Instrument Mechanism Or Transmission Patents (Class 73/866.1)
  • Patent number: 11840921
    Abstract: Methods for fabricating a sensor module for detecting carbon dioxide leakage from a subsurface reservoir are disclosed. The methods include attaching anodic aluminum oxide porous membrane onto a first conductive electrode to form an anodic aluminum oxide template; initiating growth of a plurality of TiO2 nanotubes inside the AAO template using an atomic layer deposition process; removing the anodic aluminum oxide template from the first metal electrode leaving the plurality of TiO2 nanotubes on the first conductive electrode; attaching a second conductive electrode to the plurality of TiO2 nanotubes; connecting the first and the second conductive electrodes with an electric line to form a sensor; providing a rollable sheet of non-conductive material; and attaching a plurality of sensors to the rollable sheet of non-conductive material forming the sensor module.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2021
    Date of Patent: December 12, 2023
    Assignee: Saudi Arabian Oil Company
    Inventors: Dong Kyu Cha, Mohammed Badri AlOtaibi, Subhash Chandrabose Ayirala, Ali Abdallah Al-Yousef
  • Patent number: 11789040
    Abstract: A measurement system including a measurement device and at least a first probe unit and a second probe unit is disclosed. The first probe unit and the second probe unit are each connected to the measurement device in a signal transmitting manner. The measurement device includes a control circuit. The first probe unit includes an interface module being configured to receive a user input, to generate an input data signal based on the received user input, and to provide the input data signal to the control circuit. The control circuit is configured to generate and provide a control signal at least to the second probe unit based on the input data signal. At least the second probe unit is configured to adjust an operational parameter based on the control signal, wherein the operational parameter relates to a measurement parameter to be measured Moreover, a method for operating a measurement system is disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2021
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2023
    Assignee: Rohde & Schwarz GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Christian Benisch, Werner Perndl, Markus Gallhauser, Nino Voss
  • Patent number: 11315811
    Abstract: A process condition measurement wafer assembly is disclosed. In embodiments, the process condition measurement wafer assembly includes a bottom substrate and a top substrate. In another embodiment, the process condition measurement wafer assembly includes one or more electronic components disposed on one or more printed circuit elements and interposed between the top substrate and bottom substrate. In another embodiment, the process condition measurement wafer assembly includes one or more shielding layers formed between the bottom substrate and the top substrate. In embodiments, the one or more shielding layers are configured to electromagnetically shield the one or more electronic components and diffuse voltage potentials across the bottom substrate and the top substrate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 2019
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2022
    Assignee: KLA Corporation
    Inventors: Farhat A. Quli, Andrew Nguyen, James Richard Bella
  • Patent number: 10962391
    Abstract: A sensor body contains a sensor element in a body recess opened at a body opening. A sensor substrate has a mounting surface on which a circuit element for processing a detection signal is mounted and holds the sensor body on the mounting surface. A sensor cover has a cover window penetrating between an intake passage and the body opening and covers the sensor body. A sensor filter is interposed between the sensor body and the sensor cover. A potting resin body is cured on the mounting surface so as to seal the circuit element. The sensor cover is embedded in the potting resin body on the outer peripheral side of the sensor body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2019
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2021
    Assignee: DENSO CORPORATION
    Inventors: Takuma Tsuchiya, Junzo Yamaguchi, Takashi Enomoto, Hiroyuki Akuzawa
  • Patent number: 10888224
    Abstract: A computer-implemented method for learning a model to predict movements of a person in bed is presented. The method includes receiving first data from a plurality of first sensors installed on a bed patient support apparatus, receiving second data from a plurality of second sensors installed on the person, and learning a model to predict the second data based on the first data by assuming a sensing range of motion intensity by the plurality of first sensors is greater than a sensing range of motion intensity by the plurality of second sensors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2018
    Date of Patent: January 12, 2021
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Takayuki Katsuki, Tetsuro Morimura
  • Patent number: 10491971
    Abstract: A sensor device for monitoring at least one lifecycle of potatoes, at least from planting seed potatoes to stocking the potatoes includes a body dimensioned and shaped to conform to a potato. The body houses electronics of the sensor device and includes a waterproof layer for protecting the electronics when the sensor device is placed underground with the seed potatoes. The electronics includes a wireless communication circuitry providing the sensor device with radio communication capability, at least one processor, and at least one of the following sensors: a humidity sensor; a temperature sensor; and a carbon dioxide sensor. The at least one processor is configured to store measurement data provided by the at least one sensor, and to cause the wireless communication circuitry to transmit the measurement data to another device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2015
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2019
    Assignee: SOLENTUM B.V.
