Patents Issued in July 12, 2016
  • Patent number: 9389084
    Abstract: The present disclosure is directed toward systems and methods for identifying changes to a target site based on aerial images of the target site. For example, systems and methods described herein generate representations of the target site based on aerial photographs provided by an unmanned aerial vehicle. In one or more embodiments, systems and method described herein identify differences between the generated representations in order to detect changes that have occurred at the target site.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2015
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2016
    Assignee: SKYCATCH, INC.
    Inventors: David Chen, Ambar Pansari, Christian Sanz, Leonardo Felipe Romo Morales
  • Patent number: 9389085
    Abstract: The subject matter disclosed herein relates to systems, methods, apparatuses, devices, articles, and means for map handling for location based services in conjunction with localized environments.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 20, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2016
    Assignee: QUALCOMM Incorporated
    Inventors: Behrooz Khorashadi, Saumitra Mohan Das, Rajarshi Gupta
  • Patent number: 9389086
    Abstract: A transportation planner and route calculator for alternative travel methods that recommends alternative modes of transport relating to the preferences of the user. Recommendations draw upon preferences generated from the user's profile which is made up of inserted information from the user, travel historical log, a settings application and a method of auto adjusting the user's profile. A calculator unit retrieves one or more generated attributes of the user and obtains various related information such as available public transport, weather forecasts, historical travel log, to calculate travel options that best suit the users needs. The application constantly updates the users profile based on the users travel patterns and preferences, as the application learns more about the user the better the application becomes at recommending travel routes that suite the user's requirements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2014
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2016
    Inventors: Heba Abdulmohsen Hashem, Thieab Aldossary
  • Patent number: 9389087
    Abstract: A navigation system and method are described. A destination may be determined for a user. A starting location may be determined for the user using data obtained via a mobile device of the user. The user may be enabled to establish a route from the starting location to the destination using the mobile device. Route information that details the established route may be stored in a database for subsequent display to other users. In some embodiments, a value total for each user may be stored, and value may be added to the user's value total in response to the user establishing the route from the starting location to the destination.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2014
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2016
    Assignee: LinkedIn Corporation
    Inventor: Joff Redfern
  • Patent number: 9389088
    Abstract: The present application describes techniques for fetching map data as a selected subset of entire map data available, by selecting map data tiles corresponding to an area that encompasses a first route and to an area encompassing a secondary route based on the first route. An amount of map data accessed may be adjusted based on a priority of the secondary route.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2016
    Assignee: GOOGLE INC.
    Inventors: Iljya Kalai, Michael Siliski, Jerry Morrison, Keith Ito, Andrew T. Miller
  • Patent number: 9389089
    Abstract: A system and method for determining a route based on a preference are provided. The system includes a destination receiver to receive a destination from a GPS receiver in communication with a GPS system; a preference retriever to retrieve the preference based on a parameter, the preference being based on a recorded decision made by an operator associated with the GPS receiver or the GPS system in traversing a path to the destination; and a route analyzer to determine the route based on at least one of the preference or an optimal route calculated by a GPS system in communication with the GPS retriever. Also provided is a method for monitoring a preference associated with a route.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 2014
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2016
    Assignee: Visteon Global Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Theodore Charles Wingrove, Anthony Joseph Ciatti, Bryan Glenn DeGrendel
  • Patent number: 9389090
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention are directed toward a system for bidirectional navigation viewing and methods thereof. The system includes at least one server and a first client device and a second client device that are both communicatively coupled with the server. The server is configured to continuously provide data to both devices for bidirectional viewing of an optimal route from a source location to a destination location on the first client device and on the second client device. The source location and the destination location are typically specified by the first client device and the second client device, respectively. The source location is typically the current location of the first device. The optimal route is continuously updated based on information sent to the server. The information typically includes updated location information of the first device and real-time traffic information between the two locations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2016
    Assignee: Google Inc.
