Patents Issued in April 17, 2003
  • Publication number: 20030071700
    Abstract: Disclosed is a coaxial type signal line that solves problems associated with signal interference and the connection of signal lines that are generated in a radio frequency (RF) electrical system. A method for manufacturing the coaxial type signal line includes the steps of forming a groove on a substrate, forming a first ground line on a surface of the groove and a plain surface of the substrate, forming a first dielectric layer including dielectric material on the first ground line formed on the surface of the groove, forming a signal line on the first dielectric layer the signal line for transmitting signals, forming a second dielectric layer including dielectric material on the signal line and the first dielectric layer, and forming a second ground line on the first ground line and the second dielectric layer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 1, 2002
    Publication date: April 17, 2003
    Applicant: Dynamic Solutions International, Inc., a Republic of Korea Corporation
    Inventors: Young-Se Kwon, In-Ho Jeong
  • Publication number: 20030071701
    Abstract: A mounting bracket for a circuit breaker air-core coil includes a unitary body having a generally U-shaped body. The body has at least one retaining form structured to fit over a fastener head. When installed in a typical power air circuit breaker, the air-core coil disposed in the mounting bracket is located above the circuit breaker's load conductor fasteners. These fasteners, and therefore the air-core coil, are located outside of the space in the circuit breaker occupied by a current sensor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 11, 2001
    Publication date: April 17, 2003
    Applicant: Eaton Corporation
    Inventors: Paul Richard Rakus, Thomas Clements Pendrick
  • Publication number: 20030071702
    Abstract: A precision location system for a circuit breaker utilizing a phase cassette concept is disclosed. A cover plate is mounted to at least one of a plurality of single-pole units having a circuit breaker operating mechanism positioned thereon. The cover plate is configured to precisely align an actuator precisely located on the cover with the circuit breaker operating mechanism. The actuator trips a latch of the operating mechanism, thereby tripping the entire circuit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 12, 2002
    Publication date: April 17, 2003
    Inventors: Roger Castonguay, Dean A. Robarge
  • Publication number: 20030071703
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a magnetic display apparatus having a first magnetic layer, a second layer having an outer surface and an inner surface, and an adhesive adapted to bond the inner surface of the second layer to the magnetic layer. The outer surface of the second layer preferably has marking-receptive properties and the inner surface preferably includes reverse-printed matter disposed thereon. The unit can be sold as a do-it-yourself kit to allow users to print on the second layer, and then adhere the second layer to the magnetic unit to form a magnetic display apparatus. In one embodiment, two separate magnetic units can be magnetically adhered to each other to form an object having an image and/or text displayed on each side thereof. In another embodiment, two units can be positioned on opposite sides of a plane, such as a page, to serve as a marker.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 8, 2002
    Publication date: April 17, 2003
    Inventor: Ralph Machesky
  • Publication number: 20030071704
    Abstract: A common-mode choke coil which is capable of achieving a desired impedance value and reducing the amount of deviation in the impedance values, includes a core having flanges disposed at both ends and a winding section arranged between the flanges. Electrodes are disposed in the flanges, while two pieces of wire are wound around the winding section and ends of the pieces of wire are connected to the electrodes. A ferrite plate with a relative magnetic permeability that is smaller than that of the core is attached on the upper surface of the flanges with an adhesive so as to cover the wire. Thereby, the impedance value of the coil preferably has a relative magnetic permeability that is different from that of a coil having the same relative magnetic permeability of the ferrite plate as that of the core, thereby increasing the degree of freedom of the impedance value while changes in the impedance value are reliably prevented even when the ferrite plate is displaced.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 17, 2002
    Publication date: April 17, 2003
    Inventors: Takaomi Toi, Yoshio Hanato, Tatsuyuki Yamada
  • Publication number: 20030071705
    Abstract: An electromagnetic apparatus having an adjusting effective core gap includes: (a) an electrical winding; and (b) a ferrous core situated proximal with the electrical winding. The core has a first terminus and a second terminus arranged in spaced relation to establish a gap distance between the termini in a region in substantial register with the termini. The winding and the core cooperate to establish an inductance related with an electrical current applied to the winding. At least one terminus of the termini has a configuration responsive to varying the current by effecting selective local saturation of successive portions of the at least one terminus for successive values of the current. The selective local saturation establishes successive new effective gap distances. Each respective new effective gap distance is appropriate for establishing a successive new optimum inductance for the current value then extant.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 12, 2001
    Publication date: April 17, 2003
