Patents Issued in January 31, 2013
  • Publication number: 20130027015
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a multi input circuit, including: a first terminal being supplied with sensing signals of a current means, an RTD temperature sensor, and a TC temperature sensor; a second terminal being supplied with a compensation signal of the RTD temperature sensor and a sensing signal of the voltage means; a third terminal being supplied with a common signal of the current means, the RTD temperature sensor, the TC temperature sensor, and the voltage means and being grounded; a current means sensing signal detection unit connected between the first terminal and the third terminal; a multiplexer of which input ports are each connected to the first to third terminals and an output end of the current means sensing signal detection unit; a key input unit selecting the input ports for receiving the sensing signals from the multiplexer; a power supply unit supplying power for sensing a change in a resistance value of the RTD temperature sensor; a switch turning-on/off power supplied to the RTD t
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 11, 2012
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Inventor: Hwan Ki Park
  • Publication number: 20130027016
    Abstract: A standard cell circuit including an input terminal to which input an input signal is input; an output terminal to output an output signal; a first wiring conductor, connected to an external power supply that outputs a first power supply voltage; a second wiring conductor to supply a second power supply voltage that is lower than the first power supply voltage; a standard cell to operate at the second power supply voltage supplied from the second wiring conductor; and a conversion circuit, connected to the first wiring conductor and the second wiring conductor, to convert the first power supply voltage input from the first wiring conductor into the second power supply voltage for output to the second wiring conductor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 24, 2012
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Applicant: RICOH COMPANY, LTD.
    Inventors: Emi OKUNISHI, Keiichi Yoshioka
  • Publication number: 20130027017
    Abstract: A converting circuit for receiving an input voltage and generating an output current, including: a transistor, coupled to a supply voltage at a drain of the transistor, and a source of the transistor is coupled to a first voltage, and a gate of the transistor is coupled to the input voltage and a fixed voltage; and a resistor, coupled to the input voltage and the gate of the transistor, and the output current flows through the resistor, wherein the output current is related to the fixed voltage, the input voltage and the resistor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 27, 2012
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Applicant: VIA TELECOM, INC.
    Inventor: Chi-Kai CHENG
  • Publication number: 20130027018
    Abstract: A booster circuit including an output terminal; a reference voltage generating section that generates a boosting reference voltage; a charge pump section that boosts the reference voltage and outputs the boosted reference voltage from the output terminal; and an output-terminal voltage holding section that holds the output terminal at a voltage of a high level at a standby time. The charge pump section includes an input node, at least one boosting node, at least one reference node, at least one boosting capacitor, and a plurality of switching transistors that are provided between the input node and the at least one boosting node, between a boosting node at a last stage and the output terminal, between the input node and the reference node, and between a reference potential and a reference node, and are switched on or off by a switch signal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 2, 2012
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Applicant: SONY CORPORATION
    Inventor: SONY CORPORATION
  • Publication number: 20130027019
    Abstract: The invention relates to a power supply arrangement with a first transformer (T1), with at least two secondary-side taps for a secondary-side phase conductor potential and with a tap for a secondary-side neutral conductor potential, wherein in standard operation of the first transformer a rated voltage drops between a first of the taps for the secondary-side phase conductor potential and the tap for the secondary-side neutral conductor potential, and with two power controllers (V1, V2) connecting the taps for the secondary-side phase conductor potential with a phase conductor terminal of an output of the power supply arrangement, wherein the circuit arrangement has on the secondary side of the first transformer (T1) a means (T2) for increasing the voltage above the rated voltage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 1, 2012
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Applicant: AEG POWER SOLUTIONS B.V.