    Inventors: Uri Levine, Ehud Shabtai, Amir Shinar, Yuval Shmuelevitz
  • Patent number: 9389091
    Abstract: Various embodiments of methods and apparatus for attribute-based navigation are disclosed. In one embodiment, responsive to a request for a location having a variable attribute, a destination is selected based at least in part upon a value of the variable attribute. Navigation instructions from a current location are provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2016
    Assignee: Safe Path Technologies, LLC
    Inventor: Omar Besim Hakim
  • Patent number: 9389093
    Abstract: A traffic signal recognition apparatus includes a control device that executes: a captured image acquisition function which acquires a captured image around an own vehicle; an own vehicle position acquisition function which acquires a current position of the own vehicle; a target traffic signal specifying function which refers to map information to specify a traffic signal to be targeted in a traveling link for the own vehicle, the traffic signal data including position information about the traffic signal related to the traveling link; a traffic signal image area extraction function which extracts an image area of the traffic signal on the basis of the position information about the traffic signal and image capturing property information about the camera; and a traffic signal content recognition function which recognizes a traffic signal content of the traffic signal on the basis of an image of the traffic signal in the image area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2014
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2016
    Assignee: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Naoki Kojo
  • Patent number: 9389094
    Abstract: Systems and methods are presented for sequencing locations and events and determining routing and itineraries for the sequence. In some embodiments the system may receive a starting location, a first location, and a second location in a default order. The system may determine a sequence from the starting location for the first location and the second location. The system may generate a route for the sequence with the route having transportation directions between the starting location, the second location, and the first location indicative of the sequence. The system may display the route in a graphical user interface of an application.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2014
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2016
    Assignee: PayPal, Inc.
    Inventors: Jennifer T Brenner, Yu Tang, Bryant Genepang Luk, Robert He, Christopher Diebold O'Toole
  • Patent number: 9389095
    Abstract: A method of operation of a navigation system includes: generating a first point of interest; identifying a current location for locating a device; and calculating a dynamic rank for the first point of interest, the dynamic rank represents a relevant match listing of the first point of interest based on a proximity of the current location to the first point of interest and an encounter validity based on the arrival time at the first point of interest.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2016
    Assignee: Telenav, Inc.
    Inventors: Hanhong Li, Hongwei Feng
  • Patent number: 9389096
    Abstract: A system and method for determining location information using a location data point provided by a computing device is described. A location data point is received by a system from a client computing device. The system determines whether the location data point is within a predefined region from a plurality of predefined regions configured by a user of the system. If the location data point is within a predefined region, location information corresponding to the predefined region is transmitted to the client device. If the location data point is not within a predefined region, one or more third-party reverse geocoding services can be used that translates the location data point to a street address.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 2014
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2016
    Assignee: Uber Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Paul-Phillip Holden, Matthew Sweeney, Jeremy Grosser
  • Patent number: 9389097
    Abstract: A display system for a vehicle includes a processing unit configured to receive data representative of flight path information and terrain and to supply display commands associated with the flight path information and the terrain; and a display device coupled the processing unit and configured to receive the display commands and operable to render a three-dimensional view, including symbology representing the flight path information on the terrain.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2016
    Assignee: HONEYWELL INTERNATIONAL INC.