    Inventors: Galliano Riccardo Busletta, Robert Joseph Roessler, Karim Nashaat Wassef, Matthew Anthony Wilkowski
  • Publication number: 20030071706
    Abstract: In a planar transformer, at least a portion of each of the windings are intermingled in an intermingled portion. Within the intermingled portion, each full turn of each winding is effected by one self-crossing and two crossings of each other winding having turns in said intermingled portion. The windings may be formed in the conductor layers of an integrated circuit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 15, 2001
    Publication date: April 17, 2003
    Inventor: Kaare Tais Christensen
  • Publication number: 20030071707
    Abstract: A core assembly for a surface mount electronic component is provided. The core assembly comprises a core fabricated from a magnetic permeable material, and at least one conductive coil termination embedded within said core.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 26, 2002
    Publication date: April 17, 2003
    Inventors: Brent Elliott, Robert Bogert
  • Publication number: 20030071708
    Abstract: The invention relates to a proximity or presence switch arrangement operating by the inductive principle, which contains at least one inductor integrated in an oscillating circuit and an electronic control device connected downstream, for sensing and evaluating the approach and/or presence of a material which influences electromagnetic fields.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 23, 2002
    Publication date: April 17, 2003
    Inventor: Ralf Schmidt
  • Publication number: 20030071709
    Abstract: A push-pull circuit breaker is provided primarily for use in aircraft; wherein, the activation of the circuit breaker is made significantly more noticeable by the addition of a “flower” device. Specifically, as the center post of the circuit breaker deploys, “petals” at the periphery of the post expand outward. The petal expansion greatly enhances the visibility and thereby recognition of said circuit breaker deployment by flight crew or maintenance personnel. This design capitalizes on the safety and reliability of existent circuit breaker designs. Finally, the flower design incorporates only one part interlocked with the circuit breaker post to achieve the stated purpose.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 11, 2001
    Publication date: April 17, 2003
    Inventor: Mark Werner Steinbicker
  • Publication number: 20030071710
    Abstract: A safety switch includes a casing having a first terminal plate having a first contact point and a second terminal plate to which an end of a bimetal plate is connected. A second contact point is connected to a tongue of the bimetal plate. A switch member is connected to the casing and a connection member is connected to an end of the switch member. An end of the connection member has a recess and an end of the bimetal plate is movably located in the recess.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 13, 2001
    Publication date: April 17, 2003
    Inventor: Tsung-Mou Yu
  • Publication number: 20030071711
    Abstract: The invention relates to an electrical fuse for rotary current generators, having a rectifier assembly (14) for supplying a DC network, in particular in motor vehicles. To achieve simple, cost-effective and rapid-response fuse performance in the event of an overload, it is provided that a fuse element (21) be disposed in a line strand, carrying all the generator current, between the rectifier assembly (14) and a DC connection terminal (22) of the generator.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 25, 2002
    Publication date: April 17, 2003
    Inventors: Martin Haupt, Herbert Labitzke, Walter Csicser, Klaus-Uwe Mittelstaedt, Holger Scholzen, Karl-Otto Heinz, Holger Haussmann, Henning Stilke
  • Publication number: 20030071712
    Abstract: The present invention provides a device forming a controlled-release mechanism, the device comprising: two structural elements suitable for relative movement; and locking means suitable initially for preventing relative movement between the two structural elements, and in which the locking means comprises in combination: at least one set of complementary shape means of helical configuration associated with respective ones of the two structural elements; and a low-melting point material disposed at least in part at an interface between two parts connected respectively to the two structural elements to prevent the locking means being released, and consequently to prevent the structural elements being released, prior to said material melting.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 7, 2002
    Publication date: April 17, 2003
    Inventors: Guy Valembois, Gregory Soulier
  • Publication number: 20030071713
    Abstract: A positive temperature coefficient of resistance resistor/overload (PTCR/OL) resistor assembly that can be quickly and easily electrically connected and disconnected from equipment without the need for special tools or equipment. In some arrangements of the present invention, a locking tab on the electrical connector can be secured against an angle on the PTCR/OL to prevent the electrical connection from being broken during shipping or operation equipment movement or vibration. When it is necessary to electrically disconnect the PTCR/OL from the equipment, the locking tab can be disengaged from the angle on the PTCR/OL by bending the tab until it releases from against the angle, and the electrical plug can then be disconnected from the PTCR/OL. The improved assembly provides increased isolation of incoming electrical wires with less material than previous devices.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 16, 2001
    Publication date: April 17, 2003
