
cycle technology development projects. Raymond received a Masters of Science from
Northwestern University and a Bachelor of Arts degree from Northwestern University.
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LEADERSHIP TEAM