Abstract: A RFID tag for accommodation in a narrow clearance in an electronic device and providing a predetermined communication distance even if a displacement occurs between first and second antennas. First antenna is mounted through first spacer to metal case surface and second antenna mounted to resin container surface facing the first antenna. The dielectric resin container functions as a second spacer. Only the first spacer and first antenna are accommodated in the narrow clearance between metal case and resin container, the tag can be mounted even in an electronic device with a small redundant space and small size. First antenna is shorter than second antenna so that a required communication distance may be obtained even if their relative position is changed.

Abstract: A RFID tag, which decreases a bending stress and simultaneously prevents an antenna break, is provided. The RFID tag includes a base, an antenna for communication which extends on the base, a circuit chip which performs radio communication through the antenna. The RFID tag further includes a chip reinforcement member which covers a periphery of the circuit chip and a portion of the antenna and a covering member which cover the base, the antenna, the circuit chip and the chip reinforcement member. The covering member is more flexible than the chip reinforcement member.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention provide a tracking apparatus (100) and method that are operable to efficiently track an animal. The tracking apparatus (100) is operable to be worn by an animal, determine its current geographic location, and transmit information relating to its current geographic location to an external device such as a portable navigation unit (200). The navigation unit (200) is operable to display a representation of the geographic location of the tracking apparatus (100) for consideration by a user.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for controlling pet access according to various aspects of the present invention generally comprise a locking mechanism configured to selectively lock and unlock a pet door. A controller connected to the locking mechanism controls the locking mechanism in response to a control signal. A wireless receiver connected to the controller conveys the control signal to the controller.

Abstract: The present invention is comprised of a computer system and software used to track, locate, and/or identify sex offenders. The invention is comprised of a computer system, a GPS device carried With a sex offender, and a data storage medium. The system may be capable of notifying authorities when the sex offender enters forbidden areas such as schools, cities, counties, states, countries, or other regions designated as denied to the sex offender.

Abstract: A microprocessor including a temperature sensor that monitors a temperature of core logic of the microprocessor during operation thereof, and operating point information from which may be determined N operating points at which the microprocessor core may reliably operate at a first temperature. Each of the N operating points has a different combination of operating frequency and voltage. The N operating points comprise a highest operating point, a lowest operating point, and a plurality of operating points intermediate the highest and lowest operating points. The microprocessor also includes a control circuit that transitions operation of the core logic among the N operating points to attempt to keep the operating temperature of the core logic provided by the temperature sensor within a temperature range whose upper bound is the first temperature.

Abstract: A multi-sensor baby care monitoring system includes a wetness sensor configured to generate a first signal relating to an occurrence of a wetness event relative to a wetness containment device, such as a diaper. The monitoring system further includes a human life sensor configured to generate a second signal relating to a presence or absence of a human relative to the wetness containment device. If desired, a system controller may be used for receiving the first and second signals and generating data associated with the wetness event and the presence or absence of said human.

Abstract: An improved level indicator is provided as a completed dispensing unit or as a retrofit and includes the capability for measuring liquid level, time elapsed, temperature, two-phase presence within the drainage pipe for very accurate level sensing, as well as the ability to set combinational limits based upon any of the above measured characteristics. An indicator can visually indicate to food service workers the state of the liquid being dispensed.

Abstract: A light failure monitoring system using existing alarm panels includes a first circuit capable of turning on a solid state switch or transistor, which turns on a lamp or LEDs. The system also includes a second circuit having a light sensitive device, such as a photoresistor, that keeps the solid state switch or transistor turned on upon sensing light from the lamp or LEDs, and when the light sensed by the photoresistor substantially drops in intensity the solid state switch or transistor turns off, which causes an alarm to sound on the alarm panel. Alternatively, the first circuit may include a second solid state switch to amplify the signal and make it easier to start the second circuit.

Abstract: A method of maintaining a structure includes providing a structure having a component subject to failure. A sensor, a memory and an energy harvesting device are mounted on the structure. The sensor is used and data derived from the sensor logged in the memory, wherein the memory is powered solely with energy derived from the energy harvesting device. The component is replaced if information in the memory shows that the component was subject to damaging usage.

