Abstract: A self-tuning variable impedance circuit provides improved performance. A variation in the power applied to the variable impedance circuit causes a corresponding change in the impedance of the circuit, resulting in improved performance. For example, the variable impedance circuit may be a matching circuit that “follows” the output power of a power amplifier, thereby increasing the power efficiency of the power amplifier.

Abstract: Circuitry and methods for improved amplifiers with large bandwidth and constant gain are provided. The combination of a synthetic inductive drain load and a bridged-T matching network provide amplifiers that can drive a substantial capacitive load with the above mentioned improvements over prior amplifiers. Additionally, circuits presented allow for improved rise time and insensitivity to temperature variations.

Abstract: A low noise amplifier (LNA), which utilizes an AC coupling technique that can internally bias diodes in such a way as to provide effective low noise amplification, is provided. The low noise amplifier includes an input to an amplifier circuit, and an AC coupling capacitor disposed externally to a chip boundary of the amplifier circuit.

Abstract: A phase locked loop circuit is implemented with difference detection module that produces a difference signal based on at least one of phase difference and frequency difference between a reference oscillation and a feedback oscillation. A loop filter module converts the difference signal into a control signal. A controlled oscillation module converts the control signal into an output oscillation. An output oscillation adjust module, coupled to the controlled oscillation module, produces an effective output oscillation based on an oscillation control signal. A divider module converts the effective output oscillation into the divided oscillation. A delay adjust module provides an adjustable delay to produce the feedback oscillation.

Abstract: An apparatus for generating a stabilized frequency signal is disclosed. The apparatus includes a quantum absorber having first, second, and third energy states. The quantum absorber is irradiated by a first radiation source that generates electromagnetic radiation having a frequency, ?L, that induces transitions between the first and third energy states. The quantum absorber is also irradiated by a second radiation source that generates electromagnetic radiation having a frequency, ?M, that induces transitions between the first and second energy states. A detector that generates a detector signal indicative of the level of radiation leaving the quantum absorber in a frequency range including ?L is used by a number of servo loops. One of the servo loops determines the value of ?L that minimizes or maximizes the detector signal and a second servo loop determines an offset signal that reduces the dependence of ?M on the intensity of the first radiation source.

Abstract: A phase locked loop circuit is implemented with difference detection module that produces a difference signal based on at least one of phase difference and frequency difference between a reference oscillation and a feedback oscillation. A loop filter module converts the difference signal into a control signal. A controlled oscillation module converts the control signal into an output oscillation. An output oscillation adjust module, coupled to the controlled oscillation module, produces an effective output oscillation based on an oscillation control signal. A divider module converts the effective output oscillation into the feedback oscillation.

Abstract: An power divider and a surface acoustic wave resonator are provided to a feedback path of an amplifier for oscillation. The surface acoustic wave resonator connects an input side of the amplifier and the power divider connects an output side of the amplifier so as to suppress an input power input to the surface acoustic wave resonator and to secure an output power output from an output terminal of the power divider.

Abstract: An oscillator circuit is formed of a differential LC resonant circuit formed of an L load differential circuit including inductance-variable portions and a capacitive element, and a positive feedback circuit formed of N-channel MOS transistors. The inductance-variable portion is configured to vary the inductance by selecting a plurality of switch circuits arranged between a plurality of arbitrary positions on a spiral interconnection layer and the input/output terminal, and thereby can control an oscillation frequency. The inductance-variable portions form an inductor pair when the switch circuit among the switch circuits coupled between the first input/output terminals is turned on together with the switch circuit.

Abstract: A printed circuit board includes two differential signal traces, a layer of core material, a layer of filler material, and a ground plane. The filler material is replaced by an air core under the differential signal traces.

Abstract: According to some embodiments, a signal line associated with a printed circuit board is provided. In addition, a conductive trace is electrically connected to a portion of the signal line. At least a portion of the conductive trace may be offset from the signal line, and a dielectric layer may be provided between the signal line and the conductive trace to enhance electromagnetic coupling between them. As a result a hybrid resistance and electromagnetic coupling probe may be provided.