    Inventors: Alan J. Janicek, Kenneth R. Fuller, Mark A. Heflin, Ted P. Struttmann
  • Publication number: 20030071714
    Abstract: If a key (A) which is already assigned with authorization to a first object (A1) is placed in the vicinity of a second object (B), and this object (B) is placed in an initialization state, the data (X) of the key (A1) is written into the second object (B), or the data (Y) of the second object (B) is written into the key (A1). The key (A1) is then assigned with authorization to the second object (B). In this way, the key can be assigned to further objects (A, C) as authorized by means of an initialization.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 16, 2002
    Publication date: April 17, 2003
    Inventors: Matthias Bayer, Torsten Thiel, Ulrich Emmerling
  • Publication number: 20030071715
    Abstract: A door security system for a door having an electrically actuated lock. The lock is controlled by a lock controller having an audit trail memory. An entry code reader transmits entered access codes to the controller. The controller compares the entered access code to prestored access codes and actuates the lock in response to the comparison. The controller stores the entered access code and a time stamp in the audit trail memory.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 17, 2002
    Publication date: April 17, 2003
    Applicant: Harrow Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Gary E. Lavelle, Peter S. Conklin
  • Publication number: 20030071716
    Abstract: A vehicle includes a shared antenna system. The shared antenna system operates a remote keyless entry system and other systems such as a radio. The antenna is operable to receive at least two signals. The antenna connects with a remote keyless entry system receiver that operates to simultaneously receive the at least two signals. An electronic body control module connects with the remote keyless entry receiver to accommodate operation of a locking system of the vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 12, 2001
    Publication date: April 17, 2003
    Applicant: Visteon Global Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Andrew Adrian, George F. Tannery, Marian J. Mahoney
  • Publication number: 20030071717
    Abstract: The invention relates to a procedure for the authentication of a first transceiver unit with respect to a second transceiver unit, located at a distance to it, whereby by means of the first unit a first signal is transmitted via an aerial connected to it; when the second unit is located within the reception area of the first unit, the first signal is received by means of the second unit via an aerial connected to it, whereby, on the basis of the first signal received, a value is measured that characterizes the strength of the electro-magnetic field generated by the first signal at the location of the second unit, and a second signal is transmitted via the aerial connected to the second unit that contains information relating to the magnitude characterizing the field strength; where by means of the first unit the second signal is received via the aerial connected to the first unit, where, on the basis of the second signal received, a value is measured that characterizes the strength of the electro-magnetic fie
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 4, 2002
    Publication date: April 17, 2003
    Inventors: Andreas Hagl, Konstantin Aslanidis
  • Publication number: 20030071718
    Abstract: A fast data transfer collection system using message authentication and contactless RF proximity card technology in non-contact storage and retrieval applications. The system is generally comprised of Host computers (application computer systems), Target radio frequency (RF) termninals, and a plurality of portable Tags (“smart” or “proximity” cards). A Host provides specific application functionality to a Tag holder, with a high degree of protection from fraudulent use. A Target provides control of the RF antenna and resolves collisions between multiple Tags in the RF field. A Tag provides reliable, high speed, and well authenticated secure exchanges of data/information with the Host resulting from the use of a custom ASIC design incorporating unique analog and digital circuits, nonvolatile memory, and state logic. Each Tag engages in a transaction with the Target in which a sequence of message exchanges allow data to be read(written) from(to) the Tag.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 5, 2002
    Publication date: April 17, 2003
    Inventors: Guy M. Kelly, Kevin J. Page, Don P. Plum, Joseph VJ Ravenis
  • Publication number: 20030071719
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for modifying a three-phase power distribution network in a building in order to provide data communication by using a Power Line Carrier (PLC) signal to an approximate electrical central location point of the power distribution system remote from the data entry point of the building. A passive coupler device is attached to a centrally located service panel. The passive coupler receives the Power Line Carrier (PLC) signal from the remote entry point in the building and conditions the signal for entry at the service panel onto each phase of the three phase power distribution network.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 16, 2002
    Publication date: April 17, 2003
    Inventors: Ralph E. Crenshaw, David W. Grimes, L. Peter Larson
  • Publication number: 20030071720
    Abstract: The invention concerns a data transmission device comprising a turbo coder (22) comprising an interleaver operating on two interleaving blocks and means (26) for producing symbols from said codes (D, Y1, Y2) supplied by the turbo coder The device comprises means (28) for inserting a synchronising sequence into said symbols at a site having a predetermined relationship position relative to the symbols produced with the codes associated with a common interleaving block.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 24, 2002
