Patents Issued in August 30, 2007
  • Publication number: 20070200626
    Abstract: The invention relates to an amplifier comprising amplification means (AM) comprising an input and an output, said amplification means (AM) comprising a switching output stage delivering at least one output signal (OUS) via said output, said amplification means being fed by power supply means (PSM) said amplifier further comprising compensation means (CM) providing a compensation signal (CS) derived from the power supply voltage (PSV) of the power supply means (PSM), said compensation signal (CS) comprising a substantially inverse representation of said power supply voltage (PSV) and said compensation signal (CS) being fed to said amplification means (AM). According to the invention, an effective error compensation of the output switching stage may in practice be implemented by establishment of a compensation, which on a run-time basis is based on the voltage of the power supply currently applied in the output switching stage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 11, 2004
    Publication date: August 30, 2007
    Applicant: TC ELECTRIC A/S
    Inventors: Kim Pedersen, Lars Arknes-Pedersen
  • Publication number: 20070200627
    Abstract: In one aspect, a resistor process invariant transconductor is provided. The transconductor comprises a voltage input configured to receive at least one voltage signal, a current output configured to provide at least one current signal, wherein a ratio between the at least one voltage signal and the least one current signal forms a total transconductance for the transconductor, and a circuit including at least one integrated resistor connected between the voltage input and the current output, the circuit adapted to maintain the total transconductance substantially constant across variation of the at least one integrated resistor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 22, 2007
    Publication date: August 30, 2007
    Applicant: Analog Devices, Inc.
    Inventor: Ronald Kapusta
  • Publication number: 20070200628
    Abstract: A gain boost circuit and methodology are described for providing improved gain boosting with tuned amplifier circuits, such as differential low noise amplifier circuits having output resonant tank circuits. By selectively controlling the current source for a negative transconductance stage coupled between the differential amplifier output and the output resonant tank circuits, the amplifier gain may be adjusted to compensate for temperature variations. In addition, the amplifier gain boost may be selectively added, removed or even incrementally adjusted by using a current source control circuit in the negative transconductance stage to adjust the negative transconductance value generated by the negative transconductance stage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 26, 2007
    Publication date: August 30, 2007
    Applicant: Broadcom Corporation
    Inventor: John Leete
  • Publication number: 20070200629
    Abstract: A low voltage amplifier having a class-AB control circuit which generates minimal or no surge current when the output of the amplifier clips to ground or the negative rail. The amplifier includes an input stage, a summing circuit, a class-AB control circuit and an output stage. The input stage connects to a first current source and couples to receive a pair of differential input signals to generate intermediate signals that are summed together using the summing circuit. A second current source supplies the summing circuit with current. The class-AB control circuit receives the summed signals from the summing circuit to provide control for the output stage which generates the amplifier result at the output of the amplifier which delivers current to drive an external load.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 16, 2004
    Publication date: August 30, 2007
    Inventor: Raul Perez
  • Publication number: 20070200630
    Abstract: Various systems and methods for common mode detection are disclosed. As one example, a common mode detection circuit including a differential input stage, a common mode replica stage, and an amplifier is disclosed. The differential input stage exhibits an input common mode, and includes two differential inputs. A signal from the differential input stage representing the input common mode is electrically coupled to an input of the amplifier. Another input of the amplifier is electrically coupled to the common mode replica stage, and the amplifier outputs a signal indicative of the input common mode.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2006
    Publication date: August 30, 2007
    Applicant: Texas Instruments Incorporated
    Inventors: Sumantra Seth, Kanan Saurabh
  • Publication number: 20070200631
    Abstract: An amplifier circuit improved in linearity and frequency band comprises an amplification block, a feedback block and an output block. The amplification block comprises a main transistor, an auxiliary transistor, a first capacitor, a second capacitor, a main transistor bias unit, and an auxiliary transistor bias unit. The main transistor bias unit comprises a first bias resistor. The auxiliary transistor bias unit comprises a second bias resistor. The feedback block comprises first and second feedback resistors, and the output block comprises an output resistor and an output transistor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 15, 2006
    Publication date: August 30, 2007
    Inventors: Tae Kim, Bonkee Kim, Kwyro Lee
  • Publication number: 20070200632
    Abstract: A regulated cascode circuit includes a first MOS transistor of a first conductive type, a second MOS transistor of the first conductive type, a third MOS transistor of a second conductive type, a first current source and a second current source. The first MOS transistor is coupled between an output node and a first node. The second MOS transistor having a gate terminal for receiving a bias voltage is coupled between the first node and a second power supply voltage. The third MOS transistor is coupled between the first power supply voltage and a gate terminal of the first MOS transistor. The first current source is coupled between the gate terminal of the first MOS transistor. The second current source is coupled between the first power supply voltage and the output node.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 23, 2007
    Publication date: August 30, 2007
    Applicant: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Mu-Kyeng Jung, Soon-Kyun Shin
  • Publication number: 20070200633