Abstract: The present invention is a component for an alarm system that may serve as an active component or an inactive, or decoy, component. The component is a small casing mountable in a visible manner that indicates activation with a flashing LED. Inside the component, the circuitry necessary to flash the LED and possibly monitoring devices, depending on the component's status as an active or inactive component. Active components also have security monitoring devices contained within the casing that monitor the surrounding environment through an access port. When a situation in the environment is registered by the device, it sends a signal to the alarm system of which it is a part. As added utility, the active and inactive components are outwardly indistinguishable, thus allowing the inactive components to serve as decoys either within a subscriber's alarm system or with non-subscriber's property, thus fulfilling a need for a high-tech version of the posted sign deterrent used in the alarm system industry today.

Abstract: An appliance having a diagnostic capability includes a tone generator, a controller, a data collection function, memory for storing the collected data, and a transmitter. The transmiter transmits a stream of data derived from the stored data using a carrier signal. The carrier signal is switched on and off according to bits in a stream of data derived from the stored data. The transmission also includes interleaving each bit for transmission with an off period of the carrier. Each off period of the carrier has a duration of at least 100 milliseconds.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a method of (1) providing continuous monitoring of various operating and environmental characteristics using RFID technology or similar wireless technology and (2) capturing data on historical events that have occurred on the circuits used for the transmission and distribution of electric power. The invention has the additional capability to communicate the information to operators at the site, in remote locations, or to other equipment (peer to peer). The invention provides a low cost method and apparatus to monitor and store operating characteristics and events on the electric power distribution circuit. The information can be used to reduce the duration of outages, for improving system reliability, to study the impact on the power grid of various environmental factors, to enhance the ability to react to operating conditions such as overloads, etc.

Abstract: A method for transmitting measured values between two measurement transmitters, which transmit, via two communication connections, digital signals according to the master/slave principle and analog signals to a control system, which serves as the master, comprises the steps of: transmitting the digital signals between the two measurement transmitters via an additional communication connection; and the incoming digital signals in the receiver measurement transmitter are examined for at least one characteristic value of the transmitting measurement transmitter, in order to find measured values needed for evaluation in the receiver measurement transmitter.

Abstract: A method for use in a power line communication systems for an electrical distribution system (1) to quickly and accurately poll electrical meters (6) installed at user facilities to determine if an outage has occurred at a facility. An outbound communications message is transmitted to the meter at the facility requesting a short response consisting of a bit pattern that is either partially or completely known to the receiver. Any perceived response from the meter is then processed to ascertain whether or not the meter actually transmitted a message. Receipt of a message indicates that an outage has not occurred at that site, while an indication the message was not received indicates an outage has likely occurred. In processing the received message, two types of errors can potentially occur; i.e., a false positive or a false negative. A false positive occurs when a detection algorithm used to process the response indicates that the meter sent a response when actually it did not.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for automated detection of mobile telephone usage by drivers of vehicles is provided. The apparatus may include a detection system comprising at least one mobile phone signal receiving device, at least one image capturing device, and at least one computer. The mobile phone signal receiving device is operative to detect a mobile phone signal transmitted from a vehicle. The at least one image capturing device is operative to capture at least one image of the vehicle. The at least one computer is operative to store in a storage device, information associated with at least one of the mobile phone signal transmitted from the vehicle; and the at least one image of the vehicle. The information stored in the storage device may be used to determine if a person associated with the vehicle should be prosecuted for illegal use of a mobile phone while driving the vehicle.

Abstract: A computer implemented function monitors the position of the magneto switch in an aircraft to provide real-time feedback of engine RPM drop during a magneto (mag) check and communicates whether parameters are within limits. The function can also monitor engine and groundspeed/airspeed data in an aircraft to verify the magneto switch is in the correct position during engine start, takeoff and flight and can provide an alert to the pilot if the switch is not in the correct position. The automated magneto check function provides an easy way to test the operation of the aircraft's engine-driven magnetos and provides additional safety by alerting the pilot to unsafe positioning of the switch.

