Patents Issued in February 20, 2001
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Patent number: 6191677Abstract: The invention relates to an coil former and at least one wire winding arranged on the coil former, the coil former (1) having a cylindrical sleeve (1a) whose cylinder axis runs parallel to the winding axis (A—A) of the at least wire winding, and at least two side walls (1b, 1c) arranged perpendicularly to the winding axis (A—A), and the cylindrical sleeve (1a) and the side walls (1b, 1c) forming at least one winding space for the at least one wire winding (2, 3). According to the invention, the at least two side walls (1b, 1c) each have at least one shoulder (1d, 1e), which subdivide the at least one winding space into a non-constricted first region (B1) and into at least one constricted second region (B2). In addition, the inductance element has electrical insulation (5), which bears on the at least one shoulder (1d, 1e) of the side walls (1b, 1c) and separates the non-constricted first region (B1) from the at least one constricted second region (B2).Type: GrantFiled: June 30, 1999Date of Patent: February 20, 2001Assignee: Patent-Treuhand-Gesellschaft fuer elktrische Gluehlampen mbHInventors: Bernhard Orben, Richard Koeppl, Rene Twardzik, Jerzy Cierpinski, Olaf Busse, Martin Grabner, Thomas Eckhard, Cristian Bahr
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Patent number: 6191678Abstract: A fuse includes a housing having first and second ends and an outer diameter of about 3 mm. The fuse further includes a nonconductive core arranged inside the housing and a fuse element wound spirally around the nonconductive core. An end cap is mounted on each of the first and second ends of the housing and each end of the fuse element is connected to a respective end cap. The fuse is rated at approximately 350 mA and 600 volts direct current and can withstand 100 pulses of 14 peak amps on {fraction (10/1000)} wave form without damage. The fuse element is wound on the nonconductive core at about 120 to 150 turns per inch, and the fuse element is a Cu/Ag wire having a diameter of about 0.002 inches.Type: GrantFiled: September 24, 1997Date of Patent: February 20, 2001Assignee: Cooper Industries, Inc.Inventor: Carl H. Edwards
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Patent number: 6191679Abstract: A thermal switch having a current carrying switch blade actuator of shape memory metal has a resistance less than 20 milliohms and a contact force greater than 150 grams. The actuator is deformed to less than about 8% strain, and a very hard high strength dielectric material is used for a spacer.Type: GrantFiled: November 2, 1998Date of Patent: February 20, 2001Assignee: Thermo-O-Disc, IncorporatedInventors: James B. Kalapodis, William F. Quinn
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Patent number: 6191680Abstract: A switch (10′) has one first and at least one second external terminal (11, 14) as well as a temperature-dependent switching mechanism (19) that makes, as a function of its temperature, an electrically conductive connection between the two external terminals (11, 14) for an electrical current to be conducted through the switch. The switching mechanism (19) has a switching member (22) which changes its geometrical shape between a closed position and an open position as a function of temperature and, in its closed position, carries the current flowing through the switch (10′). The switching mechanism (19) further has a spring element (21) which is permanently connected electrically and mechanically in series with the switching member (22). When a given safety temperature is exceeded for the first time, a safety element (37) keeps the switch in its open condition, irrespective of its subsequent temperature.Type: GrantFiled: February 10, 1999Date of Patent: February 20, 2001Inventor: Marcel Hofsäss
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Patent number: 6191681Abstract: A current limiting device utilizes an electrically conductive composite material and an inhomogeneous distribution of resistance structure. The electrically conductive composite material comprises an organic binder portion comprising a high Tg epoxy and a low viscosity polyglycol epoxy; at least one epoxy curing agent; and a conductive powder.Type: GrantFiled: July 21, 1997Date of Patent: February 20, 2001Assignee: General Electric CompanyInventors: Herbert Stanley Cole, Theresa Ann Sitnik-Nieters, Anil Raj Duggal
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Patent number: 6191682Abstract: A keyless entry system and sensor for unlocking the door locks of a vehicle. The sensor, preferably in the form of a piezoelectric crystal, is secured at a discrete location to an inner concealed surface of a body panel of the vehicle and electrically connected to an electronic signal processing module having an output relay. The output relay is electrically connected with the power control relay of the door lock, the sensor being structured to afford entry into a locked vehicle by sharply tapping the outer surface of the body panel at the exact location and limited area where the concealed sensor has been discretely secured. The system and sensor thus provides access to a vehicle that does not require the owner to carry a battery powered transmitter or rely on memorizing a numerical code.Type: GrantFiled: March 9, 1998Date of Patent: February 20, 2001Inventor: Carl L. Wolfgang
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Patent number: 6191683Abstract: Disclosed is a system and method to compare logical values. The system employs a field programmable gate array (FPGA) configured for comparing logical values. The FPGA includes a number of inputs to receive an N-bit sampled value from a target system, where N defines the number of bits in the N-bit sampled value. The FPGA also includes a number of lookup tables configured to receive an M-bit portion of the N-bit sampled value. These lookup tables generate a lookup table output in response to the M-bit portion. Finally, an AND operation is performed on the outputs of the lookup tables that generates an output indicating whether the particular N-bit logical value matches a particular desired value. Note that a single AND gate may be used or a number of AND gates may be used in place of the single AND gate. The tables within the lookup tables are generated based upon a desired logical value and a comparison mask value.Type: GrantFiled: August 31, 1999Date of Patent: February 20, 2001Assignee: Agilent Technologies, Inc.Inventor: Richard A. Nygaard, Jr.