    Inventors: Gang He, Thea L. Feyereisen, Aaron Gannon
  • Patent number: 9389098
    Abstract: A system including an encoder, multiple sensing elements and control logic. The encoder has a pole pitch and is configured to rotate in a direction of rotation. The multiple sensing elements are situated along the direction of rotation and span at least half the length of the pole pitch. The control logic is configured to receive signals from the multiple sensing elements based on the encoder in a static position and obtain a switching point based on the signals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 2015
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2016
    Assignee: Infineon Technologies AG
    Inventors: Dirk Hammerschmidt, Udo Ausserlechner
  • Patent number: 9389099
    Abstract: A multi-turn absolute magnetic encoder, comprising (M+1) counting units, a single-turn signal processing unit, and a multi-turn signal processing unit. Each counting unit comprises counting wheels with a cylindrical ring permanent magnet fixed thereon, and a tunneling magnetoresistive angular displacement sensor. The magnetoresistive angular displacement sensor is located within a region in a detection plane of the permanent magnet at within a specific radius range from the axis of the cylindrical ring permanent magnet, within the detection plane the angle of a component of a magnetic field generated by the permanent magnet is linearly proportional to the rotation angle of the cylindrical ring permanent magnet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2014
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2016
    Assignee: MultiDimension Technology Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: James Geza Deak, Zhimin Zhou
  • Patent number: 9389100
    Abstract: An optical position measuring instrument including a first scale having a first graduation, wherein the first scale is disposed movable in a first measuring direction, and at a first defined position in the first measuring direction, the first scale includes a spatially limited first marking that differs from the first graduation. The optical position measuring instrument further including a second scale having a second graduation, wherein the second scale is disposed movable in a second measuring direction, and at a second defined position, the second scale includes a second reference marking that is usable for generating at least one reference signal at a reference position of the second scale only if the first scale is located in the first defined position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2016
    Assignee: DR. JOHANNES HEIDENHAIN GMBH
    Inventors: Wolfgang Holzapfel, Joerg Drescher, Markus Meissner, Ralph Joerger, Bernhard Musch, Thomas Kaelberer
  • Patent number: 9389101
    Abstract: A readhead control mechanism serves to control a readhead included in an optical encoder that measures a mechanical displacement between a fixed portion and a movable portion by reading out a gradation mark on a scale provided on the fixed portion, by using the readhead that is provided on the movable portion. The readhead mechanism includes a securing member that secures the readhead onto the movable portion, an actuator that is directly or indirectly secured onto the readhead to shift the readhead in an approaching direction or in a distancing direction, and an actuator controller that controls the actuator to maintain a constant distance between the readhead and the scale.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2016
    Assignee: Mitsubishi Electric Corporation
    Inventors: Yutaka Ezaki, Noboru Itoh
  • Patent number: 9389102
    Abstract: A selector lever arrangement for operating a transmission in a motor vehicle with a mounting fixture, a selector lever which is mounted at the fixture in such a way that it can be moved into the designated selector lever positions and an optical detection device for the selector lever position, which includes a carrier, several optical sensors which are arranged on the carrier, an optical deflector, at least one self-luminous light source that is arranged on the carrier, by means of which light can be directed onto the sensors via the deflectors, and a coding element equipped with an optical coding that is arranged within the optical path, which can be shifted into the designated coding positions by means of moving the selector lever, whereby the coding element is intended to be allocated between the sensors and the deflector that is made in form of a light guiding element, which is arranged at the carrier.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2016
    Assignee: ZF FRIEDRICHSHAFEN AG
    Inventors: Ralf Hartrampf, Andreas Giefer, Ludger Rake
  • Patent number: 9389103
    Abstract: A gigahertz sensor array packaging solution for harsh operating environments is disclosed. The sensor array packaging system includes a structural core body comprising sensor mounting features on a surface thereof and an alignment through hole extending from the surface to a backside thereof which incorporates finned features providing cooling and stiffness. The sensor array packaging system further includes one or more electro-optical components mounted to the backside of the structural core body. The sensor array packaging system further includes a wiring board comprising a plurality of sensor array elements contacting walls of the spiral ribbon configuration, each having a cable extending through the through hole to at least one of the one or more electro-optical components.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2014
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2016
    Assignee: LOCKHEED MARTIN CORPORATION
    Inventors: James E. Bishop, Allan Johnson, Brian Kaplun, Steven E. McElwain, Jr., David L. Vos
  • Patent number: 9389104
    Abstract: A light-guide device has a single piece body including a plurality of light guiding elements joined together by at least one supporting element. An opaque coating is provided on an outer surface of the at least one supporting element, to absorb the light entering into the supporting element from the light-guide elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2016
    Assignee: Magneti Marelli S.p.A.
