Abstract: Methods of monitoring items and/or materials from a manufacturing process. One embodiment of the invention provides a method of monitoring items and/or materials from a manufacturing process using a plurality of RFID tagged containers, and a plurality of stations associated with different portions of the manufacturing process, where each station includes an RFID reader.

Abstract: Sheet dispensers, which provide feedback to a user or provide a unique function to a user, are disclosed. Visual, audio, aromatic, or other types of feedback may be provided to a user by the sheet dispenser. Sheet dispensers suitable for use as a switch, a room deodorizer, a flame-generating device, or a combination thereof are disclosed. A method of activating a switch-controlled object is also disclosed. Further, a method of making sheet dispensers is also disclosed.

Abstract: The invention provides a novel capacitive device configured to detect differences in an applied force over a continuous range of applied force that includes zero force. The device includes first and second electrodes that are spaced apart a predetermined distance from each other in a rest position. A measurable capacitance exists between the first and second electrodes. Structured elements having a predetermined maximum dimension are positioned in the device to control the predetermined distance between the first and second electrodes. An applied force to the device causes a change in the distance between the first and second electrodes and a related change in the capacitance that can be measured to determine information related to the applied force.

Abstract: Sheet dispensers, which provide feedback to a user or provide a unique function to a user, are disclosed. Visual, audio, aromatic, or other types of feedback may be provided to a user by the sheet dispenser. Sheet dispensers suitable for use as a switch, a room deodorizer, a flame-generating device, or a combination thereof are disclosed. A method of activating a switch-controlled object is also disclosed. Further, a method of making sheet dispensers is also disclosed.

Abstract: The invention provides a novel capacitive device configured to detect differences in an applied force over a continuous range of applied force that includes zero force. The device includes first and second electrodes that are spaced apart a predetermined distance from each other in a rest position. A measurable capacitance exists between the first and second electrodes. Structured elements having a predetermined maximum dimension are positioned in the device to control the predetermined distance between the first and second electrodes. An applied force to the device causes a change in the distance between the first and second electrodes and a related change in the capacitance that can be measured to determine information related to the applied force.

Abstract: Sheet dispensers, which provide feedback to a user or provide a unique function to a user, are disclosed. Visual, audio, aromatic, or other types of feedback may be provided to a user by the sheet dispenser. Sheet dispensers suitable for use as a switch, a room deodorizer, a flame-generating device, or a combination thereof are disclosed. A method of activating a switch-controlled object is also disclosed. Further, a method of making sheet dispensers is also disclosed.

Abstract: A normally latched MEMS device and a method of making a normally latched MEMS device. The MEMS device includes a first discrete MEMS structure with an operational surface having an outer boundary. A second discrete MEMS structure in a neutral position includes an operational surface engaged with the first discrete MEMS structure. An actuator is provided to displace the second discrete MEMS structure from the engaged position to a disengaged position outside of the outer boundary.

Abstract: A system for classifying vehicles based on the sound waved produced by the vehicles receives analog sound pressure levels and converts them to a power spectrum. Fuzzification functions, such as asymmetric wedge shaped functions, are convoluted with the power spectrum to create a vector that characterizes the power spectrum while reducing the dimensionality of the characterizing vector. A neural network analyzes the characterizing vector and produces a classification designator indicative of the class of the object associated with the analog sound pressure levels received by the system.

Abstract: An adjustable write-equalized recording circuit for recording data onto a magnetic tape. The circuit variably adjusts the amplitude of write-equalization pulses relative to the data waveform by an amount that can be either preset or determined during operation.

Abstract: A pyrotechnic release mechanism is actuated by an electrical signal from a remote telemetry actuator such as a radio transmitter to cause two normally connected parts to separate. When used as shown with an animal collar mounted data acquisition system, the two parts can be separated to release the collar. If desired, a separate data storage device can be released to permit stored data to be recovered. The device comprises two parts with interfitting members normally held in position with a coupling pin. A pyrotechnic device is positioned behind the pin, and upon firing, the pin is moved sufficiently to clear one of the members at least, so that the two members will then separate. The device can be used to permit remotely controlled recovery of a part that is normally mounted together and which are to be separated.

Abstract: An activity sensor which provides an indication of motion caused by changes in acceleration of a person or animal, and wherein such changes of motion are sensed by a movable magnet which is biased to a rest position along a guide. The axis of the path of movement of the movable magnet is substantially parallel to the direction of accelerations of interest. A Hall effect sensor is provided for sensing motions of the movable magnet from its rest position, and it provides an output proportional to these movements.