    Inventors: Eero Pisilä, Antti Hintikka
  • Patent number: 10460966
    Abstract: An apparatus includes an instrumented substrate apparatus, a substrate assembly including a bottom and top substrate mechanically coupled, an electronic assembly, a nested enclosure assembly including an outer and inner enclosure wherein the outer enclosure encloses the inner enclosure and the inner enclosure encloses the electronic assembly. An insulating medium between the inner and outer enclosure and a sensor assembly communicatively coupled to the electronic assembly including one or more sensors disposed at one or more locations within the substrate assembly wherein the electronic assembly is configured to receive one or more measurement parameters from the one or more sensors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2016
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2019
    Assignee: KLA-Tencor Corporation
    Inventors: Mei Sun, Earl Jensen, Jing G. Zhou, Ran Liu
  • Patent number: 10345423
    Abstract: A system for monitoring electrical power usage in an electrical power infrastructure of a building. The system can include: a power consumption measurement device configured to be coupled to a first surface of the circuit breaker box, the circuit breaker box containing at least part of the electrical supply conductors for the electrical power infrastructure, the power consumption measurement device comprising one or more electrical current sensors; a first calibration device configured to be electrically coupled to the electrical power infrastructure, the first calibration device comprising one or more first calibration loads; and a calibration module configured to be performed using one or more processors and further configured to at least partially calibrate the power consumption measurement device using a Kalman filter and data obtained from the one or more electrical current sensors of the power consumption measurement device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2017
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2019
    Assignee: BELKIN INTERNATIONAL INC.
    Inventors: Yael Maguire, Karthik Yogeeswaran, Shwetak N. Patel, Matthew S. Reynolds
  • Patent number: 10133367
    Abstract: An air pressure sensing type mouse includes a housing, a circuit board, plural air pressure sensors and a processor. One of the plural air pressure sensors is a middle air pressure sensor. The processor stores a threshold value. When an ambient airflow inputs into the housing of the mouse, the plural pressure sensors sense the ambient airflow and generates plural sensed values. If the plural sensed values are all smaller than the threshold value, the middle air pressure sensor generates a pressing signal. If the plural sensed values are all higher than the threshold value, the middle air pressure sensor generates a vertical displacement signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2017
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2018
    Assignee: PRIMAX ELECTRONICS LTD.
    Inventors: Cheng-Yi Tsai, Ying-Che Tseng
  • Patent number: 10101292
    Abstract: A micro-electro mechanical system (MEMS) humidity sensor includes a first substrate, a second substrate and a sensing structure. The second substrate is substantially parallel to the first substrate. The sensing structure is between the first substrate and the second substrate, and bonded to a portion of the first substrate and a portion of the second substrate, in which the second substrate includes a conductive layer facing the sensing structure, and a first space between the first substrate and the sensing structure is communicated with or isolated from outside, and a second space between the conductive layer and the sensing structure is communicated with an atmosphere, and the sensing structure, the second space and the conductive layer constitute a capacitor configured to measure permittivity of the atmosphere, and humidity of the atmosphere is derived from the permittivity of the atmosphere, pressure of the atmosphere and temperature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2016
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2018
    Assignee: TAIWAN SEMICONDUCTOR MANUFACTURING CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Tung-Tsun Chen, Chia-Hua Chu, Jui-Cheng Huang, Chun-Wen Cheng, Cheng-Hsiang Hsieh
  • Patent number: 10031154
    Abstract: An inertial force sensor has a first sensor element, a second sensor element, a first signal processor, a second signal processor, and a power controller. The first sensor element converts a first inertial force to an electric signal, and the second sensor element converts a second inertial force to an electric signal. The first signal processor is connected to the first sensor element, and outputs a first inertial force value. The second signal processor is connected to the second sensor element, and outputs a second inertial force value. The power controller is connected to the first signal processor and the second signal processor, and changes power supplied to the second signal processor based on the first inertial force value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2017
