Patents Issued in March 15, 2016
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Patent number: 9285241Abstract: Devices, systems, and methods according to one such aspect of the invention comprises (i) a sensing device that is attached (or otherwise coupled) to a skateboard and that measures a physical characteristic of it and/or of its environment, (ii) an audio output device, and (iii) a digital data processor that is communicatively coupled to the audio output device and the sensor. The digital data processor drives the audio output device to effect one or more selected sounds (e.g., to prompt the user to perform a selected action). The digital data processor, further, and monitors the sensing device to identify user actions in response to those sounds and drives the audio output device to effect still further sounds based on those actions.Type: GrantFiled: August 3, 2012Date of Patent: March 15, 2016Assignee: Intellisys Group, LLCInventors: Lawrence S. Rogel, Jason J. Ossenmacher, Jon Williams, David Witmer, Matt Garcia
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Patent number: 9285242Abstract: Methods and arrangements for determining a network connectivity model. Meters are interfaced with, and periodic synchronous power-related measurements are collected from different meters. Measurement messages are sent to a predetermined location for being consolidated and processed, and a network connectivity model is thereupon determined.Type: GrantFiled: July 31, 2012Date of Patent: March 15, 2016Assignee: International Business Machines CorporationInventors: Vijay Arya, Shivkumar Kalyanaraman, Devasenapathi Periagraharam Seetharamakrishnan, Jayram S. Thathachar
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Patent number: 9285243Abstract: The present invention provides a meter retrofit and method for use thereof, utilizing a transducer with an encoder driven by a rotating shaft of a meter reading dial, the transducer including a plurality of encoder contacts surrounding a rotation axis, with each encoder contact connected to a magnetic switch. A wiper connects to the shaft and rotates around the rotation axis, sequentially contacting the plurality of encoder contacts, providing a variable signal to a monitoring device.Type: GrantFiled: March 29, 2010Date of Patent: March 15, 2016Assignee: The Research Foundation for The State University of New YorkInventor: Jon P. Longtin
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Patent number: 9285244Abstract: An interface for processing a variable reluctance sensor signal provided by a variable reluctance sensor including an integrator, an arming comparator and a detect circuit. The integrator includes an input for receiving the variable reluctance sensor signal and an output providing an integrated signal indicative of total flux change of the variable reluctance sensor. The arming comparator compares the integrated signal with a predetermined arming threshold and provides an armed signal indicative thereof. The detect circuit provides a reset signal after the armed signal is provided to reset the integrator. A corresponding method of processing the variable reluctance sensor signal is also described.Type: GrantFiled: May 27, 2015Date of Patent: March 15, 2016Assignee: FREESCALE SEMICONDUCTOR, INC.Inventors: John M. Pigott, Fred T. Brauchler, William E. Edwards, Mike R. Garrard, Randall C. Gray, John M. Hall
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Patent number: 9285245Abstract: The present invention provides an absolute encoder including a scale on which a first mark and a second mark are arrayed, a detector configured to detect light from the scale, and to output periodic signals in which peak values, including a first peak value corresponding to the first mark and a second peak value corresponding to the second mark and smaller than the first peak value periodically appear, and a processor configured to obtain a code sequence by binarization of the first peak value and the second peak value in the periodic signals output from the detector, wherein the processor has a function of performing calibration so that the first peak value becomes larger than a threshold for the binarization and the second peak value becomes smaller than the threshold.Type: GrantFiled: December 12, 2013Date of Patent: March 15, 2016Assignee: CANON KABUSHIKI KAISHAInventor: Yoshiyuki Okada
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Method and system for absolute three-dimensional measurements using a twist-insensitive shape sensor
Patent number: 9285246Abstract: An apparatus includes a reference fixture. The reference fixture includes a joint, and a joint tracker to track motion of the joint. The apparatus also includes a surgical instrument. A tether is connected between the joint and the surgical instrument. A shape sensor extends from the reference fixture through the joint, through the tether, and into the surgical instrument. The shape sensor is substantially free of twist. The joint tracker measures the motion of the joint. Information from the shape sensor in combination with information from the joint tracker provides absolute three-dimensional information relative to the reference fixture, i.e., provides absolute three-dimensional information in a fixed world reference frame.Type: GrantFiled: July 20, 2010Date of Patent: March 15, 2016Assignee: Intuitive Surgical Operations, Inc.Inventors: Giuseppe M. Prisco, Theodore W. Rogers, Vincent Duindam, Myriam J. Curet, Catherine J. Mohr, Katherine D. Stoy -
