Patents Issued in September 15, 2016
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Publication number: 20160265948Abstract: Techniques are disclosed for tracking the position of moving parts and assemblies using 3D laser projection, and projecting templates and other information onto the parts and assemblies based on position. The projected template may then be used, for example, to assist in fabrication of an assembly by indicating where to put a next component or layer, or to assist in post-fabrication inspection of an assembly by indicating where the various components or layers should have been placed. Reference targets can be used as fiducial points for aligning a laser projector with the work piece in question. When the work piece rotates or is otherwise moved to a next manufacturing or inspection position, the relative position of the laser projector and the work piece is updated by bucking-in to the reference targets. The laser projector can then project patterns or other information onto the work piece at the appropriate locations.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 9, 2015Publication date: September 15, 2016Applicant: Laser Projection Technologies, Inc.Inventors: STEVEN P. KAUFMAN, KARI J. METTINEN, MASOUD MOHAZZAB, ARKADY SAVIKOVSKY, JOEL H. STAVE
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Publication number: 20160265949Abstract: Methods and systems for flame retardant and/or fireproofing treatment monitoring. Methods and systems allow interested parties (e.g., business or home owners, property managers, insurers, and inspection teams) to quickly assess the current status of a flame retardant and/or fireproofing treatment.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 4, 2016Publication date: September 15, 2016Inventor: Jason D. Rotondo
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Publication number: 20160265950Abstract: A multi-directional sensor includes a housing unit having a surrounding wall that defines a housing space, a first magnetic component disposed on the housing unit, a conductive body disposed in the housing space and magnetically attracted to the first magnetic component, and a plurality of spaced-apart electrically conductive terminals surrounding the conductive body. When the multi-directional sensor is subjected to an impact, the conductive body is forced to move toward two adjacent conductive terminals which are opposite to the direction of impact due to inertia so as to bridge and electrically interconnect the two adjacent conductive terminals so that a signal can be generated.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 14, 2015Publication date: September 15, 2016Inventor: Chih-Heng HUANG
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Publication number: 20160265951Abstract: A performance information calculation method executed by an apparatus carried by a user who makes motion accompanied by cyclic body motion, and the method includes detecting motion cycle of the user, setting a reception action suspended period, during which a positioning satellite signal is not received, in each predetermined calculation cycle on the basis of the motion cycle, and calculating performance information in each of the calculation cycles on the basis of the positioning satellite signal received in a period other than the reception action suspended period.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 9, 2016Publication date: September 15, 2016Inventors: Tatsuhiko SUGIYAMA, Naoki GOBARA, Tomoya KAWAMOTO
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Publication number: 20160265952Abstract: A method for controlling a sensor by a mobile device, the method comprising: executing an application performing a task; obtaining first sensor data using a first sensor to perform the task; receiving second sensor data obtained using a second sensor of at least one communicably connected external device; comparing the first sensor data with the second sensor data; and when the first sensor data is replaceable with the second sensor data, controlling an operation of the first sensor and the second sensor according to a battery state of the mobile device and the external device.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 23, 2015Publication date: September 15, 2016Inventor: Sungjae HWANG
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Publication number: 20160265953Abstract: An in-line measuring device for capturing at least two measurands of a measuring medium—especially, a measuring fluid—flowing through a process receptacle, comprising: a first measuring sensor integrated into the process receptacle, with the former being designed to generate a first measuring signal that is dependent upon a flow measurand—especially, a volume and/or mass flow of the measuring medium; a second measuring sensor integrated into the process receptacle, with the former being designed to generate a second measuring signal dependent upon an analysis measurand—especially, one dependent upon the concentration of at least one analyte in the measuring medium and measuring electronics that are connected with the first measuring sensor and the second measuring sensor, with the measuring electronics being designed to receive and process the first measuring signal and the second measuring signal.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 8, 2016Publication date: September 15, 2016Inventors: Detlev Wittmer, Manfred Jagiella