    Inventors: Sylvain Mouard, Luca Masala, Andrea Ramella
  • Patent number: 9389105
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides distributed sensor grid, surface, and skin systems and methods that utilize compressive sampling systems and methods for reading and processing the outputs of sensor arrays (serial and/or parallel) such that increased speed can be achieved. These sensor arrays can be functionalized or sensitized in any desired manner and functions are derived from the outputs, as opposed to individual data points. The sensor arrays can be made in the form of a textile, a fiber optic network, a MEMS network, or a CMOS camera, for example. In general, in accordance with the systems and methods of the present disclosure, a Code is applied to a distributed sensor as part of the compressive sampling technique and derives the functions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2016
    Assignee: The University of North Carolina at Charlotte
    Inventors: Faramarz Farahi, Mehrdad Abolbashari
  • Patent number: 9389106
    Abstract: A remote seal assembly for subsea applications is provided. The assembly includes an upper housing having a fluid coupling for coupling the remote seal to a process fluid pressure measurement device. A lower housing is coupled to the upper housing and has an interface that is configured to mount to a pressure vessel. The lower housing also has a process fluid inlet. An isolation diaphragm is disposed between the upper and lower housings. At least one of the upper housing, lower housing and isolation diaphragm are constructed from a material suitable for immersion in saltwater. In some embodiments, the lower housing has a shoulder disposed about the process fluid inlet and a plurality of self-energizing seals configured to couple the assembly to a venturi flow meter body. A subsea process fluid flow measurement system is also provided that includes a pressure transmitter and at least one subsea remote seal assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2016
    Assignee: Rosemount Inc.
    Inventors: Ivar Breen, Brent W. Miller, Jay Scheldorf, Gokhan Aydar, David Broden
  • Patent number: 9389107
    Abstract: A magneto inductive, flow measuring device including a measuring tube and, arranged on the measuring tube, at least one magnet system, which includes a pole shoe. The measuring tube has at least one planar area and an otherwise cylindrical lateral surface, which border the measuring tube from its environment. The pole shoe is so formed relative to the measuring tube that it contacts the planar area of the measuring tube and has a predetermined minimum separation for the otherwise cylindrical lateral surface of the measuring tube. The pole shoe surrounds the measuring tube with a circular arc angle of at least 10°.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2016
    Assignee: Endress + Hauser Flowtec AG
    Inventors: Frank Voigt, Gunther Bahr, Diego Uerlings, Werner Wohlgemuth
  • Patent number: 9389108
    Abstract: A flowmeter for detecting fluid flow rates in a pipe includes a tube having a channel disposed in the pipe through which fluid in the pipe flows. The flowmeter includes an upstream transducer in contact with the pipe and positioned so plane waves generated by the upstream transducer propagates through the channel. The flowmeter includes a downstream transducer in contact with the pipe and positioned so plane waves generated by the downstream transducer propagate through the channel and are received by the upstream transducer which produces an upstream transducer signal. The downstream transducer receives the plane waves from the upstream transducer and provides a downstream transducer signal. The flowmeter includes a controller in communication with the upstream and downstream transducers which calculate fluid flow rate from the upstream transducer signal and the downstream transducer signal. A method for detecting fluid flow rates in a pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2014
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2016
    Assignee: Cameron International Corporation
    Inventors: Emanuel Gottlieb, Donald R. Augenstein
  • Patent number: 9389109
    Abstract: An inline ultrasonic transducer assembly is disclosed. The transducer assembly can include a body having a cylindrical flow passage and a transducer mounting space having a track on along which at least one transducer chassis can be slidingly engaged. The transducer chassis can include at least one piezo member oriented at an angle with the axial centerline of the flow passage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2014
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2016
    Assignee: Blue-White Industries, Ltd.
