Electrical Systems Patents (Class 310/314)
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Patent number: 8659207Abstract: An electronic device and an adjustment method thereof are provided. Generate an adjustment voltage according to a preset capacitance and a capacitance detected by a capacitive sensor coupled to both sides of a piezoelectric element, and generate a driving voltage to drive the piezoelectric element according to the adjustment voltage, so as to avoid depolarization of the piezoelectric element affecting the vibration strength of the vibration device.Type: GrantFiled: November 24, 2011Date of Patent: February 25, 2014Assignee: HTC CorporationInventors: Weng-Chang Shen, Hsu-Hsiang Tseng
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Publication number: 20140026858Abstract: There are provided a multi-layer piezoelectric element which is capable of suppression of occurrence of an imperfect area, suffers from no development of leakage current even with moisture intrusion, has long-term freedom from variations in displacement and can achieve stable driving, as well as to provide a piezoelectric actuator, an injection device, and a fuel injection system provided with the multi-layer piezoelectric element. A multi-layer piezoelectric element includes a stacked body in which piezoelectric layers and internal electrodes acting as positive and negative internal electrodes are laminated; an inorganic coating attached to a side surface of the stacked body where ends of both the positive internal electrodes and the negative internal electrodes are exposed; and metal particles composed predominantly of a metal element contained in the internal electrodes, the metal particles dispersed in the inorganic coating.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 20, 2012Publication date: January 30, 2014Applicant: Kyocera CorporationInventors: Takeshi Okamura, Shigenobu Nakamura
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Publication number: 20130334927Abstract: A vibrational wave driving apparatus in the present invention includes an elastic member attached to an electromechanical energy transducing member, a pair of electrodes provided on the electromechanical energy transducing member, a wiring unit connecting the pair of electrodes and a voltage applying unit, and a driven body configured to be pressure contacted with the elastic member. The driven body is relatively driven by mechanical vibration of the elastic member generated when an alternating voltage is applied to the pair of electrodes. The wiring unit includes a pair of wiring portions connected to the pair of electrodes, respectively. The pair of wiring portions includes a pair of film-like bases and a pair of conductors formed on surfaces of the pair of film-like bases. The pair of wiring portions is arranged such that the pair of conductors overlaps each other through insulating layers.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 7, 2013Publication date: December 19, 2013Inventor: Kosuke Fujimoto
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Patent number: 8593032Abstract: A novel Si MEMS piezoresistive resonator is described. The resonator has a shape of a frame, such as a ring or a polygon frame, which has two or more anchors. Electrodes located at the outer or inner rim of the resonant structure are used to excite the structure electrostatically into resonance with a desired mode shape. One or plurality of locally doped regions on the structure is used for piezoresistive readout of the signal. In the most preferred embodiments, the structure is a ring, which has four anchors, two electrodes and four piezoresistive regions at different segments of the structure. The piezoresistive regions are alternatively located at the outer rim and inner rim of the structure in such a way that the piezoresistive signals of the same sign from different regions can be collected. Advantages of this device are large readout signal, large electrode area, robustness, suppressed out-of-plane vibration and larger usable linear range.Type: GrantFiled: October 13, 2009Date of Patent: November 26, 2013Assignee: NXP, B.V.Inventors: Kim Phan Le, Jozef T. M. van Beek
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Publication number: 20130293064Abstract: The present invention relates to a piezoelectric circuit, a piezoelectric driving circuit driving the piezoelectric circuit, and a method for driving the piezoelectric circuit. The piezoelectric circuit includes a sub-piezoelectric circuit and an external inductor coupled in parallel with the sub-piezoelectric circuit. The external inductor discharges the sub-piezoelectric circuit when a polarity of a piezoelectric voltage, that is, a both-end voltage of the piezoelectric circuit is inverted. The piezoelectric driving circuit includes first and third switches connected to a first node of the piezoelectric circuit and second and fourth switches connected to a second node of the piezoelectric circuit.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 7, 2013Publication date: November 7, 2013Applicant: FAIRCHILD KOREA SEMICONDUCTOR LTD.Inventors: Gwan-Bon KOO, Young Sik LEE, Young-Bae PARK