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Publication number: 20160265954Abstract: A hybrid ultrasonic flowmeter includes at least a first sensing plane including four ultrasonic transducers (transducers) positioned in a parallelogram arrangement on a meter pipe wall including a first and second transducer pair. A first reflector is positioned between the first transducer pair on a first portion of the meter pipe wall, and a second ultrasonic reflector is between the second transducer pair on a second portion of the meter pipe wall opposite the first wall portion. The transducers have assembly angles and emission patterns for emitting ultrasonic beams to provide a plurality of direct measurement paths and a plurality of reflective paths involving a first reflective path involving the first ultrasonic reflector and a second reflective path involving the second ultrasonic reflector. A flow electronics module including a transceiver causes the transducers to transmit ultrasonic signals and processes sensing signals generated by the transducers for determining a volume flow.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 10, 2015Publication date: September 15, 2016Inventors: DAVID BACHMANN, ROLF SCHMITT, MARKUS HANTZSCH, ANDREAS WEBER, JOERN HENDRIK WEBER
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Publication number: 20160265955Abstract: An apparatus for making a flow determination with respect to a flow through a fluid conduit such as a domestic water pipe, the fluid conduit comprising a wall having an inner surface surrounding a flow space through which the fluid flows and an outer surface, the apparatus comprising: a first temperature sensor arranged to be mounted on the outer surface of the fluid conduit and arranged to generate a first temperature signal indicative of a first temperature being the temperature of the outer surface; a second temperature sensor arranged to be positioned spaced apart from the first temperature sensor and to generate a second temperature signal indicative of a second temperature being the ambient temperature outside of the fluid conduit; and a processor having inputs for the first and second temperature signals; in which the processor has an output for the flow determination and is arranged to make the flow determination by determining a measure of the convergence of the first and second temperatures over timType: ApplicationFiled: February 1, 2016Publication date: September 15, 2016Inventors: Peter Easey, David Griffin
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Publication number: 20160265956Abstract: A brace bar (300, 400, 500, 600, 700) is provided. The brace bar (300, 400, 500, 600, 700) includes a brace bar body (302, 402, 502, 602, 702) with a perimeter, a first aperture (304a, 404a, 504a, 604a, 704a) and a second aperture (304b, 404b, 504b, 604b, 704b) in the brace bar body (302, 402, 502, 602, 702), and a gap (306, 406, 506, 606, 706) formed in the brace bar body (302, 402, 502, 602, 702) connecting the first aperture (304a, 404a, 504a, 604a, 704a) and the second aperture (304b, 404b, 504b, 604b, 704b) wherein the gap (306, 406, 506, 606, 706) is wholly contained within the perimeter of the brace bar body (302, 402, 502, 602, 702).Type: ApplicationFiled: November 6, 2014Publication date: September 15, 2016Applicant: Micro Motion, Inc.Inventors: Philip Powers, Glenn Byron
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Publication number: 20160265957Abstract: A meter register of the type having a sealed register body, and a member adapted to measure liquid flow through the meter and an antenna mounted within the register body is improved by providing a microprocessor adapted to have a calculated water meter maximum flow rate and a minimum flow rate defined as the meter flow rate range. The member co-acts with the microprocessor to determine flow rate, and the microprocessor is adapted to forward a signal to the antenna when the flow rate of the meter is outside, or within, the meter flow rate range, and the antenna transmits the signal to the water utility that the meter is not properly sized, or is properly sized, respectively.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 5, 2016Publication date: September 15, 2016Inventors: Scott H. Seehoffer, Jerry Potter
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Publication number: 20160265958Abstract: A car wash liquid containment and measurement apparatus having a reservoir defining a first interior region configured to hold a liquid therein. The apparatus has a valve with a first position and a second position and the valve is coupled to the reservoir. There is also a measurement apparatus coupled to the valve defining a second interior region and a tube disposed at least partially within the second interior region of the measurement apparatus. The valve fluidly isolates the first interior region from the second interior region when the valve is in the first position and the valve fluidly couples the first interior region with the second interior region when the valve is in the second position.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 6, 2015Publication date: September 15, 2016Inventors: David Soble, Scott Soble, Derek Grace, Brian L. Ashinger
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Publication number: 20160265959Abstract: An apparatus for determining or monitoring the fill level or a predetermined limit level of a medium in a container, comprising a self excited system comprising an oscillation producing unit for producing electromagnetic waves within a predetermined frequency band; at least one sensor having an electrode, wherein the sensor is arranged at a predetermined angle to the longitudinal axis of the container, wherein the electrode is supplied with the electromagnetic waves, wherein the at least one sensor is arranged relative to the medium in such a manner that the phase of the electromagnetic waves reflected at the interface of the medium changes under the influence of the medium; and a feedback loop, which feeds the electromagnetic waves back to the at least one sensor, whereby the frequency of the self excited system is determined, a frequency detector, which registers the frequency of the electromagnetic waves, and an evaluation unit, which based on the registered frequency ascertains the relative dielectric conType: ApplicationFiled: August 28, 2014Publication date: September 15, 2016Inventors: Thomas Blodt, Peter Klofer
