Company Filing History:
4 out of 124 
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1 out of 17 
Years Active: 1983-2004
Title: Innovations by James C. Sprout
Introduction
James C. Sprout is a notable inventor based in Los Altos, California. He has made significant contributions to the field of electrical engineering, particularly in the development of control systems for lighting and HVAC applications. With a total of 8 patents to his name, Sprout's work reflects a commitment to enhancing energy efficiency and user control in various technologies.
Latest Patents
One of his latest patents is a controller for air conditioners and heat pumps. This innovative speed controller allows a single-phase motor, such as a permanent split capacitor motor, to operate at both high and low speeds. High-speed operation is achieved by passing a single-phase AC current through both the main and auxiliary windings of the motor. For low-speed operation, the controller generates reduced frequency AC waveforms that are phase-shifted to optimize performance.
Another significant patent is the dimmable ballast control circuit. This control circuit is designed for dimmable fluorescent light ballasts, such as the Mark VII ballast manufactured by Advance Transformer, Inc. The circuit utilizes a photo sensor to detect ambient light levels and adjusts the voltage output accordingly. This allows for a linear adjustment of brightness from 20 percent to 100 percent, providing users with greater control over their lighting environment.
Career Highlights
Throughout his career, James C. Sprout has worked with various companies, including The Watt Stopper, Inc. His experience in these organizations has contributed to his expertise in developing innovative solutions for energy management and control systems.
Collaborations
Some of his notable coworkers include Jerome M. Mix and Charles C. Hu. Their collaborative efforts have likely played a role in advancing the technologies that Sprout has patented.
Conclusion
James C. Sprout's contributions to the field of electrical engineering through his patents demonstrate his innovative spirit and dedication to improving energy efficiency. His work continues to influence the development of control systems in various applications.