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Patent number: 8536765Abstract: The present invention relates to a method and apparatus for unlocking a portable terminal, and more particularly, to a method and apparatus for unlocking a portable terminal capable of canceling a hold state of the portable terminal without using a hold key. A portable terminal may include at least one piezoelectric sensor. When a squeeze operation signal is generated as pressure is applied to the at least one piezoelectric sensor, the hold state of the portable terminal is canceled.Type: GrantFiled: September 14, 2009Date of Patent: September 17, 2013Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.Inventors: Jung Yeob Oh, Seung Woo Shin
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Patent number: 8525658Abstract: An interior tire power generation apparatus includes a piezoelectric section having an inorganic piezoelectric body of a perovskite type oxide represented by General Formula (PX) below; a pair of electrodes for extracting an electric charge generated in the piezoelectric section when strained by an external force exerted on the tire; and an energy storage unit for storing the extracted electric charge. (Bix, A1-x) (By, C1-y)O3 ??(PX) where, A is an A-site element, other than Pb, with an average ionic valence of 2, B is a B-site element with an average ionic valence of 3, C is a B-site element with an average ionic valence of greater than 3, and each of A, B, and C is one or a plurality of types of metal elements. O is oxygen. B and C are of different compositions. 0.6?x?1.0, x-0.2?y?x.Type: GrantFiled: September 27, 2010Date of Patent: September 3, 2013Assignee: FUJIFILM CorporationInventors: Yasutoshi Hirabayashi, Yukio Sakashita
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Patent number: 8525386Abstract: An orthotic device comprises a flexible support structure comprising at least one surface for contacting a body part of a user, a plurality of pressure sensors configured for coupling to a microcontroller, and a plurality of displacement regions. Each region defines a portion of said flexible support structure, wherein each portion includes at least one sensor disposed on or below the at least one surface and at least one electrically deformable unit. Each unit comprises at least one electroactive material and is configured for coupling to the microcontroller and to a power source. The device is dynamically adjustable to change its shape and support properties, when an electrical voltage is applied to the electroactive material under the control of a microcontroller.Type: GrantFiled: December 9, 2009Date of Patent: September 3, 2013Assignee: Texas Instruments IncorporatedInventors: Sylvia D. Pas, Michael F. Pas
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Publication number: 20130214641Abstract: An ultrasound transducer includes an array of acoustic elements, an integrated circuit, and an interposer. The interposer includes conductive elements that electrically connect the array of acoustic elements to the integrated circuit. An electrically conductive adhesive is engaged with the conductive elements of the interposer to electrically connect the interposer to at least one of the integrated circuit or the array of acoustic elements. The electrically conductive adhesive is anisotropically conductive.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 16, 2012Publication date: August 22, 2013Applicant: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANYInventors: Trym Eggen, Charles Edward Baumgartner, David A. Chartrand, Bjornar Sten-Nilsen, Rolf Johannessen, Jessica Abraham
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Patent number: 8506584Abstract: A fluid jet device including a fluid chamber with variable capacity and a capacity varying section adapted to vary the capacity of the fluid chamber in response to supply of a drive signal. A drive waveform section making the capacity varying section operate so as to compress the capacity of the fluid chamber and a restoring drive waveform section making the capacity varying section operate to restore the capacity of the fluid chamber before compressing the capacity in a signal waveform. The drive signal supply section controls supply content of the drive signal to provide a restoring period adapted to restore a steady state of the fluid flowing toward an inside of the fluid chamber in a period from when the compressing drive waveform section in the drive signal is supplied to when a subsequent compressing drive waveform section is supplied.Type: GrantFiled: September 2, 2009Date of Patent: August 13, 2013Assignee: Seiko Epson CorporationInventors: Takeshi Seto, Shinichi Miyazaki, Kunio Tabata
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Publication number: 20130181575Abstract: In one embodiment, a method of deforming a MEMS structure includes providing a base layer, providing a first piezoelectric slab operably connected to a surface of the base layer, determining a desired deformation of the base layer, applying a first potential to a first electrode operably connected to the first piezoelectric slab, applying a second potential to a second electrode operably connected to the first piezoelectric slab, and deforming the base layer with the first piezoelectric slab using the applied first potential and the applied second potential based upon the determined desired deformation.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 12, 2012Publication date: July 18, 2013Applicant: ROBERT BOSCH GMBHInventors: Po-Jui Chen, Ando Feyh, Gary O'Brien