Patent number: 9285247Abstract: A cable circuit includes a contactless interface for signal transmission between the cable circuit and the sensor module, wherein the sensor module is galvanically isolated from the cable circuit, and wherein signal transmission between the cable circuit and the sensor module occurs on an optical, inductive or capacitive path. Additionally, the cable circuit includes a signal processing unit, as well as a cable interface for connecting a cable, which connects the cable circuit with the measurement transmitter. The signal processing unit is integrated into the signal path. The signal processing unit is embodied to receive, via the cable interface, signals from the measurement transmitter, to condition them and to transmit them via the contactless interface to the sensor module, and to receive, via the contactless interface, signals from the sensor module, to condition them and to transmit them via the cable interface to the measurement transmitter.Type: GrantFiled: February 26, 2013Date of Patent: March 15, 2016Assignee: Endress + Hauser Conducta Gesellschaft für Mess- und Regeltechnik mbH + Co. KGInventors: Stephen Buschnakowski, Torsten Pechstein, Stefan Robl, Sven-Matthias Scheibe, Tobias Mieth
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Patent number: 9285248Abstract: A device is described that includes sensors that are sensitive to displacement damage, and can be configured to display a characteristic damage curve. The sensors, or diodes, can be made of one or more semiconductor materials that are sensitive to displacement damage, and can be operated in dark illumination conditions. The sensors can have multiple shields of a specific or varied thickness. The shields can be formed in different configurations, though the shielding thickness can be designed to change the level of displacement damage absorbed by the sensors. The characteristic damage curve can provide a sensor response variable that displays a functional dependence on displacement damage. For example, the characteristic damage curve can provide a sensor response variable that is one or more currents measured at one or more fixed voltages, or one or more voltages measured at one or more fixed currents.Type: GrantFiled: March 11, 2014Date of Patent: March 15, 2016Assignee: The Government of the United States of America, as represented by the Secretary of the NavyInventors: Scott R. Messenger, Cory D. Cress, Michael K. Yakes, Jeffrey H. Warner, Robert J. Walters
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Patent number: 9285249Abstract: One embodiment is directed towards a physics package of an atomic sensor. The physics package includes a frame composed of metal and including a plurality of slender support members extending between one another in a three dimensional structure. The support members define boundaries between adjacent apertures defined in the frame. The plurality of support members include a plurality of mounting surfaces adjacent to the apertures. The physics package also includes a plurality of panes attached to the mounting surfaces of the frame. The plurality of panes cover the apertures such that the frame and the plurality of panes define a vacuum chamber and provide three light paths that cross within the vacuum chamber at 90 degree angles with respect to one another. The physics package also includes a chamber evacuation structure for evacuating the vacuum chamber.Type: GrantFiled: October 4, 2012Date of Patent: March 15, 2016Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.Inventors: Christina Marie Schober, Jennifer S. Strabley, James A. Vescera, Kenneth Salit, Delmer L. Smith, Terry Dean Stark, Chad Langness, Karl D. Nelson
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Patent number: 9285250Abstract: A universal fitting for in-line fluid measurement in a process application. The fitting including an inlet and outlet port. The fitting also having a body with a fluid flow passage providing fluid communication between the ports. A sensor housing is provided that extends outwardly away from a wall of the body, wherein the housing is sized to receive a sensor assembly, which assembly measures at least one characteristic of the fluid. A base of each housing integrally formed with the wall and including a sensor seat for receiving a portion of the sensor assembly. A probe aperture receives a probe portion of the sensor assembly, each housing having the probe aperture disposed in the wall and extending from the fluid passage through its respective sensor seat.Type: GrantFiled: October 15, 2012Date of Patent: March 15, 2016Assignees: PENDOTECH, ELDON JAMES CORPORATIONInventors: James F. Furey, Dustin James Rekow
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Patent number: 9285251Abstract: The present invention relates to gas sensor housing (1), comprising: a gas sensor (3) held by a housing body (11) below a primary gas permeable membrane (2); at least one connector element (10) molded into the housing body (11) such that the respective ends thereof enable connectivity to the gas sensor (3) such that signals may be carried from the gas sensor (3) to the connector element (10); a sensor envelope (9) providing an enclosure for the housing body (11); means for retaining the primary gas permeable membrane (2) in place above the gas sensor (3); a spacer section (7) providing a separation distance (X) between the gas sensor (3) and the primary gas permeable membrane (2).Type: GrantFiled: August 19, 2010Date of Patent: March 15, 2016Assignee: INFICON ABInventors: Fredrik Enquist, Peter Hebo
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Patent number: 9285252Abstract: A sensor and housing suitable for harsh environments includes a central axis and first and second housing sections. The first housing section includes a first fitting including a mating surface orthogonal to the axis and a tapered recess formed in the mating surface and coaxial with the axis. The tapered recess has a decreasing internal dimension at points further from the mating surface and terminates at a faceted recess. The second housing section includes a second fitting having a flange and a frusto-conical projection terminating in a faceted tip. When the first and second housing are coupled, the flange and mating surface are aligned, the frusto-conical projection contacts an interior surface of the first fitting that defines the tapered recess, and the faceted tip seats within the faceted recess. The housing may include a head for housing sensor electronics and a shield that encloses the head and is spaced from the head by an air gap.Type: GrantFiled: October 8, 2014Date of Patent: March 15, 2016Assignee: ULTRA ELECTRONICSInventors: Angela Nugent, Todd Allen, Todd Reynolds