    Publication date: April 17, 2003
    Inventor: Jacques Meyer
  • Publication number: 20030071721
    Abstract: An adaptive radiated emission control includes measurement of the transmit power spectrum and feedback to a variable power modulator. The variable power modulator creates an adjusted output spectrum that limits radiated emissions. Alternatively, the variable power modulator may also be an equalizer to adjust the output spectrum.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 2, 2002
    Publication date: April 17, 2003
    Inventors: Constantine N. Manis, Oleg Logvinov, Mike K. Bautista
  • Publication number: 20030071722
    Abstract: The present invention includes a device for alerting the operator of a truck equipped with a dump bed when the tailgate is unsecured. In one embodiment, the device is connected to an existing “low air” alarm that indicates a rapid drop in air pressure in the air hoses of the brakes. Thus, when the tailgate is unsecured, air pressure in the air hoses drops and a warning indicator alerts the operator of the existence of a dangerous condition. The alarm is deactivated by properly securing the tailgate. In another embodiment, an electrical switch connected to the mechanism that secures the tailgate. An alarm signal is provided to the operator when the mechanism is not properly securing the tailgate. The invention also includes a method for bleeding air from the air system that operates brakes of a dump truck to cause the “low air” alarm to be actuated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 17, 2001
    Publication date: April 17, 2003
    Inventor: Floyd Cole
  • Publication number: 20030071723
    Abstract: A system and method for monitoring vehicle tire pressure. A tire pressure monitor for each tire includes a pressure sensor for sensing tire pressure and a transmitter for transmitting a tire pressure signal representative of the sensed tire pressure. A receiver for mounting on the vehicle receives the tire pressure signals, and includes an antenna to be located at a vehicle site. Each tire pressure signal has an amplitude and, for each tire location, the amplitude has a unique pattern over time for the antenna site. A controller for mounting on the vehicle communicates with the receiver and collects and processes the tire pressure signals to automatically identify the tire location associated with each tire pressure signal based on the unique amplitude patterns. The controller further generates control signals for use in conveying tire pressure and location information to a vehicle occupant.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 12, 2001
    Publication date: April 17, 2003
    Inventors: Qingfeng Tang, John S. Nantz, Riad Ghabra, Salman Khreizat, Ronald O. King, David Kosokowsky
  • Publication number: 20030071724
    Abstract: A security network includes a security system having an alarm module coupled to a computer. The computer is coupled to a computer network. The alarm module can communicate to the computer network using the communication hardware and software of the computer. The computer network includes a security company server coupled to a security company and the Internet. This links the security system to the Internet and allows individuals to externally access the security system via the Internet. The security system also includes a plurality of remote sensors/transmitters to sense an alarm condition and to transmit wireless signals to the alarm module indicative of the alarm condition. When an alarm condition exists, the security system transmits an alarm signal to the security company server, and the security company server transmits e-mail or other information to the security system in response to the alarm signal. The status of the security system and alarm conditions can be monitored via the Internet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 20, 2002
    Publication date: April 17, 2003
    Inventor: Joseph N. D'Amico
  • Publication number: 20030071725
    Abstract: A system, method, and device for monitoring the dispensing of liquids, in particular, beverages dispensed at a bar or restaurant is disclosed. The device attaches to the exterior of a container and detects dispensing events by sensing tilt or motion of the container, which could include a bottle or a handle. The system includes an electronic sensor device, data receiver, personal computer, bottle opener/camera system, bar code scanner, point of sale, bar camera, network, Web server, and paging system. The method automatically detects and monitors dispensing events, including detecting the type and amount of liquid, reconciling dispensing events with register ring-ups, recording information, saving video specific to the dispensing event, and sending a page indicating anomalies.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 16, 2002
    Publication date: April 17, 2003
    Inventor: David M. Teller
  • Publication number: 20030071726
    Abstract: Provided is a method, system, and program for monitoring depletion of a consumable resource in a monitored system. Information is received on at least one unit of work to be processed by the monitored system, wherein the monitored system would deplete the consumable resource when processing each unit of work. A determination is made of a rate of resource depletion per unit of work processed. An amount of resource remaining after the monitored system processes the at least one unit of work is estimated as a function of the determined rate of resource depletion and a number of one or more units of work to process. A graphical display for rendering on a computer monitor is generated indicating the estimated amount of the resource remaining.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 17, 2001