    Inventors: Wolfgang PAUL, Peter WALLMEIER
  • Publication number: 20130027020
    Abstract: A method for determining a maximum power point (MPP) of a photovoltaic generator (PV) by variation of at least one parameter of search voltage and search current, within a maximally searchable search area on a power/voltage curve is disclosed. The method includes initializing by defining a start point with a start voltage and a start current, searching for the maximum power point (MPP) in at least one search direction by repeated variation of the search voltage or search current in the search area taking account of at least two limiting conditions for limiting the search area, wherein at least one of the limiting conditions for limiting the search area are is determined with evaluation of parameters provided in an operating state already attained during the search, and ending the search if one of the at least two limiting conditions for limiting the search area is met.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 22, 2012
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Applicant: SMA Solar Technology AG
    Inventors: Jens Klein, Gerd Bettenwort, Markus Hopf
  • Publication number: 20130027021
    Abstract: A current sensor is provided for measuring DC current in a primary conductor also carrying AC current. The current sensor includes a ferromagnetic core through which the primary conductor may extend. The core has a narrow air gap formed therein and a magnetic flux sensor is disposed in the air gap. A secondary winding is mounted to the core and has an impedance connected therein. The impedance has a value of substantially zero at one or more frequencies of the AC current. The impedance may be a short or an impedance source that includes a capacitor and an inductor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 28, 2011
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Applicant: ABB INC.
    Inventor: Kalyan P. Gokhale
  • Publication number: 20130027022
    Abstract: A system for measuring current includes a current monitoring system comprises a current sensor configured to sense a first current passing through a conductor and a voltage conversion device coupled to the current sensor and configured to receive a second current from the current sensor and convert the second current into a first voltage. A first scaling circuit is coupled to the voltage conversion device and configured to convert the first voltage to a second voltage proportional to the first current based on a first scaling factor, and a second scaling is circuit coupled to the voltage conversion device and configured to convert the first voltage to a third voltage proportional to the first current based on a second scaling factor, wherein the second scaling factor is different from the first scaling factor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 27, 2011
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Inventors: James H. Woelfel, Kaijam M. Woodley
  • Publication number: 20130027023
    Abstract: A circuit and method are provided for detecting a power of a signal amplified in a power amplifier. A diode and a voltage bias source are used to shift a voltage of the signal taken at a base of an amplifying transistor of the power amplifier, to generate a positive signal. The positive signal is provided to a base input of an emitter follower exhibiting high input impedance to generate a power detector output which follows the positive signal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 1, 2012
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Applicant: SIGE SEMICONDUCTOR, INC.
    Inventors: Gordon Glen Rabjohn, Johan Grundlingh, Adrian Peter Long
  • Publication number: 20130027024
    Abstract: A current sensor comprising a primary conductor for conducting a current that is to be measured, at least two magnetic field probes for measuring magnetic fields, and a magnetic core, which has a closed ring structure having three or more corners that encloses the primary conductor, wherein each magnetic field probe is arranged on the magnetic core or in recesses in the magnetic core.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 27, 2012
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Applicant: Vacuumschmelze GmbH & Co., KG
    Inventors: Friedrich Lenhard, Sebastian Kudimow
  • Publication number: 20130027025
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for measuring an AC voltage. In one embodiment, the apparatus comprises an AC voltage monitor coupled to a plurality of AC lines for (i) generating a first measurement based on an AC voltage across a first resistor, (ii) generating a second measurement based on an AC line voltage of an AC line of the plurality of AC lines, and (iii) generating a serial data stream frame based on the first and the second measurements.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 1, 2012
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Applicant: Enphase Energy, Inc.
    Inventor: Enphase Energy, Inc.