    Inventors: Robert Gledhill, III, John Nguyen, Jason A. Woolard, Darrell B. Freeman
  • Patent number: 9389110
    Abstract: A measurement apparatus having a measurement tube and a thermal sensor for measuring a throughflow of a fluid flowing through the measurement tube, the measurement tube having an inlet and an outlet, and also a measurement section, in which the sensor is arranged. The inlet has an inlet internal diameter and the measurement section has a measurement section internal diameter, and whereby the measurement section internal diameter is greater than the inlet internal diameter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2016
    Assignee: Sensus Spectrum LLC
    Inventors: Burghardt Schaefer, Tuan Chu Anh
  • Patent number: 9389111
    Abstract: A system and method for improved flow measurements for LCG, such as liquid petroleum gas (LPG), is disclosed. Embodiments of the present technology detect the presence of a vapor in a fluid flowing in a mass flow meter. A control valve is then adjusted to provide enough back pressure to prevent the measured liquid from flashing and to reduce the presence of vapor in the fluid flowing in the mass flow meter. By keeping the fluid in liquid form, the present technology reduces the vapor flowing in the mass flow meter, increasing the accuracy of mass flow and other measurements. Utilizing a similar principle of vapor detection, embodiments of the present technology provide for improved average parameter value calculation, such as average density calculations and equivalent liquid volume calculations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2016
    Assignee: Measurement Technology Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Rafael A. Cabrera, Jaime Sanchez
  • Patent number: 9389112
    Abstract: A method for detecting the filling level in a motor vehicle. A device for ascertaining the tank filling level value of moving vehicles, including at least one tank, at least one filling level sensor, at least one control unit and at least one pump.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2016
    Assignee: Deutz AG
    Inventor: Gonzalo Medina-Sanchez
  • Patent number: 9389113
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a radar level gauge system comprising a signal propagation device; a microwave signal source; a microwave signal source controller; a mixer configured to combine a transmit signal from the microwave signal source and a reflection signal from the surface to form an intermediate frequency signal; and processing circuitry coupled to the mixer and configured to determine the filling level based on the intermediate frequency signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2014
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2016
    Assignee: ROSEMOUNT TANK RADAR AB
    Inventors: Anders Jirskog, Mikael Kleman, Lars Ove Larsson
  • Patent number: 9389114
    Abstract: A sensor probe for monitoring levels of chemical solutions used in automatic car washes, the sensor probes comprising an elongated sensor probe tube able to be installed by being inserted into a hole in the top of storage drums. A sealed enclosure mounted to the top of the tube is thereby positioned above the associated tank, which enclosure contains a liquid level sensor and a wireless receiver/transmitter able to send data to a computer/display/and web server.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2014
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2016
    Inventors: Gilbert J. Rietsch, Jr., Norbert Gattinger
  • Patent number: 9389115
    Abstract: A two-wire system for monitoring fluid level and temperature including a pair of electrical interconnect wires bridged by a fluid level switch and a thermal sensing element. One of the fluid level switch or the thermal sensing element bypasses the other during a trigger event.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2014
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2016
    Assignee: Eaton Corporation
    Inventors: Todd Fritz, John Manyala, Ryan Pauls, Eric Metheny
  • Patent number: 9389116
    Abstract: A weight detection sensor interposed between a seat side fixing member and a floor side fixed member to measure a load of a passenger sitting in the seat, includes: a strain body fixed to both end portions of a mounting surface formed on one of the floor side fixed member and the seat side fixing member at a predetermined distance from the mounting surface; a connection member fixed to a central portion of the strain body in a vertical direction and fixed to the other one of the floor side fixed member and the seat side fixing member; and a Wheatstone bridge circuit where first and third strain detection elements are arranged on sides facing each other and second and fourth strain detection elements are arranged on sides facing each other, each of the strain detection elements being a variable resistor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2014
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2016
    Assignee: AISIN SEIKI KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Mutsuro Aoyama, Kan Ichihara, Hiroyuki Fujii, Kazumasa Seo, Koji Washino
  • Patent number: 9389117
    Abstract: This disclosure relates to a system configured to determine masses, weights, and/or other quantities of individual ingredients added to a food dish during preparation. At least some of the components of the system may be configured to be used in a food preparation area. The system may include a scale, a client computing device, external resources, and/or other components. The system may be configured to weigh and/or determine the mass of individual ingredients of the dish as the ingredients are added to the dish. The system may be configured to determine the individual mass and/or weight of each ingredient based on the masses and/or weights of individual ingredients previously added to the dish and/or a current mass and/or weight of the dish as a given ingredient is added.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2016