Abstract: Precision approach path indicator systems (PAPIS) effective in providing approach slope guidance for aircraft approaching an airport runway are provided. Such PAPIs include a plurality of light assemblies positioned on or in proximity to an airport runway and structured or configured to be effective in providing approach slope guidance light signals to a pilot of an aircraft approaching a runway. Each light assembly includes a light source comprising light emitting diodes (LEDs), preferably a first array of LEDs and a second array of LEDs.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a navigation apparatus and method for a vehicle on which a traffic lane guide image is displayed so that an optimal traffic lane can be selected based on road information of a next section when a vehicle is driven. According to an aspect of the present invention, the shortest route between a current location of a vehicle and a desired destination is determined. When the vehicle turns left or right at the intersection, etc., an optimal traffic lane can be decided in advance. Accordingly, there is an advantage in that when a driver drives a vehicle, driving convenience can be improved.

Abstract: A mobile terminal having a terminal body and a keypad located on the terminal body is provided. The keypad includes a plurality of keys configured to input information, a plurality of light emitting units, each light emitting unit being associated with a corresponding key of the plurality of keys to separately illuminate the corresponding key, a shielding member to reduce leakage of light from an activated light emitting unit to adjacent keys, and a control unit configured to detect when one of the plurality of keys is operated and to activate at least the light emitting unit associated with the operated key.

Abstract: According to one embodiment, an information processing apparatus includes a key matrix unit having a plurality of switches, a plurality of operation keys which are provided in association with a part of the plurality of switches, and a first detection unit which executes a scan process for the key matrix unit, thereby detecting on/off states of the plurality of switches, the first detection unit executes a predetermined process in a case where the first detection unit detects that the switches, which are not associated with the operation keys, are in an ON state.

Abstract: An apparatus and method are disclosed for converting XML data to a destination encoding format. A receive module receives a request for bytes of XML data in a destination encoding format streamed from a source XML file. A transfer module transfers the requested bytes from a byte conversion buffer to a request buffer in response to the request and the byte conversion buffer having at least the requested bytes. A conversion module, in response to the byte conversion buffer lacking the requested quantity of bytes, transfers part of the requested bytes to the request buffer, fetches input bytes from an XML file, stores the bytes in a receive buffer, transfers the input bytes through a byte-to-character converter to a character conversion buffer, transfers the characters through a character-to-byte converter to the byte conversion buffer, and transfers enough bytes to the request buffer to satisfy the request.

Abstract: A compressed pattern matching based on LZW compressed sequences with a simple bitmap-based realization of the Amir-Benson-Farach algorithm is provided. A suffix trie for a searched pattern is determined and a LZW trie is constructed for a compressed data. For each data chunk in the compressed data a variety of information is determined and a node is added to the LZW trie. The queries used to determine the information are implemented through bitmaps, and allowing identification of all occurrence of the searched pattern.

Abstract: A Double Data Rate (DDR) serial encoder is provided. In one aspect, the DDR serial encoder includes a non-glitchless multiplexer and digital logic for ensuring a glitch-free encoder output. By using a non-glitchless multiplexer, the size and complexity of the encoder is significantly reduced. In another aspect, the DDR serial encoder has a single layer of logic between the final register stage and the encoder output and a reduced number of paths from the final register stage to the encoder output, thereby resulting in reduced output skew and increased link rate.

Abstract: Improving signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) when using fewer bits than the number of output bits of an ADC as digital representation of the strength of the samples of an input signal. In an embodiment, an ADC generates digital values of H bits by sampling an input signal at corresponding time instances. An error signal representing the (H-N) least significant bits of the H-bit digital values is processed to determine respective filtered values, which are respectively added to the corresponding ones of the H-bit digital values. The (H-N) bits of the resulting added values are dropped to generate N bit values. The N bit values thus generated may have improved SNR at least in a band of interest, as desired.

Abstract: Multiple noise-FM dither. An analog dither signal is generated by summing two or more noise-FM signals, each noise-FM signal being a carrier modulated by a noise source.

