John P Bergen

Title: John P. Bergen: Inventor of Multi-Function Environmental Sensor Technology.

Introduction

John P. Bergen is an inventor based in San Jose, California, and is associated with Apple Inc. His work includes an invention that explores how electronic devices can use a compact sensor to measure several environmental conditions.

Latest Patents

Bergen is credited with 1 patent, titled “Electronic Devices with Multi-Function Environmental Sensors.” The patent describes an environmental sensor built around a metal layer that can function as an anemometer, thermometer, bolometer, or heat flux sensor.

For anemometer and thermometer functions, circuitry heats the metal layer and estimates air speed or temperature from how quickly the layer cools. For bolometer operation, the sensor compares the heating and cooling of metal portions with different optical absorption or insulation properties to measure solar radiation. For heat-flux sensing, it can use different metals and measure the Seebeck voltages between them. The metal may be deposited on a device housing or incorporated into a mesh.

Career Highlights

The patent illustrates a versatile approach to environmental sensing, combining multiple measurement capabilities in a sensor that can be integrated into an electronic device. Its described applications include measuring airflow, temperature, solar radiation, and heat flux.

Collaborations

Bergen’s listed coworkers include Michael J. Glickman and David Macneil. The available information identifies these colleagues but does not specify their roles in the patent.

Conclusion

John P. Bergen’s patent presents a multi-function sensor concept for measuring several environmental conditions within electronic devices, reflecting his contribution to sensor innovation at Apple Inc.