Abstract: Embodiments include methods and apparatus for detecting a phase angle between an incident signal and a reflected signal. The apparatus comprises a plurality of phase shifters and additional circuitry. The plurality of phase shifters is adapted to apply first phase shifts to a representation of the incident signal and to apply second phase shifts to a representation of the reflected signal. The additional circuitry, which is operatively coupled to the plurality of phase shifters, is adapted to produce a first indication of a location of a relative phase difference between the incident signal and the reflected signal within a first region of a first reference circle, and to produce a second indication of the location of the relative phase difference within a second region of a second reference circle, wherein the second reference circle is rotated with respect to the first reference circle.

Abstract: A toy is provided that includes a body portion configured for attachment to a moveable object. An action portion is configured for temporary attachment to the body portion. An energy storage mechanism is attached to the action portion and is configured for storing energy in response to movement of the moveable object. A selectively operable portion of the toy is attached to the action portion, coupled to the energy storage mechanism and configured to be selectively operable when the action portion is disconnected from the body portion.