Abstract: A balancing/unbalancing (balun) structure includes two input ports are coupled to a differential signal. An isolated port is connected to ground through a matched resistance. An output port is coupled to a single-ended signal corresponding to the differential signal. A plurality of traces connect the two input ports, the load connection port and a tap point to the output port. A f2 rejection filter is wrapped around the balun and includes a first folded element with a transmission length of ?2/4 and connected to the output port. A second folded element has a transmission length of ?2/4 and connected to the tap point. A third folded element connects the tap point to the output port and has a transmission length of ?2/4.

Abstract: A signal transmission structure including a signal line, a first reference plane with a first opening, and a second reference plane with a second opening is provided. The first reference plane is disposed beside the signal line, and a portion of the signal line passes through a position of the first opening. In addition, the second reference plane is disposed beside the first reference plane, and the second opening is in a position corresponding to the position of the first opening, while the outline of the second opening projected onto the first reference plane does not overlap with the position of the first opening. Therefore, at high frequency-transmission, the above structure can reduce the insertion loss resulted from impedance mismatch as the signal passes through the opening, and reduce the resonance induced by the coupling between two reference planes to enhance the quality of signal transmission.

Abstract: An absorptive temperature-variable microwave attenuator is produced using a first plurality of shunt resistors separated by quarter-wave transmission lines connected by a series resistor with a second plurality of shunt resistors separated by quarter-wave transmission lines. At least one or more of the resistors are temperature-variable resistors. The temperature coefficients of the temperature-variable resistors are selected so that the attenuator changes at a controlled rate with changes in temperature while attenuator remains relatively matched to the transmission line. In one embodiment, the resistors are thick-film resistors and a variety of temperature coefficients can be created for each resistor by properly selecting and mixing different inks when forming the thick film resistors. Furthermore, attenuators can be created having either a negative temperature coefficient of attenuation or a positive temperature coefficient of attenuation.

Abstract: A radio-frequency impedance device includes a resistor device mounted on a surface of a dielectric layer, and adapted to be connected between a transmission line and an output terminal associated with a load impedance. A ground conductor may extend opposite a portion of the resistor device. Further, a conductor assembly may couple a first end of the resistor device to a transmission line. The conductor assembly may include a first portion extending along the first layer face on opposite sides of the resistor device adjacent to at least the first resistor end, or a second portion extending along the fourth layer face opposite from the ground conductor. The configuration of devices may produce, in operation, an electric field distributed along the resistor device, providing corresponding distributed current density along the resistor device over a broad frequency band.

Abstract: Thermally induced frequency variations in a micromechanical resonator are actively or passively mitigated by application of a compensating stiffness, or a compressive/tensile strain. Various composition materials may be selected according to their thermal expansion coefficient and used to form resonator components on a substrate. When exposed to temperature variations, the relative expansion of these composition materials creates a compensating stiffness, or a compressive/tensile strain.

Abstract: A Q enhancement circuit and method. In a most general embodiment, the inventive circuit is adapted for use with a component having a parasitic resistance R3 and a first resistance R1 disposed in series with the component and an arrangement for making the resistance a negative resistance. In the illustrative embodiment, first and second inductors constitute the components for which Q enhancement is effected. A resistance R1 is disposed in series with the first inductor and is equal to the parasitic resistance RL1 thereof. Likewise, a second resistance R2 is disposed in series with the second inductor and is equal to the parasitic resistance RL2 thereof. The Q enhancement circuit further includes a first transistor Q1 and a second transistor Q2.

Abstract: The invention relates to an electromechanical switching device including at least one pair of inductive elements electrically connected in series, said inductive elements being intended to generate two magnetic fields when current is flowing through said inductive elements, the interaction between these two fields resulting in a displacement of at least one of the inductive elements and a displacement of a mobile contact element linked to said at least one inductive element and intended to switch between two positions, at least one of these positions enabling an electrical connection between at least two conductive elements. The invention uses the mechanical forces exerted on at least one inductive element able to move thanks to two electro-magnetic fields oppositely generated by two inductive elements to activate a switch effect between two positions.