  • Publication number: 20130027026
    Abstract: A probe head includes a housing having a first housing unit to be affixed on a machine, and a second housing unit on which a stylus is supported so as to be deflectable. The second housing unit is movably supported on the first housing unit so as to allow a deflection. The probe head furthermore has a switching unit, which includes a first contact element and a second contact element, the contact elements being arranged such that when the second housing unit is deflected relative to the first housing unit, the contact elements are able to be brought into mutual contact at different points as a function of the direction of deflection, whereby an electrical switching signal is able to be triggered by this contact.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 10, 2012
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Inventor: Reinhold SCHOPF
  • Publication number: 20130027027
    Abstract: A microtechnique device includes an actuator, designed to move movable equipment with a permanent magnet with respect to a support. The actuator is designed to move the movable equipment in two degrees of freedom from a position of rest, and the permanent magnet is chosen to have a magnetic field distribution that presents a main plane of symmetry and a main direction of magnetization passing through a centre. The device includes a first magnetic sensor and a second magnetic sensor, these two being designed to detect a movement of the magnet. The sensors are positioned with respect to the position of rest of the magnet in a specific manner in the main plane of symmetry of the magnetic field and near to extrema. The first and second sensors are then sensitive to the movements of the movable equipment perpendicular to their respective working axes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 17, 2011
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Applicants: CENTRE NATIONAL DE LA RECHERCHE SCIENTIFIQUE CNRS, UNIVERSITE DE FRANCHE COMTE
    Inventors: David Heriban, Joel Agnus, Ronan Noizet
  • Publication number: 20130027028
    Abstract: A sensor assembly for determining a magnetization direction of an indicator magnet with respect to the sensor assembly includes a first magnetic field sensor for detecting a first and a second magnetic field component with respect to a first and a second spatial direction, and a second magnetic field sensor for detecting a third and a fourth magnetic field component with respect to the second spatial direction, wherein the first and the second magnetic field sensor are spaced apart from one another. Further, the sensor assembly includes a processor that is implemented to combine the first and the second magnetic field component to obtain a first combination quantity, to combine the third and the fourth magnetic field component to obtain a second combination quantity, to determine a position of the indicator magnet and the magnetization direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 24, 2012
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Inventors: Hans-Peter HOHE, Josef SAUERER
  • Publication number: 20130027029
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a system and a method for inspecting a subsea pipeline. The method comprises the steps: detecting a defect along the subsea pipeline using a subsea magnetometric tomography method (MTM) module adjacent the subsea pipeline; and determining a position of the subsea MTM module, thereby determining the position of the defect. The method further comprises determining the position of the subsea MTM module relative to a surface vessel; and determining an absolute position of the surface vessel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 23, 2011
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Inventors: Valerian Goroshevskiy, Svetlana Kamaeva, Igor Kolesnikov
  • Publication number: 20130027030
    Abstract: A magnetic flux sensor for measuring the radial component of the magnetic flux impinging on a stator bar of a high voltage generator. The magnetic flux sensor includes a fiber Bragg grating formed in an optical fiber and enclosed within a magnetostrictive coating. The magnetostrictive coating responds to changes in magnetic flux by applying a strain on the fiber that changes the reflected wavelength of the Bragg grating that can be measured to provide a measurement of the flux. In one embodiment, one or more of the magnetic flux sensors is positioned directly within an insulating layer of the particular stator bar.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 27, 2011
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Inventors: Michael Twerdochlib, Erik Abromitis
  • Publication number: 20130027031
    Abstract: An apparatus and associated method are generally directed to a magnetic sensor. A sensor may have a stack with an air bearing surface (ABS) and a biasing surface opposite the ABS. A biasing yoke can be disposed between a biasing magnet and the stack with the biasing magnet having a lower magnet moment than the biasing yoke.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 29, 2011
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Applicant: SEAGATE TECHNOLOGY LLC
    Inventors: Dimitar V. Dimitrov, Dian Song, Jason B. Gadbois
  • Publication number: 20130027032
    Abstract: Various embodiments can be generally directed to a magnetoresistive stack with a first stripe height and a biasing magnet positioned adjacent the magnetoresistive stack. The biasing magnet can have a second stripe height that is less than the first stripe height. The first and second stripe heights may correspond to a minimum signal to noise ratio in the magnetoresistive stack.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 29, 2011
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Applicant: SEAGATE TECHNOLOGY LLC
    Inventors: Kaizhong Gao, Jiexuan He, Jiaoming Qiu
  • Publication number: 20130027033
