Patents Issued in May 24, 2007
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Publication number: 20070114963Abstract: An AC motor speed controller includes a plurality of capacitors that may be selectively switched, by means of controllably conductive switches, into series electrical connection with an AC motor and an AC voltage source to control the speed of the motor. To change the speed of the motor, a control circuit renders a first switch conductive, in response to a first detected AC voltage zero crossing, to charge a first capacitor to a predetermined voltage. The control circuit then renders a second switch conductive, in response to a subsequent second detected AC voltage zero crossing, to charge a second capacitor to the predetermined voltage. The control circuit then renders both switches simultaneously conductive at a predetermined time after a subsequent third detected AC voltage zero crossing. The capacitors will thereby be charged to the same voltage prior to being switched into series with the motor, thereby resulting in reduced acoustic noise when changing motor speeds.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 16, 2006Publication date: May 24, 2007Inventors: James Steiner, Aaron Dobbins, Chen Wu
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Publication number: 20070114964Abstract: A method and a circuit for controlling a triac intended to be series-connected with a resistive element of positive temperature coefficient or which is at least capacitive, and a winding for starting an asynchronous motor, for supply by an A.C. voltage, the present invention including the steps of: detecting a voltage representative of the voltage across the series connection of the element and of the triac; comparing this detected voltage with respect to a threshold; and blocking a turning back on of the triac when the threshold has been exceeded.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 21, 2006Publication date: May 24, 2007Applicant: STMicroelectronics S.A.Inventor: Laurent Gonthier
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Publication number: 20070114965Abstract: A normal map determines a carrier frequency used for switching control of an inverter controlling driving of a motor generator, in accordance with the state of operation of the motor generator in a normal operation. In a stall state in which the driver is pressing both the accelerator pedal and the brake pedal, the switching frequency is determined using an element protection map, in place of the normal map. When the element protection map is used, in the state of operation corresponding to the stall state, the carrier frequency is set to a protection frequency lower than a normal frequency. Therefore, in an electric vehicle having an electric motor (motor generator) as a driving source for the vehicle, it becomes possible to avoid temperature increase of a power semiconductor device forming an electric power converter for controlling driving of the electric motor.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 13, 2006Publication date: May 24, 2007Applicant: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHAInventors: Masaki Kutsuna, Koichiro Muta
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Publication number: 20070114966Abstract: Apparatus and methods for phase current detection used for driving a motor by supplying outputs from a pulse width modulation (PWM) converter to the motor. One method presented provides detecting a DC link current and a vector pattern, determining whether a voltage vector lengths exceeds a predetermined value, and adjusting the voltage vector by adding a positive or reversed voltage based upon the above determination and an integrated error value.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 22, 2006Publication date: May 24, 2007Inventors: Toshiyuki Maeda, Tomoisa Taniguchi
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Publication number: 20070114967Abstract: A portable electronic device is recharged by generating light from a light source of a wireless optical charger, converting the light from the charger into an electrical signal using a photovoltaic cell of the portable electronic device and charging the portable electronic device using the electrical signal. The wireless optical charger may include a proximity sensor that switches on the light source when a portable electronic device is close to the light source.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 18, 2005Publication date: May 24, 2007Inventor: Chen Peng
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Publication number: 20070114968Abstract: An apparatus for switching from a first power supply to a second power supply. The embodiment may detect the charge or voltage of both the first and second power supply, and power a device from the power supply having the greatest voltage or charge. A single boost converter is used regardless of which power supply is providing power.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 23, 2005Publication date: May 24, 2007Inventors: Christoph Krah, Ronil Patel
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Publication number: 20070114969Abstract: A rechargeable electronic device (20, 80) employs a magnetic rechargee interface (30, 90), and a magnetic rechargor interface (40, 100) in electrical communication with the magnetic recharges interface (30, 90). In operation, the magnetic rechargee interface (30, 90) and the magnetic rechargor interface (40, 100) simultaneously recharge the rechargeable electronic device (20, 80) and one or more additional rechargeable electronic device (20, 80) based on the magnetic rechargee interface (30, 90) being magnetically coupled to a battery charger (50, 110) and based on the magnetic rechargor interface (40, 100) being magnetically coupled to the additional rechargeable electronic device(s) (20, 80).Type: ApplicationFiled: May 23, 2006Publication date: May 24, 2007Applicant: KONINKLIJKE PHILIPS ELECTRONIC, N.V.Inventor: George Marmaropoulos