    Assignee: THE ORANGE CHEF COMPANY
    Inventor: Santiago Merea
  • Patent number: 9389118
    Abstract: A device for measuring, documenting, and issuing citations for noise violations comprises a mobile device for measuring the decibel sound level from a sound source, for measuring the distance from the device to the source, for capturing an image or video of the sound source, and determining whether the sound source exceeds a user-predetermined level. The device may be in the form of a hand-held gun-shaped device wherein the user actuates the trigger to record an image or video of the sound source, the decibel sound level, and the distance between the device and the source. After the data is collected, the sound-measuring device is attached to a download component. The download component accepts data from the sound-measuring component and allows the user to input additional data regarding the noise violation. The user may then use the download component to print a citation, which may include an image of the sound source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2016
    Inventor: Scott Taillet
  • Patent number: 9389119
    Abstract: An array of photodetector is organized along a first organizational axis on a semiconductor substrate of a first conductivity type. Each photodetector is at least partially formed in the substrate which forms a first electrode of the photodetector. A peripheral polarization ring is formed around the array of photodetectors. The polarization ring is connected to a polarization voltage generator and to the substrate. A read circuit is connected to a photodetector via the second terminal of the photodetector. A first switch connects the photodetector to a generator of an additional voltage. A second switch connects the photodetector to the associated read circuit. The first and the second switches are in opposite states.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2016
    Assignee: SOCIETE FRANCAISE DE DETECTEURS INFRAROUGES—SOFRADIR
    Inventor: Michel Zecri
  • Patent number: 9389120
    Abstract: Laser scanning microscope or spectral detector having a detection beam path and first imaging optics which image spectrally dispersed sample light in a Fourier plane such that the individual spectral components of the sample light are spatially separated from one another therein. A micromirror arrangement is provided in this plane, and a spectrally selective change in direction of the detection beam is carried out by controlling the micromirrors, where a useful light component of the detection beam arrives on a detector. At least one second micromirror arrangement and a 1:1 imaging of the first micromirror arrangement in the second micromirror arrangement is provided. Alternatively, the same micromirror arrangement is passed at least twice, where, in the light path between the first pass and second pass, a spatial offset of the light beam of at least the first pass and second pass is generated on the micromirror arrangement by optical means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2016
    Assignee: Carl Zeiss Microscopy GmbH
    Inventors: Jakow Konradi, Daniel Schwedt, Enrico Geissler, Günter Rudolph, Hans-Jürgen Dobschal
  • Patent number: 9389121
    Abstract: An apparatus comprises: a microscope objective focused on a microscope field of view; a light source including a laser generating an astigmatic beam and optics configured to couple the astigmatic beam into the microscope objective to produce high aspect ratio illumination at the microscope field of view; and a data acquisition system configured to generate data pertaining to light emanating from the microscope field of view responsive to the high aspect ratio illumination. The apparatus may be a Raman spectroscopy system. The laser may be an edge emitting laser. The optics of the light source may include an aspherical lens arranged to compensate the astigmatism of the astigmatic beam. The optics of the light source may include a diffraction grating arranged respective to the laser to provide feedback reducing a spectral full width at half maximum (FWHM) of the astigmatic beam.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2016
    Assignee: Battelle Memorial Institute
    Inventors: Bradley B. Ross, Andrew P. Bartko
  • Patent number: 9389122
    Abstract: A set of images of an object are captured from a set of lenses positioned at different angles. A common point is determined, which has a color value that differs among the images. Color at the point is mathematically expressed as a set of equations. The equations comprise a recorded color value for the point, an ambient contribution, a diffuse contribution, and a specular contribution. The ambient and diffuse contributions are set as equal across the equations. The specular contribution is determined, such as by quantifying the light sources and solving for the specular contribution using a Phong lighting model equation. True color for the point, which is based on the ambient and diffuse contribution, is determined by solving a set of simultaneous equations once the specular contribution is known. An image is created where the point has the true color as determined above.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2015