    Abstract: Current sensor arrangement with a primary conductor for conducting a current that is to be measured, at least two magnetic field probes for measuring magnetic fields, and a magnetic core, which has a closed, arbitrarily formed ring structure that encloses the primary conductor, whereby a primary conductor guide for both rectangular and round primary conductors is located in a magnetic core opening that is enclosed by the magnetic core, and whereby the primary conductor guide has a solid body with a round guide opening that is arranged to overlap relative to the magnetic core opening and with a rectangular guide opening that extends over the round guide opening and that is arranged to overlap.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 27, 2012
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Applicant: Vacuumschmelze GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Friedrich LENHARD, Sebastian Kudimow
  • Publication number: 20130027034
    Abstract: A magnetometer includes: a sample (10) comprising a selected nuclear species; an optical source (12) configured to hyperpolarize the selected nuclear species of the sample by illuminating the sample with optical radiation (14) having orbital angular momentum; a radio frequency generator (20, 26, 30, 150, 152) configured to input radio frequency energy (32) to the hyperpolarized selected nuclear species of the sample over a probed range of radio frequencies; a detector (20, 26, 40, 150, 154, 164, 166) configured to detect a frequency of nuclear magnetic resonance excited in the hyperpolarized selected nuclear species of the sample by the input radio frequency energy; and a signal output generator (64, 66) configured to output a signal indicative of magnetic field strength based on the detected frequency of nuclear magnetic resonance.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 18, 2011
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Inventors: Daniel R. Elgort, Lucian Remus Albu
  • Publication number: 20130027035
    Abstract: A method for recording magnetic resonance data with a magnetic resonance facility is proposed. Protons and sodium are excited. A proton magnetic resonance data record and a sodium magnetic resonance data record are recorded. The proton magnetic resonance data and the sodium magnetic resonance data are recorded during a single recording process.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 19, 2012
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Inventors: Björn HEISMANN, Sebastian SCHMIDT, Markus VESTER
  • Publication number: 20130027036
    Abstract: A magnetic resonance imaging apparatus configured to carry out a pulse sequence in synchronization with a biosignal is provided. The pulse sequence includes an RF pulse, and a data acquisition sequence for acquiring data when a wait time has passed after the RF pulse, wherein the wait time has a variable value that can be varied based on the biosignal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 28, 2011
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Inventor: Naoyuki Takei
  • Publication number: 20130027037
    Abstract: Parallel imaging magnetic resonance reconstruction is performed with temporal sensitivity. Rather than estimate the coil sensitivity once for each coil of an array, the coil sensitivity at different times is estimated. The movement of the patient may result in different sensitivities at different times. By using the time varying sensitivity in iterative, self-consistent, non-linear parallel imaging, real-time imaging may be provided with stable artifacts in view of increasing SNR even with higher reduction factors (e.g., 4-6).
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2012
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Applicant: Siemens Corporation
    Inventors: Hui Xue, Yu Ding
  • Publication number: 20130027038
    Abstract: In a method for recording a magnetic resonance image with a magnetic resonance device, in which several projection image data records are recorded in succession with different gradient orientations, from which, through back projection, the magnetic resonance image is reconstructed, the recording of a projection data record in a recording time frame proceeds with a temporal frequency modulated excitation pulse of a pulse duration, wherein, through the frequency modulation of the excitation pulse, all spins to be recorded within the scope of the projection data record are excited in a temporal sequence and wherein the frequency modulation function describing the frequency modulation during the pulse duration exhibits at least one maximum and/or at least one minimum. During the excitation duration, a time-resolved reception signal is detected. The projection data record is determined from the reception signal through evaluation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 29, 2012
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Inventors: Bjoern Heismann, Sebastian Schmidt
  • Publication number: 20130027039
    Abstract: An end flange for a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) system and method for manufacturing an end flange are provided. One end flange is for a vacuum vessel of the MRI system. The vacuum vessel includes a housing configured to receive therein a magnet assembly and an end flange forming an end of the housing. The flange includes an outer surface, an inner surface, and a core coupled between the outer and inner surfaces, wherein the core has a greater stiffness than the outer surface and the inner surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 27, 2011
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Applicant: General Electric Company
    Inventor: Longzhi Jiang
  • Publication number: 20130027040
    Abstract: A Magnetic Resonance (MR) Radio-Frequency (RF) coil and method of manufacturing are provided for a multi-modality imaging system. The multi-modality imaging system includes a Magnetic Resonance (MR) scanner portion configured to acquired MR data of a patient using one or more MR Radio-Frequency (RF) coils. The one or more MR RF coils are formed from carbon nanotube conductors. The multi-modality imaging system also includes a radiation potion configured to transmit radiation through or detect radiation from the patient.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 28, 2011