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Publication number: 20130175900Abstract: A manufacturing method of polarizing polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) piezoelectric film without metalized electrode includes providing a polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) piezoelectric film that is stretched into B phase; providing two glass substrates having an indium tin oxide (ITO) layer respectively, wherein the PVDF piezoelectric film is located between the two glass substrates, and the two ITO layers are coated located separately on top of and below the PVDF piezoelectric film; and imposing a DC electric field onto two ITO layers, wherein the DC electric field of polarization is 400 to 900 kV/cm approximately.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 27, 2012Publication date: July 11, 2013Inventors: YUNG TING, Sheuan-Perng Lin, Hariyanto Gunawan
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Patent number: 8480240Abstract: An image capturing apparatus with an image sensor converting the image of a subject and an optical member in front of the image sensor. First and second piezoelectric elements at respective ends of the optical member are independently driven by respective first and second driving units. A detection unit has first and second detecting piezoelectric elements adjacent to the respective first and second piezoelectric elements for detecting vibration of the optical member. A first control unit controls the first and second driving units and the detection unit to vibrate the optical member by vibrating the first piezoelectric element and detect vibration of the optical member using the second detecting piezoelectric element, or vibrate the optical member by vibrating the second piezoelectric element and detect vibration of the optical member using the first detecting piezoelectric element.Type: GrantFiled: February 17, 2012Date of Patent: July 9, 2013Assignee: Canon Kabushiki KaishaInventor: Ritsuo Kashiyama
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Publication number: 20130169110Abstract: An ultrasonic transducer structure, an ultrasonic transducer, and a method of manufacturing the ultrasonic transducer are provided. The ultrasonic transducer structure includes a driving wafer that includes a driving circuit; and an ultrasonic transducer wafer that is disposed on the driving wafer and includes a first wafer in which a via-hole is formed, a first insulating layer formed on the first wafer, a second wafer spaced apart from the first insulating layer, and a cavity formed between the first insulating layer and the second wafer.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 14, 2012Publication date: July 4, 2013Applicant: SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO., LTD.Inventors: Byung-gil JEONG, Seog-woo HONG, Dong-kyun KIM, Seok-whan CHUNG, Hyung-jae SHIN
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Publication number: 20130155631Abstract: The power generating device has a power generating section including a piezoelectric body; and a plurality of electrode pairs each constituted by a pair of electrodes placed on opposite sides of the piezoelectric body with regard to a thickness direction thereof to define a functional section therebetween, each of the functional sections is cooperated with the related electrode pair to define a power generating element. A plurality of the power generating elements includes a first and second power generating elements that give a polarization orientation opposite to each other in the thickness direction. The first and second power generating elements have the corresponding electrodes that are connected to each other by means of a wiring member on the same surface of the piezoelectric body with regard to the thickness direction thereof, such that all of the plurality of the power generating elements are connected in series.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 31, 2012Publication date: June 20, 2013Applicant: PANASONIC CORPORATIONInventors: Norihiro Yamauchi, Junya Ogawa, Kouji Goto, Tomoaki Matsushima, Koichi Aizawa
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Publication number: 20130154439Abstract: Energy harvesting devices are provided. The energy harvesting device includes a body, a proof mass spaced apart from the body, a cantilever extending from the body onto the proof mass, a first electrode layer on the cantilever opposite to the body, a first piezoelectric layer on the first electrode layer, a second electrode layer on the first piezoelectric layer, a second piezoelectric layer on the second electrode layer, a pair of third electrode layers on the second piezoelectric layer, and a magnetic layer between the second electrode layer and the second piezoelectric layer. Related methods are also provided.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 7, 2012Publication date: June 20, 2013Applicant: ELECTRONICS AND TELECOMMUNICATIONS RESEARCH INSTITUTEInventors: Sang Kyun LEE, Moonkeun Kim, Yil Suk Yang
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Publication number: 20130140948Abstract: A resonator includes an interdigital transducer electrode, a resonance part, a supporting part, and two beam parts. The interdigital transducer electrode is disposed on a piezoelectric thin film. The resonance part is held on a substrate through an air gap. The supporting part supports the resonance part. The two beam parts connect the resonance part to the supporting part at both ends of the resonance part. The air gap forms a level difference at the supporting part or level differences at the respective two beam parts.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 5, 2012Publication date: June 6, 2013Applicant: NIHON DEMPA KOGYO CO., LTD.Inventor: NIHON DEMPA KOGYO CO., LTD.