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2018
    Assignee: Panasonic Intellectual Property Management Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Isao Hattori, Takeshi Uemura, Satoshi Ohuchi, Yasunobu Tsukio
  • Patent number: 9772305
    Abstract: A system for analyzing a content of a sample material is presented. The system includes a fiber sensitized to a first substance, and at least one electrode configured to expose the fiber to an electric field. The system includes an optical sensor configured to detect a displacement of the fiber when the fiber is exposed to the electric field, and a processor configured to use the displacement of the fiber to characterize a content of the sample material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 26, 2017
    Assignee: Arizona Board of Regents on Behalf of Arizona State University
    Inventor: Nongjian Tao
  • Patent number: 9763531
    Abstract: A household cooking utensil includes a first control member (9) mounted to move between a plurality of positions to enable the user to act on operation of the utensil. In addition, an information device (60) connected to the first control member (9) is configured to emit a signal corresponding to a first predetermined position of the first control member (9). The information device (60) and the first control member (9) are interconnected, for emitting the signal, via at least one sensor (10, 11, 12) and via an activator (13) which excites at least one sensor (10, 11, 12) remotely when the first control member (9) occupies the first predetermined position. Utensils for cooking food.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2017
    Assignee: SEB S.A.
    Inventors: Eric Laurent Baraille, Pascal Murat
  • Patent number: 9753054
    Abstract: An inertial force sensor has a first sensor element, a second sensor element, a first signal processor, a second signal processor, and a power controller. The first sensor element converts a first inertial force to an electric signal, and the second sensor element converts a second inertial force to an electric signal. The first signal processor is connected to the first sensor element, and outputs a first inertial force value. The second signal processor is connected to the second sensor element, and outputs a second inertial force value. The power controller is connected to the first signal processor and the second signal processor, and changes power supplied to the second signal processor based on the first inertial force value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2017
    Assignee: PANASONIC INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY MANAGEMENT CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Isao Hattori, Takeshi Uemura, Satoshi Ohuchi, Yasunobu Tsukio
  • Patent number: 9734706
    Abstract: A cable comprises a circuit, a switching element and an input connection for engaging an output connection of a sensor, the switching element configured to selectively enable the circuit of the cable assembly to process an accepted output of at least one of at least two sensors providing differing acceptable outputs and to provide a signal output corresponding to the accepted sensor output for processing by a monitor. A sensor includes an initiation element structured to cause a switching element associated with an input connection of the cable to change a mode of operation of the switching element to selectively enable the circuit to process an output of the sensor accepted by the cable and to provide a signal output corresponding to the accepted sensor output. A system comprises a monitor and the cable including the circuit and the switching element. Methods of operation are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2013
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2017
    Assignee: Clinical Innovations, LLC
    Inventors: Brandon D. Moon, Kristian J. Olsen, Jeremy C. Horton
  • Patent number: 9726284
    Abstract: A system for maintaining a vehicle including a shift-by-wire transmission in a neutral-hold mode is provided. The system includes a transmission control unit in signal communication with the shift-by-wire transmission and an internal control unit of the vehicle. The transmission control unit is configured to control a gear configuration of the shift-by-wire transmission. An external control unit is in signal communication with the transmission control unit. The external control unit is configured to transmit a neutral-hold mold activation signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2017
    Assignee: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Virgil Philip Adams, Jr., Ryo Harada, Takashi Tezuka, David B. Jackson, Hiroyuki Kuki, Dennis P. Parker, Jr.