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Patent number: 6191684Abstract: Remote supply circuitry for remotely supplying a subscriber connections in a communications system wherein subscribers can be connected to a central point via subscriber lines. Subscriber supply voltage or power supply is provided for each subscriber via a supply voltage source assigned to the subscriber and at least one supply isolating element wich is connected in series with the subscriber and associated subscriber line. The supply voltage source assigned to the subscriber supplies an output voltage which is controllable as a function of a measurable variable.Type: GrantFiled: June 14, 1999Date of Patent: February 20, 2001Assignee: Ericsson Austria AGInventors: Günther Stadlbauer, Robert Steininger
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Patent number: 6191685Abstract: Embodiments of an alarm system are described, which may be mounted or built-in to a bicycle or other device which is in need of anti-theft protection. A loud alarm is connected to or mounted in the protected device, and is operatively connected to either or both: a lock that anchors the device to a stationary object, and/or parts of the protected device that might be stolen or vandalized. The alarm unit is built and wired in such a way that the lock or parts of the protected device may not be significantly tampered with or removed without triggering the alarm. For example, the alarm system is adapted to sound if a bicycle lock is tampered with or if sensors transmit that a bicycle part is being moved or tampered with. Externally-mounted alarm units preferably include a weather-proof casing, which contains a unique clamping feature that makes the alarm tamper-resistant or tamper-proof.Type: GrantFiled: February 11, 1999Date of Patent: February 20, 2001Inventors: Vickie Theofanous, Paul Tikkanen
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Patent number: 6191686Abstract: This application of a law in physics discloses relatively uncomplicated techniques for reducing the impact of auto collisions on our highways by providing aid to the motorist in slowing down his vehicle in time to avoid a hard collision, if such is to occur. The vehicle slows down from the blasts of high pressure air emitted from air valves in the auto's front end, producing a reaction of slowing down the vehicle. The blasts of air also aid in pushing the other vehicle out of the way so that the impact if any, would be less severe. The air valves in the auto's front end can be remotely swivable, servo driven, enabling the motorist to direct the air blasts in the direction of the menacing vehicle. The air blasts can be produced automatically from a simple calculation, providing the time in seconds for a collision to occur. If the time is less than a predetermined set value, then the air blasts are automatically turned on.Type: GrantFiled: September 27, 1999Date of Patent: February 20, 2001Inventor: Edwin Z. Gabriel
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Patent number: 6191687Abstract: A Wiegand sensor is provided as a power source for an external circuit, wherein an alternating magnetic field changes the magnetic state of a Wiegand wire within the Wiegand sensor which, in turn, produces a substantial output pulse that is provided as a power source for the external circuit. The external circuit may be a transmitter that is powered by the output of the Wiegand sensor and upon being powered transmits an information signal to an appropriate receiver. The number of occurrences that the magnetic field alternates corresponds to and is ascertained from the number of information signals that are transmitted. The alternating magnetic field may be generated by magnets coupled to a rotating valve of a gas or water meter such that the occurrence of each transmission of the information signal represents the flow of a predetermined amount of gas or water through the meter.Type: GrantFiled: September 24, 1998Date of Patent: February 20, 2001Assignee: HID CorporationInventors: David J. Dlugos, Don Small, David A. Siefer
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Patent number: 6191688Abstract: A method for determining if a motion detector is in a masked condition at the time power is applied to the detector. When power is first applied to the motion detector it enters a mask detection state which runs concurrently with activity and alarm detection routines. Any infrared motion that is detected after the detector has warmed up and stabilized will terminate the mask detection state. If a predetermined amount of microwave Doppler sensor activity is detected within the field of view without detection of infrared activity, a mask condition is declared.Type: GrantFiled: March 22, 1999Date of Patent: February 20, 2001Assignee: Honeywell International, Inc.Inventor: William T. Sprouse
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Patent number: 6191689Abstract: The present invention relates to a detection device comprising means (3) able to measure the value of a parameter, said device (1) being able to deliver values lying within a first measurement range which is limited at least by a first limit value. According to the invention, this device (1) furthermore comprises means (5) for modifying before delivery thereof any measured value so as to deliver a corresponding value which is defined in a second measurement range, said second measurement range being limited by at least a first limitation value which is different from said first limit value and which forms part of said first measurement range.Type: GrantFiled: May 17, 1999Date of Patent: February 20, 2001Assignee: EurocopterInventor: Serge Alexandre Marc Germanetti
