Transcript Document

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, bidirectional transformer/voltage regulator technology with broad applications to
the aviation, marine, railway, power tool, and power distribution industries
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
 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.
2
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
3
Greenwood Soar IP Limited has a strong track record of developing innovative
power supply related technologies
GREENWOOD SOAR IP LIMITED
 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.
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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.
4
Simon Greenwood and Steve Soar developed the technology
GREENWOOD SOAR IP LTD. LEADERSHIP TEAM
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.
Steve 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.
5
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
6
Greenwood Soar IP has developed a novel and innovative solid state, bidirectional transformer/voltage regulator technology
SOLID STATE CONTROLLED, BI-DIRECTIONAL TRANSFORMER/VOLTAGE
REGULATOR TECHNOLOGY

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
7
There are five potential markets for the technology
RELEVANT MARKETS

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
8
The technology can be utilized in high voltage power grid and distribution
systems
POWER DISTRIBUTION SYSTEMS
Today’s approach

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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.
Greenwood Soar technology





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.

Key benefits include:
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A 115 kV to 41.6/12.47 kV 5000 kVA 60 Hz substation with circuit
switcher, regulators, re closers and control building
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
9
The technology provides many benefits for high voltage grid and distribution
systems
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.
10
While the technology will require additional development, many of the issues
have already been overcome in existing technologies
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.
11
Importantly, investment in development of “smart grid” technologies is
accelerating
BACKGROUND ON “SMART GRID” TECHNOLOGY

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
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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:
–
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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
12
The technology can be utilized in civil and military aviation applications
SOLID STATE VOLTAGE REGULATOR FOR CIVIL AND MILITARY AIRCRAFT
Current situation

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.
Greenwood Soar technology




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
13
The technology can be utilized in civil and military marine applications
SOLID STATE VOLTAGE REGULATOR FOR CIVIL AND MILITARY MARINE APPLICATIONS
Current situation



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.
Greenwood Soar technology





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
14
The technology can be utilized as an on-site portable transformer for use with
power tools
PORTABLE SITE/POWER TRANSFORMERS
Today’s approach




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.
Greenwood Soar technology




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.

Key benefits include:
-
-
Typical site transformer
Product representation
Increased operator safety
Improved tool life
Reduced operator fatigue
Increased site electrical safety
Tool overload and abuse
shutdown.
Controlled ramp up / anti kick
start.
-
-
Programmable Tool recognition
Tool thermal modeling and duty
cycle control
Programmable tool hire control
Tool abuse reporting
Scheduled maintenance
Theft prevention
15
The technology can be utilized in railway traction power distribution systems and
locomotives
SOLID STATE POWER SUPPLY/VOLTAGE REGULATOR FOR RAILWAY
TRACTION POWER DISTRIBUTION SYSTEMS AND LOCOMOTIVES
Current situation
Greenwood Soar technology
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.




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:
-
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.
-
-
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
16
There are a large number of potentially interested licensees/buyers of the
technology
POTENTIAL LICENSEES/BUYERS
Portable site/power tool
transformers (partial list)
Power T&D
 Airlink transformers (UK)
 ABB (Switzerland)
 Birchwood Products (UK)
 Aichi (Japan)
 Chinalux (China)
 Alstom (France)
 Electrowind (UK)
 BHEL (India)
 JMS transformers (UK)
 Cooper (USA)
 Crompton-Powels (Belgium)  Juche Group (China)
 Newmarket Transformers (UK)
 Daihen (Japan)
 SIGA (Electronics) Ltd. (UK)
 Fuji (Japan)
 Shangyu Rongxin Electrical (China)
 GE (USA)
 Taylor Transformers (UK)
 Hitachi (Japan)
 Howard (USA)
Aviation power (partial list)
 Kuhlman (USA)
 Able Coil & Electronics (US)
 Meidensha (Japan)
 Acutran (US)
 Mitsubishi (Japan)
 American Aerospace Controls (US)
 Nissan (Japan)
 Atco Technologies (US)
 Schneider (France)
 Avionic Instruments (US)
 Siemens (Germany)
 Communication Coil (US)
 Takaoka (Japan)
 Electronic Craftsmen (Canada)
 Toshiba (Japan)
 Electronic Transformer (US)
 Waukesha (USA)
 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
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
Railway traction
Equipment Co. (NREC)
 ABB (Switzerland)
(US)
 American Railroad Equipment (US)
 Siemens (Germany)
 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)
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)
17
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
18
This technology is patented in the U.S., Europe*, Japan, South Korea, and India
PATENTS FOR LICENSE/SALE
Country
Type
Status
USA
Patent
Granted
Europe*
Patent
Granted
Japan
Patent
Granted
South Korea Patent
Granted
India
Application Granted
USA
Patent
Granted
Publication
Number
US 6294900
EP 1084531*
JP 4246914
588233
223905
US 5942884
Publication
Date
Application Number Application Date
9/25/2001
09/623,777
3/1/1999
5/13/2009
99939234.3
3/1/1999
2000-536130
3/1/1999
2000-7009944
3/1/1999
IN/PCT/2000/00300
3/1/1999
8/24/1999
08/979,981
11/26/1997
Title
Bi-directional AC or DC Voltage Regulator
Bi-directional AC or DC Voltage Regulator
Bi-directional AC or DC Voltage Regulator
Bi-directional AC or DC Voltage Regulator
Bi-directional AC or DC Voltage Regulator
Electronic transformer/ regulator
Next
Renewal
Date
3/25/2013
3/1/2010
1/16/2016
6/2/2009
3/1/2010
2/24/2011
Followingcountries
countries
designated:
France,
Italy,
Austria,
Belgium, Cyprus,
Switzerland,
Cyprus,
Spain,Ireland,
Finland,Luxembourg,
Greece, Ireland,
Luxembourg,
Monaco,
**Following
areare
designated:
GreatUnited
Britain,Kingdom,
Germany,Germany,
France, Italy,
Austria,
Belgium,
Switzerland,
Denmark,
Spain,Denmark,
Finland, Greece,
Monaco,
Netherlands,
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19
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.
US 6,294,900 – BI-DIRECTIONAL AC OR DC VOLTAGE REGULATOR
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.
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
21
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
LICENSING/SALES PROCESS
Step 1
Market portfolio
Step 2
Step 3
Bids submitted and
evaluated
Due diligence
Step 4
Negotiation and
closing
Activities
• Technology introduced and • Prospective licensees and
offered to prospective
purchasers conduct
licensees/purchasers
detailed due diligence
• 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 • Red Chalk Group to
facilitate negotiation
purchasers submit nonprocess as needed
binding offer
• Close transaction
- 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
Begin
7/1/2009
Bids due
10/1/2009
Target first closing
12/31/2009
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.
22
To obtain additional information related to this asset sale, please contact the
following:
John Koepke
Partner
Raymond Zenkich
Partner
Office: (847) 390-0704
Mobile: (847) 571-8631
Office: (847) 390-0702
Mobile: (847) 332-2885
[email protected]
[email protected]
23
Red Chalk Group – Leadership Team
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 lifecycle technology development projects. Raymond received a Masters of Science from
Northwestern University and a Bachelor of Arts degree from Northwestern University.
24