  • Patent number: 9410613
    Abstract: An on-screen gear selector for an automatic transmission, which provides an interface between the driver and the automatic transmission. The gear selector provides the current selection by the driver to the transmission control unit. The virtual on-screen gear selector provides safety and security features, and is incorporated into the software of the gear selector, such as not allowing the transmission to change from park until the brake pedal is depressed, or not allowing the transmission to change from drive to a lower gear or reverse if the speed of the vehicle is above a predetermined value, thereby avoiding damage to the transmission. The use of the on-screen gear selector also provides the benefit of reducing space and weight of the vehicle, by having less mechanical parts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2016
    Assignee: Continental Automotive Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Carlos Montes
  • Patent number: 9229026
    Abstract: An accelerometer system can include a sensor element comprising first and second proofmasses, the first proofmass accelerating in a first direction and the second proofmass accelerating in a second direction opposite the first direction in response to an external acceleration. A force rebalance controller applies control signals to at least one control element to provide a first force to accelerate the first proofmass toward a first null position and to at least one control element to provide a second force to accelerate the second proofmass toward a second null position. The force rebalance controller can also generate opposite polarity first and second output signals associated with respective displacements of the first and second proofmasses relative to the respective first and second null positions. An acceleration component calculates the external acceleration based on the first and second output signals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 5, 2016
    Assignee: Northrop Grumman Guaidance and Electronics Company, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert E. Stewart, Daryl Sakaida, Michael D. Bulatowicz, Ming Li, John Thomson Douglass
  • Patent number: 9142129
    Abstract: A virtual-screen setup unit sets up a virtual screen in a seam of images captured by an image capturing unit, the virtual screen being orthogonal to a road surface and extending in a direction from a near side to a far side of the vehicle. A virtual-screen projection image generation unit performs conversion of the images captured by the image capturing unit for projection onto the virtual screen, and thereby generates a virtual-screen projection image. The virtual-screen projection image is displayed on the image display unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 22, 2015
    Assignee: Clarion Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Noriyuki Satoh
  • Publication number: 20150107377
    Abstract: Embodiments of the invention pertain to kits capable of providing authenticated health information for purposes of privacy, rewards, or incentives. In an embodiment of the invention, biometric measurement devices coupled with a communications infrastructure implement a system of secure information exchange and enhanced data security. In an embodiment of the invention, a security/verification system is built into the kit, so as to be able to provide verification of a user's identity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 22, 2014
    Publication date: April 23, 2015
    Inventor: Kenneth J. Bagan
  • Patent number: 8914195
    Abstract: A system for powering a steering angle sensor coupled to a steering wheel and a controller comprising a switch, coupled to the sensor and the controller. The switch is activated upon motion of the steering wheel or steering shaft. The switch, when activated, connects a power supply, such as a vehicle battery, to the sensor and the controller so that a new steering angle may be sensed and stored. After a predetermined period of time, the controller sends a signal to deactivate the switch and disconnect the power supply.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2014
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies
    Inventors: Erick Michael Lavoie, Bradley G. Hochrein
  • Publication number: 20140228819
    Abstract: A module producible inside a living body is provided. The module includes an instructions receiver configured to receive wireless transmissions of instructions from a master controller located outside of the body when the module is inside the body. An energy receiver configured to receive wireless transmission of non-destructive energy from the master controller located outside of the body when the module is inside the body. The module further includes a battery and a communications and guide element electrically connected to the instructions receiver, the energy receiver and the battery.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 14, 2013
    Publication date: August 14, 2014
    Inventor: William Harrison Zurn
  • Patent number: 8783102
    Abstract: A protective container for holding a reusable control part of a transcutaneous sensor system for detecting at least one analyte in a bodily fluid is disclosed. The control part includes at least one coupling, which has at least one sensor coupling for connection to at least one transcutaneous sensor. The protective container has at least one container housing. The control part can be held in the container housing. The container housing is adapted to shield the control part from environmental influences. The container housing also has at least one connector which can be connected to the coupling and seals the latter in a media-tight fashion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2014
    Assignee: Roche Diagnostics Operations, Inc.