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Publication number: 20160265960Abstract: A loading weight detection device applicable to various mobile bodies can accurately detect loading weight with minimized number of input variables.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 22, 2014Publication date: September 15, 2016Applicant: National University Corporation Tokyo University of Marine Science and TechnologyInventor: Yutaka WATANABE
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Publication number: 20160265961Abstract: A set of scales having a rack on which at least one, preferably a plurality of weighing tables is/are provided which has/have in each case one frame. The frame of at least one weighing table is provided so as to be at least partially pivotable and/or rotatable in relation to the rack such that the frame is convertible from a use position to a cleaning position and vice-versa.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 6, 2014Publication date: September 15, 2016Applicant: GEA Food Solutions Germany GmbHInventor: Thomas Gahler
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Publication number: 20160265962Abstract: A cover (24) of a draft shield (12) of a precision balance (10), has a support frame (36) on which holding elements (40) and/or guide rails (38) are provided for a front panel (18) and/or at least one side panel (26), and a cover element (54) which is pivotable, about a bearing (60) provided at one edge, between a holding position and a releasing position. At the edge positioned opposite the bearing are holding elements (72, 74) which fix the cover element at the opposite edge of the support frame, wherein the holding elements can be released by displacing at least one portion of the cover element in the direction toward the bearing.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 25, 2016Publication date: September 15, 2016Inventors: Otto KUHLMANN, Michael LAUBSTEIN, Jan VON STEUBEN
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Publication number: 20160265963Abstract: A weighing chamber base (34) for a precision balance (10) has a weighing base section (98) and two side cheeks (100), which extend perpendicularly from the weighing base section, and which are arranged on opposite edges (102) of the weighing base section outside the draft shield (12). Also, a draft shield (12) that has such a weighing chamber base (34), and has at least one side panel (26), which can be moved between an open position and a closed position. The side cheeks of the weighing chamber base form a section of the side walls (22) of the draft shield (12).Type: ApplicationFiled: May 25, 2016Publication date: September 15, 2016Inventors: Otto KUHLMANN, Michael LAUBSTEIN, Jan VON STEUBEN
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Publication number: 20160265964Abstract: A draft shield for a precision balance surrounding a weighing chamber (16), with a side panel (26) and a suspension guide (78) for the side panel. The suspension guide has a guide rail (38) and a holding device (84) for the side panel that is displaceably mounted in the guide rail. The holding device has a seating (86) for the side panel and a guide element (92) which engages in the guide rail and is displaceably mounted therein, wherein the side panel is held with an upper edge (76) in the holding device. The guide element is arranged outside a plane (E) defined by the side panel seating; the holding device is mounted in the guide rail pivotable about a contact line (96) between the guide element and the guide rail. The plane (E) is offset outwardly relative to the guide rail in relation to the weighing chamber.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 25, 2016Publication date: September 15, 2016Inventors: Otto KUHLMANN, Michael LAUBSTEIN, Jan VON STEUBEN
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Publication number: 20160265965Abstract: A detection device includes: a first sensor which detects, based on a captured image, whether a person is present in a first detection range; a plurality of second sensors which are disposed around the first sensor, and detect, based on infrared radiation, whether a person is present in respective second detection ranges each of which overlaps at least a portion of the first detection range; and at least one hood which blocks part of infrared radiation directed to at least one of the plurality of second sensors, to reduce a non-overlapping portion of a combined detection range of the first detection range of the first sensor and the second detection ranges of the plurality of second sensors, the non-overlapping portion being a portion in which the first detection range and the second detection ranges do not overlap.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 1, 2016Publication date: September 15, 2016Inventors: Kei MIURA, Tomoaki SASAKI, Koichiro KUI, Yoshitaka KIMURA, Hirofumi SUGIYAMA
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Publication number: 20160265966Abstract: A sensor control device which controls: a first sensor which detects, based on a captured image, whether a person is present in a first detection range, and detects, for each of regions into which the first detection range is divided, whether a person is present in the region, based on a captured image; and a plurality of second sensors which detect, based on infrared radiation, whether a person is present in respective second detection ranges includes a determiner which matches, for each of the regions, an on or off state of a detection function of the first sensor in the region with an on or off state of a detection function of a second sensor whose second detection range overlaps the region, among the plurality of second sensors, by controlling the first sensor and the plurality of second sensors.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 1, 2016Publication date: September 15, 2016Inventors: Kei MIURA, Tomoaki SASAKI, Koichiro KUI, Yoshitaka KIMURA, Hirofumi SUGIYAMA