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Applicant: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Vijayanand Alagappan, Victor Taracila, Fraser Robb
  • Publication number: 20130027041
    Abstract: A method and apparatus are provided for performing an in-situ magnetic resonance imaging of an object. The method includes the steps of providing an atomic magnetometer, coupling a magnetic field generated by magnetically resonating samples of the object through a flux transformer to the atomic magnetometer and measuring a magnetic resonance of the atomic magnetometer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 4, 2012
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Applicant: LOS ALAMOS NATIONAL SECURITY, LLC
    Inventor: LOS ALAMOS NATIONAL SECURITY, LLC
  • Publication number: 20130027042
    Abstract: A fluid sensor and method for determining at least one parameter of a fluid of a wellbore is provided. The fluid sensor has a base positionable on a downhole tool and a pair of electrodes. The base is provided with insulation. The pair of electrodes is operatively positioned in the insulation. The pair of electrodes has a space therebetween for passage of the wellbore fluid therethrough. A first of the pair of electrodes is interlaced with a second of the pair of electrodes such that at least a portion of the second of the pair of electrodes is surrounded by the first of the pair of electrodes. A voltage applied across the pair of electrodes generates a current therebetween whereby at least one parameter of the wellbore fluid may be determined. The fluid sensor is deployable into the wellbore via the downhole tool.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 7, 2011
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Applicant: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventor: Didier Meignant
  • Publication number: 20130027043
    Abstract: A method for analyzing a subterranean formation porosity is disclosed. The apparent dielectric constant of the subterranean formation and an apparent resistivity of the subterranean formation are measured. The measured values are used to determine a measured formation loss tangent. The formation water loss tangent can be expressed by the water dielectric constant and the water resistivity. The measured formation loss tangent and the formation water loss tangent are then used to determine at least one of an actual dielectric constant of the subterranean formation water and an actual resistivity of the subterranean formation water. The actual formation porosity may be obtained using the estimated water resistivity and water dielectric constant.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 21, 2012
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Inventors: Jing Li, Gary Kainer, Marvin Rourke, Michael Bittar
  • Publication number: 20130027044
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a method to produce an image of a subsurface formation using directional measurements. A downhole logging tool having one or more transmitters and one or more receivers, and being capable of making directional measurement, is used to measure the voltage in a particular receiver due to a particular transmitter for one or more transmitter/receiver pairs, at least one of those voltage measurements being a directional measurement. The complex (phasor) voltage recorded on a receiver coil is divided by the complex voltage recorded at another reference receiver coil. Alternatively, we can use the ratio of a receiver voltage at a particular rotation angle of the tool divided by the voltage on the same receiver when the tool has rotated by an angle of 180 degrees. The information in those ratios is combined to produce images of the resistivity of the subsurface formation surrounding the tool.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 19, 2012
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Inventors: Gerald Minerbo, Sofia Davydycheva, Jian Yang
  • Publication number: 20130027045
    Abstract: Disclosed is an apparatus for estimating a property of an earth formation penetrated by a borehole. The apparatus includes a carrier configured to be conveyed through the borehole and having a first transmitter electrode configured to inject electrical current into the formation and a first measurement electrode configured to receive electrical current for measurement due to the current injection in order to estimate the property of the earth formation. A controller is configured to determine a phase difference between injected electrical current and received electrical current. A first bucker amplifier is coupled to the first measurement electrode and configured to apply a voltage to the first measurement electrode based on the determined phase difference in order for a phase of current received by the first measurement electrode to be substantially in phase with the current injected by the first transmitter electrode.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 27, 2012
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Applicant: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Leonty A. Tabarovsky, Stanislav W. Forgang
  • Publication number: 20130027046
    Abstract: A device for testing a solenoid valve includes: a voltage generator for applying a short pulse of voltage, which is not long enough to open the solenoid valve, to the windings of the solenoid valve; a current meter configured for measuring the current flowing through the windings of the solenoid valve; and an analysis device which is configured for analysing the current measured by the current meter for detecting a potential fault of the solenoid valve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 18, 2012
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Inventor: Thyssen LEIF
  • Publication number: 20130027047