    Publication date: April 17, 2003
    Applicant: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Samuel Neely Hopper, Eric W. Jepsen
  • Publication number: 20030071727
    Abstract: A non-contact obstacle detection system utilizing ultra sensitive capacitive techniques. In an exemplary embodiment, the system includes a sensing element disposed in proximity to a moveable panel and a proximity detection circuit in communication with the sensing element. The proximity detection circuit generates a differential output signal reflective of whether a foreign object is in proximity to the sensing element. In addition, a central control module is in communication with the sensing element. The central control module determines whether the differential output signal is reflective of a foreign object in proximity to the sensing element. If the central control module determines that the differential output signal is reflective of a foreign object in proximity to the sensing element, and the moveable panel is moving toward a closed position, then the central control module generates a control output signal to stop the moveable panel from moving toward the closed position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 10, 2002
    Publication date: April 17, 2003
    Inventors: Ronald Helmut Haag, Brian Deplae, Jeremy M. Husic, John Pasiecznik
  • Publication number: 20030071728
    Abstract: A lost article finding device, which can be used for, for example, finding keys and the like. The finding device has a element for automatically finding its location, such as a GPS device or other position detecting device. A transceiver receives requests from a remote location, and response to those requests. The requests may include periodic pings, which are simply sent to ensure that the device is responding to requests. The requests may also include specialized requests which specifically request the device to report its current location.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 11, 2001
    Publication date: April 17, 2003
    Inventors: Jill Elizabeth McDonald, Scott Clifford Harris
  • Publication number: 20030071729
    Abstract: A golf bag alarm provides notification of the lifting or moving of a golf bag, to the owner thereof who may be remotely located from the bag. The alarm includes a golf bag component which may be semi-permanently installed upon an existing golf bag, or permanently, integrally installed with a golf bag during bag manufacture. The golf bag component includes a weight actuated switch, an alarm transmitter, a receiver for remotely arming the alarm, and may also include an audio or visual alarm. The second component is carried by the golfer, and includes a transmitter for remotely arming and disarming the alarm system of the golf bag unit, a receiver for detecting an alarm signal from the golf bag unit, and an alarm. The system is valuable for the golfer who must leave his/her bag outside while visiting a golf clubhouse, course restaurant, etc.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 12, 2001
    Publication date: April 17, 2003
    Inventor: C. Thomas Adolphson
  • Publication number: 20030071730
    Abstract: An information retrieval system for providing information concerning a driving and criminal record of a driver stopped for a traffic violation to a law enforcement officer. The system includes a card reading device for scanning data stored on a magnetic strip of a driver's license, a processor for analyzing the scanned data and a monitor for displaying the analyzed data. A transmitter wirelessly transmits the scanned data to a central station and a receiver receives an information signal from the central station concerning a person identified by the scanned driver's license. A printer is connected to the processor for printing a ticket concerning a violation committed. The received information signal is displayed on the monitor for viewing by the officer. The card reading device includes a first key for activating the transmitter to transmit the scanned data.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 15, 2001
    Publication date: April 17, 2003
    Inventor: Anil I. Valbh
  • Publication number: 20030071731
    Abstract: In general, the invention is directed to an efficient amplifier for use in radio-frequency identification (RFID) applications. In particular, the invention provides a highly efficient amplifier that requires little power, yet has significant modulation bandwidth to achieve high data communication rates. The amplifier makes use of many components of a class E amplifier including a first transistor, an inductor coupling the first transistor to a power supply, and a shunt capacitor connected in parallel to the first transistor. A second transistor is connected in parallel to the first transistor. A controller selectively controls the first and second transistors to achieve amplitude modulation at a high modulation bandwidth.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 15, 2001
    Publication date: April 17, 2003
    Inventor: Ronald David Jesme
  • Publication number: 20030071732
    Abstract: A terminal designed for communication with contactless-type data carriers with two different carrier frequencies has two resonant circuits (I, II) for one and the other carrier frequency. Both resonant circuits (I, II) work with one and the same antenna (A) and one capacitor (C1, C3) in each case. In the resonant circuit (II) for low carrier frequency a coupling inductance coil (L) is provided between the capacitor (C3) and the antenna (A).