    Abstract: The present invention provides a synchronous switching control circuit for variable switching frequency power converters. It comprises a first circuit to generate a first signal in response to an input synchronous signal of a power converter. A second circuit is coupled to the first circuit to generate a second signal in accordance with the frequency of the first signal. Only when the first signal is operated in a specific frequency range, the synchronous operation is allowed. An oscillation circuit is connected to the first circuit and the second circuit to receive the first signal and the second signal to generate an oscillation signal. The oscillation signal is utilized to enable the switching signal of the power converter. The switching signal is thus synchronized with the input synchronous signal in response to the enable of the second signal. Otherwise, the switching signal will be free running.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 21, 2006
    Publication date: August 30, 2007
    Inventors: Cheng-Sung Chen, Ta-Yung Yang, Rui-Hong Lu
  • Publication number: 20070200634
    Abstract: A circuit and method for monitoring a frequency divider. The circuit including a phase locked loop circuit including a voltage controlled oscillator and a feedback frequency divider, an output of the voltage controlled oscillator connected to an input of the feedback frequency divider, and output of the feedback frequency divider coupled to an input of the voltage controlled oscillator; and a frequency divider monitor having a first input, a second input and an output, the first input of the frequency divider monitor connected to the output of the voltage controlled oscillator and the second input of the frequency divider monitor coupled to an output of the feedback frequency divider.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2006
    Publication date: August 30, 2007
    Inventors: Kai Feng, Zhenrong Jin
  • Publication number: 20070200635
    Abstract: Circuits and methods for compensating a variable oscillator for process and/or operational variations. The circuit generally comprises (a) a replica oscillator, (b) a counter configured to count pulses of the replica oscillator and to produce a count signal, and (c) a compensation circuit configured to provide an adjustment signal to the variable oscillator in accordance with the count signal. The method generally comprises the steps of (a) counting the number of pulses of a replica oscillator signal, and (b) providing an adjustment signal to the variable oscillator in accordance with the number of pulses counted. The present invention advantageously provides a largely digital method to compensate a variable oscillator for process, voltage, and temperature variations.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 17, 2006
    Publication date: August 30, 2007
    Inventor: David Meltzer
  • Publication number: 20070200636
    Abstract: An oscillating circuit includes a charge pump, a loop filter and a voltage controlled oscillator. The charge pump and the loop filter generates a differential voltage signal. The loop filter is responsive to the differential voltage signal and generates a filtered differential voltage control signal that is proportional to the differential voltage signal. The voltage controlled oscillator is responsive to the filtered differential voltage control signal and generates a periodic signal that has a frequency that corresponds to the filtered differential voltage control signal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 23, 2006
    Publication date: August 30, 2007
    Applicant: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Kennedy Cheruiyot, Michael Repede, James Strom
  • Publication number: 20070200637
    Abstract: A PLL circuit has a phase comparator to receive an input signal and a feedback signal, a charge pump controlled by an output of the phase comparator, a lowpass filter part to receive an output of the charge pump, a current controlled oscillator controlled by an output of the lowpass filter part, and a frequency divider to frequency-divide an output of the current controlled oscillator and to output the feedback signal. The lowpass filter part has an amplifier to receive the output of the charge pump and a reference voltage, and a circuit part including capacitors and resistors to receive the output of the charge pump and an output of the amplifier.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 17, 2006
    Publication date: August 30, 2007
    Inventors: Kenichi Kodato, Atsushi Matsuda
  • Publication number: 20070200638
    Abstract: An all digital PLL system generates an analog oscillator signal at intermediate frequencies to achieve averaged oscillator frequencies at an extremely high frequency resolution. The PLL system includes a digitally controlled oscillator (10) with a digital control input and an analog signal output, and a feedback loop with a digital loop filter (16) for generating a digital control signal for the digitally controlled oscillator (10). The digital loop filter (16) has a first output providing an integer part (nint) of the digital control signal and a second output providing a fractional part (n??) of the digital control signal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 17, 2007
    Publication date: August 30, 2007
    Applicant: TEXAS INSTRUMENTS DEUTSCHLAND GMBH
    Inventors: HARALD SANDNER, HARALD PARZHUBER
  • Publication number: 20070200639
    Abstract: Provided is a device and a method for adjusting a loop filter gain in an automatic frequency controller, which can allow the automatic frequency controller to operate while maintaining an optimal performance. The device includes a velocity estimator for estimating a change in velocity in accordance with a movement of a terminal; a loop filter gain controller for controlling a loop filter gain in accordance with a change in velocity received from the velocity estimator; and a loop filter gain unit for multiplying a loop filter gain received from the loop filter gain controller and a frequency error for output. Further, there is provided a method for adjusting a loop filter gain in an automatic frequency controller, having the steps of: estimating a change in velocity in accordance with a movement of a terminal; adjusting a loop filter gain in accordance with the estimated change in velocity; and multiplying the adjusted loop filter value and a frequency error for output.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 31, 2007
    Publication date: August 30, 2007
    Applicant: SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Soo-Jin Park, Chae-Man Lim
  • Publication number: 20070200640
    Abstract: A method for mitigating phase pulling in multiple frequency source system includes generating a first signal, the first signal referred to as an existing signal operating at an existing frequency point, the existing signal having a predefined pulling bandwidth around the existing frequency point. A request is received to generate a prospective signal at a prospective frequency point which is within the predefined pulling bandwidth of the existing signal. The prospective frequency is removed from within the predefined pulling bandwidth, and the prospective and existing signals are generated at the corresponding frequency points.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 1, 2006
    Publication date: August 30, 2007
    Applicant: RF Magic, Inc.