    Abstract: A state-of-charge estimating apparatus includes at least a first arithmetic unit configured to calculate, as a first estimation value, the present estimation value calculated based on a battery capacity, the last estimation value, and an electric current flowing in and out between a current control apparatus, which controls charge and discharge amounts of a power storage apparatus, and the power storage apparatus, and a second arithmetic unit configured to calculate, during constant current control, as the present value of a second estimation value, an estimation value calculated based on an equivalent circuit model of a battery and a voltage of the battery and, on the other hand, calculate, during constant voltage control, as the second estimation value, the present estimation value calculated taking into account a resistance change of the battery based on the equivalent circuit model of the battery and the voltage of the battery.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 7, 2010
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Applicant: Mitsubishi Electric Corporation
    Inventors: Shoji Yoshioka, Akiko Tabuchi, Keita Hatanaka, Hidetoshi Kitanaka
  • Publication number: 20130027048
    Abstract: A method and system for manipulating, adjusting or otherwise controlling a state-of-charge (SOC) operating range for a high voltage vehicle battery, such as the type used for hybrid or electric vehicle propulsion. By providing a dynamic SOC operating range that changes in response to changing battery conditions, the battery performance may be improved so that the battery life is extended. Depending on the particular embodiment, the dynamic SOC operating range may have different combinations of hard and/or soft boundaries or limits.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 26, 2011
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC
    Inventors: Jonathan R. Schwarz, Gregory E. Smith, Damon R. Frisch, Brian J. Koch, James C. Gibbs, Brandon R. Jones
  • Publication number: 20130027049
    Abstract: A method for measuring and calculating the isolation resistance of a battery pack is provided, the method being invulnerable to changes in the bus voltage that may take place between measurements.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 28, 2011
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Applicant: Tesla Motors, Inc.
    Inventor: Martin Sukup
  • Publication number: 20130027050
    Abstract: A system for inspection of electrical circuits including a calibration subsystem operative to apply a time varying voltage to an electrical circuit being inspected during calibration and to sense differences in an electrical state at various different locations in the electrical circuit being inspected, thereby providing an indication of location of defects therein.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 26, 2011
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Applicant: PHOTON DYNAMICS, INC
    Inventors: Sam-Soo JUNG, Raul MARTIN
  • Publication number: 20130027051
    Abstract: An on-chip technique for noncontact electrical testing of a test structure on a chip is provided. On-chip photodiodes receives pump light from a pump light source, where the on-chip photodiodes are electrically connected to the test structure and are configured to generate power for the test structure. An on-chip coupling unit receives probe light from a probe light source, where the on-chip coupling unit is optically connected to on-chip waveguides through which the probe light is transferred. On-chip switches open in response to receiving voltage output from the test structure, and the on-chip switches remain closed when the voltage output is not received from the test structure. The on-chip switches pass the probe light when opened by the voltage output from the test structure. The on-chip switches block the probe light by remaining closed, when the voltage output is not received from the test structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 27, 2011
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Applicant: INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MACHINES CORPORATION
    Inventors: Xu Ouyang, Tso-Hui Ting, Ping-Chuan Wang, Yongchun Xin
  • Publication number: 20130027052
    Abstract: A bicycle electrical system diagnostic device is provided for a bicycle electrical system in which several electric devices are connected. The diagnostic device includes a connecting section and an electric device recognizing section. The connecting section is configured to be connected to and disconnected from the electrical system. The electric device recognizing section is configured to communicate with the electrical system and recognize any of the electric devices while the connecting section is electrically connected to anyone of the electric devices.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 12, 2012
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Applicant: SHIMANO INC.
    Inventors: Tetsuya MATSUMOTO, Akinori HASHIMOTO
  • Publication number: 20130027053
    Abstract: A semiconductor device has an internal power bus, parallel power connections for connecting the power bus with an external power supply and a test module. The test module includes a sensor for producing first and second differential sensor signals that are functions of voltages at spaced positions in one of the parallel connections produced by current in the parallel connection. The test module includes first and second balanced differential pair comparators that receive first and second reference signals and produce a first comparator signal that is a function of the relative values of the first differential sensor signal and the first reference signal, and a second comparator signal that is a function of the relative values of the second differential sensor signal and the second reference signal. The test module includes an output element that produces an output signal that is a function of the first and second comparator signals.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 13, 2012
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Applicant: FREESCALE SEMICONDUCTOR, INC.