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Patent number: 6191690Abstract: The distance between a cash cassette and the person who is handling the cassette is measured automatically in case that there is a risk that a cash cassette may be stolen during a burglary. When the distance equals or exceeds a predetermined distance, it is concluded that a burglary has occurred, and various burglary alarm devices are activated. Accordingly, even when only one person performs a cash cassette exchange at a location which is easily accessible to other people, the commission of a crime can be immediately detected, so that the theft of a cash cassette during a burglary can be prevented. Therefore, the number of persons required for a cash cassette exchange can be reduced, which results to a reduction of operating costs. Further, since extra space is not required for a cash cassette exchange, restriction of a choice of an installation location for an automatic transaction apparatus can be considerably reduced.Type: GrantFiled: March 31, 2000Date of Patent: February 20, 2001Assignee: Fujitsu LimitedInventor: Satoshi Mukogawa
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Patent number: 6191691Abstract: A bin for collecting refuse, the bin comprising a container having a transponder secured thereto by fixing means. The fixing means are arranged to come into direct contact with the transponder.Type: GrantFiled: October 8, 1999Date of Patent: February 20, 2001Assignee: Compagnie Plastic OmniumInventor: Jean-Pierre Serrault
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Patent number: 6191692Abstract: The invention relates to a theft-deterrent device intended to be attached to and locked on theft-attractive goods and constructed to co-act with a release device (14) for releasing the theft-deterrent device from said goods (12). The theft-deterrent device includes a first element (2) comprising a base element (4) and a connecting element (6) which projects out from the base element and is intended to be inserted through said goods, and a locking element (8) which is intended to be attached to and locked on said connecting element such as to prevent movement in a direction away from the base element and therewith to hold the anti-theft device securely on said goods. The locking element (8) can be released from the connecting element (6) by means of a temperature-dependent change in form of a release-part (66) provided in the locking element (8) and comprised of a material that has memory properties. The invention also relates to a locking element and to a release device for a theft-deterrent device.Type: GrantFiled: March 23, 1999Date of Patent: February 20, 2001Assignee: Färgklämman ABInventors: Klas Stoltz, Bo Gustavsson
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Patent number: 6191693Abstract: An animal deterrent system for protecting a specific area. The animal deterrent system includes an infrared detection system for determining when an animal enters the protected area and an electromagnetic field (EMF) generator for communicating with a stimulus delivery system disposed on a collar worn by the pet. The stimulus delivery system produces a non-lethal electrostatic shock which encourages the pet to leave the protected area.Type: GrantFiled: March 7, 2000Date of Patent: February 20, 2001Assignee: Radio Systems CorporationInventor: Rungwit Sangsingkeow
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Patent number: 6191694Abstract: This invention provides oxygen-enriched air to the passenger compartment of wheeled vehicles to reduce drowsiness of drivers of wheeled vehicles so as to reduce the number of accidents caused by drowsy drivers. The invention also makes drivers and passengers in wheeled vehicles more alert and feel better by increasing the percentage of oxygen in the passenger compartments of wheeled vehicles to a beneficial and safe level.Type: GrantFiled: January 27, 2000Date of Patent: February 20, 2001Inventor: David W. Brownlee
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Patent number: 6191695Abstract: A gas station is disclosed which contains one or more fueling units; an electromagnetic-wave sensor for detecting electromagnetic waves which are unwanted in fueling operation; and one or more communicators for showing the electromagnetic-wave detection by the electromagnetic-wave sensor, the electromagnetic-wave sensor being provided outside the fueling units.Type: GrantFiled: September 9, 1999Date of Patent: February 20, 2001Assignee: Tatsuno CorporationInventor: Hiyoshi Tatsuno
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Patent number: 6191696Abstract: An alarm system for portable chemical monitors comprising a housing configured for attachment to the portable chemical monitor having a twist lock mechanical connector capable of connecting to the portable chemical monitor, at least three pins mounted within the housing that are capable of inserting into the portable chemical monitor, a circuit board electrically connected to the pins and capable of receiving electrical signals from the chemical monitor, and a ceramic disk supported within the housing having an indicator means for generating vibrational movement that provides a audible sound. A method for monitoring for the presence of chemical agents is disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: January 19, 1999Date of Patent: February 20, 2001Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the ArmyInventors: Randy S. Young, Robert L. Gross, Mark S. Schlein, Peter J. Schlitzkus, Vincent K. Younger, II