Abstract: Common mode management between a DAC, such as a current-steering DAC, and a transconductance filter in a high-frequency transmission system. In one aspect of the invention, a transmission circuit includes a DAC that provides an analog signal from an input digital signal, and a filter such as a transconductance filter connected to the DAC, the filter receiving the analog signal and filtering the analog signal for transmission. A common mode management circuit connected to the DAC and the transconductance filter provides common mode compatibility in the interface connecting the DAC and the transconductance filter.

Abstract: A digitally controlled analog circuit comprises a finite state machine configured for receiving a digital input word and generating at least two digital codes in a manner determined by a state of the finite state machine. The digital codes are decoded into respective sets of binary data. The sets of binary data control respective switched-circuit arrays to generate an analog output corresponding to the digital input word. To establish a monotonic function between the digital input word and the analog output during steady state operations, the finite state machine switches states when a wrap-around condition is detected for one of the digital codes. The finite state machine uses different sets of equations in different states to derive the digital codes.

Abstract: A radio frequency integrated circuit (RFIC) includes a digital to analog converter, an analog to digital converter, and a low noise amplifier. The digital to analog converter (DAC) is operably coupled to convert outbound symbols into outbound baseband signals, wherein the digital to analog converter is fabricated within a DAC portion of a substrate of the RFIC. The analog to digital converter (ADC) is operably coupled to convert inbound baseband signals into inbound symbols, wherein the analog to digital converter is fabricated within an ADC portion of the substrate. The low noise amplifier is operably coupled to amplify an inbound radio frequency (RF) signals. The low noise amplifier is fabricated within a radio portion of the substrate, wherein the DAC portion of the substrate is physically between the ADC portion and the radio portion of the substrate to provide isolation when the low noise amplifier and the ADC are active and the DAC is inactive.

Abstract: A digital analog converter includes a current conversion section and a voltage conversion section. The current conversion section has a first output terminal and a second output terminal. The first output terminal outputs a first current and a second output terminal outputs a second current, the first current varying in value according to inputted digital data, the sum of the first current and the second current becoming a constant current. The voltage conversion section converts the first current to a corresponding first voltage and produces an offset voltage on the basis of the constant current and outputs the sum of the first voltage and the offset voltage as an output voltage.

Abstract: An A-D converter utilizing V-F conversion is realized that is capable of performing A-D conversion with high precision without increasing conversion frequency. Two VCOs are provided to find a V-F conversion value that is less than a period of the main VCO by making use of a period difference between the two VCOs. By counting the number of pulses in a pulse signal that is output from a BASE-VCO with a counter, a high order bit of a digital signal is generated. A low order bit, on the other hand, is generated by calculating, for each sampling period, a phase difference from the beginning of a sampling period until a first pulse generation in the sampling period for the output of the BASE-VCO by a third register and second and third subtracters, based on the number of pulses in the output of the BASE-VCO contained in a period from a current activation time point of sampling signal Ps to a time point at which phases of outputs of the BASE-VCO and JAW-VCO match.

Abstract: A reference voltage generation circuit for a plurality of reference generation voltages and a pipe line analog-to-digital converter (ADC) using the same are provided. The reference voltage generation circuit including a charging capacitor for stabilizing the reference voltages charges the charging capacitor prior to the generation of the reference voltages, thus decreasing the time for the pipe line ADC to operate stably.

Abstract: An image processing device is provided which includes a pseudo differential analog front end circuit for receiving at least one image analog signal and generating at least one digital signal. The pseudo differential analog front end circuit includes at least a converting circuit, each of which includes a clamper, an input buffer and an analog-to-digital converter. All of the analog-to-digital converters receive a common comparing voltage if the number of the converting circuits is greater than one.

Abstract: An analog/digital converter for converting an analog signal to a digital output code includes a local digital analog converter including a segmented array. The segmented array includes upper and lower segments of conversion elements selectively operable by respective digital command codes for respectively varying, according to binary weighted contributions, the voltages of first and second common nodes and the voltage of a second common node. A logic unit generates the digital command codes for controlling the local digital/analog converter according to a successive approximation technique for producing the digital output code. The converter includes a redistributor for modifying the command codes for redistributing the modified command codes between the lower segment and the upper segment, while making use of at least one auxiliary conversion element provided in the upper segment.