    Inventors: Biagio Bisanti, Stefano Cipriani, Lorenzo Carpineto, Gianni Puccio, Eric Duvivier, Francesco Coppola, Martin Alderton
  • Publication number: 20070200641
    Abstract: A multiple phase clock circuit includes a multiple stage voltage controlled oscillator (VCO) and multiple clock dividers. The VCO is operative at a frequency ‘N’ times higher than the required output frequency and generates ‘M’ equally spaced outputs having different phases but same frequency which are sent to multiple clock dividers. A modified Johnson counter is used as a clock divider. Each counter divides the frequency of the clock signal by N. As a result, each of the M outputs of the VCO are divided into N outputs, thereby making a total of ‘M×N’ equally spaced outputs. These output clock pulses have same frequency but different phases. A sequential logic is provided within the device for enabling the Johnson counters as soon as the VCO starts giving output, thus maintaining the sequence of the output of the Johnson counters.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 27, 2006
    Publication date: August 30, 2007
    Applicant: STMICROELECTRONICS PVT. LTD.
    Inventors: Tanmoy Sen, Anand Kumar, Deependra Jain
  • Publication number: 20070200642
    Abstract: A system and method for using one or more clock signals is disclosed. The system includes a clock translator that has a first input to receive a first reference clock signal and a second input to receive a second reference clock signal. The clock translator also includes an output to provide a bit rate clock signal having a clock frequency in a first ratio with respect to the frequency of the first reference clock but having a resolution based on at least a portion of the second reference clock signal. The second reference clock has a faster rate than the first reference clock.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 16, 2006
    Publication date: August 30, 2007
    Applicant: SigmaTel, Inc.
    Inventor: Darrell Tinker
  • Publication number: 20070200643
    Abstract: Method for modulating an atomic clock signal and a corresponding atomic clock. The laser beams (L1, L2) are pulse-modulated in amplitude to illuminate (A) an interactive medium. A detection (B) of the current pulse (Sr) and of the pulses (Sr?1 to Sr?p) preceding said current impulsion is performed. The pulses are superimposed (C) by linear combination to generate a compensated atomic clock signal (SHC) whereof the spectral width is minimized. The invention is applicable to atomic clocks with pulsed interrogation whereof the interactive medium consists of thermal or laser-cooled atoms.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 29, 2005
    Publication date: August 30, 2007
    Inventors: Noel Dimarcq, Stephane Guerandel, Thomas Zanon, David Holleville
  • Publication number: 20070200644
    Abstract: A system of detecting tire information includes a measured value transmitter that includes a first resonator with a pressure sensor and a second resonator without the pressure sensor, which are mounted in a tire of a vehicle. Also includes is a controller that is provided in the body of the vehicle, which transmits a signal used for resonance of the first and second resonators to the measured value transmitter, and receives signals associated with the resonant frequencies of the first and second resonators from the measured value transmitter, so as to calculate a measured value on the basis of the resonant frequencies of the first and second resonators. Characteristics of a piezoelectric single-crystal oscillator included in the first resonator are made closely analogous to those of a piezoelectric single-crystal oscillator included in the second resonator.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 16, 2007
    Publication date: August 30, 2007
    Applicant: ALPS ELECTRIC CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Hideki Masudaya
  • Publication number: 20070200645
    Abstract: A voltage controlled oscillator 1, a variable frequency divider 2, a phase comparator 3, and a loop filter 4 form a Phase Locked Loop (PLL). A sigma-delta modulator 5 sigma-delta modulates data obtained by adding a fractional part M2 of the frequency division factor data with modulation data X by using an output signal of the variable frequency divider 2 as a clock. An output signal of the sigma-delta modulator 5 is added to an integral part M1 of the frequency division factor data, and the resultant data becomes effective frequency division factor data 13 of the variable frequency divider 2. An output signal of the sigma-delta modulator 5 also becomes control data 14 after passing through a D/A converter 6, a low-pass filter 7, and an amplitude adjustment circuit 8. The control data 14 is inputted into a frequency modulation terminal of the voltage controlled oscillator 1.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 23, 2007