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Patent number: 9285253Abstract: A method for testing of a measuring device arrangement (1), the measuring device arrangement (1) comprising a measuring device (2) which, based on the determination of a measured quantity, generates an output signal which can be tapped from a pick-off site (3) as a pick-off signal. A method for monitoring a measuring device arrangement is devised that constitutes an inline test that does not interrupt the measurement or the transfer of the measured values is achieved in that an action is applied to the measuring device (2) such that the measuring device (2) generates a test signal as the output signal, and that the output signal and/or a signal which is dependent on it is influenced such that the pick-off signal is a definable setting signal.Type: GrantFiled: January 31, 2013Date of Patent: March 15, 2016Assignee: KROHNE Messtechnik GmbHInventor: Helmut Brockhaus
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Patent number: 9285254Abstract: A flowmeter for liquids has a measuring housing, which encloses and rotatably mounts an impeller, said measuring housing comprising a one-piece supply pipe and discharge pipe, wherein the impeller is eccentrically arranged in the discharge pipe after a nozzle-forming constriction. A sensor encoder is associated with the impeller and a sensor which responds to the sensor encoder is provided on the measuring housing for determining the amount of liquid flowing through the measuring housing on the basis of the revolutions of the impeller. The outer diameter corresponding to the impeller is smaller than the nominal inner diameter of the discharge pipe, enabling it to be pushed into the one-piece pipe.Type: GrantFiled: July 1, 2013Date of Patent: March 15, 2016Assignee: DIGMESA AGInventors: Stefan Lauber, Stefan Schneider, Martin Sigrist, Christoph Rusch, Jean-Claude Frely
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Patent number: 9285255Abstract: Disclosed aspects relate to a flow meter comprising a flow target arranged to be disposed in a fluid flow path in a conduit; a beam coupled to the flow target and arranged to extend outside of the conduit; a sensor having a moveable sensor part coupled to the beam at a position which in use is outside of the conduit, and a static sensor part, wherein displacement of the moveable sensor part with respect to the static sensor part generates a signal. In use, fluid flow acting on the flow target causes displacement of the moveable sensor part, thereby generating a signal which is representative of the fluid flow rate.Type: GrantFiled: January 23, 2015Date of Patent: March 15, 2016Assignee: SPIRAX-SARCO LIMITEDInventors: Nashtara Islam, Ben Frisby, Grant Needham
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Patent number: 9285256Abstract: An electromagnetic flowmeter with variable-frequency conductivity-sensing function for a liquid in a tube includes a first microprocessor, a transducer, flow-sensing device, an exciting-current generating device, a variable-frequency conductivity measuring device, and a switch. The transducer includes coils and sensing electrodes. The switch is electrically connected to the first microprocessor and the sensing electrodes. The switch is selectively connected to the flow-sensing device or the variable-frequency conductivity measuring device according to the signals sent from the first microprocessor. The microprocessor makes the exciting-current generating device to generate an exciting current when the switch is connected to the flow-sensing device. The first microprocessor makes the exciting-current generating device stop to generate exciting current and computes conductivity of liquid when the switch is electrically connected to the variable-frequency conductivity-sensing device.Type: GrantFiled: October 27, 2014Date of Patent: March 15, 2016Assignee: Finetek Co., Ltd.Inventors: Ming-Hui Chang, Chi-Chih Chou, Chun-Ju Chen, Yi-Liang Hou
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Patent number: 9285257Abstract: A gas meter for ultrasound measurements in a breathing apparatus has a gas conduit having an inner wall defining an inlet of the gas conduit and an outlet in a second end of the gas conduit, and an ultrasound transducer arrangement configured to measure the speed of sound in a gas flowing through a part of said gas conduit forming a measurement chamber. The gas meter has a self-draining design to prevent condensation water and other liquids from negatively affecting the ultrasound measurements. To this end, at least a lower surface of the inner wall of the gas conduit is inclined downwardly relative to the horizontal plane in the longitudinal direction of the gas conduit, at both sides of the measurement chamber causing condensation water to be pulled away from the measurement chamber by gravity.Type: GrantFiled: December 18, 2009Date of Patent: March 15, 2016Assignee: Maquet Critical Care ABInventors: Johan Reuterholt, Lars Danielsen
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Patent number: 9285258Abstract: A housing arrangement for a flow meter that has at least one housing (2) and at least one display device (3) which is located on the housing (2). The maintenance effort for the flow meter is reduced by there being at least one photovoltaic cell on the housing in a manner configured and arranged surrounding the at least one display device.Type: GrantFiled: January 28, 2013Date of Patent: March 15, 2016Assignee: KROHNE Messtechnik GmbHInventor: Holger Hollenberg