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Publication number: 20160265967Abstract: An adjustment circuit for measuring an optical parameter is disclosed. The adjustment circuit includes an optical sensing module for detecting an optical signal and converting the detected optical signal into a voltage signal; an amplification module for amplifying the voltage signal; an A/D conversion module for converting the amplified voltage signal into a digital signal; a control module for analyzing the digital signal for generating an analyzed result; a signal generating module for outputting a frequency square wave signal according to the analyzed result; and an adjustment module for adjusting an amplification factor of the amplification module according to the frequency square wave signal. The circuit of the present disclosure is easy, and an automatic measurement can be implemented.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 17, 2014Publication date: September 15, 2016Applicant: SHENZHEN CHINA STAR OPTOELECTRONICS TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD.Inventors: Jian HE, Shen-Sian SYU, Yugang BAO
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Publication number: 20160265968Abstract: The disclosed subject matter comprises a sensor management component (SMC) that facilitates accurately determining a desired switching state of a sensor and controlling the switching state of the sensor to reduce unwanted effects of ambient noise. The SMC samples pre-pulses, pulses, and post-pulses of a signal transmitted from a transmitter of the sensor, determines level of ambient noise associated with the signal based on levels of the pre-pulse sample and the post-pulse sample, and determines the pulse amplitude as a function of the pulse level and the levels of the pre-pulse and post-pulse samples to facilitate accurate state determinations for the sensor. The SMC can determine the state the sensor is to be in at a given time based on the number of good pulses received. The SMC can employ linear or non-linear filtering to remove spike or random noise to further facilitate accurate state determinations for the sensor.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 9, 2015Publication date: September 15, 2016Applicant: Rockwell Automation Technologies, Inc.Inventor: Frederic BOUTAUD
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Publication number: 20160265969Abstract: An image processing method capable of detecting noise includes adjusting a lighting unit to acquire an over-exposure image, comparing each pixel of the over-exposure image with at least one threshold value, labeling a pixel of the over-exposure image as the noise while bright intensity of the pixel is lower than the threshold value, and removing the noise to execute a displacement detecting calculation.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 8, 2015Publication date: September 15, 2016Inventors: Chun-Wei Chen, Ren-Hau Gu
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Publication number: 20160265970Abstract: A circuit configured to amplify a signal from which an offset is cancelled includes an amplifier including an input stage configured to receive an input signal, the amplifier configured to amplify the input signal and output the amplified signal, and a switch including a transistor configured to reset the amplifier in response to a reset signal, the transistor including a body node connecting the transistor to the circuit, the transistor being configured to form a current path between the body node of the transistor and the input stage of the amplifier.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 17, 2015Publication date: September 15, 2016Applicant: SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO., LTD.Inventors: Yunjae SUH, Sung Ho KIM, Junseok KIM, Eric Hyunsurk RYU
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Publication number: 20160265971Abstract: Methods and systems for designing an integrated computational element (ICE) device are provided. The method includes generating a plurality of ICE device models with a design suite, each ICE device model being configured to detect a characteristic of interest of a sample, and including one or more layers. Further determining at least one transmission spectrum for each theoretical ICE device model for at least one distribution of incident light angles and at least one performance criteria for each ICE device model for the at least one of distribution of incident light angles. Also, ranking the ICE device model based on the at least one performance criteria of each ICE device model at the at least one distribution of incident light angles, and selecting for fabrication one or more ICE device models based on favorable angular tolerance. An optical system including an ICE device as described above is also provided.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 28, 2014Publication date: September 15, 2016Applicant: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.Inventors: David L. Perkins, Christopher Michael Jones