    Publication date: August 30, 2007
    Inventors: Hisashi Adachi, Makoto Sakakura
  • Publication number: 20070200646
    Abstract: A device for determining the state of a magnetic element includes an emitter constructed and adapted to emit a charged particle beam; a bi-state magnetic cell disposed on a path of the particle beam, whereby the particle beam is deflected along a first deflection path when the cell is in a first magnetic state, and the particle beam is deflected along a second deflection path, distinct from the first deflection path, when the cell is in a second magnetic state. At least one ultra-small resonant structure positioned on the deflection paths.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 5, 2006
    Publication date: August 30, 2007
    Applicant: Virgin Island Microsystems, Inc.
    Inventors: Jonathan Gorrell, Mark Davidson, Jean Tokarz, Michael Maines, Henry Davis
  • Publication number: 20070200647
    Abstract: A method of manufacturing a spherical crystal blank in which the crystal axis is determined by a simple work with a high degree of accuracy includes the steps of: cutting out a cube from a crystal blank provided with crystal axes including a Z axis, and X and Y axes orthogonal to the Z axis, the cube including the Z axis as a side and being of a size capable of including the spherical crystal blank to be manufactured; then forming a reference hole for Z axis extending along the Z axis direction in reference to the side of the cube in the cube; and thereafter, forming the cube into a sphere so as to include a portion of the reference hole for Z axis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 8, 2007
    Publication date: August 30, 2007
    Inventors: Mitsuaki Koyama, Yukihiro Kobayashi
  • Publication number: 20070200648
    Abstract: An array of micromechanical oscillators have different resonant frequencies based on their geometries. In one embodiment, a micromechanical oscillator has a resonant frequency defined by an effective spring constant that is modified by application of heat. In one embodiment, the oscillator is disc of material supported by a pillar of much smaller diameter than the disc. The periphery of the disc is heated to modify the resonant frequency (or equivalently the spring constant or stiffness) of the disc. Continuous control of the output phase and frequency may be achieved when the oscillator becomes synchronized with an imposed sinusoidal force of close frequency. The oscillator frequency can be detuned to produce an easily controlled phase differential between the injected signal and the oscillator feedback. A phased array radar may be produced using independent phase controllable oscillators.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 9, 2006
    Publication date: August 30, 2007
    Inventors: Robert Reichenbach, Keith Aubin, Maxim Zalalutdinov, Jeevak Parpia, Harold Craighead
  • Publication number: 20070200649
    Abstract: An embodiment of the present invention provides a phase shifter, comprising a substrate, resistive ink adjacent one surface of said substrate and separating a voltage tunable dielectric material from said surface of said substrate and a plurality of conductors adjacent said voltage tunable dielectric material separated so as to form a gap filled with resistive ink in said gap.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 27, 2007
    Publication date: August 30, 2007
    Inventors: Cornelis du Toit, Louise Sengupta
  • Publication number: 20070200650
    Abstract: A dual channel band-pass filter (10) includes an input portion (100), a first resonator (140), a second resonator (160), and an output portion (120). The input portion is used for inputting electromagnetic signals. The first resonator is electronically connected to the input portion, and includes a first groove (146) in the vicinity of a center thereof. The second resonator is disposed parallel to the first resonator, and includes a second groove (166) in the vicinity of a center thereof. The output portion is disposed parallel to the input portion, and is electronically connected to the second resonator for outputting electromagnetic signals.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 15, 2006
    Publication date: August 30, 2007
    Applicant: HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD.