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Publication number: 20070114970Abstract: A battery charger is disclosed for use with various batteries, such as automotive and marine-type batteries. In accordance with an aspect of the invention, the charging current is alternated between non-zero DC charging current levels. By alternating the charging current between non-zero DC charging levels, the battery can be charged to a higher capacity (i.e., ampere hours) faster, thus reducing the charging time and at the same time allow the rating of the battery charger to be increased. In accordance with another important aspect of the invention, the technique for alternating the charging current can be implemented in both linear and switched-mode battery chargers.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 14, 2006Publication date: May 24, 2007Inventors: Thomas Johnson, John Whiting, John Waldron
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Publication number: 20070114971Abstract: A battery remaining capacity calculating method, a battery remaining capacity calculating device, and a battery remaining capacity calculating program that make it possible to estimate the remaining capacity of a secondary battery with high accuracy using a relatively simple circuit configuration. An output voltage value of the secondary battery is measured, a use mode of the secondary battery is divided into a high consumption mode in which the output voltage value is not lower than a threshold value and a low consumption mode in which the output voltage value is lower than the threshold value, a remaining capacity in the low consumption mode is calculated on a basis of a predetermined reference voltage curve as a discharge characteristic of the secondary battery and the output voltage value, and a remaining capacity in the high consumption mode is calculated supposing that there is little change in the remaining capacity at a time of change from the low consumption mode to the high consumption mode.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 27, 2004Publication date: May 24, 2007Inventors: Shinichi Uesaka, Nozomu Mitsuyoshi
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Publication number: 20070114972Abstract: Disclosed herein is a method of calculating the aging factor of a battery for a hybrid vehicle.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 8, 2005Publication date: May 24, 2007Inventor: Jae-Seung Koo
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Publication number: 20070114973Abstract: A battery voltage monitoring apparatus according to the present invention for monitoring a voltage of a battery pack having a plurality of battery cells connected in series includes a first terminal connected supplied with a highest battery voltage of the battery cell, and a voltage clamp circuit for clamping a voltage of the first terminal not to decrease below a specified value.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 20, 2006Publication date: May 24, 2007Applicant: NEC ELECTRONICS CORPORATIONInventor: Manabu Miyamoto
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Publication number: 20070114974Abstract: An FM transmitter and power supply/charging assembly is electrically coupleable with an MP3 player. The assembly includes a modular docking unit having a main body portion with a docking cavity therein, wherein the main body portion contains the FM transmitter and power/charging circuitry, with coupling means in the docking cavity for connecting the MP3 player with the FM transmitter and power/charging circuitry, to accommodate FM transmission by the FM transmitter of audio content when played by the MP3 player in the docking cavity of the modular docking unit, and adapted for transmitting electrical power through the modular docking unit and the power/charging circuitry therein, for charging of a battery of the MP3 player and/or powering of the MP3 player.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 22, 2006Publication date: May 24, 2007Inventor: Jeff Grady
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Publication number: 20070114975Abstract: A method for energy management in a robotic device includes providing a base station for mating with the robotic device, determining a quantity of energy stored in an energy storage unit of the robotic device, and performing a predetermined task based at least in part on the quantity of energy stored. Also disclosed are systems for emitting avoidance signals to prevent inadvertent contact between the robot and the base station, and systems for emitting homing signals to allow the robotic device to accurately dock with the base station.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 29, 2006Publication date: May 24, 2007Applicant: iRobot CorporationInventors: David Cohen, Daniel Ozick, Clara Vu, James Lynch, Philip Mass