    Inventors: Lini LEE, Feng Liu, Ruijie Peng
  • Publication number: 20130027054
    Abstract: A monitoring system for connector pins exposed to conductive/corrosive fluids and/or corrosive environments includes a first sensing portion having a pin monitoring section configured to measure a pin current flow of at least one conductor pin, and transfer a first signal. A second sensing portion produces a second signal indicating by a contactless determination the presence of a fastener providing physical connection between an interface member and a component. A decision logic device receives the first and second signals, compares the pin current flow to a predetermined range of values, and isolates electrical power to the conductor pin when the first signal indicates the pin current flow is outside the predetermined range of values. A sensor body created of a non-ferrous material and connected to the component includes a first insert member having the conductor pin and a second insert member defining a sensor sensing proximal presence of the fastener.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 5, 2012
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Applicant: HARRIS CORPORATION
    Inventor: Harris Corporation
  • Publication number: 20130027055
    Abstract: A system and method for testing a transmission line to a protected system includes measuring voltages between a tip-side node of an overcurrent protection device and the protected system, between a ring-side node of the overcurrent protection device and the protected system, between the tip of the transmission line and the protected system, and between the ring of the transmission line and the protected system. Using the measured voltages, the status of the overcurrent protection device and the overvoltage device may be recognized, and the magnitude of a voltage surge on either of the tip and ring wires may be determined.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 14, 2012
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Inventors: Gerhard Noessing, Michael Schoenberger, Alberto Canella
  • Publication number: 20130027056
    Abstract: System and method for testing the reliability of a fuse blow condition. The fuse blow detection circuit includes a fuse circuit comprising a fuse having a first end coupled to ground. A common node is coupled to the second end of the fuse. A pre-charge circuit is coupled to the common node for pre-charging the common node to a pre-charged HIGH level. An inverter includes an inverter output and an inverter input, wherein the inverter input is coupled to the common node. A feedback latch is coupled between a voltage source and ground, and includes a latch input that is coupled to the inverter output and a latch output coupled to the common node. A test circuit is included that is coupled to the common node, wherein in a normal mode the test circuit adds strength to the feedback latch for purposes of maintaining the common node at the pre-charged HIGH level, such that in a test mode the feedback latch is weaker than in the normal mode for purposes of maintaining the common node at the pre-charged HIGH level.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 29, 2011
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Applicant: TESSERA INC.
    Inventor: Michael Curtis Parris
  • Publication number: 20130027057
    Abstract: A package of a switching apparatus that houses an actuator having a movable contact point and in which a fixed contact point, which is electrically connected to or disconnected form the movable contact point, is accurately formed. Provided is a switching apparatus comprising a first substrate provided with a via that electrically connects a top surface thereof and a bottom surface thereof, while maintaining an air-tight state between the top surface and the bottom surface; a second substrate provided on the first substrate and in which is formed a through-hole that houses an actuator; and a third substrate provided on the second substrate and supporting the actuator, which has a moveable contact point.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 23, 2011
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Applicant: ADVANTEST CORPORATION
    Inventors: Hisao HORI, Yoshikazu ABE, Yoshihiro SATO
  • Publication number: 20130027058
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a signal measurement system (100, 200, 300) for measuring a signal, the system comprising a signal detection unit (41) for detecting a raw signal, a signal processing unit (42) and a signal cable (10) electrically connecting the signal detection unit (41) with the signal processing unit (42). The signal cable (10) comprises a signal conductor (1, 2) for electrically conducting a first signal from the signal detection unit (41) to the signal processing unit (42), which first signal comprises at least the raw signal, a reference conductor (11, 12) for detecting and electrically conducting to the signal processing unit (42) only a noise signal induced by a movement of the signal cable (10) or by electromagnetic interference.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 29, 2011
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Applicant: KONINKLIJKE PHILIPS ELECTRONICS N.V.