    Inventors: Wolfgang Heck, Bernd Roesicke, Gerhard Frisch
  • Publication number: 20140176092
    Abstract: A method for generating an output signal and measuring arrangement for determining at least one measured variable use at least one sensor device (2) and at least one signal output (3) for outputting at least one output signal, wherein the output signal transmits information about the measured variable and/or a state of the measuring arrangement using at least one predetermined value of the current. The measuring arrangement ensures reliable outputting of an error signal indicating the presence of an erroneous state is achieved in that a first adjusting unit (4) and a second adjusting unit (5) are provided that set the value of the current of the output signal to a predetermined desired value. The first adjusting unit (4) sets a fixed current value and the second adjusting unit (5) sets a variable current value.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 6, 2013
    Publication date: June 26, 2014
    Applicant: Krohne Messtechnik GmbH
    Inventors: Christian Kolonko, Steffen Dymek, Martin van der Linde
  • Publication number: 20140144257
    Abstract: A system for monitoring equipment and transmitting data and/or signals from one or more satellite nodes to a base node for transmission to a monitor or controller for the equipment. The system may transmit high frequency acoustic signals from one or more satellite nodes embedded in the equipment through a structural component of the equipment to the base node, eliminating the need to hardwire the satellite nodes in harsh environments.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 28, 2012
    Publication date: May 29, 2014
    Applicant: General Electric Company
    Inventor: Vivek Venugopal Badami
  • Patent number: 8661923
    Abstract: The present invention is a sensor interface or network of interfaces that utilizes high-temperature electronics to operate at elevated temperatures for applications that include but are not limited to aircraft and automobile engines, vehicle frames, refineries, nuclear and chemical production plants, and in downhole drilling for petroleum and natural gas. The interface or network provide connectors for a variety of sensors with analog and digital outputs, and can in turn provide data to an automated electronic control system or a monitor. Because the sensor interface may be placed in so-called “hot zones” nearer to the sensors being monitored than other systems that use conventional electronics, the sensor interface can increase noise immunity, increase reliability, decrease cost, reduce weight, and increase space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2014
    Assignee: Orbital Research Inc.
    Inventors: Michael Willett, Greg Shaw
  • Patent number: 8650953
    Abstract: A chemical sensor is provided on a first semiconductor die. A potentiostat is provided on a second semiconductor die. An analog to digital converter and a microcontroller are provided on a third semiconductor die. The first die is configured to be connected to the second die. The second die is configured to be connected to the third die. The chemical sensor detects a chemical in the surrounding environment and outputs a signal to the analog to digital converter. The analog to digital converter converts the signal to a digital signal and outputs the digital signal to the microcontroller. The microcontroller provides a measurement of the concentration of the chemical in the surrounding environment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2014
    Assignee: STMicroelectronics Pte Ltd.
    Inventors: Suman Cherian, Olivier Le Neel
  • Publication number: 20130340543
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides distributed sensor grid, surface, and skin systems and methods that utilize compressive sampling systems and methods for reading and processing the outputs of sensor arrays (serial and/or parallel) such that increased speed can be achieved. These sensor arrays can be functionalized or sensitized in any desired manner and functions are derived from the outputs, as opposed to individual data points. The sensor arrays can be made in the form of a textile, a fiber optic network, a MEMS network, or a CMOS camera, for example. In general, in accordance with the systems and methods of the present disclosure, a Code is applied to a distributed sensor as part of the compressive sampling technique and derives the functions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 20, 2013
    Publication date: December 26, 2013
    Applicant: THE UNIVERSITY OF NORTH CAROLINA AT CHARLOTTE
    Inventors: Faramarz FARAHI, Mehrdad ABOLBASHARI
  • Publication number: 20130327163
    Abstract: A microelectromechanical sensor module includes a sensing mechanism for measuring an acceleration, pressure, air humidity or the like, a control mechanism for controlling the sensing mechanism, an energy supply mechanism for supplying the sensor module with energy, and a transmission mechanism for transmitting signals of the sensing mechanism. At least three of the mechanisms are integrated at the chip level in at least one chip in each case. A corresponding method is implemented to produce the microelectromechanical sensor module.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 14, 2011
    Publication date: December 12, 2013
    Applicant: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventors: Tjalf Pirk, Thomas Wagner, Ando Feyh, Georg Bischopink, Axel Franke
  • Patent number: 8448596
    Abstract: A sensing device includes a cover having a window; a seat comprising a bottom first opening, a peripheral wall, a recess on the wall, and a bottom channel; a spring biased sliding unit comprising a bottom projection fitted in the first opening, a probe extending from the projection, a hollow cylinder, and two opposite cavities on a periphery; a cylindrical rotational unit comprising a rim extending inward from an inner surface, a second opening on the rim, a display plate on the rim, and two opposite guide protrusions on an inner surface opposing the display plate wherein indications are printed on the display plate, and the rotational unit is rotatably put on the sliding unit with the cylinder passing through the rim, the display plate being rested on the recess, and the guide protrusions being engaged with the cavities; and a biasing member retained on the cylinder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2013
    Assignee: Valentine International Ltd.