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Publication number: 20070114976Abstract: According to the present invention, there is provided a control apparatus for an automotive alternator which includes a switch, a target voltage setter, a voltage regulator, and a disconnection detector. The switch is configured to be selectively turned on and off so as to intermittently excite the alternator. The target voltage setter works to set a target voltage. The voltage regulator works to regulate an output voltage of the alternator to the target voltage through controlling on/off operation the switch. The disconnection detector works to detect disconnection between the alternator and an on-board battery to be charged by the alternator. The disconnection detector is configured to detect the disconnection, when the target voltage is changed from a lower value to a higher value, based on a time required for the voltage regulator to bring the output voltage of the alternator from the lower value to the higher value.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 13, 2006Publication date: May 24, 2007Applicant: DENSO CORPORATIONInventors: Takatoshi Inokuchi, Tomomi Tsuzuki, Tadatoshi Asada
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Publication number: 20070114977Abstract: The present invention relates to a circuit for producing electricity, the circuit comprising: a first rectifier comprising inputs and an output; a second rectifier comprising inputs and an output, the inputs of the first and second rectifiers being for connection to an alternator so that phases of the alternator are connected in series with the inputs of the first and second rectifiers; at least one switch for short-circuiting the output of the second rectifier or at least a part of the inputs of the second rectifier; and a control unit for controlling the switching of the at least one switch so as to regulate the rectified voltage delivered by the circuit.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 22, 2006Publication date: May 24, 2007Applicant: MOTEURS-LEROY-SOMERInventor: Christian Andrieux
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Publication number: 20070114978Abstract: A high voltage AC transmission cable system for transmitting power between two points, each connected to one or more power networks, and a method to operate the system. At least one transformer is arranged at each end of the AC transmission cable, wherein at least one of the transformers is arranged to operate the transformer at a voltage whereby losses due to reactive power transport and dielectric losses are minimized. The AC cable is run at a variable voltage regulated such that the voltage is a function of the load for the transmission cable. This operating voltage is not necessarily the same as the nominal voltages in the connection points. A control and communication system and a graphical user interface for carrying out the method are also provided.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 13, 2004Publication date: May 24, 2007Applicant: ABB RESEARCH LTDInventors: Sture Lindahl, Kenneth Johansson, Udo Fromm, Stefan Johansson
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Publication number: 20070114979Abstract: A power converter employing a tapped inductor and method of operating the same. In one embodiment, the power converter includes first and second tapped inductors including a tapped winding having a first section and a second section with a tap therebetween. The power converter also includes first and second active phase legs including a main switch series-coupled with an input node of the power converter and the first section of the tapped windings of the first and second tapped inductors, respectively. The first and second active phase legs also include an auxiliary switch interposed between the second section of the tapped windings of the first and second tapped inductors, respectively, and an output node of the power converter.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 19, 2007Publication date: May 24, 2007Inventor: Sriram Chandrasekaran
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Publication number: 20070114980Abstract: A step up switching converter is disclosed. The switching converter comprises a first semiconductor switch arranged in series connection with a storage inductor and a sensor resistor. The control electrode of the first semiconductor switch is connected via a resistor to the input voltage, the resistor constituting the operating resistor of a second semiconductor switch. The voltage drop of the sensor resistor is fed to the control electrode of the second semiconductor switch as an indicator of the current through the storage inductor, and that connection of the storage inductor connected to the first semiconductor switch being connected on the one hand via a rectifier diode to an output capacitor which carries the output voltage, and on the other hand via a series RC element to the control input of the second semiconductor switch.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 26, 2004Publication date: May 24, 2007Inventor: Thomas Rothmayer
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Publication number: 20070114981Abstract: A linear pre-regulator for cascading with a switching regulator for providing a load current for a circuit or personnel protection device includes a transistor for providing a series variable resistance when a load current changes. The series variable resistance includes a control node, and a control part maintains a substantially fixed voltage at the control node when the current drawn by the switching regulator changes. A storage part may be included to provide a voltage at a drain of a transistor forming the series variable resistance during an OFF-to-ON transition of the transistor.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 21, 2005Publication date: May 24, 2007Inventors: Jacinto Vasquez, Steven Meehleder