Abstract: A semiconductor micro-electromechanical system (MEMS) switch provided with noble metal contacts that act as an oxygen barrier to copper electrodes is described. The MEMS switch is fully integrated into a CMOS semiconductor fabrication line. The integration techniques, materials and processes are fully compatible with copper chip metallization processes and are typically, a low cost and a low temperature process (below 400° C.). The MEMS switch includes: a movable beam within a cavity, the movable beam being anchored to a wall of the cavity at one or both ends of the beam; a first electrode embedded in the movable beam; and a second electrode embedded in an wall of the cavity and facing the first electrode, wherein the first and second electrodes are respectively capped by the noble metal contact.

Abstract: Radio frequency (RF) switch comprising an electromagnet formed on a magnet, a transmission line formed on the electromagnet and having a ground line and a signal line, and a movable contact connected to either the ground line or the signal line and capable of electrically coupling the ground line with the signal line. The transmission line is capable of propagating a RF signal if the ground line is electrically decoupled from the signal line. Conversely, the transmission line is incapable of propagating a RF signal if the ground line is electrically coupled with the signal line. The electromagnet can comprise an electromagnetic coil, formed in a layer of dielectric material, electrically coupled to a current source. Preferably, the movable contact is capable of being magnetically actuated, and is latchable. The magnet, the electromagnet, the transmission line, and the movable contact can have dimensions at a micron order of magnitude. The transmission line can be a coplanar waveguide.

Abstract: A magnetic element superior in high frequency characteristics is provided that comprises magnetic ferrite having iron oxide, cobalt oxide and zinc oxide as the main ingredients, a conducting coil formed over the magnetic ferrite, an insulating material covering the conducting coil, and two or more external electrodes connected with the conducting coil.

Abstract: An ignition apparatus for an internal combustion engine includes a central core, a primary coil and a secondary coil arranged outside of the central core, a magnet arranged in abutment with one end face of the central core and magnetized in a direction opposite to the direction of a magnetic flux generated by energization of the primary coil, a side core arranged outside of the first and second primary coils so as to cooperate with the central core and the magnet to form a closed magnetic circuit, and a flexible core cover arranged to cover the side core. The side core includes a first side core section and a second side core section which have their one end faces arranged in abutment with each other. The first and second side core sections have their other ends in abutment against the magnet and the other end face of the central core, respectively.

Abstract: In general, the invention is directed to a tunable inductor that makes use of eddy current effect to tune the inductance of an inductor. The tunable inductor may include a spiral or helical inductor in proximity to one or more sets of eddy current coils. Each eddy current coil may be coupled to a corresponding switch that controls whether the eddy current coil is grounded or floating. In operation, a first time-varying current through the inductor induces a first magnetic field that, in turn, induces a time-varying voltage in an eddy current coil. If the eddy current coil is not grounded, an eddy current flows through the eddy current coil. The eddy current, which flows in the opposite direction of the first time-varying current, induces a second magnetic field. The second magnetic field, which opposes the first magnetic field, reduces the inductance of the tunable inductor.

Abstract: A protection mechanism includes a first member connected to a switch member pivotably connected to an open top of a case so as to lift a bimetallic plate when the switch device is set to an “OFF” status, and a second member that is pivotably connected to an extension board extending form the switch member. The second member is located above the bimetallic plate and pushes the bimetallic plate downward to set the switch device to an “ON” status. The second member can be pivoted counter clockwise when the bimetallic plate is deformed upward and will not stop the deformation of the bimetallic plate.

Abstract: The present invention provides overvoltage circuit protection. Specifically, the present invention provides a voltage variable material (“VVM”) that includes an insulative binder that is formulated to intrinsically adhere to conductive and nonconductive surfaces. The binder and thus the VVM is self-curable and may be applied to an application in the form of an ink, which dries in a final form for use. The binder eliminates the need to place the VVM in a separate device or for separate printed circuit board pads on which to electrically connect the VVM. The binder and thus the VVM can be directly applied to many different types of substrates, such as a rigid (FR-4) laminate, a polyimide or a polymer. The VVM can also be directly applied to different types of substrates that are placed inside a device.

Abstract: Two sensor units are formed from magnetoresistive material. Elements of the first sensor unit have a total anisotropy field in a first direction. Elements of the second sensor unit have a total anisotropy field in a second direction. An integral coil sets a direction of magnetization in the elements of the first and second sensor units. An output of the first sensor unit is representative of magnetic field components perpendicular to the first direction and an output of the second sensor is representative of magnetic field components perpendicular to the second direction.