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 18, 2001
    Publication date: April 17, 2003
    Inventor: Wolfgang Grabner
  • Publication number: 20030071733
    Abstract: A system, electronic device and method are provided that utilize the positioning capabilities of impulse radio technology to track one or more moving athletes. The movement of these athletes can be displayed on a television, a handheld unit or an Internet site. In addition, the present invention can utilize the communication capabilities of impulse radio technology to enable secure communications to take place between an athlete and their teammates, fans or coaches. The athletes can include, for example, track and field athletes, baseball players, football players, basketball players, soccer players or hockey players.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 4, 2001
    Publication date: April 17, 2003
    Applicant: Time Domain Corporation
    Inventors: David J. Hall, Jonnathan H. Kim
  • Publication number: 20030071734
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for remote monitoring and control of a target group. An armband located on each user may be enabled upon entry to a secured area by passing thru an electronic gateway. The armband transmits user physiological data to a linked central control console where a security monitor or Marshal has the ability to remotely activate delivery of an immobilizing dosage of a, for example, anesthetic from the armband(s) of a selected individual or group of users. To prevent tampering, the armband may be configured to deliver an immobilizing dosage if it detects. attempts to remove, isolate or otherwise disable the armband. Upon exiting from the secured area, the device may be disabled by again passing through an electronic gateway.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 23, 2002
    Publication date: April 17, 2003
    Inventor: George M. Vodin
  • Publication number: 20030071735
    Abstract: A novel wildlife warning system is provided herein. The system includes one or more vehicle sensors adjacent a roadway to sense an approaching vehicle, and to provide a sensor signal upon sensing the approach. One or more warning alarms which are remote from the roadway are configured to generate a wildlife warning signal. One or more transmitters are remotely connected to the vehicle sensor or sensors for transmitting an actuating signal to the warning alarm or alarms upon reception of the sensed signal, thereby to send a warning to the wildlife. The warning alarms may be chain triggered, or may be controlled by a master controller in a pre-programmed manner.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 4, 2002
    Publication date: April 17, 2003
    Inventors: Randy Hanson, Terry Bergan
  • Publication number: 20030071736
    Abstract: A system and method of monitoring a pressurized container having an auxiliary device are provided. The system includes a sensor operable to provide a signal representative of at least one operating condition of the pressurized container. The system also includes a control operable to receive the signal from the sensor and generate a warning when the sensed operating condition will impact the operation of the auxiliary device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 23, 2002
    Publication date: April 17, 2003
    Inventors: Geof Brazier, John P. Clark, John E. Smallwood
  • Publication number: 20030071737
    Abstract: Stormwater running at a construction site is monitored from an off-site location. When rainfall of a selected level is detected on site, a specimen of runoff is collected and an offsite station signaled that the event has occurred.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 16, 2001
    Publication date: April 17, 2003
    Inventor: Dilip Nawathe
  • Publication number: 20030071738
    Abstract: A seat occupancy sensor for detecting the presence of a body or object, e.g. on a motor vehicle front seat, includes a soft and yielding substrate, on the top surface of which is provided a wiring pattern. The wiring pattern is comprised of a plurality of pairs of electrical wires. Each pair of electrical wires defines a capacitive element. Each capacitive element is connected to a detector circuitry via a connecting wiring.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 7, 2002
    Publication date: April 17, 2003
    Inventors: Jean-Claude Joly, Alain Dupuis, Stephane Kugener
  • Publication number: 20030071739
    Abstract: In a first aspect, the present invention is a method, apparatus, and system for detecting a change in position of a door or a window in an alarm system with a singular housing having a magnetometer for monitoring the magnetic field of the earth, and a microprocessor for detecting a change in the position of the singular housing with respect to the magnetic field of the earth. The microprocessor generates an alarm signal upon detecting the change, and causes the alarm signal to be transmitted, by wireless transmission, to a remote receiving station. The device may also be used to determine if an object that it is affixed to has been moved, such as for a theft alarm for an object such as a painting. In a second aspect of the invention, a gravitational sensor is used to monitor the gravitational field of the earth and determine if an associated object or person has been moved with respect to the gravitational field, thus providing motion detection and signaling an alarm.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 29, 2002