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Publication number: 20070114982Abstract: A constant-voltage power circuit incorporating an over-current protection circuit having a fold back current limiting capability operative through low input voltages, and being capable of arbitrarily setting current outputs. The constant-voltage power supply circuit is configured so that a voltage output with small amplitude from a differential amplifier circuit is subjected to amplitude expansion to be amplified to range fully from the ground potential approximately to the input voltage by means of an amplitude expansion circuit, which includes an inverter consisting of an NMOS transistor and a resistor, and that the voltage resulting from the amplitude expansion is subsequently input to the gate of a PMOS transistor configured to directly control an output transistor.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 19, 2007Publication date: May 24, 2007Inventors: Kohzoh Itoh, Shunsei Tanaka
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Publication number: 20070114983Abstract: A switching regulator integrated circuit for controlling first and second switches in a hysteretic mode using a zero or very low equivalent series resistance (ESR) capacitor includes an integrated circuit package housing a switching regulator semiconductor chip, a first package lead on the integrated circuit package receiving the regulated output voltage and a second package lead to be coupled to a zero or low ESR capacitor of the LC filter. The first package lead may be connected to a first bond pad of the semiconductor chip using a first bond wire. A second bond wire connects the second package lead to the first package lead, or to the first bond pad, or to a second bond pad electrically shorted to the first bond pad. The capacitor is thus electrically coupled to the regulated output voltage and the second bond wire provides series resistance to the capacitor.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 21, 2005Publication date: May 24, 2007Inventors: Matthew Weng, Charles Vinn
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Publication number: 20070114984Abstract: Embodiment of the present invention may provide a switching regulator which may be located within an IC. The switching regulator couples to an external power supply, a plurality of configurable control registers, a plurality of default registers, and a multiplexer. The multiplexer is operable to select an input control signal from either the plurality of configurable control registers or the plurality of default control registers as the output control signal to the switching regulator. This default control signal, although not optimal, allows the switching regulator to be configured in a default condition during start up or power down operations and ensures that the switching regulator may provide a stable, although not necessarily optimal, power output to the various components within the IC.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 21, 2005Publication date: May 24, 2007Inventors: Ning Li, Tom Kwan
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Publication number: 20070114985Abstract: A nonlinear PWM controller for switching power suppliesType: ApplicationFiled: November 10, 2006Publication date: May 24, 2007Applicant: L&L Engineering, LLCInventors: Paul Latham, John Canfield
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Publication number: 20070114986Abstract: A switching regulator is disclosed that includes a switching transistor controlling output of an input voltage by switching in accordance with an input control signal; a smoothing circuit part configured to smooth the output voltage of the switching transistor and output the smoothed voltage to an output terminal; a control circuit part configured to control the switching of the switching transistor in synchronization with an externally input clock signal so that a voltage at the output terminal is a predetermined constant voltage; and a clock signal detector circuit part configured to detect the presence or absence of inputting of the clock signal. Upon detecting stoppage of the inputting of the clock signal, the clock signal detector circuit part causes the control circuit part to stop operating and perform a standby operation for reducing power consumption and thereby to turn off the switching transistor.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 28, 2005Publication date: May 24, 2007Inventor: Kohji Yoshii
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Publication number: 20070114987Abstract: An intelligent electronic device for monitoring and determining an amount of electrical power usage by a consumer, or end user, and for providing broadband Internet access to the consumer. The intelligent electronic device includes at least one sensor coupled to an electric circuit configured for measuring at least one power parameter of the electrical circuit and generating at least one analog signal indicative of the at least one power parameter; at least one digital to analog converter coupled to the at least one sensor configured for receiving the at least one analog signal and converting the at least one analog signal to at least one digital signal; a processor configured for receiving the at least one digital signal and calculating energy consumption in the electrical circuit; and a gateway configured for receiving data transmissions imposed on the electrical circuit and for demodulating the imposed data transmission for providing data communications.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 30, 2006Publication date: May 24, 2007Applicant: Electro Industries/Gauge Tech.Inventor: Erran Kagan
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Publication number: 20070114988Abstract: A sensor, in particular a Hall sensor, comprising a sensor element (1; 10) which outputs a sensor signal (SS) containing an interference signal (STS). An evaluation device (6; 20) is connected to the sensor element and contains a subtractor (2; 21) which subtracts the interference signal from the sensor signal. The sensor contains a filter device (3), which filters out the interference signal from the sensor signal. The sensor and a related method enable compensation of the interference signal.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 5, 2006Publication date: May 24, 2007Applicant: AUSTRIAMICROSYSTEMS AGInventors: Siegfried Rossmann, Colin Steele, Marcel Urban