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Publication number: 20160265972Abstract: A method and analyser for identifying or verifying or otherwise characterising a sample comprising: using or having an electromagnetic radiation source for emitting electromagnetic radiation in at least one beam at a sample, the electromagnetic radiation comprising at least two different wavelengths, using or having a sample detector that detects affected electromagnetic radiation resulting from the emitted electromagnetic radiation affected by the sample and provides output representing the detected affected radiation, and using or having a processor for determining sample coefficients from the output, and identifying or verifying or otherwise characterising the sample using the sample coefficients and training coefficients determined from training samples, wherein the coefficients reduce sensitivity to a sample retainer variation and/or are independent of concentration.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 26, 2016Publication date: September 15, 2016Inventors: Raymond Andrew Simpkin, Donal Paul Krouse, Bryan James Smith
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Publication number: 20160265973Abstract: Technologies for detecting absorption of electromagnetic radiation traveling through a measurement volume of interest are described herein. In a general embodiment, a laser is used to emit electromagnetic radiation through the measurement volume where absorption is desirably detected. An optical collector receives a portion of the radiation and directs a first fraction of the portion back to a gain medium of the laser, where the radiation is amplified and emitted again, and directs a second fraction to an optical sensor that can detect absorption in the measurement volume based upon attenuation of energy of the radiation. As the radiation feeds back to the gain medium and is emitted again, energy at attenuated wavelengths is amplified less than at other wavelengths. Thus, attenuation of energy of the radiation due to absorption in the measurement volume is cumulative, and relatively small absorptions are amplified, allowing smaller absorptions to be detected more easily.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 3, 2016Publication date: September 15, 2016Inventor: Mark W. Smith
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Publication number: 20160265974Abstract: A spectrophotometer optics system is provided. The spectrophotometer optics system includes an optical sensing array and an optical waveguide including an input side and an output side. The input side of the optical waveguide receives input light and the optical sensing array is located at the output side of optical waveguide. The optical waveguide is configured to carry light to be analyzed by total internal reflection to the output side of the optical waveguide and to direct the light to be analyzed toward the optical sensing array. The spectrophotometer optics system includes an optical dispersive element configured to separate the light to be analyzed into separate wavelength components, and the optical dispersive element is supported by the optical waveguide.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 9, 2015Publication date: September 15, 2016Inventors: John Phillip Ertel, Jeffrey Stapleton King
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Publication number: 20160265975Abstract: A passive infrared sensor system comprising: a direct current (DC) voltage source supplying a DC voltage; a passive infrared sensor supplied with the DC voltage, the passive infrared sensor comprising at least one sensor element; an alternating current (AC) voltage source supplying an AC voltage, the AC voltage source arranged to induce an alternating current to flow through said at least one sensor element; an amplifier arranged to amplify an output signal that is output from the passive infrared sensor to generate an amplified output signal; and a filter arranged to filter the amplified output signal to provide an output of the passive infrared sensor system, wherein the filter is configured to filter a frequency of the AC voltage.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 10, 2016Publication date: September 15, 2016Inventors: PETRUS ANTONIUS VERBEEK, ROGER PETER ANNA DELNOIJ, JOHANNES MARTINUS MARIA HENSING, MICHEL ALBERTUS THEODORUS KLEIN SWORMINK, MICHIEL ADRIAANSZOON KLOMPENHOUWER, MAREK ZBIGNIEW SZCZERBA
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Publication number: 20160265976Abstract: A device providing a temperature control and/or monitoring and a method for use of the device are disclosed. In the disclosed method and device, a controller receives a minimum temperature value and a maximum temperature value of a temperature range to be measured. The controller correlates a known output signal range of a temperature sensor to the temperature range to be measured. Further, the controller receives an output signal from the temperature sensor, and generates a measured temperature value based on the output signal of the temperature sensor.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 12, 2015Publication date: September 15, 2016Inventors: Richard Charles Joyce, Kevin John Minarik, Paul Verhagen
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Publication number: 20160265977Abstract: A temperature measurement footprint device, a mobile temperature measurement device, and a method for determining a temperature measurement footprint are described. In an implementation, a temperature measurement footprint device includes a thermopile configured to measure a temperature of an object; a camera configured to capture an image of the object, the camera disposed proximate to and in communication with the thermopile; and a light source configured to illuminate the object, the light source disposed proximate to and in communication with the thermopile and the camera.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 25, 2016Publication date: September 15, 2016Inventor: Pirooz Parvarandeh