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Patent number: 6191697Abstract: In many technical applications, situations often arise where it is desirable to know, in real time, if a circuit is functioning. That is, it is desirable to know if, for example, a heater element is operational or blown (open). By sensing the current flowing to the circuit, it is easy to determine if the circuit is operational. However, this only provides information while the circuit is in the process of operating. There must be some real-time connection with the request or demand for power to know if in fact the device is non-operational, or if there is simply no controller request for power. A system (and method) according to the invention includes a real-time, simultaneous current and voltage sensing and arbitration device which provides a single, point of use implementation, and allows for detection and signaling of a fault condition. A circuit breaker may be constructed to incorporate such a system.Type: GrantFiled: April 19, 1999Date of Patent: February 20, 2001Assignee: International Business Machines CorporationInventors: Mark Hansen, Robert Paul Katz
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Patent number: 6191698Abstract: An apparatus for testing whether the strength of a stray magnetic field emanating from an air freight consignment exceeds a predetermined threshold value has a magnetic field sensor, as a Hall probe, further an optical and/or acoustical alarm device, an electronic circuit coupling the sensor to the alarm device and actuating the alarm device(s) to produce a pre-warning signal, when the strength of the magnetic field sensed exceeds half the threshold value, and a warning signal when the strength of the magnetic field sensed by the sensor exceeds the predetermined threshold value, a nonmagnetic distance determining device, which, when brought in contact with a point on the surface of the consignment establishes a predetermined distance between the contacted surface point and the sensor; and means for self-testing the function of the apparatus.Type: GrantFiled: December 21, 1999Date of Patent: February 20, 2001Inventors: Gerhard Hennig, Martin Voigt
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Patent number: 6191699Abstract: A portable information device which operates by downloading necessary data from a computer includes an LED, and a system controller for controlling the LED to emit light when data to be transferred to the computer exists in the portable information device.Type: GrantFiled: September 10, 1998Date of Patent: February 20, 2001Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha ToshibaInventor: Fumihiro Sawada
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Patent number: 6191700Abstract: Luminous signs, specifically those with the ability to change the presented information sequentially, include an electro-mechanical system that produces the synchronized overlapping of two or more preprinted films with translucent properties, in such a way that with an internal luminous source, the sign is capable of creating the effect of real movement, and in the night or in the darkness, the information images displayed by the sign seem to float in the air. The present invention also provides an illuminated sign with the capability of displaying such information or images on more than one of its surfaces.Type: GrantFiled: May 21, 1999Date of Patent: February 20, 2001Assignee: Visual Masters S.A.Inventor: Fabio Rafael Duque Cardona
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Patent number: 6191701Abstract: A method and system for the remote control of devices having a secure self learn capability. The system includes an encoder and a decoder, the encoder encoding variable information including a user key using a non-linear algorithm to produce an encoded value transmitted to the decoder, the decoder decoding the value using the same algorithm. In a learning mode a new encoder is to be added to the system. The new encoder produces an encoded value using a key generation seed. The decoder, upon receiving the encoded key generation seed, produces a decoding key based upon the decoded key generation seed. The decoding key is stored in the decoder memory allowing valid recognition of the new encoder in a secure manner.Type: GrantFiled: August 25, 1995Date of Patent: February 20, 2001Assignee: Microchip Technology IncorporatedInventor: Frederick Johannes Bruwer
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Patent number: 6191702Abstract: A data display radio pager of the present invention is capable of displaying data received from a base station and consisting of a message signal and an address signal on an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) either in a complete form or in a n incomplete form, i.c., partly omitted form or rearranged form. The pager allows the user to select desired one of the complete and incomplete forms and thereby protects important or private messages from illicit access.Type: GrantFiled: May 28, 1997Date of Patent: February 20, 2001Assignee: NEC CorporationInventor: Takayasu Ishida