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Publication number: 20070114989Abstract: Apparatus and methods for magnetic through-skin sensing are disclosed. In one embodiment, a sensing system includes a first portion including a magnet having, and a second portion including a magnetic field sensor. The magnet has a magnetic field emanating therefrom. A field-directing member provides a zone of approximately spherically-shaped magnetic force gradient lines, the zone having an angular extent of at least approximately three degrees and the zone extending through the workpiece. The magnetic field sensor is moveable through at least a portion of the zone. The magnetic field sensor senses a characteristic of the shaped magnetic field portion indicative of the desired position for the manufacturing operation.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 18, 2007Publication date: May 24, 2007Applicant: THE BOEING COMPANYInventor: Paul Arntson
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Publication number: 20070114990Abstract: Disclosed are a magnetic field assembly and method of configuring the same for use in position sensors of the type, which include a magnetic field sensor. First and second magnets in the field assembly are positioned on a surface of a magnetic plate (return path) and separated from one another by a separation distance. The first magnet has a magnetic axis substantially transverse to the surface of the magnetic plate, and the first magnet has a polarity opposite a polarity of the second magnet. The thicknesses of the first and second magnets are selectively varied along a stroke direction, and the separation distance is selected along with a gap length distance between the magnetic sensor and the field assembly, so that a predetermined flux density versus stroke characteristic can be provided for the position sensor.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 19, 2007Publication date: May 24, 2007Inventor: Mikhail Godkin
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Publication number: 20070114991Abstract: A magnetic detection device includes a magnetic moving unit, a magnet that is arranged to face the magnetic moving unit and that applies a magnetic field to the magnetic moving unit, and a magnetoelectric conversion element that is arranged to face the magnetic moving unit and includes at least one segment that detects a change in the applied magnetic field due to rotation of the magnetic moving unit, wherein the magnetic moving unit has a shape that generates an asymmetrical change in magnetic field to the magnetoelectric conversion element in accordance with the direction of rotation of the magnetic moving unit. Thus, a magnetic detection device that can detect the direction of rotation easily and reliably is provided.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 17, 2006Publication date: May 24, 2007Inventors: Yoshinori Tatenuma, Masahiro Yokotani
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Publication number: 20070114992Abstract: A closed loop magnetic sensor system for measuring an input magnetic field from a magnetic field source has a compensation circuit, which can be for example a printed wire board, and a magnetic sensor, such as a Magnetoresistive (MR) sensor, for measuring an input magnetic field. Preferably, the magnetic sensor is magnetically coupled to the compensation circuit by arranging the magnetic sensor in an air gap provided in the compensation circuit. The compensation circuit has a compensating conductor, arranged on or in a dielectric medium, which can be configured as a plurality of nested coils. Electrical control circuitry, electrically, coupled to the magnetic sensor and compensating conductor, is adapted and arranged to drive a feedback current through the compensating conductor according to the output of the magnetic sensor such that the input magnetic field is substantially compensated at the magnetic sensor. The magnetic system can serve as current sensor for sensing current through a primary conductor.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 23, 2005Publication date: May 24, 2007Inventors: Raghavendra Muniraju, Gangi Reddy, Saravanan Sadasivan, Basavaraja Teli, Sudheer Veedu
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Publication number: 20070114993Abstract: Described are methods for monitoring of stresses and other material properties. These methods use measurements of effective electrical properties, such as magnetic permeability and electrical conductivity, to infer the state of the test material, such as the stress, temperature, or overload condition. The sensors, which can be single element sensors or sensor arrays, can be used to periodically inspect selected locations, mounted to the test material, or scanned over the test material to generate two-dimensional images of the material properties. Magnetic field or eddy current based inductive and giant magnetoresistive sensors may be used on magnetizable and/or conducting materials, while capacitive sensors can be used for dielectric materials. Methods are also described for the use of state-sensitive layers to determine the state of materials of interest. These methods allow the weight of articles, such as aircraft, to be determined.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 30, 2005Publication date: May 24, 2007Inventors: Neil Goldfine, Ian Shay, Darrell Schlicker, Andrew Washabaugh, David Grundy, Robert Lyons, Vladimir Zilberstein, Vladimir Tsukernik