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Patent number: 9285259Abstract: A dipstick adapter assembly for use with an oil pan includes a front fixture, a clamping means coupled the front fixture, the clamping means being moveable through the hole to arrange the assembly between a free condition and an applied condition, in which the clamping means is inside the oil pan and the front fixture encircles a hole in the oil in direct contact against an outer surface of the oil pan and is sealed around the hole. The front fixture carries a gasket which is compressed against the outer surface, and first and second fasteners couple the clamping means to the front fixture and are adjusted through the hole from outside of the oil pan.Type: GrantFiled: December 13, 2013Date of Patent: March 15, 2016Inventor: Brandon P. Metzger
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Patent number: 9285260Abstract: At least one probe assembly is used to measure the height of material dispensed into the bin of a hopper assembly.Type: GrantFiled: September 27, 2013Date of Patent: March 15, 2016Assignee: BAKER HUGHES INCORPORATEDInventors: Brent Naizer, Jay D. Jordan, Patrick Thomson, Zheng Chen
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Patent number: 9285261Abstract: A liquid level sensor includes a rod having a first portion and a second portion, and a wave generation unit affixed to one end of the rod. The wave generation unit generates a wave group that propagates in at least a shear order and a flexural order, and the frequency of the shear wave is based on the diameter of the rod.Type: GrantFiled: September 12, 2013Date of Patent: March 15, 2016Assignee: Street Smart Sensors LLCInventor: Terence J. Knowles
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Patent number: 9285262Abstract: A system for managing of bulk liquids and/or bulk solids for in-vitro diagnostics is disclosed. The system comprises a sample processing unit and a container unit for receiving a supply container supplying the sample processing unit with a bulk liquid/solid and/or a waste container receiving waste from the sample processing unit. The system further comprises a weight measuring device comprising a loading plate, a base and a force measuring cell. The force measuring cell comprises a sensor comprising a tensioned sensor wire. The loading plate is biased with respect to the base by a weight applied to the loading plate by a container and to transfer force to the force measuring cell. The transferred force causes a deformation of the force measuring cell and a change in tension of the sensor wire causing a change in vibrational frequency resulting in a signal indicative of the weight of the container.Type: GrantFiled: December 12, 2013Date of Patent: March 15, 2016Assignee: Roche Diagnostics Operations, Inc.Inventors: Daniel Kneubuehl, Martin Lustenberger, Christian Marty, Emanuel Masel, André Peter, Markus Troxler
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Patent number: 9285263Abstract: To prevent measurement errors caused by impact including an impact load transmitted at high speed or static electricity and prevent destruction of a sensor unit due to the above-mentioned impact load. Through-holes (12f) are formed in four corners of a pan receiver, upwardly protruding pieces (14a) of a plate spring fixed to a bottom surface of the pan receiver are inserted into the through-holes (12f), and pan receiver legs are attached to the upwardly protruding pieces (14a).Type: GrantFiled: October 17, 2012Date of Patent: March 15, 2016Assignee: A&D Company, LimitedInventors: Naoto Izumo, Akiyoshi Ota
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Patent number: 9285264Abstract: A vibration measuring apparatus for nuclear reactor internal structure includes a holder which has an opening contact on a surface of a pressure vessel of a nuclear reactor; a vibrator accommodated in the holder so as to transmit or receive an ultrasonic wave; a couplant with which the holder is filled up; and, a bias component applies a biasing force to the vibrator in the direction of the opening; The couplant is a solid state of metal material at normal temperature and change to liquid stage by heat transfer from the pressure vessel.Type: GrantFiled: June 8, 2011Date of Patent: March 15, 2016Assignee: KABUSHIKI KAISHA TOSHIBAInventors: Katsuhiko Sato, Hidehiko Kuroda, Mitsuhiro Enomoto, Hidefumi Amanai, Tooru Ootsubo
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Patent number: 9285265Abstract: Compact optoelectronic modules are described and can be used in various electronic or other appliances, such as television units. For example, a light emitting device, a first sensor or sensor module such as an infra-red sensor or an infra-red receiver module, and a second sensor or sensor module such as an ambient light sensor or ambient light sensor module, can be integrated into a single compact optoelectronic module. Multiple such optoelectronic modules can be fabricated in a wafer-level process.Type: GrantFiled: March 7, 2014Date of Patent: March 15, 2016Assignee: Heptagon Micro Optics Pte. Ltd.Inventors: Jens Geiger, Susanne Westenhöfer
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Patent number: 9285266Abstract: An object detector includes a light source; an optical system that converts a light beam emitted from the light source into a predetermined state; a deflector that deflects and scans the light beam passing through the optical system, and that irradiates the light beam onto an object; and a photo detector that detects reflected light or scattered light. A first size of a light emitting region of the light source is different from a second size of the light emitting region, wherein the first size is a first width of the light emitting region in a first direction, and the second size is a second width of the light emitting region in a second direction. One of the first direction and the second direction corresponding to a smaller one of the first size and the second size coincides with a direction in which angular resolution is higher.Type: GrantFiled: January 10, 2014Date of Patent: March 15, 2016Assignee: RICOH COMPANY, LTD.Inventors: Tadashi Nakamura, Shigeaki Imai