Abstract: In a method for operating an electronic anti-theft system, data communication is effected between the control device and the key further to an access authorization request, whereby the control device unlocks the doors and deactivates an alarm system as a function of the data communication. The data communication for unlocking the doors and the data communication for disarming the alarm system are separate from each other. In this way, the mechanical unlocking of the doors can be initiated immediately after the data communication for unlocking the doors. The corresponding data communication for deactivating the alarm system is effected in parallel with this, whereby extensive cryptological data is exchanged between the control device and the key.

Abstract: A system for executing personal authentication processing by communication through a human body, in which authentication corresponding to a service to be furnished can be executed efficiently. The authentication processing between a portable equipment worn by a user and a service furnishing terminal is executed by a human body touching a contact point of the service furnishing terminal. The processing occurs with a real physical feeling of user contact. A user-native identifier and a user-variable identifier generated from user to user depending on the service presented by a service terminal are stored in a user equipment. Responsive to the service identifier transmitted from the service terminal, service-native user identification data, derived at least from the user variable identifier, is generated in the portable equipment and forwarded to the service terminal. A variety of user management operations, such as user-based assessment operations, depending on service contents, are carried out.

Abstract: The invention is an eye shield sleeping device that has a strap, a pair of eye shields, a pair of ear covers, a timer, one or more speakers, a microphone, and a voice recognition system. The timer creates an awakening sound when the time on the timer expires. The sound is produced by the speaker mounted inside the ear cover. The user can control the device using commands issued to the voice recognition system. The device can be connected to a media and communication appliance, such as a cell phone, a computer, and a digital player, which can play through the speakers. The voice recognition system can also be used to control a connected appliance. The principal function of the device is to create a restful environment for the user for a controlled period of time. Anticipated applications include naps while traveling and in sleep rooms at work.

Abstract: A remote control system for a vehicle. The system has a fob with a microphone for receiving audible commands and a radio frequency transmitter for transmitting the commands at a radio frequency via a fob antenna. A receiver for positioning in the vehicle has an antenna for receiving the commands at the radio frequency, a demodulator for recovering the commands, a processor for decoding the recovered commands according to vehicle configuration information, and a network interface for controlling a vehicle system in accordance with the recovered commands and the vehicle configuration information.

Abstract: Method and system for obtaining information about objects in the environment outside of and around a vehicle and preventing collisions involving the vehicle includes directing a laser beam from the vehicle into the environment, receiving from an object in the path of the laser beam a reflection of the laser beam at a location on the vehicle, and analyzing the received laser beam reflections to obtain information about the object from which the laser beam is being reflected. Analysis of the laser beam reflections preferably entails range gating the received laser beam reflections to limit analysis of the received laser beam reflections to only those received from an object within a defined (distance) range such that objects at distances within the range are isolated from surrounding objects.

Abstract: A tire condition monitoring system is composed of a detector installed in each tire, a transmitter positioned in the vicinity of each tire, and a monitor communicating with the transmitters and the detectors. An initiation signal for initiating operation of the detector is wirelessly sent from the transmitter to the detector, using a low frequency, and the pressure and temperature data detected by the detector are wirelessly sent to the monitor, using a radio frequency. A vehicle identification code differentiating the vehicle from other vehicles may be included in the initiation signal to avoid confusion with signals wirelessly sent from other vehicles. The detector is operated only when the tire condition data from that detector are required to minimize power consumption in the detector.

Abstract: A wireless tire pressure sensing system for an aircraft comprises: dual resonant circuits mounted to a wheel of the aircraft, each resonant circuit comprising: a variable capacitance sensor and a wire loop of a predetermined inductance coupled thereto, one capacitance sensor for monitoring the pressure of a tire mounted to the wheel, and the other capacitance sensor operative as a reference to the one capacitance sensor; an interrogating circuit magnetically coupleable to the dual resonant circuits and operative to induce magnetically a variable frequency current in the dual resonant circuits, the one resonant circuit responding to the induced current with an E-field signal at a first resonant frequency commensurate with the capacitance of the one sensor, and the other resonant circuit responding to the induced current with an E-field signal at a second resonant frequency commensurate with the capacitance of the other sensor; a receiving circuit E-field coupleable to the dual resonant circuits and operative t

Abstract: An illuminating system includes illumination device adapted for being installed inside a car cabin, and an operation device being able to wirelessly operate illumination modes of the illumination device.