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Publication number: 20070114994Abstract: In a SQUID magnetometer, high resolution, a high slew rate, and a high dynamic range are achieved without using expensive circuit components having a large number of processing bits and enabling a high speed processing operation. A digital FLL circuit using a double counter system is provided. This circuit utilizes two or more counters, for example, a change range counter in a digital FLL for carrying out a processing operation at a high speed and a reproducing counter in a control/measuring computer. In addition, in the present invention, hysteresis characteristics having a 1?0 positive margin is used. That is, a change of a state of a magnetic flux is counted by means of a counter. At the time of this change, control is made so as to track a different channel between cases in which a magnetic flux increases and decreases, thereby stabilizing the control.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 1, 2006Publication date: May 24, 2007Applicant: JAPAN SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY AGENCYInventors: Koichiro Kobayashi, Daisuke Oyama, Masahito Yoshizawa, Kenji Nakai, Takayuki Simizu, Tomoaki Ueda
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Publication number: 20070114995Abstract: A fluxgate magnetometer drive circuit includes a fluxgate inductor that is driven through magnetic saturation by altering voltage pulses. Following each drive pulse, the spurred magnetic energy in the fluxgate is allowed to dissipate by connecting a fluxgate across a fixed reverse voltage. The time for the fluxgate current to decay to zero is measured and is indicative of a magnetic field induced in the torque transducer.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 21, 2005Publication date: May 24, 2007Applicant: Siemens VDO Automotive CorporationInventor: David Cripe
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Publication number: 20070114996Abstract: A method and apparatus useful to determine characteristics of fluid flow, such as fluid holdup and flow velocity. The apparatus comprises a flow tube, a permanent magnet, a first set of coils, and a second set of coils. The first set of coils creates a radio frequency magnetic field within the flow tube with a series of refocusing pulses. The second set of coils encodes velocity information onto the fluid molecules using rotating frame zeugmatography that is later decoded and used to estimate the fluid flow velocity.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 23, 2005Publication date: May 24, 2007Inventor: Carl Edwards
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Publication number: 20070114997Abstract: Systems, methods and apparatus are provided through which a partially elongated field-of-view in a magnetic resonance imaging system is generated either by an asymmetric primary coil or a conventional symmetrical primary coil with a supplementary high odd-order shim that elongates the field-of-view towards one end of the bore. For significantly increased efficiency, the high odd-order shim can evoke specific parts of the primary coil by injecting additional current and/or subtracting current from specific turns, as required.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 18, 2005Publication date: May 24, 2007Applicant: General Electric CompanyInventor: Timothy Hollis
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Publication number: 20070114998Abstract: An RF coil which can restrain coupling while enhancing the freedom of design and arrangement of coils is to be provided. The RF coil unit of a magnetic resonance imaging apparatus is provided with a central coil surrounding a subject around its body axis, an auxiliary coil disposed toward one end of the central coil and having first loop units mutually opposed with the body axis in-between, and another auxiliary coil disposed toward the other end of the central coil and having second loop units mutually opposed with the body axis in-between, wherein one of the first loop unit and one of the second loop unit are arranged to be on mutually reverse sides with respect to the body axis and so connected that the directions of currents resulting from increases in magnetic fluxes in the same direction are in mutually reverse directions.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 19, 2006Publication date: May 24, 2007Inventor: Masaru Yoshida
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Publication number: 20070114999Abstract: An RF coil assembly is presented that incorporates balun networks to eliminate standing waves from cables used to apply a voltage to multiple drive ports of the coil. Each drive port is driven by an applied voltage that is shifted 90 degrees in the tangential direction. Further, all drive ports are located on one end-ring of the coil, e.g. the superior end-ring. The inequality of the efficiency of the drive ports is reduced such that a substantially circular polarization in the volume of the coil is maintained. The present invention reduces asymmetrical loading by a patient as a result of patient asymmetry and patient contact with the opposite end-ring of the coil that normally negatively affects circular polarization and conventional coil configurations.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 16, 2007Publication date: May 24, 2007Inventors: Eddy Boskamp, Armen Kocharian, LeRoy Blawat