    Publication date: April 17, 2003
    Inventors: Kenneth L. Addy, Kenneth G. Eskildsen
  • Publication number: 20030071740
    Abstract: An ambient air condition sensor housing includes a front portion releasably coupled to a rear portion and defining an interior space therebetween adapted to retain at least one ambient air condition sensor. The rear portion defines apertures for passage of the ambient air therethrough. A labyrinth having a plurality of spaced apart upstanding walls is integrally attached to an inner surface of the rear portion and is positioned so as to cooperate with the air condition sensor. Each wall of the labyrinth includes a slightly arcuate configuration for funneling the ambient air toward the air condition sensor. The rear portion and labyrinth are completely covered with a black coating so as to minimize light reflectivity within the interior space whereby to enhance proper functioning of the air sensor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 17, 2001
    Publication date: April 17, 2003
    Inventors: Thomas B. Brundage, Brian C. Hall
  • Publication number: 20030071741
    Abstract: A security alarm sensor for mounting between two corner walls is described comprising a housing unit having a housing base for attachment to the corner walls and a selectively detachable housing cover; a circuit board sized for engagement within the housing unit; first and second openings on opposite sides of the housing base; first and second mounting pins selectively movable within the first and second openings wherein said mounting pins have a length and a range of movement so as to have a first position wherein the mounting pins are totally retracted within the housing unit and a second position wherein said mounting pins extend outwardly from the housing unit sufficiently to pierce the corner walls and securely hold the security alarm sensor in place. The installation of the alarm sensor is usually accomplished by first removing the housing cover from the housing base and detaching the printed circuit board prior to mounting the housing base to the corner of the wall.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 25, 2002
    Publication date: April 17, 2003
    Inventors: Richard L. Soloway, Frank J. Ioco
  • Publication number: 20030071742
    Abstract: A system and method for monitoring vehicle tire pressure. A tire monitor for each tire includes a pressure sensor for sensing tire pressure and a transmitter for transmitting a signal representative of the sensed tire pressure. A receiver for mounting on the vehicle receives the tire pressure signals. The transmitters and the receiver utilize code division multiple access (CDMA) for the tire pressure signals so that tire pressure signals transmitted simultaneously by the transmitters can be received by the receiver. A controller for mounting on the vehicle communicates with the receiver and collects and processes the tire pressure signals, and generates control signals for use in conveying tire pressure information to a vehicle occupant.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 12, 2001
    Publication date: April 17, 2003
    Inventors: Qingfeng Tang, John S. Nantz, Riad Ghabra, Salman Khreizat, Ronald O. King
  • Publication number: 20030071743
    Abstract: The invention comprises a monitoring and incident management system for an aircraft including an on-board system on the aircraft, an incident management center on the ground, and a redundant secure communications link between the on-board system and the incident management center. The on-board system includes components that assist the aircraft crew in identifying and defending against potential threats to the aircraft, such as suspicious passenger activity. The incident management has access to a wide variety of information concerning the aircraft and activities taking place on the aircraft, as well as the ability to transmit commands to the on-board system. The on-board system includes a cockpit door module that combines double-doors and biometric identification to prevent unauthorized access to the cockpit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 9, 2002
    Publication date: April 17, 2003
    Applicant: Singapore Technologies Electronics Limited
    Inventors: Moon-Ming Seah, Chong-Khim Ng, Yue-Pui Cheong, Thiam-Beng Lau, Tau-Fuie Lim, Gim Pew Quek, Richard Hunter, Chong-Jin Lim, Yui Kwan, Siew-Lang Lim, Fook-Sun Lee, Tik-Bin Oon, Chee-We Ng, Eng Huat Tay, Chee Chung Chong, Yew Liam Ng
  • Publication number: 20030071744
    Abstract: A system includes an internet server that can be consulted by users of a transport network and a control center for controlling traffic on the network. The control center is connected to sources of data on the status of the traffic and includes automatic data processors for processing data from the sources in order to provide information usable directly by traffic controllers. It further includes connections for transmitting at least some of the directly usable information in real time to the Internet server.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 4, 2002