    Inventor: Johnny J. T. Chiu
  • Patent number: 8396628
    Abstract: A power on-demand steering angle sensor coupled to a steering wheel and a controller comprising a switch, coupled to the sensor and the controller. The switch is activated upon motion of the steering wheel or steering shaft. The switch, when closed, connects a power supply, such as a vehicle battery, to the sensor and the controller so that a new steering angle may be sensed and stored. After a predetermined period of time, the controller sends a signal to open the switch and disconnect the power supply.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2013
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies
    Inventors: Erick Lavoie, Brad Hochrein
  • Patent number: 8336407
    Abstract: An adapter assembly that works with a standard utility meter to wirelessly transmit data about consumption. The adapter assembly generates information about consumption by cooperating with a pointer of an index of a utility meter. In some embodiments, the adapter assembly includes an upper portion and a clip that interface together. The upper portion and the clip are configured to maintain alignment with the pointer and not create stress on the index.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2012
    Assignee: Landis+Gyr Innovations, Inc.
    Inventors: Louay Ibrahim Abdul-Hadi, Nathan Edward Woody
  • Publication number: 20120310599
    Abstract: A first collecting device is connected to a first network to which a first sensor is connected, and to an external network. A second collecting device is connected to a second network to which a plurality of second sensors for measuring a second amount of observation are connected, and to the external network, and collects second sensor data. When the first collecting device cannot collect first sensor data through the first network, an adapter transfers the first sensor data to the second collecting device through the second network, and transmits the first sensor data to the first collecting device from the second collecting device through the external network.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 16, 2012
    Publication date: December 6, 2012
    Applicant: FUJITSU LIMITED
    Inventors: Kyoko TANAKA, Akira Imahase, Kei Hamada
  • Patent number: 8322237
    Abstract: A bearing device for coupling a position indication device to an apparatus for measuring a position of the apparatus is described. The apparatus includes a first connecting member. The bearing device includes a bearing housing including a first opening defined therein configured to receive the first connecting member and a second opening defined therein configured to receive at least a portion of the position indication device. The bearing device also includes a grommet configured for positioning within the first opening and for positioning around the first connecting member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2012
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Brent Allan Dietrich, Peter Damion Bells, Ivan James Hansen, Paul Nathan Manzano
  • Patent number: 8322236
    Abstract: A measuring apparatus having a measurement voltage input with at least one input contact for an input voltage of a measuring element and a method for detecting moisture on the measurement voltage input of such a measuring apparatus are provided, wherein the measuring apparatus includes a supplemental voltage source, which delivers at least one supplemental voltage and is connected with a supplemental contact arranged in the region of the at least one input contact.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2012
    Assignee: Endress + Hauser Conducta Gesellschaft für Mess-und Regeltechnik mbH + Co. KG
    Inventors: Herman Straub, Martin Lohmann, Stephan Buschnakowski, Jorg Uhle
  • Publication number: 20120297889
    Abstract: Improved apparatuses and methods for testing turf or other surfaces, in one embodiment, a turf testing apparatus includes two actuators for moving a shoe relative to a turf surface. The first actuator moves the shoe along a substantially horizontal axis and the second actuator moves the shoe along a substantially vertical axis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 24, 2012
    Publication date: November 29, 2012
    Applicant: TEXTILE MANAGEMENT ASSOCIATES, INC.
    Inventor: Paul W. Yngve
  • Publication number: 20120227496
    Abstract: A method for the manufacture of a measuring device, and a measuring device for registering at least one measured value of at least one process variable, wherein the measuring device includes a measuring tube, which has at least one necked out portion, on which at least one measuring transducer is arranged, wherein the measuring tube together with the necked out portion is monolithic, and wherein the necked out portion is manufacturable from the measuring tube at least partially by a deformation method.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 14, 2010
    Publication date: September 13, 2012
    Applicant: Endress + Hauser Flowtec AG
    Inventors: Andreas Berger, Michal Bezdek, Arno Lang
  • Publication number: 20120227518
    Abstract: An adapter assembly that works with a standard utility meter to wirelessly transmit data about consumption. The adapter assembly generates information about consumption by cooperating with a pointer of an index of a utility meter. In some embodiments, the adapter assembly includes an upper portion and a clip that interface together. The upper portion and the clip are configured to maintain alignment with the pointer and not create stress on the index.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 8, 2011
    Publication date: September 13, 2012
    Applicant: Cellnet Innovations, Inc.