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Publication number: 20070115000Abstract: Measurements made with a multicomponent logging system oriented in a horizontal position above the surface of the earth must satisfy certain relationships. These relationships are used to establish calibration errors in the system.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 13, 2006Publication date: May 24, 2007Applicant: Baker Hughes IncorporatedInventors: Gulamabbas Merchant, Luis Pelegri, Vladimir Mogilatov
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Publication number: 20070115001Abstract: A system for driving a plurality of lamps includes an inverter circuit (20) and a fault detecting circuit (30). The inverter circuit includes a plurality of outputs divided into a first output part and a second output part. The fault detecting circuit is used for detecting whether one or more of the plurality of outputs of the inverter circuit is faulty, and includes a magnetic element circuit (300) and a signal detecting circuit (310). The magnetic element circuit is used for generating an induction signal according to flux changes of the magnetic element circuit when one of the plurality of outputs is faulty. The signal detecting circuit is used for generating a fault signal according to the induction signal.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 28, 2006Publication date: May 24, 2007Applicant: HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD.Inventors: Chih-Chan Ger, Chia-Kun Chen, Chi-Wen Kan
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Publication number: 20070115002Abstract: A shielding member is provided as an electrostatic protection device in extension lines that extend from a sensing area to switching devices via extension areas correspondingly. As a result, even if a body to be detected such as a finger contacts the extension area, it is possible to reduce the amount of the change of an electrostatic capacitance with respect to the movement of the body to be detected. Therefore, it is possible to reduce influences exerted on data to be detected, and an electrostatic detection apparatus having improved coordinate detection accuracy can be provided.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 22, 2007Publication date: May 24, 2007Inventors: Tadamitsu Sato, Shuzo Ono
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Publication number: 20070115003Abstract: A non-destructive testing method of improved efficiency. Two one-dimensional images are obtained by scanning an optical line over an object to be tested in an X- and Y-directions each for one scan in lieu of conducting a prior art method of two-dimensionally scanning a optical spot on the object to be tested. A two-dimensional image is reconstructed from the obtained two one-dimensional images. Since only two relative scans between the object to be tested and the optical line is necessary, scanning time is remarkably shortened in comparison with that of the prior art.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 31, 2006Publication date: May 24, 2007Applicant: NEC ELECTRONICS CORPORATIONInventor: Kiyoshi Nikawa
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Publication number: 20070115004Abstract: A system configured to detect faults in signal lines. A system includes a first component configured to communicate with a second component via a signal path including one or more signal traces. Sense signal lines are manufactured such that at some point they are in close proximity to a signal trace which is to be monitored. The sense signal lines are configured to use parasitic coupling to redirect a portion of a signal conveyed via a signal trace to a monitoring component. The first component is configured to convey a test signal indicative of a type of test via the signal path, and a reference signal to the monitoring component. The monitoring component is configured to utilize the reference signal to ascertain a presence or absence, or characteristics of a received redirected signal. The monitoring component may optionally utilize a locally generated reference signal.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 21, 2005Publication date: May 24, 2007Inventors: Russell Mirov, Howard Davidson
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Publication number: 20070115005Abstract: Provided are two monitor circuits for monitoring two input signals of an input stage differential amplifier, respectively, and two monitor circuit for monitoring two output signals of the input stage differential amplifier, respectively. When failure occurs at the bridge circuit of a sensor element or at the input stage differential amplifier, the monitoring units or the monitoring units detect abnormality, which makes it possible to detect the failure of the sensor element or the input stage differential amplifier. Therefore it is possible to detect failure such as a disconnection or a short circuit of the bridge circuit of the sensor element and failure which has occurred at the amplifier for amplifying outputs of the sensor element.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 27, 2006Publication date: May 24, 2007Inventors: Katsuya Shimizu, Hiroyuki Sakima, Takahiro Watai, Masaya Mizutani, Koju Aoki, Koji Takekawa
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Publication number: 20070115006Abstract: Systems and methods for screening capacitors are disclosed. An exemplary method may comprise charging at least one capacitor for time t1 and then implementing the following operations. After charging time t1, comparing a charge state of the at least one capacitor to thresholds th1-low and th1-high for a capacitance screening operation. After waiting time t2, comparing the charge state of the at least one capacitor to a threshold th2 for an Equivalent Series Resistance (ESR) screening operation. After waiting time t3, comparing a change in the charge state of the at least one capacitor to a threshold th3 for a Leakage Current (LC) and Self-Discharge (SD) screening operation. The screening operations may be implemented manually by a user and/or automatically by the exemplary system described herein.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 21, 2006Publication date: May 24, 2007Applicant: Maxwell Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Casey Anude, Bruce Brentlinger