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Patent number: 9285267Abstract: A system configured to maintain a consistent local-oscillator-power-to-primary-signal-power ratio (LO/SIG ratio).Type: GrantFiled: January 3, 2014Date of Patent: March 15, 2016Assignee: Cisco Technology, Inc.Inventors: Soeren Gehrke, Theodor Kupfer, James Whiteaway
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Patent number: 9285268Abstract: Provided herein are a wearable radiation detector and a method of controlling thereof, the detector including: the radiation collection unit operable to collect light and output a signal corresponding to the light collected; a memory; a display unit; a processor operable to receive the signal output by the radiation collection unit, to store a value in the memory corresponding to the signal output by the radiation collection unit, to output an output signal based at least on the signal corresponding to the light collected by the radiation collection unit and to control the display unit to display an indication corresponding to the output signal, wherein the determining includes continually calculating the maximum exposure level based on the light being received by the radiation collection unit.Type: GrantFiled: March 4, 2015Date of Patent: March 15, 2016Inventors: Shahid Aslam, Karin Edgett
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Patent number: 9285269Abstract: A light receiving circuit includes first, second, and third resistors, a photodiode that is connected in series with the first resistor between first and second potential lines, and a first MOS transistor of a first conductivity type having a source connected to a second node, a drain connected to an output, and a gate connected to a first node that is between the first resistor and the photodiode. The light receiving circuit also includes a capacitor which is connected in parallel to the second resistor between the first potential line and the second node. The third resistor is connected between the output and the second potential line.Type: GrantFiled: February 7, 2014Date of Patent: March 15, 2016Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha ToshibaInventors: Masayuki Sugizaki, Shigeyuki Sakura
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Patent number: 9285270Abstract: A spectroscopic module 1 is provided with a spectroscopic unit 8 and a photodetector 9 in addition to a spectroscopic unit 7 and a photodetector 4 and thus can enhance its detection sensitivity for light in a wide wavelength range or different wavelength regions of light. A light-transmitting hole 4b is disposed between light detecting portions 4a, 9a, while a reflection unit 6 is provided so as to oppose a region R in a light-absorbing substrate 2, whereby the size can be kept from becoming larger. Ambient light La is absorbed by the region R in the substrate 2. Any part of the light La transmitted through the region R in the substrate 2 is reflected to the region R by the unit 6 formed so as to oppose the region R, whereby stray light can be inhibited from being caused by the incidence of the light La.Type: GrantFiled: March 16, 2011Date of Patent: March 15, 2016Assignee: HAMAMATSU PHOTONICS K.K.Inventors: Katsumi Shibayama, Takafumi Yokino
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Patent number: 9285271Abstract: A method for manufacturing a sloped structure is disclosed. The method includes the steps of: (a) forming a sacrificial film above a substrate; (b) forming a first film above the sacrificial film, the first film having a first portion connected to the substrate, a second portion located above the sacrificial film, a third portion located between the first portion and the second portion, and a thin region in a portion of the third portion or in a boundary section between the second portion and the third portion and having a thickness smaller than the first portion; (c) removing the sacrificial film; and (d) bending the first film in the thin region, after the step (c), thereby sloping the second portion of the first film with respect to the substrate.Type: GrantFiled: June 24, 2014Date of Patent: March 15, 2016Assignee: SEIKO EPSON CORPORATIONInventor: Takahiko Yoshizawa
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Patent number: 9285272Abstract: A dual source system and method includes a high power laser used to determine elemental concentrations in a sample and a lower power device used to determine compounds present in the sample. A detector subsystem receives photons from the sample after laser energy from the high power laser strikes the sample and provides a first signal. The detector subsystem then receives photons from the sample after energy from the lower power device strikes the sample and provides a second signal. The high power laser is pulsed and the first signal is processed to determine elemental concentrations present in the sample. The lower power device is energized and the second signal is processed to determine compounds present in the signal. Based on the elemental concentrations and the compounds present, the compounds present in the sample are quantified.Type: GrantFiled: July 17, 2012Date of Patent: March 15, 2016Assignee: SciAps, Inc.Inventor: Don Sackett