    Inventor: YEN-YI SHIH
  • Publication number: 20070200651
    Abstract: A tunable filter wherein coupling sections (51, 52, 53) are formed in an input/output line along its lengthwise direction, each coupling section including a gap (G51, G52, G53) formed in the input/output line and coupling electrodes (E5a1, E5b1, E5c1) arranged in the gap in the longitudinal direction of the input/output line; and resonators (41, 42) capable of varying the resonance frequency are connected to the input/output line at the positions between adjacent ones of the coupling sections. Switch means (71, 72, 73) are provided for selectively grounding the coupling electrodes of the coupling sections or selectively short-circuiting the coupling electrodes and the input/output line, and resonance frequency varying means (4m1, 4m2) are provided for varying the resonance frequency of the one or more resonators in association with the switch means.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 22, 2007
    Publication date: August 30, 2007
    Applicant: NTT DoCoMo, Inc.
    Inventors: Kunihiro Kawai, Hiroshi Okazaki, Shoichi Narahashi
  • Publication number: 20070200652
    Abstract: A trip indicator is for a circuit breaker having a housing including first and second openings, separable contacts and an operating mechanism having an operating handle protruding from the first opening. The trip indicator includes a one-piece flag member with a first end having a trip flag and a second end with first and second integral legs. The first leg biases the trip flag away from the second opening when the separable contacts are not tripped open, and includes a latching portion to maintain the flag in a viewable position to indicate the trip condition regardless of the operating mechanism position. The second leg is disposed proximate first leg and biases the operating handle toward the OFF position, thereby assisting the handle to move from the ON position in response to the trip condition.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 24, 2006
    Publication date: August 30, 2007
    Inventors: Jeffrey Gibson, Jeffrey Lockhart
  • Publication number: 20070200653
    Abstract: A needle 2 includes a plunger member 21 and a collar member 22, and is provided to be reciprocable from a latch position to a latch release position inside a stator 1. A first magnet coil 31 has sufficient electromagnetic power to put in a latch state the needle 2 which is in a latch release state on energization. A permanent magnet 4 has sufficient absorption power for absorbing a collar member 22 of the needle 2 put in the latch state by the electromagnetic power of the first magnet coil 31 and maintaining the latch state even when the first magnet coil 31 is in a non-energized state. A second magnet coil 32 can diminish magnetic fluxes of the permanent magnet 4 and change the needle 2 from the latch state to the latch release state on energization. Thus, energy efficiency is improved by varying how to energize the magnet coils according to the state of a load side.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 23, 2007
    Publication date: August 30, 2007
    Applicant: KABUSHIKI KAISHA TOSHIBA
    Inventors: Yasuhiro Matsumoto, Yosuke Tonami, Yoshinobu Ishikawa, Nobutaka Kubota, Takeshi Noda, Kazuhiro Matsuo, Kenji Kato, Mitsutaka Homma, Takao Wakabayashi
  • Publication number: 20070200654
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is a non-inductive winding wire-type solenoid bobbin. The bobbin includes a cylindrical bobbin body, winding grooves formed on an outer circumferential surface of the bobbin body at regular intervals, and a connection channel provided on one side of each of the winding grooves. According to the present invention, an inner wire is in direct contact with liquid nitrogen through the connection channel, thus increasing the cooling effect when an electrical power system experiences trouble, and a superconducting fault current limiter including the bobbin limits a current, therefore minimizing damage to the inner wire, and makes a fast recovery after the fault current is limited to allow the current to resume flowing in the system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 6, 2006
    Publication date: August 30, 2007
    Inventors: Seong-Eun Yang, Min-Choel Ahn, Dong-Keun Park, Tae-Kuk Ko
  • Publication number: 20070200655
    Abstract: An electromagnetic actuator includes a cylindrical coil, a stator core disposed in the cylindrical coil, a plate attached to one axial end of the stator core and an armature positioned to face the other axial end of the stator core. Upon energizing the coil, the armature is attracted to the stator core against a biasing force of a spring disposed in an inner space of the stator core. A depressed portion is formed on the plate and/or the stator core to suppress a magnetic flux passing therethrough and to reduce an amount of leakage flux. The magnetic flux generated by the coil is effectively used to drive the armature, and thereby a response time of the actuator is shortened. In other words, the armature is quickly driven upon energizing the coil.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 5, 2006
    Publication date: August 30, 2007
    Applicant: DENSO CORPORATION
    Inventors: Fumiaki Murakami, Shigeru Nonoyama, Naoki Mitsumata
  • Publication number: 20070200656
    Abstract: A two-way actuated shape memory composite material is provided. The composite material includes a shape memory alloy and an elastic metal. The composite material takes a first shape at a lower temperature and a second shape at a higher temperature. At the higher temperature, the shape memory alloy has a “remembered” shape, causing the composite material to take the second shape. The elastic material provides the composite material with elastic properties which cause the composite material to return to the first shape when cooled to the lower temperature.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 1, 2007
    Publication date: August 30, 2007
    Applicant: BOSTON SCIENTIFIC SCIMED, INC.