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Publication number: 20070115007Abstract: A circuit for detecting a power-on voltage of power supply encompasses a voltage divider connected between a first power supply and a second power supply, the potential of the second power supply is lower than the potential of the first power supply, and a detecting circuit connected between the first power supply and the second power supply. The voltage divider includes a series circuit encompassing a diode, a first dividing resistor connected to the diode and a second dividing resistor connected between the first dividing resistor and the second power supply. The detecting circuit includes a pMOS transistor whose gate electrode is connected to a connection node between the first dividing resistor and the second dividing resistor, a source resistor connected between the first power supply and the source electrode of the pMOS transistor and a drain resistor connected to the drain electrode of the pMOS transistor and the second power supply.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 9, 2006Publication date: May 24, 2007Applicant: Kabushiki Kaisha ToshibaInventors: Ryu OGIWARA, Daisaburo Takashima
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Publication number: 20070115008Abstract: A sensor measures the current in high frequency pulses (e.g., pulses having fast rise times) that are transported on coaxial transmission lines. The sensor includes an entrance coaxial conductor and an exit coaxial conductor that are interconnected by a continuous inner conductor. The outer conductors of the two coaxial conductors are interrupted and are interconnected by a sensing resistor with a substantially constant resistance. An output sensor coaxial conductor has an inner conductor electrically connected to a first end of the sensing resistor and has an outer conductor connected to a second end of the sensing resistor. Tapered ferrite cores are placed around the three coaxial conductors proximate the connections to the sensing resistor. Preferably, the sensing resistor is a tubular resistor formed on a dielectric cylindrical tube. The sensor is enclosed within a continuous conductive housing.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 1, 2006Publication date: May 24, 2007Inventors: Jon Barth, John Richner
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Publication number: 20070115009Abstract: An electrical circuit is disclosed herein for the temperature compensation of at least one measuring resistor structure integrated in a semiconductor body. The electrical circuit comprises at least one further resistor structure which is likewise concomitantly integrated into the semiconductor body and is thermally coupled to the measuring resistor structure. The electrical circuit also includes a circuit arrangement which is electrically connected to the further resistor structure, feeds a current into the further resistor structure, and evaluates a temperature-dependent voltage dropped across the further resistor structure as a result. The temperature-dependent voltage dropped across the further resistor is used for temperature compensation of the measuring resistor structure.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 27, 2006Publication date: May 24, 2007Applicant: Infineon Technologies AGInventor: Martin Graefling
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Publication number: 20070115010Abstract: A probing system has a probing accessory for electrically connecting to a complementary probe accessory connected to a test point where the probing accessory captures and releases the complementary probe accessory by application of only tensile forces.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 22, 2005Publication date: May 24, 2007Inventors: Michael McTigue, James Cannon
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Publication number: 20070115011Abstract: A probe apparatus and a probe system are provided. The probe apparatus uses a larger printed circuit board to dispose a plurality of testers. The layout of each of the testers on the circuit board is modified accordingly, such that more number of the testers can be disposed on the circuit board and the pin count of the probe apparatus is increased. In addition, the probe apparatus can be installed in the test tool. Accordingly, the testing efficiency of the present test tool can be substantially promoted and the cost of the overall testing can be effectively reduced.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 20, 2006Publication date: May 24, 2007Inventor: Fan-Hsien Hsu
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Publication number: 20070115012Abstract: A guide panel for a vertical probe card is disclosed to have a via area and a reinforcing area. The via area has a plurality of feed through vias. The reinforcing area is bonded to the via area. The reinforcing area has a plurality of through holes in communication with the feed through vias and a plurality of reinforcing ribs formed around the through holes and bonded to the via area.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 30, 2006Publication date: May 24, 2007Applicant: MJC Probe IncorporationInventors: Chih-Yung Cheng, H. K. Fan, Chih-Chung Chen, Hsin-Hung Lin