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Patent number: 9285273Abstract: An optical fiber environmental detection system comprising an interferometer, a broadband light source and a detector is disclosed. The interferometer further comprises a thin core fiber, a first single mode fiber and a second single mode fiber; wherein the thin core fiber is coupled to the first and second single mode fiber via a first junction and a second junction respectively. When an emission light reaches the first junction, high-order cladding modes will be excited. The excited cladding modes will interfere with the core mode at the second junction. The interferences determine the intensity maximum or minimum of the received signal. When there is an ambient environmental change, a shift of the received signal would be induced. According to the shift, environmental change, for instance ambient temperature, could be determined.Type: GrantFiled: January 3, 2014Date of Patent: March 15, 2016Assignee: Macau University of Science and TechnologyInventors: Jianqing Li, Ben Xu
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Patent number: 9285274Abstract: The infrared detecting element has a first base plate that has a first front surface, a first back surface, a first recessed portion, and an infrared detecting section for detecting infrared rays provided in an area of the first front surface that opposes the first recessed portion; a second base plate that has a second front surface, a second back surface on the opposite side of the second front surface, and a second recessed portion provided in an area of the second back surface that faces the first recessed portion; and an adhesion film that bonds the first back surface and the second back surface, wherein a second outer peripheral portion where the second recessed portion intersects with the second back surface surrounds a first outer peripheral portion where the first recessed portion intersects with the first back surface.Type: GrantFiled: July 11, 2012Date of Patent: March 15, 2016Assignee: Seiko Epson CorporationInventor: Hidetaka Saito
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Patent number: 9285275Abstract: Provided are a method and an apparatus for measuring the spectral intensity and phase of a light pulse having an arbitrary time duration. The apparatus includes: a nonlinear mixing means for generating a signal light pulse expressed by the following Formula (? denotes an operator representing general nonlinear mixing, and ? denotes a coefficient which is proportional to a nonlinear susceptibility in the nonlinear mixing) by nonlinearly mixing a reference light pulse having an electric field Er(t??) delayed by an optical delay means and a measurement target light pulse having an electric field E0(t); and Er(t??)+?Er(t??)?E0(t) an imaging spectrum device for spectrally splitting the signal light pulse and outputting a Fourier transform signal expressed by the following Formula (F denotes a symbol indicating Fourier transform, * denotes a complex conjugate, and R denotes a symbol indicating a real part), |F[Er(t??)]|2+|?F[Er(t??)?E0(t)]|2+2R{?F[Er(t??)]*·F[Er(t??)?E0(t)]}.Type: GrantFiled: April 23, 2013Date of Patent: March 15, 2016Assignee: INTER-UNIVERSITY RESEARCH INSTITUTE CORPORATION NATIONAL INSTITUTES OF NATURAL SCIENCESInventors: Takao Fuji, Yutaka Nomura
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Patent number: 9285276Abstract: A probe cover for medical thermometer has a matching feature for preventing its use with an incompatible thermometer. A mechanical matching feature of the probe cover includes at least one of a fold, a step, or a series of holes or indentations that are respectively matched to a ridge, a valley or series of pins formed on the front end of a compatible thermometer. When applied to the compatible thermometer, the mechanical matching feature permits the probe cover to be fully seated on and retained by the probe, thereby placing the thermometer in condition for use. Alternatively, an opto-electronic matching feature of the probe cover includes a reflective layer for use with an opto-electronic detection circuit of a compatible thermometer. When applied to the compatible thermometer, the opto-electronic detection detects the reflective layer and places the compatible thermometer in an operational state for use.Type: GrantFiled: January 23, 2013Date of Patent: March 15, 2016Assignee: Helen of Troy LimitedInventor: Jacob Fraden
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Patent number: 9285277Abstract: A temperature sensor has a temperature sensitive element for detecting a temperature, a sheath pin having core wires electrically connected to the temperature sensitive element, lead wires to output a detection signal of the temperature sensitive element to an outside device, connectors through which the core wires and the lead wires are connected, and a protection tube accommodating the core wires, the lead wires and the connectors. The protection tube has a supporting member made of an elastic member having inserting and supporting holes through which the connectors are inserted and supported. Each connector has a circular arc part and claw parts. The circular arc part is made along a profile of a front end part of each lead wire. The claw parts are formed at both the end parts of the circular arc part. Each claw part pushes an inner wall surface of the corresponding inserting and supporting hole.Type: GrantFiled: August 30, 2011Date of Patent: March 15, 2016Assignee: DENSO CORPORATIONInventors: Yuusuke Toudou, Takashi Kojima, Tomohiro Adachi
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Patent number: 9285278Abstract: A portable electronic device including a temperature sensor embedded in a die is provided. To process temperature measurements the portable electronic device includes a processor circuit coupled to the temperature sensor, the processor circuit configured to read a measurement from the temperature sensor when an integrated circuit in the die is inactive. Furthermore, a memory circuit coupled to the processor circuit and the temperature sensor stores a temperature gradient provided by the temperature sensor. A Printed Circuit Board for use in a portable electronic device as above is also provided. A method for performing thermal control in a portable electronic device as above is also provided.Type: GrantFiled: May 9, 2013Date of Patent: March 15, 2016Assignee: Apple Inc.Inventors: Amaury J. Heresztyn, Ihtesham H. Chowdhury, Keith Cox