    Inventors: Alexander Dubielczyk, Marcus Schwenk
  • Publication number: 20130027059
    Abstract: A test waveguide (33) for evaluating the performance of microwave probe assemblies (1, 13) and their associated analysis equipment is mounted on a stand (56). The test waveguide (33) includes geometry that is similar to that found on the test cell assembly (2) used during commercial production activities. The test waveguide (33) includes an unsealed interior space (41) that remains accessible while the probe assemblies (1, 13) are fastened to the test waveguide. One or more reference blocks (59) are formed having known characteristics that permit calibration and evaluation of the probe assemblies and their associated analysis equipment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 25, 2011
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Inventors: Scott Richard Breimon, Matthew Whitlock Dawson, Teresa Ainsworth, Darrell Thomas Butler
  • Publication number: 20130027060
    Abstract: A calorie estimating device for measuring a calorie content of a food item is provided. The device comprises a holder substrate, a transmitter antenna configured to transmit ultra-wide band (UWB) signals to at least a portion of the food item disposed on a side of the holder substrate, wherein the transmitter antenna comprises a planar antenna, a first receiver antenna configured to receive at least a portion of UWB signals reflected by the food item, wherein the first receiver antenna comprises a planar antenna, and a second receiver antenna configured to receive at least a portion of UWB signals propagated through the food item, wherein the second receiver antenna comprises a planar antenna.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 29, 2011
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Applicant: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANY
    Inventors: Nilesh Tralshawala, John Frederick Graf, Jack Mathew Webster, Vasile Bogdan Neculaes, Sarah Lillian Katz
  • Publication number: 20130027061
    Abstract: In one embodiment, a method includes, at a first input of a comparator, receiving from an analog multiplexer one of multiple first voltages. Each of the first voltages results at least in part from an interaction between an object and an electrode of each of one or more nodes of a capacitive touch sensor. The method includes, at a second input of the comparator, receiving a second voltage across a measurement capacitor that has a first terminal coupled to the second input of the comparator. The method includes charging the measurement capacitor at least in part through a measurement resistor coupled in series to the first terminal of the measurement capacitor and monitoring an output of the comparator during the charging of the measurement capacitor. The output of the comparator changes state when the second voltage becomes approximately equal to or greater than the one of the first voltages.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 29, 2011
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Inventor: Luben Hristov Hristov
  • Publication number: 20130027062
    Abstract: When the first electrical conductor overlaps one of the three or more detection electrodes, the one detection electrode and the first electrical conductor are capacitively coupled. When the position of the first electrical conductor has changed in accordance with movement of the operation member, it is determined, based on the capacitance of each of the three or more detection electrodes after the change, that the first electrical conductor has moved in a direction from a first detection electrode judged to have decreased the capacitance to a second detection electrode judged to have increased the capacitance.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 3, 2012
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Applicant: CANON KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventor: Kento Inai
  • Publication number: 20130027063
    Abstract: An apparatus for determining a thickness change of thermal interface material (TIM) disposed between first and second elements is provided. The apparatus includes a first part movable with the first element in a movement direction along which the TIM thickness is to be determined, a second part movable with the second element in the movement direction and a sensor to measure a distance between the first and second parts in the movement direction, the measured distance being related to the TIM thickness change.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 27, 2011
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Applicant: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: PAUL F. BODENWEBER, Virendra R. Jadhav, Kamal K. Sikka, Jiantao Zheng, Jeffrey A. Zitz
  • Publication number: 20130027064
    Abstract: An analyte test sensor strip is disclosed having information coded thereon as well as a method of forming the same and conducting an analyte test using the analyte test sensor strip. Information relating to an attribute of the strip or batch/lot of strips may be coded based on resistance values pertaining to electrical aspects of the strip, such as a primary resistive element and a secondary resistive element, the secondary resistive element having one of a plurality of states defined by a location of a closed tap to form a unique resistive path for the secondary resistive element that includes a portion of the primary resistive element depending on the location of the closed tap. The states may be formed on the strip by a secondary processing step in the manufacture of the strip in which a plurality of taps are severed leaving only one tap in a closed state.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 29, 2011
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Applicant: ROCHE DIAGNOSTICS OPERATIONS, INC.
    Inventors: John T. Austera, Terry A. Beaty, Abner D. Joseph, Nathan E. Manlove, Steven K. Moore, James L. Pauley, JR., Randall K. Riggles