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Publication number: 20130141496Abstract: A liquid ejecting head which discharges a liquid from nozzle openings includes: a piezoelectric element which is provided with a piezoelectric layer and an electrode provided on the piezoelectric layer, and the piezoelectric layer is formed of a complex oxide having a perovskite structure which contains bismuth, iron, barium, titanium, and at least one selected from the group consisting of copper, nickel, and zinc.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 30, 2012Publication date: June 6, 2013Applicant: Seiko Epson CorporationInventor: Seiko Epson Corporation
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Publication number: 20130140947Abstract: A piezoelectric device 100 is provided with an element-mounting member 110, a piezoelectric element 120 mounted on the element-mounting member 110, a metal pattern 118 which is formed at the surface of the element-mounting member 110 and includes an element-mounting region 118a and a lead region 118b, and an integrated circuit element 130 which is electrically connected to the element-mounting region 118a of the metal pattern 118 by solder bump 132, wherein the metal pattern 118 has a projecting part 119 which is provided between the element-mounting region 118a and the lead region 118b, and at least the surface portion of the projecting part 119 is made of a metal oxide.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 31, 2012Publication date: June 6, 2013Applicant: KYOCERA CRYSTAL DEVICE CORPORATIONInventors: Takahiro Niiyama, Hironobu Shintoku, Ryoma Sasagawa, Jumpei Komura
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Publication number: 20130113336Abstract: In some embodiments, circuits for ultrasonic transducer element arrays are provided. In some embodiments, a circuit described herein comprises a first layer for receiving a transducer element array, a ground layer comprising at least one ground disposed over the first layer and a plurality of first vias corresponding to transducer elements of the array, the first vias extending through the first layer to the at least one ground and comprising first ends for receiving ground electrodes of the transducer elements and second ends electrically connected to the ground.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 21, 2011Publication date: May 9, 2013Inventors: Matthew Todd Spigelmyer, Derek Ryan Greenaway
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Publication number: 20130038171Abstract: A vibrating member includes a base portion, a plurality of vibrating arms which extend from one end portion of the base portion, are provided in parallel in a first direction, and extend in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, a linking portion which is provided between the base end portions of two adjacent vibrating arms and extends from the other end portion of the base portion, and a support portion which is connected to the base portion through the linking portion.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 4, 2012Publication date: February 14, 2013Applicant: SEIKO EPSON CORPORATIONInventor: SEIKO EPSON CORPORATION
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Publication number: 20130026883Abstract: A system for poling piezoelectric devices comprises a plurality of thin-film components, a plurality of piezoelectric devices, a poling pad for poling the piezoelectric devices, a plurality of traces, and a plurality of current-limiting elements. The thin-film components are separated by dice lanes to form an array, and the piezoelectric devices are formed on the thin-film components. The traces connect the piezoelectric devices across the dice lanes in parallel to the poling pad. Each current-limiting element is connected in series with one of the piezoelectric devices, in order to limit current to individual piezoelectric devices that experience current-related failure.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 1, 2012Publication date: January 31, 2013Applicant: SEAGATE TECHNOLOGY LLCInventor: Seagate Technology LLC
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Publication number: 20120326561Abstract: Provided is a laminated ceramic electronic component which has excellent mechanical characteristics, internal electrode corrosion resistance, high degree of ceramic material design freedom, low cost, low defective rate and various properties. It includes a laminate of a plurality of laminated ceramic layers and a plurality of internal electrodes at specific interfaces between ceramic layers. The internal electrodes contain an Al/Mg alloy in which the Al/Mg ratio is 65/35 or more.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 5, 2012Publication date: December 27, 2012Applicant: MURATA MANUFACTURING CO., LTD.Inventors: Akihiro Shiota, Koichi Banno, Masahiro Otsuka, Shoichiro Suzuki, Taisuke Kanzaki, Masanori Nakamura
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Publication number: 20120326562Abstract: Provided is a laminated ceramic electronic component which has excellent mechanical characteristics, internal electrode corrosion resistance, high degree of freedom in ceramic material design, low cost, low defective rate, and various properties. The laminated ceramic electronic component includes a laminate which has a plurality of laminated ceramic layers and internal electrodes formed along at a plurality of specific interface between the ceramic layers and having an Al/Ti alloy as a component; and an external electrode formed on the outer surface of the laminate. The Al/Ti ratio of the Al/Ti alloy is 91/9 or more.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 6, 2012Publication date: December 27, 2012Applicant: MURATA MANUFACTURING CO., LTD.Inventors: Taisuke Kanzaki, Koichi Banno, Masahiro Otsuka, Shoichiro Suzuki, Akihiro Shiota, Masanori Nakamura