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Patent number: 9285279Abstract: A tunable tunnel junction thermometry circuit includes a variable width tunnel junction between a test object and a probe. The junction width is varied and a change in thermovoltage across the junction with respect to the change in distance across the junction is determined. Also, a change in biased current with respect to a change in distance across the junction is determined. A temperature gradient across the junction is determined based on a mathematical relationship between the temperature gradient, the change in thermovoltage with respect to distance and the change in biased current with respect to distance. Thermovoltage may be measured by nullifying a thermoelectric tunneling current with an applied voltage supply level. A piezoelectric actuator may modulate the probe, and thus the junction width, to vary thermovoltage and biased current across the junction. Lock-in amplifiers measure the derivatives of the thermovoltage and biased current modulated by varying junction width.Type: GrantFiled: June 6, 2013Date of Patent: March 15, 2016Assignee: UT-Battelle, LLCInventor: Petro Maksymovych
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Patent number: 9285280Abstract: Systems and computer-implemented methods of determining a temperature of a load introduced into a chamber are provided. The computer-implemented method includes applying a power output to a medium in at least a portion of a chamber at a level to modify the temperature of the medium to achieve a predetermined medium temperature. A steady state power output level to achieve the predetermined medium temperature is determined using a computer processor. A load having a load temperature other than the predetermined medium temperature is received into the at least a portion of the chamber. The method includes determining that the load temperature is substantially at the predetermined medium temperature using the computer processor when the power output level reaches the determined steady state power output level and without any direct temperature measurement of the load.Type: GrantFiled: March 7, 2013Date of Patent: March 15, 2016Inventor: Joel S. Faden
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Patent number: 9285281Abstract: A deflection plate for protecting a load cell of a mobile dynamometer, includes a generally elongated member having a front surface, a back surface, a top surface, a bottom surface and two side surfaces. The front surface is at least partially tapered such that the front surface adjacent the top surface is thicker than the front surface adjacent the bottom surface. The taper of said front surface of the deflection plate is preferably dimensioned and configured such that the safety factor along substantially most of its length is at least about 1.1 and less than about 1.2. A method for employing strain gages identifies the magnitudes and locations of loads on slender beams using strain gage based methods with application to portable Army bridges.Type: GrantFiled: July 10, 2012Date of Patent: March 15, 2016Assignee: The United States of America, as represented by the Secretary of the ArmyInventor: Edward T. Bednarz, III
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Patent number: 9285282Abstract: Designs to package a magneto-elastic torque sensor in an automotive transmission for volume production applications are provided. One transmission includes an output shaft and a magnetic torque sensor. The output shaft has a magnetized region. The sensor, for detecting torque of the output shaft, is mounted on friction reduction members such as bushings supporting the output shaft. In another transmission, the sensor is alternatively mounted to a transmission case.Type: GrantFiled: February 20, 2013Date of Patent: March 15, 2016Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLCInventors: Nimrod Kapas, Joseph F. Kucharski, Gregory Michael Pietron, Diana Yanakiev, Mark Richard Dobson, Yuji Fujii
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Patent number: 9285283Abstract: An adaptive wireless torque measurement system includes a rotor, a rotor antenna, a stator antenna, stator electronics, and rotor electronics. The rotor antenna is attached to the rotor. The stator antenna is configured to be inductively coupled to the rotor antenna. The stator electronics are coupled to receive, via the stator antenna, feedback data and are configured, in response thereto, to generate and transmit, via the stator antenna, power signals at a power level magnitude based in part on the feedback data. The rotor electronics are attached to the rotor and are coupled to receive, via the rotor antenna, the power signals transmitted by the stator electronics. The rotor electronics are configured to determine the power level magnitude of the power signals, generate the feedback data, the feedback data at least including information representative of the determined power level magnitude, and transmit, via the rotor antenna, the feedback data.Type: GrantFiled: May 19, 2014Date of Patent: March 15, 2016Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.Inventors: Sudheer Beligere, Vijay Tippanna Talikoti, Vishal Malhan