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Patent number: 6191703Abstract: A remote convenience system (10) of a vehicle (12) allows remote control operation of one or more vehicle functions (e.g., lock or unlock of vehicle doors). A portable transmitter (14) of the system (10) transmits a signal (40), having a remote convenience function request, to a receiver (46). In response to the signal (40), the receiver (46) causes performance of the requested remote convenience function. The transmitter (14) is connected with a key (16) that is used for the vehicle (12). Preferably, the key (16) is an ignition key and the transmitter (14) is integrated into the key. The key (16) has a transponder (58) that is interrogated by an interrogation coil (62) to provide a code stored within the transponder. An immobilizer control (60) is operatively connected with the coil (62) and also an electronic engine control (68). Operation of the vehicle (12) is only permitted if the transponder provides the proper code.Type: GrantFiled: March 31, 1998Date of Patent: February 20, 2001Assignee: TRW Inc.Inventor: Mark D. Wallace
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Patent number: 6191704Abstract: Described herein is a run environment recognizing apparatus. The run environment recognizing apparatus comprises an imaging device for sensing the direction of traveling of a host vehicle as imaging vision, a radar for detecting the direction of traveling of the host vehicle as a detection range, an image processing device for recognizing traveling lanes, leading vehicles and stationary objects located ahead of the host vehicle, based on the image information sensed by the imaging device and the result of detection by the radar, and a display for displaying the results of recognition by the image processing device. The image processing device includes means for setting vehicle regions indicative of the leading vehicles within the image information, based on the result of detection by the radar. Thus, the influence of the leading vehicles in the process for recognizing the traveling lanes within the image information is eliminated by the vehicle regions.Type: GrantFiled: December 19, 1997Date of Patent: February 20, 2001Assignee: Hitachi, Ltd,Inventors: Hiroshi Takenaga, Hiroshi Kuroda, Satoru Kuragaki, Mitsuo Kayano, Tokuji Yoshikawa, Hiroto Morizane, Kazuaki Takano
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Patent number: 6191705Abstract: Traffic management or enforcement is performed through the use of a monitor transponder in the environs of an RF highway toll collection system. When normally operating transponders communicate with a roadside reader system, the roadside system communicates with the monitor transponder, which in turn signals if a valid normal transponder is detected. If no signal is generated by the monitor transponder, it is evident that the vehicle has no transponder or that the transponder is faulty or invalid.Type: GrantFiled: March 16, 2000Date of Patent: February 20, 2001Assignee: Mark IV Industries, LimitedInventors: Peter Oomen, James Kenneth Cook, Daniel L. Terrier
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Patent number: 6191706Abstract: An optical parking guide includes a container, a mounting element, either a laser diode or a light emitting diode and a control circuit. The mounting element is pivotally coupled to the container. The laser diode is disposed within the mounting element. The control circuit couples the laser diode to the garage door opener. The control circuit turns on the laser diode in response to the presence of a car with a front window and a dashboard so that the laser diode generates an output light. The mounting element directs the output light through the front window onto the dashboard of the car so that a driver of the car can guide the car into the car's parking place.Type: GrantFiled: November 29, 1999Date of Patent: February 20, 2001Inventor: Araya Kositkun
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Patent number: 6191707Abstract: In order to reduce the load on the operator in monitoring a moving object in the moving picture signal supplied from the imaging device, the signal is displayed in one region of the display device. The moving route of the moving object which has entered the view of the imaging device is extracted, based on the signal. The first image data showing the image of a moving route of an extracted moving object is generated, and the second image data showing the image of the moving object is generated based on the signal. The overlapped image of the image of the moving route and the image of the moving object is displayed in another region of the display device together with the extraction time of the image of the moving object. The processing above is repeated to other moving objects which enter the view later on. The overlapped images for different moving images thus extracted are displayed adjacent to each other in the region.Type: GrantFiled: December 21, 1999Date of Patent: February 20, 2001Assignee: Hitachi, Ltd.Inventors: Katumi Taniguchi, Takafumi Miyatake, Akio Nagasaka, Takehiro Fujita
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Patent number: 6191708Abstract: A method for providing information regarding a vehicle that follows a route and stops at a stop along the route. The method includes the following steps: (1) Generating a signal including identification information for the vehicle, (2) Transmitting the signal from a transmitter sub-system on this vehicle, (3) Receiving the signal at a receiver sub-system near the stop on the route; and (4) Processing the signal at the receiver sub-system to identify the vehicle and to estimate a time period to arrive at the stop.Type: GrantFiled: March 24, 2000Date of Patent: February 20, 2001Inventor: William E. Davidson