    Inventors: Louay Ibrahim Abdul-Hadi, Nathan Edward Woody
  • Patent number: 8229057
    Abstract: An embodiment of the invention relates to a sampling circuit comprising at least one clock, a reference trace, a sensor trace adapted to be connected to a sensing element, and a device to measure a length of delay between a reference signal transmission time of a reference signal transmitting through the reference trace and a sensed signal transmission time of a sensed signal transmitting through the sensor trace, wherein the length of delay is determined by counting the number of burst tones occurring during the length of delay.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2012
    Assignee: Intel-GE Care Innovations LLC
    Inventors: Terry Dishongh, Fergal Tuffy, Benjamin Kuris
  • Patent number: 8176803
    Abstract: The present invention is a sensor interface or network of interfaces that utilizes high-temperature electronics to operate at elevated temperatures for applications that include but are not limited to aircraft and automobile engines, vehicle frames, refineries, nuclear and chemical production plants, and in downhole drilling for petroleum and natural gas. The interface or network provide connectors for a variety of sensors with analog and digital outputs, and can in turn provide data to an automated electronic control system or a monitor. Because the sensor interface may be placed in so-called “hot zones” nearer to the sensors being monitored than other systems that use conventional electronics, the sensor interface can increase noise immunity, increase reliability, decrease cost, reduce weight, and increase space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2012
    Assignee: Orbital Research Inc.
    Inventors: Michael Willett, Greg S. Shaw
  • Patent number: 8079278
    Abstract: An end-effector is provided for use on a micro/nano manipulation device. The end-effector is comprised of: a micropump fluidly coupled to a microtube; a piezoelectric sensing structure disposed in the microtube; and a processing circuit electrically coupled to the sensing structure for determining the force of the fluid flowing through the microtube. The end-effector is a closed loop control-enabled micro/nano manipulation system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 20, 2011
    Assignee: Board of Trustees of Michigan State University
    Inventors: Ning Xi, Uchechukwu Wejinya, Yantao Shen
  • Publication number: 20110283821
    Abstract: A sensor system utilizing flexible electronics for on-line real-time high-sensitivity sampling, monitoring, and analysis of a parameter or analyte of interest in a fluid or in or on a solid is provided. The flexible substrate sensor system comprises a plurality of sensors, a flexible substrate, a network, and a connection between the sensors and the network, wherein the network reads out or collects information from the sensors. The network can be onboard, connected by via a physical connection to the sensors and the flexible substrate, or external to the sensors and flexible substrate, connected via a telemetric or wireless connection to the sensors. The flexible substrate sensor system can be deployed in systems that conduct or distribute fluids or solids, such as distribution systems (municipal water systems, oil or gas pipeline systems), industrial systems (production facilities, piping, and storage systems), and large structures (dams, bridges, walkways, buildings).
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 19, 2007
    Publication date: November 24, 2011
    Inventors: Christopher Kemper Ober, Thomas Denis O'rourke, Michael G. Spencer, James N. Turner, Stephen B. Wicker
  • Patent number: 8033190
    Abstract: A measuring device incorporating a substrate with sensors that measure the processing conditions that a wafer may undergo during manufacturing. The substrate can be inserted into a processing chamber by a robot head and the measuring device can transmit the conditions in real time or store the conditions for subsequent analysis. Sensitive electronic components of the device can be distanced or isolated from the most deleterious processing conditions in order increase the accuracy, operating range, and reliability of the device. Isolation may be provided by vacuum or suitable material and phase change material may be located adjacent to electronics to maintain a low temperature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2011
    Assignee: KLA-Tencor Technologies Corporation
    Inventors: Wayne G. Renken, Mei H. Sun
  • Patent number: 7900527
    Abstract: An electrically-induced deflective amplification sensor as an actively controlled and reconfigurable nanomechanical sensor for the detection and recognition of chemicals, biomolecules, and gaseous molecules. The electrically-induced deflective amplification sensors use electric fields to control the bending of transducers, have adjustable sensitivities that depend on electric field strength, and reconfigurable operation ranges for the detection of target molecules at ultra-low and ultra-high concentrations. The sensors are highly integrated, sensitive, provide real-time detection ability, and do not require labels. The electrically-induced deflective amplification transducers can be reconfigured to identify molecules in spectroscopy. A new type of electrophoresis is established using nanostructured transducers. The E-IDEA is applicable to optical fiber, nanomechanical cantilever, waveguide and nanowire or nanotube tranducers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2011
    Assignee: University of Central Florida Research Foundation, Inc.
