Abstract: Provided, is an apparatus and method for sampling or otherwise processing an alternating wave. A sensor senses a value of the alternating wave at a plurality of equally-spaced times during a period of the alternating wave. These equally-spaced times are determined independent of at least one of a frequency and a phase of the alternating wave. A controller determines, independently of the frequency and the phase of the alternating wave, a desired value of the alternating wave pertinent to a predetermined application of the apparatus based on the value of the alternating wave sensed by the sensor.

Abstract: A microelectromechanical system (MEMS) device is used to transfer power from a source generator to a power generator that delivers electrical power to a load, while maintaining electrical isolation between the source generator and power generator for size critical applications where transformers or coupling capacitors would not be practical, but where electrical isolation is desired.

Abstract: Systems and methods are disclosed that facilitate determining coil temperature in a proximity sensor, such as an extended range inductive proximity sensor. Voltage measurements can be taken before, and during, damped oscillatory decay of a voltage in a resonant circuit in the proximity sensor to determine a value, ?, associated with an inductive time constant for the resonant circuit. The gamma value comprises information related to both inductance and resistance in the sensor coil, and can be employed to determine coil temperature. Derivation of the gamma value, and thus of coil temperature, can utilize a current pulse of a duration of approximately one RC time constant of the resonant circuit, thus mitigating current consumption by the proximity sensor during temperature assessment.

Abstract: Systems and methods are disclosed that compensate for temperature drift in a proximity sensor, such as an extended range inductive proximity sensor. Voltage measurement can be taken before, and during damped oscillatory decay of a voltage in a resonant circuit in the proximity sensor to determine a value, ?, associated with an inductive time constant for the resonant circuit. A target-induced inductance value can be isolated, via manipulation of the gamma value, and compared to a predetermined threshold value to determine whether the target has been sensed by the proximity sensor.

Abstract: A microelectromechanical system (MEMS) strain gauge includes at least one flexible arm that can be caused to oscillate. Transverse strain on the arm changes the resonant frequency of the arm. A detector communicating with the flexible arm may detect the frequency of oscillation to provide, an indication of the transverse strain of the substrate.

Abstract: Microelectromechanical (MEMS) switches are used to implement a flying capacitor circuit transferring of electrical power while preserving electrical isolation for size critical applications where transformers or coupling capacitors would not be practical. In one embodiment, the invention may be used to provide input circuits that present a programmable input impedance. The circuit may be modified to provide for power regulation.

Abstract: Microelectromechanical (MEMS) switches are used to implement a flying capacitor circuit transferring of electrical power while preserving electrical isolation for size critical applications where transformers or coupling capacitors would not be practical. In one embodiment, the invention may be used to provide input circuits that present a programmable input impedance. The circuit may be modified to provide for power regulation.

Abstract: A power application circuit utilizes microelectromechanical (MEM) switches to reduce power loss in energy conversion equipment. The MEM switches can be integrated on a single substrate with a diode or semiconductor switch. The MEM switches can be included in a single circuit package with another semiconductor device and may include a control circuit which turns each MEM switch on or off. The MEM switch is controlled so that it is opened and closed only when a relatively low voltage drop occurs across the switch. The MEM switch can be utilized in AC to AC converters, DC to AC converters, AC to DC converters, matrix converters, motor controllers, resonant motor controllers, or other power application devices. The MEM switch can also be included in a single package with an IGBT which is optimized for low-switching losses. It can be included in a single package with a diode to reduce conduction loss in power diode bridges.

Abstract: Digital sinusoidal waves are generated using a method based on an error measuring algorithm used to generate a synthesized circle. X and Y waves are generated step-wise to follow the contour of a reference circle in the x-y plane by computing the mean square error at each step and using the error value to calculate the next values of X and Y. The digital sine waves are converted to three-phase, pulse width modulated signals. Direct current power is inverted to three phase power to operate a motor under the control of the PWM signals. The controller permits control of voltage, voltage-frequency ratio, boost voltage, and acceleration-deceleration.

Abstract: A new form of proximity sensor is described which enables sensing of magnetic and/or metallic objects over an extended region of space. The time-varying magnetic field necessary for proximity sensing is provided by a strain wave propagating at acoustic velocity in a waveguide composed of magnetized magnetostrictive material. The propagating strain wave carries with it a disturbance in the magnetic field in the region of the waveguide. A single, elongated sensing coil is located in the same plane as the acoustic waveguide and senses changes in the flux passing through the coil when magnetic and/or metallic objects or targets are present near the waveguide. The spatial location of the targets along the length of the proximity sensor can be determined by measuring the time interval from the initial application of the strain wave until the signal corresponding to the target is induced in the sensing coil. Multiple objects can be sensed by measuring the time interval for each signal.

Abstract: A two-terminal overcurrent sensing transistor circuit of the fold-back type is inserted in electrical series relationship with an AC load and an associated load-energizing, solid state, semiconductor switch. Under normal operating conditions, the transistor circuit presents a very low impedance to permit load energization when the solid state switch is conducting, and hence has a very low impedance. Upon sensing an overcurrent condition, caused for example by a short circuit across the load, the transistor circuit rapidly switches to and locks into a high impedance circuit protection state to limit current through the series-associated solid state switch. A charged capacitor holds the transistor circuit into its high impedance state subsequent to clearing of the short circuit fault until reset by interrupting the application of power to it. The disclosed protection scheme finds particularly advantageous use in the short circuit protection of AC line-operated proximity switches.