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Patent number: 6191709Abstract: A keyboard with a simplified structure, which is connected to a main computer having a microcomputer in which a key map is stored therein and which generates first and second scanning signals via respective scan input lines and receives first or second scanning codes via respective scan output lines upon a key on the keyboard being operated. The keyboard includes first and second keyboard frames separated from each other, and a first key matrix assigned to the first keyboard frame and disposed adjacent thereto, for generating the first scanning code in response to the first scanning signal, and a second key matrix assigned to the second keyboard frame and disposed adjacent thereto, for generating the second scanning code in response to the second scanning signal.Type: GrantFiled: June 8, 1998Date of Patent: February 20, 2001Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.Inventor: Hwan-Cheol Cho
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Patent number: 6191710Abstract: A system for compressing and decompressing a data pattern of data bits, so as to obtain a highly compressed data record. In accordance with embodiments of the invention, a group of candidate numbers is provided with each number comprising a sequence of statistically random bits. Bits of a subject data pattern are compared with bits of each candidate of the group of numbers to find a largest sequence of bits of the subject data pattern which match a sequence of bits within any one of the group of candidate numbers. Stored are all of: the data pattern except the matched bits, information designating the candidate number providing a largest matching sequence of bits, locations of the matched bits in the subject data pattern and in the candidate number, and a number encoding a number of the matched bits.Type: GrantFiled: December 30, 1998Date of Patent: February 20, 2001Assignee: Intel Corp.Inventor: Kenneth R. Waletzki
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Patent number: 6191711Abstract: A system includes an input, a character set mapping function and a character set compression function. The input receives binary data that includes a plurality of binary data bits that may be organized into a plurality of binary data bytes. The character set mapping function maps the binary data bits into a predetermined character set to produce a plurality of characters. The character set compression function compresses the plurality of characters using a character set compression algorithm to produce a plurality of compressed characters. After compression of the character set data, the plurality of compressed characters may be modulated via a modem and transmitted across a data link to a receiving location. At the receiving location, a demodulator receives the modulated data and demodulates the modulated data to produce the plurality of compressed characters. Then, a character set decompression function decompresses the plurality of compressed characters to produce a plurality of characters.Type: GrantFiled: February 25, 1999Date of Patent: February 20, 2001Assignee: Nortel Networks Ltd.Inventor: Kent W. Smith
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Patent number: 6191712Abstract: A circuit manages the conversion of data between a logical sector format and a physical sector format. In a padding mode, the circuit appends a padding value to a data stream in the logical sector format having a logical length to produce a data stream in a physical sector format having a physical length. In an extracting mode, the circuit extracts a data stream in the logical sector format from a data stream in the physical sector format.Type: GrantFiled: June 28, 1999Date of Patent: February 20, 2001Assignee: International Business Machines CorporationInventor: Charles Lee Still
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Patent number: 6191713Abstract: The present invention is directed to a method and apparatus for converting between serial bus cycles and parallel port commands. A serial bus processor processes a serial bus transaction which is represented by the serial bus cycles and is responsive to the parallel port commands. A state machine circuit is coupled to the serial bus processor to provide a plurality of states corresponding to the serial bus transaction. The state machine circuit transitions from one of the states to any one of the states in response to a change condition asserted by a state signal.Type: GrantFiled: August 4, 1998Date of Patent: February 20, 2001Assignee: Intel CorporationInventors: David G. Ellis, Gene A. Frederiksen
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Patent number: 6191714Abstract: Differential nonlinearity is corrected by a look up table. The look up table obtains one extra bit of information and uses it to address corrected information in the look up table. The corrected look up table information represents information that is corrected for a differential nonlinearity error.Type: GrantFiled: November 12, 1998Date of Patent: February 20, 2001Assignee: Photobit CorporationInventor: Harry Langenbacher
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Patent number: 6191715Abstract: A self-calibrating digital-to-analog converter includes a delta-sigma modulator (25) receiving a digital input signal, an output producing a stream of digital pulses the density of which represents a value of the digital input signal, and an intermediate digital input port coupled to a digital summing element which is also coupled to an output of an integrator within the delta-sigma modulator. A 1-bit DAC converts the stream of digital pulses to an analog signal that is filtered to produce an analog output voltage. A 1-bit DAC converts the analog output signal to a digital feedback signal, and a successive approximation circuit produces a digital offset correction signal from the digital feedback signal and loads it into an offset register. An output port of the offset register is coupled to the intermediate digital input port to provide self-calibration of an offset error without skewing an input range of the digital input signal.Type: GrantFiled: October 29, 1998Date of Patent: February 20, 2001Assignee: Burr-Brown CorporationInventor: Paul Fowers