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Publication number: 20160265978Abstract: The present disclosure provides surge arrester units having one or a plurality of sensor assemblies within the surge arrester unit. The sensor assemblies include a first plate, a second plate, a heat absorption member positioned between the first and second plates, and a temperature assembly that senses the temperature of the heat absorption member and transmits the temperature.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 9, 2016Publication date: September 15, 2016Inventors: Mohamed Fayaz Khatri, Michael Geoffrey Comber
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Publication number: 20160265979Abstract: The invention relates to a temperature probe which comprises a functional ceramic probe element and a ceramic housing. The probe element is mounted in the ceramic housing so that at a face of the probe element has direct and form-fitting contact with the ceramic housing. The invention further relates to a method for producing a temperature probe.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 27, 2013Publication date: September 15, 2016Inventors: Jan Ihle, Gerald Kloiber
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Publication number: 20160265980Abstract: A system for modeling temperature changes of a product by measuring temperatures of other entities, such as ambient air. A conductance calculation is utilized that describes a relationship between the difference between the logs of temperature differences and the amount of time passed. A method for utilizing the conductance, as well as a method for generating a conductance based on measurements, such as empirical measurements.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 27, 2014Publication date: September 15, 2016Applicant: Carrier CorporationInventors: Jonathan Cherneff, Martin Meckesheimer
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Publication number: 20160265981Abstract: Circuits for temperature monitoring are provided having a first voltage output and a second voltage output comprising: a first transistor having a first transistor input, a first transistor output, and a first transistor control, wherein the first transistor input is connected to a supply voltage; a first diode having a first diode input and a first diode output, wherein the first diode output is connected to ground and the first diode input is connected to the first transistor output, the first transistor control and the first voltage output; a second transistor having a second transistor input, a second transistor output, and a second transistor control, wherein the second transistor input is connected to a supply voltage; a second diode having a second diode input and a second diode output, wherein the second diode input is connected to the second transistor output, the second transistor control, and the second voltage output.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 3, 2014Publication date: September 15, 2016Inventors: Mingoo Seok, Peter R. Kinget, Teng Yang, Seongjong Kim
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Publication number: 20160265982Abstract: Some examples of the disclosure are directed to systems, apparatus, and methods for temperature detection using multiple temperature controllers each having distributed temperature sensors that allow reading multiple sensor outputs in parallel for a wide range of covered area. The temperature controller may also have logic to calculate a local temperature controller maximum temperature, a maximum temperature of all sensors, provide software access to each sensor, easy software enablement through a software interface that allows access earlier than when chip operating system (OS) is booted, and the ability to enable and mask individual sensors or sensor groups through software.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 12, 2015Publication date: September 15, 2016Inventors: Charles Keith BACHAND, Scott James LEMKE, Ambarish Mukund SULE, Mohammad GHASEMAZAR, Osvaldo FRANCO
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Publication number: 20160265983Abstract: One embodiment of the instant disclosure provides a compact lower power thermal sensor that comprises a combination current generator configured to selectively generate a PTAT and a CTAT current; a convertor configured to generate digital output corresponding to the current mirrored by the current-reuse charge pump; and a current-reuse charge pump coupled between the combination current generator and the convertor, configured to mirror the current generated by the combination current generator and selectively establish a charging/discharging path to/from the convertor. The combination current generator selectively generates the PTAT and the CTAT current in accordance with an output state of the convertor, and the current-reuse charge pump selectively charges and discharges a capacitor of the convertor with the PTAT and the CTAT current in accordance with the output state of the convertor.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 13, 2015Publication date: September 15, 2016Inventors: YING-CHIH HSU, ALAN ROTH, ERIC SOENEN
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Publication number: 20160265984Abstract: A sensor is provided that is capable of sensing a level of a parameter in an environment surrounding the sensor, wirelessly transmitting data regarding the level of the parameter to another device, and converting a wireless signal to a current and powering the sensors with the current. The sensor may measure capacitance data and transmit the data to a computer to be converted into temperature readings. The sensor may provide temperature readings from multiple locations within a container into which the sensor is placed.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 14, 2016Publication date: September 15, 2016Applicant: PURDUE RESEARCH FOUNDATIONInventors: Dimitrios Peroulis, Nithin Raghunathan, Michael Todd Hall