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2016
    Inventors: Dmitry Kozko, Ivan G Onuchin, Nikolay Shturkin
  • Patent number: 9389123
    Abstract: A mask used in a dual pyroelectric sensor and configured to allow the pyroelectric sensor to accurately detect a movement of a moving object in each of the disposition direction of two pyroelectric elements and a direction perpendicular to the disposition direction. The mask is applied to the sensing surface of the dual pyroelectric sensor to increase the sensitivity with which the pyroelectric sensor detects a moving object. The mask includes a sheet configured to block infrared rays and an aperture pattern including through holes formed in the sheet. The aperture pattern is formed in such a manner that the percentages of the respective infrared-irradiated ranges of the two pyroelectric elements of the pyroelectric sensor vary with a movement of a moving object in each of x- and y-directions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2016
    Assignee: EIZO Corporation
    Inventors: Sachi Minami, Shuhei Miyanaga, Takashi Murata, Seiji Miyazawa
  • Patent number: 9389124
    Abstract: A terahertz electromagnetic wave generator according to the present disclosure includes: a substrate; a thermoelectric material layer which is supported by the substrate and which has a surface; and a pulsed laser light source system which locally heats the thermoelectric material layer with an edge of the surface of the thermoelectric material layer irradiated with pulsed light, thereby generating a terahertz electromagnetic wave from the thermoelectric material layer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2014
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2016
    Assignee: Panasonic Intellectual Property Management Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Kohei Takahashi, Tsutomu Kanno, Akihiro Sakai, Yuka Yamada
  • Patent number: 9389125
    Abstract: An infrared detection device including an infrared heat detector and a connection pad each spaced apart from an etching stop layer by a non-zero distance substantially equal relatively to each other, wherein first and second electrically conducting vias are respectively electrically connected to first and second portions of a metal line of a penultimate level of electrical interconnections, and wherein an empty space formed in a first inter-metal dielectric layer surrounds the first electrically conducting via and extends under the infrared heat detector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2016
    Assignee: Commissariat à l'énergie atomique et aux énergies alternatives
    Inventors: Jean-Jacques Yon, Geoffroy Dumont, Pierre Imperinetti, Stephane Pocas
  • Patent number: 9389126
    Abstract: The invention may provide a temperature sensor device that includes an analog temperature sensor to generate a first base-emitter voltage and a second base-emitter voltage, and an analog-to-digital converter (ADC) to sample at the voltages and generate corresponding digital values. The temperature sensor device may also include a logic unit to calculate a digital temperature code from the digital values using a digital virtual reference.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2016
    Assignee: Analog Devices, Inc.
    Inventors: Sejun Kim, Khiem Quang Nguyen, Michael W. Determan, Robert Adams
  • Patent number: 9389127
    Abstract: A temperature sensor in a semiconductor device includes a temperature detection circuit for outputting a voltage according to the chip temperature, a reference voltage generating circuit for generating a plurality of reference voltages, and a plurality of voltage comparators for comparing each reference voltage with an output voltage of the temperature detection circuit and thereby generating a chip temperature detection signal configured with multiple bits. Further, the temperature sensor includes a control circuit for controlling the reference voltages generated by the reference voltage generating circuit based on the chip temperature detection signal and thereby changing correspondence between the chip temperature detection signal and the chip temperature to shift a chip temperature detection range.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2016
    Assignee: Renesas Electronics Corporation
    Inventors: Tadashi Kameyama, Takanobu Naruse, Takayasu Ito
  • Patent number: 9389128
    Abstract: A temperature detection device is connected to a temperature sensor, and includes two resistors, a transistor and a microcomputer. The temperature sensor is connected to ground. The resistors are connected in series between the temperature sensor and a power supply line. The transistor is connected to the resistor, which is at the power supply line side. The microcomputer switches over a characteristic of a sensor voltage, which is developed at a junction between the resistor and the temperature sensor, to a first characteristic and a second characteristic by switching over the transistor to an on-state and an off-state. The microcomputer calculates a temperature based on the sensor voltage. When the transistor is in the on-state, the microcomputer detects a voltage developed at a low-potential side output terminal of the transistor and calculates the temperature based on the transistor output voltage and the sensor voltage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2016
    Assignee: DENSO CORPORATION
    Inventors: Makoto Tashiro, Hiroki Marubayashi
  • Patent number: 9389129