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Patent number: 6191716Abstract: A system and a method for calculating a value for the “Band Zero” (B∅) contribution to the processing of a digital signal by processing the separate parts of the signal at separate times. The method increases operating speed of a feedback circuit, for example, by providing a processing path (402f) that is not on the main high-speed processing path of a system such as a read channel of a disk drive. By processing the most time-consuming determination “in parallel,” the high-speed portion of processing is able to maintain an optimum throughput. The method also lends itself to processing in those applications where more than one mode is used. For example, when used in a read channel (113) of a disk drive (100) employing a FIR filter, three modes are desired: FIR-bypass, acquisition, and data tracking.Type: GrantFiled: May 28, 1999Date of Patent: February 20, 2001Assignee: Texas Instruments IncorporatedInventor: Robert B. Staszewski
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Patent number: 6191717Abstract: An isolation system is provided that is suitable for use in telephony, medical instrumentation, industrial process control and other applications. Preferred embodiments of the invention comprise a capacitive isolation barrier across which a digital signal is communicated. The system provides a means of communication across the isolation barrier that is highly immune to amplitude and phase noise interference. Clock recovery circuitry may be employed on one side of the isolation barrier to extract timing information from the digital signal communicated across the barrier, and to filter the effects of phase noise introduced at the barrier. Delta-sigma converters may be disposed on both sides of the isolation barrier to convert signals between analog and digital domains. An isolated power supply may also be provided on the isolated side of the barrier, whereby direct current is generated in response to the digital data received across the isolation barrier.Type: GrantFiled: January 7, 1999Date of Patent: February 20, 2001Assignee: Silicon Laboratories Inc.Inventors: Jeffrey W. Scott, Navdeep S. Sooch, David R. Welland
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Patent number: 6191718Abstract: Digital data is generated by sampling an analog input signal at a sampling frequency that is N times an A/D sampling frequency that is necessary in an A/D converter. N decimated data strings are generated by decimating the digital data at a ratio of 1/N. Based on the N decimated data strings, a processor produces a digital output signal.Type: GrantFiled: June 29, 1999Date of Patent: February 20, 2001Assignee: NEC CorporatonInventor: Mariko Matsumoto
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Patent number: 6191719Abstract: Binary indications are converted to an analog representation with significant reduction in ringing at the transitions between successive binary indications and in the period during each binary indication. The binary indications are disposed in a row-and-column matrix to provide a thermometer code. Each stage of the converter includes a decoder and latch arranged so the decoder inputs settle before the latch is set by the clock pulses. The stages are implemented in complementary CMOS. Complementary transistors are biased so one transistor of the pair is driven to the rail while the other transistor of the pair floats. A dummy CMOS transistor is used to balance the number of transistors in the decoder paths.Type: GrantFiled: December 10, 1999Date of Patent: February 20, 2001Assignee: Broadcom CorporationInventors: Klaas Bult, Chi-Hung Lin
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Patent number: 6191720Abstract: The present invention is a method and apparatus for converting a digital word into an analog quantity. A first plurality of signals is generated from a resistor network. A first signal is selected from the first plurality of signals based on a first half of the digital word. A second plurality of signals is generated from the resistor network using the selected first signal. A second signal is selected from the second plurality of signals based on a second half of the digital word. The second signal corresponds to the analog quantity.Type: GrantFiled: December 30, 1998Date of Patent: February 20, 2001Assignee: International Business Machines CorporationInventor: Ligang Zhang
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Patent number: 6191721Abstract: A time based digital to analog converter is presented in which known reference voltages are used to create variable period waveforms which, when combined according to a desired computation, can convert digital words into a sinusoidal signal of a precision variable. To illustrate the application of the present invention, a hemispherical resonator gyroscope (HRG) operating in force rebalance is presented wherein a time based digital to analog converter with a variable period output controls the HRG electronics in nulling the standing wave. A rate of the standing wave is calculated, and a software component calculates the fraction of the maximum rate needed to oppose and null the initial rate of the standing wave. The fraction of the maximum rate is converted to digital words corresponding to the number of periods of a clock connected to the circuit.Type: GrantFiled: November 5, 1999Date of Patent: February 20, 2001Assignee: Litton Systems, Inc.Inventors: Gregory M. Johnson, John C. Baker, Daniel T. Zaida, Patrick A. Toole