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Publication number: 20160265985Abstract: A robotic sensing and touch apparatus detects gradual deformations in a resilient surface, in contrast to conventional rigid member displacement. Hall effect sensors coupled to rare-earth magnets in a deformable base allow sensing of surface curvature and compression against grasped objects. The deformable base, such as a silicone mold or other resilient encapsulation, fixes a magnetic source and an opposed Hall effect sensor. Calibration of a received magnetic field is defined by a sensor element voltage in an “at rest” (undeformed) state, and at successive degrees of deformation resulting from compression of the deformable base that draws the magnet in different orientations relative to the Hall effect sensor. An array of magnet and sensor element pairs allows relative sensing over an area for detecting curvature of a translated or articulated member, or engagement with a curved surface.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 9, 2016Publication date: September 15, 2016Inventors: Cagdas D. Onal, Selim Ozel
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Publication number: 20160265986Abstract: According to one embodiment, a sensor includes a substrate, a first MEMO element provided on the substrate, a cap layer providing a cavity for accommodating the first MEMS element, and a second MEMS element for monitoring a pressure in the cavity, the second MEMS element being provided on the substrate in the cavity.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 31, 2015Publication date: September 15, 2016Applicant: KABUSHIKI KAISHA TOSHIBAInventors: Daiki ONO, Naofumi NAKAMURA, Yumi HAYASHI, Ryunosuke GANDO
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Publication number: 20160265987Abstract: Provided herein is a method and apparatus describing a force sensor that includes a ground unit that is a grounded conductor that changes its position according to an external force, and including a flat panel module that is a conductor of a flat panel shape, and a protruding module that is a conductor protruding from a lower surface of the flat panel module, a substrate of a flat panel shape arranged in a predetermined distance from the lower surface of the flat panel module, and having a hole through which the protruding module may be inserted, a first electrode formed on an upper surface of the substrate, to generate a capacitance together with the flat panel module upon receiving power, and a second electrode formed on the substrate, to generate a capacitance together with the protruding module upon receiving power.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 3, 2016Publication date: September 15, 2016Applicant: Research and Business Foundation SUNGKYUNKWAN UNIVERSITYInventors: Hyouk Ryeol CHOI, Ui Kyum KIM, Dong Hyuk LEE
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Publication number: 20160265988Abstract: A load sensor is provided with a seat mounting hole between both end parts of a rectangular plate-like main body portion of a load receiving member. A plurality of strain detecting elements the resistance value of each of which changes depending on the amount of strain of the main body portion are disposed around the seat mounting hole. In plan view of the load receiving member, the center point of the seat mounting hole is offset from the center point of the arrangement of the plurality of strain detecting elements toward a part of the load receiving member that has relatively high rigidity.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 10, 2016Publication date: September 15, 2016Inventors: Mitsuru SAITO, Mikio SEKINE
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Publication number: 20160265989Abstract: A sensing element for sensing a mechanical property of a sample defining a sample surface using a contact force exerted the sample surface. The sensing element includes: a deformable element defining a contact surface and a deformable section in register with the contact surface, the deformable section being deformable between an undeformed configuration and a deformed configuration; a deformation sensor operatively coupled to the deformable section for sensing and quantifying a deformation of the deformable section between the deformed and undeformed configurations, the deformation sensor being an optical deformation sensor; and a force sensor operatively coupled to the deformable element for sensing the contact force exerted on the contact surface.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 24, 2016Publication date: September 15, 2016Inventors: Muthukumaran Packirisamy, Roozbeh Ahmadi, Javad Dargahi
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Publication number: 20160265990Abstract: The present disclosure is generally directed to a strain sensor, system and method of fabrication and use that includes an optical fiber, an optical signal generator that transmits an optical signal through the optical fiber, at least two photonic crystal slabs within the optical fiber separated by a first segment of optical fiber, a photo-detector that detects a reflected optical signal from the at least two photonic crystal slabs, and a processor that computes a mechanical strain over the first segment of optical fiber based on the reflected optical signal detected by the photo-detector.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 23, 2016Publication date: September 15, 2016Inventors: Michael A. CARRALERO, Ty Aaby LARSEN, Priya MARATUKULAM