    Inventor: Steven Walak
  • Publication number: 20070200657
    Abstract: A thermal fuse varistor assembly with an insulating glass passivation layer has a varistor, electrodes, an insulating glass passivation layer, a lead assembly, a fuse, an insulating glass passivation glue and a coating. The varistor has a top surface and a bottom surface. The electrodes are respectively applied to the varistor. The insulating glass passivation layer is applied to the whole electrode on the top surface of the varistor The lead assembly is connected to the electrodes and has a first lead, a second lead and a third lead. The first lead is connected to the electrode on the bottom surface of the varistor. The second lead is connected to the electrode on the top surface of the varistor. The third lead is located on the insulating glass passivation layer. The fuse is connected between the electrode on the top surface of the varistor and the third lead.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2006
    Publication date: August 30, 2007
    Inventors: Shang-Chih Tsai, Chang-Chin Huang, Chin-Lung Tsen
  • Publication number: 20070200658
    Abstract: A control command transmission apparatus for controlling devices in a home network system environment is disclosed. A control command transmission apparatus includes a key input unit for inputting a user's operation signal to control corresponding electronic devices connected to the home network system; a sensor for detecting the user's motion applied to the control command transmission apparatus to control the electronic devices; a location identification unit for identifying the location of the control command transmission apparatus of the home network system; a command generator for generating a command corresponding to the motion detected by the sensor; and an interface for communicating with a home server to which the electronic devices are connected, and for transmitting the command generated by the command generator to the home server. Accordingly, the present invention provides convenient use of electronic devices connected to a home network system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 3, 2007
    Publication date: August 30, 2007
    Applicant: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Sung-Chul Yang
  • Publication number: 20070200659
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a remote-controllable time-based power control apparatus, which includes a remote controller, which is capable of setting the operating time of a power plug and has a display unit for displaying the remaining operating time and ON/OFF statuses, and a control means for turning on the power plug for the preset operating time received from the remote controller while communicating with the remote controller in a wireless manner and turning off the power plug to automatically turn off an electronic appliance when time counted by the control means reaches the preset operating time, thus enabling parents to remotely control the operating times of computers, video game machines, televisions, etc. enjoyed by their children. The power control apparatus of the present invention includes a remote controller (1), a power plug (2), and a control means (3).
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 22, 2003
    Publication date: August 30, 2007
    Inventor: Young-Soo Kim
  • Publication number: 20070200660
    Abstract: Disclosed is an antitheft apparatus for a vehicle, which is installed on a vehicle and configured to allow operation of predetermined on-vehicle devices only when a user ID code obtained from a user of the vehicle and a reference ID code registered on the vehicle are identical. The antitheft apparatus is provided with a setting unit for adding or deleting the reference ID code to or from the vehicle and a transmitting unit for transmitting the reference ID code registered on the vehicle to a predetermined communications station. A vehicle antitheft system using such apparatus is also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 1, 2005
    Publication date: August 30, 2007
    Inventors: Takeo Endo, Kouichi Masamura, Yoshihide Nakane, Takao Ozawa
  • Publication number: 20070200661
    Abstract: A method of proximity access control comprising: defining a master proximity key exhibiting a particular visual encoding; defining at least one additional proximity key exhibiting a particular visual encoding different than the particular visual encoding exhibited by the master proximity key; detecting the master proximity key; detecting one of the at least one additional proximity key contemporaneously with the detected master proximity key; and enabling the detected additional proximity key, the enabling being associated with the particular visual encoding. An identifier of the visual encoding is preferably stored on each proximity key. Preferably, the visual encoding is constituted of color coding, and only a single proximity key of each color is thus authorized.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 25, 2007
    Publication date: August 30, 2007
    Applicant: IMMOTEC SECURITY SYSTEMS LTD.