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Patent number: 6191722Abstract: A pulse width modulation digital to analog converter includes a pulse generator, a combiner and a filter. The pulse generator receives an n-bit digital word, partitions the input digital word into a plurality of sub-words, and produces a plurality of periodic pulse width modulated waveforms, each waveform's duty cycle and amplitude being representative of one of the plurality of sub-words. Since the sub-words have unique magnitude significance relative to the n-bit input word and relative to the other sub-words, each of the plurality of pulse width modulated waveforms are weighted according to the corresponding sub-word significance. The combiner receives the plurality of weighted pulse width modulated waveforms and combines them into a composite pulse width modulated waveform.Type: GrantFiled: January 14, 1999Date of Patent: February 20, 2001Assignee: Setra Systems, Inc.Inventor: Dennis K. Briefer
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Patent number: 6191723Abstract: A method of measuring capacitance is provided in which measurement speed is increased by as much as two orders of magnitude by optimizing timing parameters to rapidly charge and discharge the capacitor in small increments about an equilibrium voltage. The capacitor is charged at a linear rate by applying a predetermined constant current thereto, and discharged at an exponential rate determined by the RC time constant in the discharge path. Incremental charge and discharge times are selected in such a manner that results in an equilibrium voltage at a point where the charge voltage ramp and discharge voltage curve would cross if they were superimposed on one another. By appropriate selection of the incremental charge and discharge times, the equilibrium voltage may be conveniently established at a point well within the range of a measuring analog-to-digital converter (ADC). The voltage difference over the incremental charge time may be measured on one cycle and utilized to compute the capacitance value.Type: GrantFiled: July 22, 1999Date of Patent: February 20, 2001Assignee: Fluke CorporationInventor: Jason D. Lewis
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Patent number: 6191724Abstract: Harmonic techniques are employed to leverage low-cost, ordinary surface mount technology (SMT) to high microwave frequencies where tight beamforming with a small antenna makes reliable, high-accuracy pulse-echo radar systems possible. The implementation comprises a 24 GHz short-pulse transceiver comprised of a pulsed harmonic oscillator employed as a transmitter and an integrating, pulsed harmonic sampler employed as a receiver. The transmit oscillator generates a very short (0.5 ns) phase-coherent harmonic-rich oscillation at a sub-multiple of the actual transmitter frequency. A receiver local oscillator operates at a sub-multiple of the transmit frequency and is triggered with controlled timing to provide a very short (0.5 ns), phase-coherent local oscillator burst. The local oscillator burst is coupled to an integrating harmonic sampler to produce an integrated, equivalent-time replica of the received RF.Type: GrantFiled: January 28, 1999Date of Patent: February 20, 2001Inventor: Thomas E. McEwan
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Patent number: 6191725Abstract: An automatic gain control (AGC) circuit for electromagnetic wave receiving systems, such as radar warning receivers, has a number of N parallel paths to which analog IF input signals are applied with each path being connected to one of N inputs of an output switch. Each path contains a free running sampling analog-to-digital converter (ADC) that digitizes an amplified analog IF input, the digitized signals being applied to inputs of digital delay units whose output are supplied to the output switch's inputs. The amplification in each of the N paths is fixed and staggered to provide different fixed amplifications of the IF input to the ADCs. The AGC has a leading edge trigger (LET), a trailing edge trigger (TET) and a track-and-hold circuit that samples and holds the amplitude of an input pulse starting at the leading edge as demarked by the LET.Type: GrantFiled: August 30, 1999Date of Patent: February 20, 2001Assignee: Her Majesty the Queen in right of Canada, as represented by Minister of National Defence of Her Majesty's Canadian GovernmentInventor: Pierre Lavoie
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Patent number: 6191726Abstract: In a procedure for the elimination of interferences of short duration, such as pulses, in a radar unit of the FMCW type, the transmitted and received signals are combined to form a useable signal. According to the procedure, the contribution to the Fourier Transform of the interferences of short duration are filtered out of the Fourier Transform in the frequency domain by an FIR filter with complex coefficients. The procedure requires no additional signal processing between sampling and applying the Fourier Transform, gives very little widening of strong contrasts in the Fourier Transform and is fast and simple to implement in a signal processor.Type: GrantFiled: May 12, 1999Date of Patent: February 20, 2001Assignee: Celsiustech Electronics ABInventor: Bert-Eric Tullsson