    Abstract: An embodiment of the present invention is an algorithmic method for testing performance characteristics of humidity and temperature probes, i.e., accuracy, stability, and repeatability of humidity and temperature sensor probes over a user selected dynamic range, which is programmable by an end user. Further, the testing is accomplished and completed by using a specially designed humidity and temperature test chamber that is traceable to NIST (National Institute of Science and Technology). Ongoing, and final, testing results are made visible for study by the end user via a computer display, and there is printout availability. Further, testing in the chamber utilizes a method for probe attachment to the chamber and control thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2016
    Inventor: Kamal Mahajan
  • Patent number: 9389130
    Abstract: A tension measurement assembly, for measuring and monitoring a tension force in a cable being deployed from a spooling device on which the cable is spooled, comprises at least one force sensor disposed adjacent the spooling device for sensing a force applied to the spooling device and generating a force signal representing the sensed force, and a processor responsive to the force signal for calculating and monitoring a tension force present in the cable. A cable sensor engages the deployed cable for sensing a spooling/unspooling rate and a length of the cable moving past the cable sensor in a pre-determined time period and generating a spooling signal representing the sensed rate and length to the processor for use in the calculating and monitoring of the tension force.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2016
    Assignee: SCHLUMBERGER TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION
    Inventors: Lucas Teurlay, Stephane Breard, Dominique Aubry
  • Patent number: 9389131
    Abstract: A device, assembly and method for clamping single fibers that utilizes snubbing surfaces simultaneously with magnetic gripping action are described. The device can be fabricated at miniature sizes with very low mass and volume, which are desirable requirements for testing of small fibers in highly sensitive force-transducing load frames. Advantageously, the combined use of snubbing surfaces and magnetic gripping greatly reduces the probability of slippage or fiber failure at the grip during testing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2014
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2016
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventor: Eric D. Wetzel
  • Patent number: 9389132
    Abstract: A system may include a tether coupled to a ground station. The system may also include an aerial vehicle coupled to the tether and configured to fly in a given path relative to the ground station based on a length of the tether. The system may also include one or more load cells coupled to the tether and configured to provide information indicative of a tether force between the tether and the aerial vehicle. The one or more load cells may be arranged in a given arrangement indicative of a direction of the tether force. The system may also include a controller configured to determine an angle between a direction of wind incident on the aerial vehicle and a plane defined by a longitudinal axis and a lateral axis of the aerial vehicle based on the tether force.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 26, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2016
    Assignee: Google Inc.
    Inventors: Kenny Jensen, Damon Vander Lind
  • Patent number: 9389133
    Abstract: Portable object provided with a mechanism for measuring atmospheric pressure, the atmospheric pressure measuring mechanism including an atmospheric pressure sensor whose geometric dimensions vary with atmospheric pressure fluctuations, the variations in the geometric dimensions of the atmospheric pressure sensor being applied to a device displaying a barometric tendency connected to the atmospheric pressure sensor via a coupling mechanism actuated by a user, the coupling mechanism being capable of being switched between a first position, in which the kinematic connection between the atmospheric pressure sensor and the barometric tendency display device is interrupted, and a second position in which the barometric tendency display device is kinematically coupled to the atmospheric pressure sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2014
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2016
    Assignee: Montres Breguet SA
    Inventors: Benoit Junod, Davide Sarchi, Alain Zaugg, Jan Pittet
  • Patent number: 9389134
    Abstract: A sensor includes: a housing with a terminal; a joint including a projecting portion; a sensor module provided to the projecting portion and including a strain gauge; a conductive member connecting the terminal and the strain gauge; a cap-shaped synthetic resin base provided to the projecting portion, including a top with an opening in which the strain gauge is exposed and lateral portions intersecting the top, and having an inner circumferential surface slidable along an outer circumferential surface of the projecting portion; and an electronic component mounted on the lateral portions. The conductive member includes: a flexible circuit board having a first end connected to the terminal and a second end connected to the base; and a three-dimensional circuit connected to the electronic component, three-dimensionally arranged continuously along the top and the lateral portions of the base, and having one end connected to the flexible circuit board.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2014
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2016
    Assignee: NAGANO KEIKI CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Yukinobu Iimori, Hironori Kobayashi, Shuji Tohyama