Abstract: A remote control multimedia content listing system for providing an updated content listing of various media within a remote control. The remote control multimedia content listing system includes a remote control having a housing, a display, a keypad, and an electronic system for receiving configuration data from a control station via a global computer network (e.g. Internet). The user may enter media information into the electronic system thereafter uploading the media information to the control station. The control station analyzes the uploaded media information and transmits the appropriate configuration data to properly configure the electronic system to provide a usable “guide” for the media. The user may also access a web site of the control station and manually enter the media information after which the control station sends the appropriate configuration data to the electronic system.

Abstract: A method, computer program, computer program product, system, transmitter, receiver and module are shown for dual frequency reception, wherein a receive signal is obtained that contains a first signal with a first center frequency f1 and a second signal with a second center frequency f2, wherein said receive signal is processed to generate an output signal, wherein one or more types of said output signal can be generated, and wherein a first type of said output signal is proportional to the sum of said first signal frequency-converted to a third center frequency f3 and said second signal frequency-converted to said third center frequency f3. Said first and second signals may for instance be positioning signals in a dual frequency satellite-based positioning system.

Abstract: A radar device is described, in particular a hand-held short-range radar for determining the location of objects enclosed in a medium, including at least one radar sensor, which generates a first, high-frequency detection signal for penetrating a medium to be tested in such a way that information about an object enclosed in the medium can be obtained by measuring and analyzing the reflected detection signal of the radar sensor. At least one additional sensor is provided for generating at least one additional, second detection signal for obtaining information about the object enclosed in the medium. The method on which this radar instrument is based is also described.

Abstract: A sampled beat signal is cut out into two or more short time data in a time direction concerning each antenna component. From a frequency spectrum of the short time data, an interference element frequency of an interference wave is detected. From the interference element frequency of the interference wave, two or more candidates of the frequency before aliasing of the interference wave are produced, and phase correction is executed on each candidate. Digital Beamforming is executed on the corrected frequency so as to extract maximum peaks of the power of an azimuth direction, and the frequency candidate showing the maximum peak power is selected and the arrival azimuth of the interference element is estimated. A filter for suppressing the interference element is applied on the short time data from the estimated arrival azimuth of the interference element so as to suppress the interference element.

Abstract: A geodesic positioning system determines the position of a target point. The system includes a range pole that can be oriented toward the target point. A tilt sensor is arranged on the range pole, detachably where applicable, for generating a tilt angle signal related to the tilt angle of the range pole. A positioning element, more particularly a reflector or a satellite signal antenna, is arranged on the range pole. Positioning means is able to capture the position of the positioning element as a function of the tilt angle signal. Triggering means is in signal communication with the tilt sensor and with the positioning means, and adapted so that a trigger signal issued to capture the current position of the positioning element is transmitted to the positioning means as soon as the tilt angle signal corresponds to a tilt angle situated within a given tilt angle range.

Abstract: Disclosed is a method for measuring a distance between portable Bluetooth terminals. The method includes transmitting first distance measurement radio waves to a specific portable Bluetooth terminal corresponding to user selection from among one or more portable Bluetooth terminals which can be connected through Bluetooth; and if second distance measurement radio waves are received from the specific portable Bluetooth terminal, detecting a distance corresponding to an intensity of the received second distance measurement radio waves, and notifying a user of the detected distance.

Abstract: A system for calibrating waveform generators and receivers of non-overlapping electronic scanning antennas includes a first sub-array, a second sub-array and a calibration cable. The first sub-array includes a first waveform generator, a first receiver, and a first switch assembly. The second sub-array includes a second waveform generator, a second receiver, and a second switch assembly. The calibration cable is configured to selectably form a common calibration path between the first and second sub-arrays based on a position of the first and second switch assemblies. The first and second switch assemblies are configured to enable calibration of the second receiver using an input from the first waveform generator via the calibration cable.