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Patent number: 9285284Abstract: A method of estimating a torque of a transmission clutch may include correcting an error by deducing an engine transient torque based on an engine angular velocity measured using a sensor, an engine static torque deduced using a data map, and a load torque depending on a driving load, deducing an engine angular velocity estimation value based on the engine static torque and the engine transient torque, and deducing a clutch torque estimation value depending on a slip in the transmission clutch from a difference between the engine angular velocity estimation value and the measured engine angular velocity.Type: GrantFiled: August 15, 2014Date of Patent: March 15, 2016Assignees: Hyundai Motor Company, Kia Motors Corp.Inventors: Jin Sung Kim, Seung Sam Baek
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Patent number: 9285285Abstract: Disclosed is a sensor unit having a simple sensor structure to detect intensity of force applied to a parking cable upon braking a vehicle and an electronic parking brake with the same. The disclosed sensor unit includes a sensor housing, in which a Hall IC is installed to sense variation of magnetic force caused by displacement of a magnet, a magnet housing arranged to be movable within the sensor housing, the magnet being installed in the magnet housing, and an elastic member arranged between the magnet housing and the sensor housing, to elastically support the magnet housing. The magnet housing is coupled to a power conversion unit to operate for pulling of the parking cable or release of the pulling.Type: GrantFiled: November 14, 2012Date of Patent: March 15, 2016Assignee: MANDO CORPORATIONInventors: Wook Jin Choi, Jae Hyun Lee
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Patent number: 9285286Abstract: A sensing system comprising a sensor for generating an analog electrical signal indicative of a sensed physical property and an A/D converter for converting the analog electrical signal into a digital electrical signal. A control circuit connected to the A/D converter is configured to receive the digital electrical signal and to perform a plurality of sensing system operations including determining a measurement value of the physical property as a function of said received digital electrical signal. A slew rate detection circuit connected to the sensor is configured to detect when the analog electrical signal indicates a slew rate that exceeds a threshold value, and to generate an interrupt electrical signal when the slew rate is detected as exceeding the threshold value. The control circuit determines a measurement value of the physical property in response to receiving the interrupt signal.Type: GrantFiled: January 8, 2014Date of Patent: March 15, 2016Assignee: Invensys Systems, Inc.Inventor: William M. Slechta
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Patent number: 9285288Abstract: A retractable flow conditioner that includes a body adapted for insertion into a fluid in a confined conduit upstream of a differential pressure measuring probe. The body has at least one flow conditioning element. The retractable flow conditioner also includes a mounting assembly attached to the body. The mounting assembly is configured to retractably mount the body into the confined conduit.Type: GrantFiled: September 26, 2013Date of Patent: March 15, 2016Assignee: Dieterich Standard, Inc.Inventor: Stephen Arthur Ifft
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Patent number: 9285289Abstract: A MEMS pressure sensor (70) includes a sense cell (80), a test cell (82), and a seal structure (84). The test cell includes a test cavity (104), and the seal structure (84) is in communication with the test cavity, wherein the seal structure is configured to be breached to change an initial cavity pressure (51) within the test cavity (104) to ambient pressure (26). Calibration methodology (180) entails obtaining (184) a test signal (186) from the test cell prior to breaching the seal structure, and obtaining (194) another test signal (196) after the seal structure is breached. The test signals are used to calculate a sensitivity (200) of the test cell, the calculated sensitivity is used to estimate the sensitivity (204) of the sense cell, and the estimated sensitivity (204) can be used to calibrate the sense cell.Type: GrantFiled: December 6, 2013Date of Patent: March 15, 2016Assignee: FREESCALE SEMICONDUCTOR, INC.Inventors: Chad S. Dawson, Peter T. Jones
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Patent number: 9285290Abstract: Leak detection apparatus for deployment in a pipe. The apparatus includes a carrier disposed for motion along the pipe and a detector connected to move with the carrier in an axial direction. The detector comprises a drum mounted for rotation about pitch and yaw axes. A flexible material is mounted on, and extends from, the drum and at least two sensors responsive to drum rotation are provided. The flexible material will be drawn into contact with a wall of the pipe at a leak location, thereby producing a torque on the drum, causing the drum to rotate, and the at least two sensors to generate signals from which leak location is determined.Type: GrantFiled: November 5, 2013Date of Patent: March 15, 2016Assignees: Massachusetts Institute of Technology, King Fahd University of Petroleum and MineralsInventors: Dimitrios Chatzigeorgiou, Samir Mekid, Rached Ben-Mansour, Atia Khalifa, Kamal Youcef-Toumi
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Patent number: 9285291Abstract: A portable test device and related method are disclosed for conducting integrity testing of flexible containers. The test is particularly useful for testing aseptic flexible film bags in a manner that maintains the sterile nature of the container and removes crinkles by inflating the containers to remove crinkles and establish an inflation set point. The decay in pressure is measured over a predetermined period of time; if pressure loss does not exceed a predetermined threshold the integrity of the bag is confirmed and it can be filled without further manipulation of the container that may result in introducing flaws.Type: GrantFiled: August 23, 2013Date of Patent: March 15, 2016Assignee: Advanced Scientific, Inc.Inventor: Rudolf Pavlik