    Inventor: Remi BLUM
  • Publication number: 20070200662
    Abstract: Actuating a security system includes providing a first set of access codes to a wireless device and causing the wireless device to transmit the first set of access codes to a first controller that actuates the security system. The first set of access codes provided to the wireless device may expire. Actuating a security system may also include providing expiration dates for each of the first set of access codes provided to the wireless device. Actuating a security system may also include examining each of the expiration dates and, in response to a particular expiration date being prior to a current date, erasing from the wireless device a particular one of the first set of access codes that corresponds to the particular expiration date.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 14, 2006
    Publication date: August 30, 2007
    Inventor: Phil Libin
  • Publication number: 20070200663
    Abstract: A method and system for controlling a vehicle given to a third party. The system includes a system controller; a mode-indicating device coupled to the system controller; and an authenticator coupled to the system controller. Here, the system controller is adapted to communicate a driving restriction to the vehicle upon an activation of the mode-indicating device by an authorized driver and until a deactivation of the mode-indicating device by the authorized driver, the system controller is adapted to restrict the activation and the deactivation of the mode-indicating device unless the authorized driver has been authenticated by the authenticator, and the driving restriction includes a limit selected from the group consisting of a limit in number of starts, a limit in speed, a limit in acceleration, a limit in number of minutes, a limit in distance, a limit in gears, a limit in locations, and combinations thereof.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 5, 2007
    Publication date: August 30, 2007
    Inventors: Steve White, Michael Dorin, John Noto
  • Publication number: 20070200664
    Abstract: A remote rental store system that includes (a) a remote store monitor located at a rental location, the remote store monitor including: (i) a wireless receiver for receiving wirelessly transmitted signals from a plurality of mobile rental units located at the remote rental location; and (ii) a store controller connected to the wireless receiver for generating rental unit usage data for the rental units in dependence on the signals and providing the rental unit status data over a communications link; and (b) a management controller, at a location that is remote from the rental location, for receiving the rental unit usage data through the communications link from the store controller and periodically determining a rental charge for the rental units in dependence on the rental unit usage data.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 27, 2006
    Publication date: August 30, 2007
    Inventors: Michael Proska, James Edwards
  • Publication number: 20070200665
    Abstract: The invention relates to an access control system and to a method for operating said system. The system uses a standard access control system (24, 8), which controls a plurality of access points (1) by means of respective individual physical closing mechanisms (8). According to the invention, at least one reader (2) and a controller (3), which is connected to the latter in order to control the closing mechanism (8), is provided at each access point (1) and the system is equipped with at least one access control server (4), which carries out the centralised management of access data and is connected to the respective controllers (3), in addition to at least one mobile telephone server (5), which is connected to the access control server (4), said mobile telephone server being at least indirectly capable of transmitting data to mobile radio telephone subscribers (7) via a mobile radio telephone network and of receiving data from said subscribers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 16, 2004
    Publication date: August 30, 2007
    Inventor: Paul Studerus
  • Publication number: 20070200666
    Abstract: A door lock coupled to a communications device, wherein the door lock is capable of both local and remote actuation enabling the actuation of multiple door locks to be synchronized.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 13, 2006
    Publication date: August 30, 2007
    Inventor: James Howard
  • Publication number: 20070200667
    Abstract: The present invention teaches a remote starting control system having a simple construction and being low in cost, that can be mounted on a vehicle having an immobilizing function, and the system, which is mounted on a vehicle equipped with an immobilizer for capturing a code output in response to an insertion of an ignition key into a key cylinder and permitting an engine start when judging the captured code to be a unique code of the vehicle so as to control engine starting according to an instruction from a portable transmitter, comprises a device for storing a code in an EEPROM each time the code is supplied to a signal line, and a device for supplying the code stored in the EEPROM to the immobilizer when receiving a start instruction of the engine from the portable transmitter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 5, 2004
    Publication date: August 30, 2007
    Inventors: Manabu Matsubara, Minoru Yoshimura
  • Publication number: 20070200668
    Abstract: An electronic key system utilizes a single switch or sensor to perform multiple functions. The function of the single switch or sensor is changed based upon a condition of a component of the vehicle when a controller verifies the presence of a mobile unit. An indicator is utilized to tell an individual what the function of the switch screen is currently.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 24, 2006
    Publication date: August 30, 2007
    Applicant: DENSO International America, Inc.