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.

Abstract: There is provided a monitoring system for remotely monitoring an item or activity, the monitoring system including a recording device for recording a visual record of the item, a communicator for communicating the visual record, and a security device for controlling access to the monitoring system. Also provided is a method of remotely monitoring an item by recording a digital image of the item, communicating the digital image of the item through a communication system, and accessing the digital image using a secured access device.

Abstract: The present invention provides an apparatus and method for detecting if a person has attempted to tamper with an integrated circuit (IC). The apparatus is located on the IC and comprises detection circuitry that detects a build up of electrical charge on the IC and disablement circuitry that disables the IC when the detection circuitry detects a build up of electrical charge on the IC. The method comprises detecting if a build up of electrical charge on the IC has occurred and disabling the IC when a build up of electrical charge on the IC has been detected.

Abstract: A method and apparatus is provided for identifying which one of a plurality of first devices, within a wireless communication range of a second device, the second device is to establish substantive communications with. The method includes sensing which particular first device is within a physical range of the second device, and establishing substantive communications with the particular first device.

Abstract: Systems and techniques for identifying the presence of a jamming signal impairing the operation of an RFID reader. An RFID reader includes a signal strength detector that detects and measures the signal strength of signals within a prescribed frequency range typical of that used by RFID devices. If a signal within the frequency range and exceeding a predetermined maximum strength is detected, the reader identifies the presence of a jamming signal impairing the proper operation of the reader. The reader takes appropriate action upon identification of a jamming signal, for example issuing a local alert or alarm, or sending a message to a central security station, which may then take appropriate action in response to the message, such as alerting appropriate personnel, sounding alarms or securing exits.

Abstract: A mobile object tracking system is provided for tracking the removal and use of specific objects within a group checked out from storage between the time the objects are checked out and the replacement of the objects in the storage. The system includes a system controller and a storage unit that receive and store a series of object carriers therein. Each object carrier includes a series of object holders in which id tags for the group of objects checked out of the storage are received. The object carrier monitors the time each object is removed from the object carrier, which information is thereafter communicated to the system controller.

Abstract: An apparatus, a system and a method secures and/or monitors a device. Additionally, the apparatus, the system and the method attach and/or secure the device to a fixture. The device is connected to an alarm box, an alarm board and/or a power source. The alarm box and/or the alarm board communicates with a sensor via a cable. The power source communicates with a micro-controller via the cable. A programmable logical device controls a voltage from the power source and/or a programmable power supplier to the device. Moreover, a first LED and/or a second LED indicate that the voltage is provided to the device and that the alarm box has been activated. The cable extends outward with respect to a base allowing the device to be manipulated, to be examined and/or to be utilized by a customer and/or a user without triggering the alarm box.

Abstract: A non-authentic article discrimination system for discriminating whether an article to which an IC tag is attached is a non-authentic article includes an IC tag and a base device. The IC tag includes a first antenna portion for receiving a radio wave, a power generation circuit for generating electric power from the radio wave received by the first antenna portion, a first storing portion for storing information regarding the article, and a radio wave output circuit for outputting a radio wave including the information stored in the first storing portion via the first antenna portion.

Abstract: An RFID electronic seal includes a head and a strap. A through-hole extends from a first side through a second side of the head. The strap includes an end extending from the first side of the head. A tag is embedded in the head or the strap. A signal-transmitting line is embedded in at least one of the head and the strap and extends from the tag. The strap is extendable through the through-hole of the head along a tightening direction, forming a tightening space, with an engaging member on the strap engaging with another engaging member on the head to prevent the strap from moving in an unfastening direction. The electronic seal can be used in a tracking system that allows a cargo or goods owner to notice breakage of the electronic seal in real time.