    Inventor: Ming Su
  • Patent number: 7895894
    Abstract: A driver device includes a gain control amplifier that causes a vibrator to produce driving vibrations by controlling an oscillation amplitude in an oscillation loop, a signal generation circuit that generates a signal having a given frequency, and a modulation circuit that modulates the frequency of the signal generated by the signal generation circuit to a resonance frequency of the vibrator. The driver device causes the vibrator to produce the driving vibrations using the signal modulated by the modulation circuit, and then causes the vibrator to produce the driving vibrations by controlling the oscillation amplitude in the oscillation loop formed by the vibrator and the gain control amplifier.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2011
    Assignee: Seiko Epson Corporation
    Inventors: Masahiro Kanai, Naoki Yoshida, Eitaro Otsuka
  • Publication number: 20100319470
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for manufacturing a housing-less sensor, in particular a proximity sensor. Here it is proposed to build all of the components needed for the mechanical and electrical functions on one sensor chassis and then to inject a plastic compound around the components.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 16, 2010
    Publication date: December 23, 2010
    Applicant: BAUMER INNOTEC AG
    Inventors: Wolfgang Wehrle, Alexander Juergens
  • Patent number: 7849746
    Abstract: A driver device that forms an oscillation loop with a vibrator and causes the vibrator to produce driving vibrations includes a current-voltage converter that is provided in the oscillation loop and converts a current that flows through the vibrator into a voltage, and a GCA as a comparator that is provided in the oscillation loop and outputs a signal corresponding to a comparison result between an output from the current-voltage converter and a given voltage. The GCA outputs a first high-level voltage or a low-level voltage during oscillation startup, and outputs a second high-level voltage or the low-level voltage in a steady oscillation state. The first high-level voltage is a voltage higher in potential than the second high-level voltage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2010
    Assignee: Seiko Epson Corporation
    Inventors: Masahiro Kanai, Naoki Yoshida, Eitaro Otsuka
  • Patent number: 7819033
    Abstract: A measuring device incorporating a substrate with sensors that measure the processing conditions that a wafer may undergo during manufacturing. The substrate can be inserted into a processing chamber by a robot head and the measuring device can transmit the conditions in real time or store the conditions for subsequent analysis. Sensitive electronic components of the device can be distanced or isolated from the most deleterious processing conditions in order increase the accuracy, operating range, and reliability of the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 26, 2010
    Inventor: Wayne G. Renken
  • Patent number: 7798025
    Abstract: A sensor circuit has a first input terminal, a second input terminal and an output terminal, a capacitive sensor connected between the first input terminal and the output terminal, a field-effect transistor coupled to the output terminal at one of a source and a drain terminal and coupled to the second input terminal at the other one of the source and drain terminals, and a driver implemented to set a potential at a control terminal of the field-effect transistor such that in sensor operation the field-effect transistor is operated in a sub-threshold voltage range.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2010
    Assignee: Infineon Technologies AG
    Inventors: Olaf Roesch, Ralf Schledz
  • Publication number: 20100180701
    Abstract: A sensing device has at least two remote units mounted on an attachable tape, the remote units being mounted on separate branches of the attachable tape, a controller mounted on the attachable tape, electrical connections at least between each remote unit and the controller, the electrical connections on the attachable tape, and a surface to which the tape is attached such that the branches are separated from each other. A method of manufacturing a sensing device, including providing an attachable substrate, and fabricating electronic devices on the substrate, the electronic devices including at least two remote units, a controller and electrical connections between the remote units and the controller, and arranging the electronic devices such that at least two remote units are separated from each other.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 19, 2009
    Publication date: July 22, 2010
    Applicant: PALO ALTO RESEARCH CENTER INCORPORATED
    Inventors: Jurgen H. Daniel, Sanjiv Sambandan