    Publication date: April 17, 2003
    Applicant: ALSTOM
    Inventors: Zal Shahbaz, Gerard Demars
  • Publication number: 20030071745
    Abstract: One embodiment of the present invention provides a system for encoding a dataword into a current codeword within a stream of codewords, wherein each codeword in the stream has a substantially equal number of ones and zeros, and wherein each transition between codewords involves a substantially equal number of rising and falling transitions. The system creates the current codeword from the dataword and a preceding codeword in the stream by inverting substantially half of the zero bits of the preceding codeword and inverting substantially half of the one bits of the preceding codeword. This is accomplished by using the dataword to select one bits and the zero bits to invert; determining locations of the one bits and zero bits in the preceding codeword; and then inverting the selected one bits and zero bits in the preceding codeword to form the current codeword.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 28, 2002
    Publication date: April 17, 2003
    Inventor: Mark R. Greenstreet
  • Publication number: 20030071746
    Abstract: There are provided: an offset adding section 3 for converting signed digital data to unsigned digital data by adding an offset value to signed digital data to be compressed, a rounding section 5 for reducing the number of bits per word by performing a rounding operation of a lower-order bit on the unsigned digital data, a timing synthesizer 6 and a compressing section 7 for sampling the digital data undergoing a rounding operation at a time interval of a point where a differential value varies in polarity and for obtaining as compressed data a pair of a discrete amplitude data value on each sample point and a timing data value indicative of a time interval between sample points. When a signal is compressed and expanded on a time base, the operation can be performed on the time base without frequency conversion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 14, 2001
    Publication date: April 17, 2003
    Inventor: Yukio Koyanagi
  • Publication number: 20030071747
    Abstract: A Sequential Gray Code to Thermometer Code decoder circuit adapted for area efficient use at each pad of an integrated circuit chip for incrementally adjusting a digitally adjustable resistance for continuous or periodic adjustment of on-chip terminations. The sequential decoder for decoding a Gray code count to a T-bit Thermometer code count is constructed of a plurality (T) of cascaded decoder cells, each cell sensing the state of only one bit of the Gray code count. The decoder cells are cascaded to from decoding-latching stages each stage responsive to an individual one of single-bit changes between consecutive counts in the Gray code. Each stage contains a decoding-latching circuit adapted to detecting and latching the occurrence of one single-bit change in the Gray code.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 4, 2001
    Publication date: April 17, 2003
    Applicant: INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MACHINES CORPORATION
    Inventors: John Connor, Patrick R. Hansen, Steven Leschuk, Jason E. Rotella
  • Publication number: 20030071748
    Abstract: A reference voltage generator for use in an image sensor provides a reference voltage to an S/H block during a pixel read-out operation and another reference voltage to an analog-to-digital converter (ADC) during a digitization operation. The reference voltage generator includes a variable voltage generator, a sample-and-hold circuit to sample a reference voltage prior to the pixel read-out operation or the digitization operation, and a buffer amplifier to drive the appropriate reference voltage to the relatively high impedance load presented by the S/H block and the variable impedance load provided by the ADC.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 12, 2001
    Publication date: April 17, 2003
    Inventors: Steve Huang, Daniel Van Blerkom, Sandor L. Barna, Giuseppe Rossi
  • Publication number: 20030071749
    Abstract: A radar system and method for detecting and tracking a target of interest in the presence of interference, wherein the interference emits interfering signals, includes a receiver for receiving the interfering signals directly from the interference. The receiver also receives reflected signals, wherein the reflected signals is the interfering signals reflected by the target of interest. The interfering signals and the reflected signals are compared to detect the target of interest. In one embodiment, the reflected signals and the interfering are cross-correlated. The results of the cross-correlation are used to obtain range, position, and velocity information about the target of interest from a range/Doppler map.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 7, 2001
    Publication date: April 17, 2003
    Inventor: Kai Bor Yu