Abstract: A clip for an RFID transponder used in a security network based on RFID techniques. The clip includes a flexible, semi-rigid body engaging the RFID transponder via a slip or snap-in placement. The clip also includes an electrical contact interconnecting with an electrical contact of the RFID transponder, a mechanical member pressing on a switch of the RFID transponder, or both when the RFID transponder is placed into engagement with the clip. Such interconnecting or pressing enables enrollment of the RFID transponder with a controller of the security network. A related method of enrolling the RFID transponder in the security network, using the clip, is also provided.

Abstract: Techniques for tuning an antenna to different operating frequencies are described. An apparatus includes a security tag with a substrate having a surface, a lead frame to mount on the surface and connect to an antenna, and an integrated circuit to connect to the lead frame. The antenna may be disposed on the surface, and may comprise a first antenna portion and a second antenna portion. The first antenna portion may connect to the first side and the second antenna portion may connect to the second side. The antenna may be tuned to an operating frequency by modifying a first length for the first antenna portion and a second length for the second antenna portion after the antenna portions are disposed on the surface.

Abstract: A method and apparatus are disclosed for modeling patterns of behavior of humans or other animate objects and detecting a violation of a repetitive pattern of behavior. The behavior of one or more persons is observed over time and features of the behavior are recorded in a multi-dimensional space. Over time, the multi-dimensional data provides an indication of patterns of human behavior. Activities that are repetitive in terms of time, location and activity, such as sleeping and eating, would appear as a Gaussian distribution or cluster in the multi-dimensional data. Probability distribution functions can be analyzed using known Gaussian or clustering techniques to identify repetitive patterns of behavior and characteristics thereof, such as a mean and variance. Deviations from repetitive patterns of behavior can be detected and an alarm can be triggered, if appropriate.

Abstract: A low-cost system for detecting a drowsy condition of a driver of a vehicle includes a video imaging camera located in the vehicle and oriented to generate images of a driver of the vehicle. The system also includes a processor for processing the images acquired by the video imaging camera. The processor monitors an eye and determines whether the eye is in an open position or a closed state. The processor further determines a time proportion of eye closure as the proportion of a time interval that the eye is in the closed position, and determines a driver drowsiness condition when the time proportion of eye closure exceeds a threshold value.

Abstract: A device and method for monitoring a subject and providing feedback back to the subject that is pertinent to a behavior of the subject. The device includes a source of light having first and second wavelengths wherein the first wavelength does not equal the second wavelength; at least one image sensor producing a first signal indicative of reflected light having the first wavelength and a second signal indicative of reflected light having the second wavelength; a controller receiving the first and second signals and producing a third signal indicative of the first signal subtracted from the second signal; and an interface in communication with the controller providing informational content to the subject in response to the third signal, wherein the informational content is associated with a behavior of the subject.

Abstract: A flame detection system includes a plurality of sensors for generating a plurality of respective sensor signals. The plurality of sensors includes a set of discrete optical radiation sensors responsive to flame as well as non-flame emissions. An Artificial Neural Network may be applied in processing the sensor signals to provide an output corresponding to a flame condition.

Abstract: A device for detecting a weather condition, particularly a tornado. The device includes a receiver module configured to receive electromagnetic signal from an atmosphere, particularly electromagnetic signal in the range of 1 MHz to 100 MHz. The device also includes a processing module coupled to the receiver module and configured to generate frequency spectrum data corresponding to the received electromagnetic signal, such as by performing a Fast Fourier Transform operation. Frequency spectrum data corresponding to the weather condition desired to be detected is stored in a stored data module. The device also includes a comparison module for comparing, such as by performing a cross-correlation operation, the generated frequency spectrum data and the stored frequency spectrum data in order to determine whether the weather condition is present in the atmosphere.

Abstract: In order to provide a triggering signal for a cable stripping device that is also capable of dealing with very thin wires, it is suggested to use a piezoelectric sensor, the output signal from which is forwarded to an electronic evaluation unit. The electronic evaluation unit then outputs a digital signal that enables the stripping process to be started safely. Various mechanical mechanisms are suggested to ensure that the digital signal is not triggered when not being touched. This problem is proposed to be solved by a low pass filter discriminating between sensor inputs by touching and vibration shock events, etc.