    Inventors: Christopher Kurpinski, Thomas Keeling, Michael Wiegand, Justin McBride, Keiichi Aoyama, Tanemichi Chiba
  • Publication number: 20070200669
    Abstract: An apparatus for automatically initiating a plurality of vehicle functions is disclosed. The apparatus includes a mobile unit and a detection device operable to automatically detect whether the mobile unit is within a first zone. The detection device is further operable to automatically detect whether the mobile unit is within a second zone. The first zone and the second zone are outside the vehicle, and the first zone encompasses the second zone. The apparatus further includes a controller that is operable to initiate a first vehicle function when the detection device detects that the mobile unit is within the first zone. The controller is also operable to initiate a second vehicle function when the detection device detects that the mobile unit is within the second zone.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 24, 2006
    Publication date: August 30, 2007
    Inventors: Justin McBride, Thomas Keeling, Keiichi Aoyama, Tanemichi Chiba, Michael Wiegand, Christopher Kurpinski
  • Publication number: 20070200670
    Abstract: An apparatus for changing the state of a vehicle closure is disclosed. The apparatus includes a primary mobile unit, a secondary mobile unit, and a detection device. The detection device is operable to automatically detect whether the primary mobile unit is within a first range of the detection device, and whether the secondary mobile unit is within a second range of the detection device. The apparatus further includes a controller operable to change the state of the vehicle closure when the detection device detects that the primary mobile unit is within the first range and that the secondary mobile unit is within the second range.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 27, 2006
    Publication date: August 30, 2007
    Inventors: Justin McBride, Thomas Keeling, Keiichi Aoyama, Tanemichi Chiba, Michael Wiegand, Christopher Kurpinski
  • Publication number: 20070200671
    Abstract: Methods, systems, and media for remote control of a vehicle device and vehicle lockout notification are disclosed. Embodiments comprise a method of creating a secure bidirectional communication link between a remote access device and a central locking unit (CLU) of a vehicle, enabling the central locking unit to authenticate a user of the remote access device to manipulate a device of the vehicle. In some embodiments, the CLU may wait for an access attempt from a mobile device. In other embodiments, the CLU monitor vehicle conditions, detect a lockout condition, and alert the user before authenticating and granting vehicle access. Embodiments utilize private and shared key encryption methods to facilitate securely passing an access code between the CLU and the remote access device. Some embodiments authenticate the user by voice verification, while other embodiments may use personal identification numbers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2006
    Publication date: August 30, 2007
    Inventors: Nia Kelley, Guillermo Silva
  • Publication number: 20070200672
    Abstract: An apparatus for automatically initiating a plurality of vehicle functions is disclosed. The apparatus includes a mobile unit and a detection device operable to automatically detect whether the mobile unit is within a first zone. The detection device is further operable to automatically detect whether the mobile unit is within a second zone. The first zone and the second zone are outside the vehicle, and the first zone encompasses the second zone. The apparatus further includes a controller that is operable to initiate a first vehicle function when the detection device detects that the mobile unit is within the first zone. The controller is also operable to initiate a second vehicle function when the detection device detects that the mobile unit is within the second zone.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 1, 2007
    Publication date: August 30, 2007
    Applicant: DENSO INTERNATIONAL AMERICA, INC.
    Inventors: Justin P. McBride, Thomas J. Keeling, Michael Wiegand, Christopher M. Kurpinski, Toshihiro Wakamatsu
  • Publication number: 20070200673
    Abstract: A panel having a plurality of receptacles may be disposed in a storage container. A plurality of inserts may be releasably engaged with respective receptacles. One or more valuable object may be attached to each insert. One of the valuable objects may be a key to provide access to remotely located equipment or other types of enclosures. An electronic controller may be provided to monitor and keep a record of each time an insert is removed from and returned to one of the receptacles. The electronic controller may monitor and record possible tampering with the panel. The electronic controller may be operable to communicate with remotely located equipment, handheld devices and/or a network operations center. If the valuable object is a key for a lock associated with remotely located equipment, the electronic controller may also monitor and record each time the remotely located equipment is opened and closed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 21, 2006
    Publication date: August 30, 2007
    Inventors: Bryan W. Godwin, Sean V. Howell, James M. Canter, Garrett R. Lewis
  • Publication number: 20070200674
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention provide an electronic device having a location-based security feature. The device is generally operable to provide a primary security feature corresponding to a user input and provide a secondary security feature corresponding to a geographic security location of the electronic device. In various embodiments, the secondary security feature is operable to override the primary security feature. Such a configuration enables the secondary security feature to be satisfied independent of the user input.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 14, 2006
    Publication date: August 30, 2007
    Inventors: Ryan Moore, Scott Moore, Jay Schroeder
  • Publication number: 20070200675
    Abstract: An electronic inventory tag system including an electronic inventory tag, a management apparatus using a management database for managing the electronic inventory tag, and a relay apparatus for relaying communications between the electronic inventory tag and the management apparatus is disclosed. The relay apparatus transmits a non-registration call. The electronic inventory tag determines whether the electronic inventory tag is registered when receiving the non-registration call. The electronic inventory tag transmits a non-registration response to the relay apparatus when determining that the electronic inventory tag is unregistered. The relay apparatus transmits non-registration detection data to the management apparatus when receiving the non-registration response. The management apparatus registers electronic inventory tag data corresponding to the electronic inventory tag in the management database based on the non-registration detection data.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 27, 2006
    Publication date: August 30, 2007
    Inventors: Youichi Kimura, Katsuhiko Sukegawa