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Publication number: 20160265991Abstract: In general, in one aspect, a measurement system has measurement instrument having a first and second component. The first component is mechanically coupled to a first point on a shaft. The second component is mechanically coupled to a second point on the shaft. The measurement instrument is configured to generate an electrical displacement signal indicative of a displacement between the first and second components. A processor is in data communication with the measurement instrument, and the processor configured to: receive the displacement signal from the measurement instrument; receive a velocity signal indicative of a velocity; and based on the displacement signal and the velocity signal, produce an electrical power signal indicative of at least one of a torque applied to the shaft, or a power applied to the shaft.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 9, 2015Publication date: September 15, 2016Applicant: ASHTON INSTRUMENTS, INC.Inventors: William Robert Dixon, James Crandall Schulmeister
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Publication number: 20160265992Abstract: Techniques for determining properties of a spotting fluid include positioning a member of a test apparatus into a prepared mudcake sample at a specified depth, the mudcake sample associated with a drilling fluid and including a specified thickness; circulating a flow of the spotting fluid to contact the prepared mudcake sample in a test cell; soaking the prepared mudcake sample in the spotting fluid for a specified time duration; subsequent to the specified time duration, detecting a force exerted on the member relative to a displacement distance of the member from the specified depth in the mudcake sample during removal of the member from the mudcake sample; recording, with the test apparatus, the detected force relative to the displacement distance; and determining, with the test apparatus, one or more properties associated with the mudcake sample based on the recorded force relative to the displacement distance.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 23, 2016Publication date: September 15, 2016Inventors: Md Amanullah, Turki Thuwaini Mohammed Alsubaie
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Publication number: 20160265993Abstract: A hail strike recording device is operable to provide quantifiable information about a hail storm event experienced by a roof. The recording device is operable to be installed on a roof and includes a panel component and a mounting assembly. The panel component presents a hail impact zone to sense one or more hail strikes, with the recording device operable to provide recorded data associated with the sensed one or more hail strikes.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 20, 2016Publication date: September 15, 2016Applicant: Hail Signature Technologies, L.L.C.Inventors: Walter Wayne Sutter, Matthew Shane Sutter, Carl Edwin Martin
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Publication number: 20160265994Abstract: A tactile fur sensing system and a method of operating thereof allow early detection of an impending contact with an object. A plurality of filaments or threads are positioned on a zone or area of a surface of robotic device in a cost-effective manner. One or more sensors are configured to detect electrical resistance and/or displacement of the plurality of filaments or threads. A processor determines that there is contact with an object based on the detected electrical resistance and/or displacement. The detection of electrical resistance can be based on adjustable baseline values and/or adjustable threshold values. A plurality of nubs may alternatively or in addition be positioned on a surface area. Each nub has an outer cast or protection layer defining a cavity therein. At least a portion of a sensor for detecting resistance and/or displacement is positioned within the cavity of the nub.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 13, 2015Publication date: September 15, 2016Inventor: Douglas A. Moore
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Publication number: 20160265995Abstract: A single plate capacitance sensor includes a sensor capacitor and a reference capacitor that share common plate. A capacitance-to-digital sigma delta modulator provides separate sensor excitation and reference excitation signals to the sensor capacitor and the reference capacitor to provide high resolution detection. Programmable ratio-metric excitation voltages and adaptive excitation voltage sources can be used to enhance modulator performance.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 13, 2015Publication date: September 15, 2016Inventors: Rongtai Wang, John Paul Schulte
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Publication number: 20160265996Abstract: According to one embodiment, a sensor device includes a variable capacitor including a first electrode fixed to an underlying layer, and a movable second electrode provided above the first electrode, and a stacked structure including a plurality of layers and having a connection connected to the second electrode, the stacked structure covering the variable capacitor and forming a cavity therein, wherein a predetermined layer included in the plurality of layers is not provided in a first area that includes at least part of the connection.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 31, 2015Publication date: September 15, 2016Applicant: KABUSHIKI KAISHA TOSHIBAInventor: Yumi HAYASHI
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Publication number: 20160265997Abstract: In an embodiment, a pressure transducer includes a first portion, a second portion, and a third portion. The third portion is positioned in a cavity contained in the second portion. In addition, a seal is placed in the cavity. The first portion and second include provisions for applying a downward pressure on the third portion when the first portion and the second portion are joined. The downward pressure is applied by the third portion to the seal to seal the cavity.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 23, 2015Publication date: September 15, 2016Inventors: Michael J. Lavado, Mark C. Carlos, Jan klein Bluemink