Abstract: A method for ascertaining a mains frequency from a voltage signal which has a particularly high proportion of harmonics includes stipulating a sample frequency for a sample collection, polling a voltage signal at equidistant times during periods of the sample oscillation. A discrete Fourier transform may be used to calculate two phases, and a phase interval between these two phases is used to infer the mains frequency.

Abstract: A microprocessor-based control system is provided that comprises a plurality of latching relays, at least some of which may be connected in parallel. A momentary application of voltage of a first polarity or a second polarity to the coil causes the latching relay contacts to switch and remain in an open or closed state respectively. An individual relay driver circuit is provided for a corresponding latching relay or set of latching relays, and has a first and second switch that respectively apply a voltage or a ground connection to a first end of each coil corresponding to the individual relay driver. The control system includes a common relay driver connected to at least one of the latching relays for each relay drive circuit, and has a first and second switch that respectively apply a voltage or a ground connection to the second end of the latching relay coils connected to the common relay driver circuit.

Abstract: A display controller includes a frame memory, an interrupt output cycle setting register, and an interrupt signal generation section. The frame memory stores the display data for at least one vertical scan period, the display data being supplied from a host. An output cycle of an interrupt signal to be output to the host is set in units of one vertical scan period in the interrupt output cycle setting register. The interrupt signal generation section outputs an interrupt signal having pulses in the output cycle set in the interrupt output cycle setting register to the host as the interrupt signal. The display controller stores the display data supplied from the host corresponding to the interrupt signal in the frame memory, reads the display data from the frame memory in a predetermined read cycle, and supplies the display data to the data driver.

Abstract: An automotive hands-free apparatus, connectable via wireless connection with a portable phone, has the capability of temporarily disconnecting a wireless communication line to this portable phone in response to a user's input instructing disconnection of the communication line to this portable phone.

Abstract: A clamp assembly for mounting a tonneau cover on a motor vehicle having a cargo area defined by first and second side walls, an end wall and a tailgate, the side walls having an inner panel and an outer panel includes a fastener, a first coupler plate and a bracket. The first coupler plate has a first end and a second end. The first coupler plate is articulable from an operable position to a disengaged position. The bracket has a generally horizontal rail and a vertical rail. The bracket is adapted for contacting the outer panel of the first side wall and further has a seat pivotally retaining the first end of the first coupler plate. The second end of the first coupler plate is adapted for engaging the inner panel of the first side wall defining a first restraining area between the horizontal rail and the second end of the first coupler plate. A second restraining area between the vertical rail and the second end of the first coupler plate is also defined.

Abstract: A scroll type compressor has both a high pressure lubricant sump and a low pressure lubricant sump. Lubricant from the low pressure lubricant sump is supplied to the various bearings, thrust surfaces and other moving components of the compressor. It is then rested in such a way that it can absorb heat from the motor windings thus maintaining the operating temperature of the motor. Lubricant from the high pressure sump is supplied to the moving compression chambers defined by the scrolls at a point intermediate suction and discharge. The lubricant supplied from the high pressure sump is first cooled and then used to cool the low pressure sump prior to being supplied to the moving compression chambers. The compressed gas is routed through two lubricant separators and a gas cooler prior to being supplied for its intended use.

Abstract: A thermal control circuit (49) for inexpensively protecting the power interface of cordless and dual-mode powered devices (12), such as hand-held power tools and appliances. The powered device includes a motor (11) that is operable in a preselected voltage range. A switch assembly (110) controls the flow of electrical energy to the motor (11). A power module (14, 16) is configured to supply electric power and to mate with the low-voltage DC power tool (12). The power module (14, 16) is adapted to provide a DC voltage in the preselected voltage range suitable for powering the low-voltage DC power tool (12). A case (91) for the power tool (12) has a pre-defined envelope for electrically and mechanically mating with the power module (14, 16). A power interface that includes at least two terminals, electrically couples the power module (14, 16) to the motor (11). The thermal control circuit (49) protects the power interface from damage caused by an overtemperature level.