Abstract: An embedded calibration mechanism and method for a time-of-flight ranging system. The calibration mechanism (200) comprises a channel (202) having known characteristics. Periodically or as part of a calibration function, a pulse is transmitted through the calibration channel (202) and parameters such transmit pulse delay time and apparent velocity are determined. The calibration parameters or measurements are used to calibrate or compensate operation or measurements from the measurement channel.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for determining time-of-day in a mobile receiver is described. In one example, expected pseudoranges to a plurality of satellites are obtained. The expected pseudoranges are based on an initial position of the mobile receiver and an initial time-of-day. Expected line-of-sight data to said plurality of satellites is also obtained. Pseudoranges from said mobile receiver to said plurality of satellites are measured. Update data for the initial time-of-day is computed using a mathematical model relating the pseudoranges, the expected pseudoranges, and the expected line-of-sight data. The expected pseudoranges and the expected line-of-sight data may be obtained from acquisition assistance data transmitted to the mobile receiver by a server. Alternatively, the expected pseudoranges may be obtained from acquisition assistance data, and the expected line-of-sight data may be computed by the mobile receiver using stored satellite trajectory data, such as almanac data.

Abstract: Method and apparatus for locating position of a satellite signal receiver is described. In one example, pseudoranges are obtained that estimate the range of a satellite signal receiver to a plurality of satellites. An absolute time and a position are computed using the pseudoranges at a first time. The absolute time is then used to compute another position at a subsequent time. In another example, a plurality of states associated with a satellite signal receiver are estimated, where the plurality of states includes a time tag error state. A dynamic model is then formed relating the plurality of states, the dynamic model operative to compute position of the satellite signal receiver.

Abstract: A positioning system designed to provide a three dimensional location of an object. The system can include one or more multiple transmitters or electromagnetic beacons, software defined radio receivers with an associated processing unit and data acquisition system, and magnetic antennas. The system applies theoretical calculations, scale model testing, signal processing, and sensor data to operate.

Abstract: A system and method for observing a personal networking event which shares the position of a number of friendly participants with other participants within a group. In one form, the position of unknown participants meeting certain criteria is also displayed to a user or one or more friendly participants. The views are selectable by friendly participants on, for example, a GPS equipped cell phone, to include a view from the participant's position, zoom, pan, and tilt views, or views from another friendly location or from another geographic location, giving increased situational awareness and identification of participants. Other information can be shared among friendly participants, including social information, status and directions. Preferably, an orientation mechanism shows when the device is correctly pointed to a position.

Abstract: A method of calculating position data for an airborne aircraft using a GPS-based airborne navigation system includes the processing of a position component of a relative state function by fusing a plurality of different types of measurement data available in the GPS-based system into a weighted least squares algorithm to determine an appropriate covariance matrix for the plurality of different types of measurement data.

Abstract: Locating satellites (e.g., GPS) are culled into a sub-plurality based largely on dwell time within an inverted cone above a relevant site in communication with a wireless device. A first inverted cone having a first base angle is defined above a first site, a second inverted cone having a second base angle is defined above a second site. If the second site is farther from an equator of Earth than the first site, then the second inverted cone is made to have a base angle larger than a base angle of the first inverted cone. If the first site is farther from the equator of Earth than the second site, then the first inverted cone is made to have a base angle larger than a base angle of the second inverted cone. The span of the inverted cone over the site closest to the equator may be limited.

Abstract: A controlling device for a satellite antenna is provided. The controlling device includes a first signal generating device generating an inertial compensating signal having a compensating direction; a second signal generating device assembling a received signal from a satellite and generating an orientation with a strongest satellite signal in responding to a signal received from a satellite; a first driving device receiving the inertial compensating signal and driving the satellite antenna toward the compensating direction in a first speed; and a second driving device electrically connected to the second signal generating device and driving the satellite antenna toward the orientation in a second speed.

Abstract: A wide-angle null-fill antenna with no null in the depression angle range, an omni antenna using the same, and radio communication equipment. A null-fill antenna comprises a first antenna array including antenna elements arranged with a prescribed point as the center, and a second antenna array having amplitude characteristics substantially equal to those of the antenna elements forming the first antenna array. The first antenna array is excited so that the excitation amplitude distribution is to have symmetry with respect to the prescribed point, while the excitation phase distribution is to have point symmetry with respect to the prescribed point. The phase center of the first antenna array is substantially coincident with that of the second antenna array.