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Publication number: 20120299440Abstract: Devices usable as sensors, as transducers, or as both sensors and transducers include one or more nanotubes or nanowires. In some embodiments, the devices may each include a plurality of sensor/transducer devices carried by a common substrate. The sensor/transducer devices may be individually operable, and may exhibit a plurality of resonant frequencies to enhance the operable frequency bandwidth of the devices. Sensor/transducer devices include one or more elements configured to alter a resonant frequency of a nanotube. Such elements may be selectively and individually actuable. Methods for sensing mechanical displacements and vibrations include monitoring an electrical characteristic of a nanotube. Methods for generating mechanical displacements and vibrations include using an electrical signal to induce mechanical displacements or vibrations in one or more nanotubes.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 6, 2012Publication date: November 29, 2012Applicant: MICRON TECHNOLOGY, INC.Inventor: Neal R. Rueger
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Publication number: 20120267981Abstract: Modular electronics are provided for a multi-dimensional array. The electronics are positioned perpendicular to the array in modules. The modules include frames to support the electronics and provide for electrical connection between the array and the electronics. The frames include thermally conductive material to transfer heat away from the electronics and the array. The frames form a surface to support part of the array and a single layer of flexible circuit material with pads and traces over the surface for electrical connection. The flexible circuit material allows connection to the electronics at a pitch different than the pitch of the array. The modules allow the same electronics parts to be used with different sized arrays. The traces and pads of the flexible circuit material may be changed for different arrays without having to redesign the electronics and/or modules.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 20, 2011Publication date: October 25, 2012Applicant: SIEMENS MEDICAL SOLUTIONS USA, INC.Inventors: Richard Lee Morris, David A. Petersen
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Publication number: 20120240672Abstract: An autonomous energy generation system, in particular designed as an integrated miniaturized energy generation system based on MEMS technology, has a piezoelectric energy converter for converting mechanical energy into electrical energy, and has at least one piezoelectric element into which mechanical force (in particular deformation force) induced by a fluid flow can be coupled. The piezoelectric element is excited to vibrate mechanically. An integrated circuit (ASIC) is used for managing the energy provided by the piezoelectric energy converter.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 29, 2010Publication date: September 27, 2012Inventors: Alexander Frey, Ingo Kühne
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Patent number: 8179018Abstract: An active material actuator adapted for use in a circuit includes an active material member, and a piezoelectric or piezoresistive element or otherwise force sensing device, wherein the element or device is communicatively coupled to the member and operable to vary the current within the circuit when the member is caused to achieve a predetermined stress, such that, in one aspect, the element presents an overload protection mechanism.Type: GrantFiled: August 25, 2009Date of Patent: May 15, 2012Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLCInventors: Xiujie Gao, Alan L. Browne, Nancy L. Johnson, Paul W. Alexander, Lei Hao, Ke Dong
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Patent number: 8162628Abstract: An electrical connection structure for use in a micro piezoelectric pump is disclosed. The electrical connection structure includes a driving circuit board and a multilayered wiring structure. The electrical connection structure includes the driving circuit board, the wiring structure, and a piezoelectric element arranged from top to bottom. The driving circuit board is provided with a driving circuit for driving the piezoelectric element and at least an electrical contact, wherein the electrical contacts are electrically connected to the driving circuit. A first electrode contact region and a second electrode contact region electrically insulated from each other are defined on the same surface of the piezoelectric element. The wiring structure sends a signal from the electrical contacts to the first electrode contact region and the second electrode contact region.Type: GrantFiled: December 8, 2008Date of Patent: April 24, 2012Assignee: Microbase Technology Corp.Inventors: Hsien-Kai Meng, Shu-Pin Hsieh, Chieh-Ming Hsiung, Chien-Hua Lin, Yu-Chung Hsu, Tai-Shuan Lin
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Publication number: 20120068574Abstract: A control device for suppression of residual vibration of a piezoelectric transducer includes a capacitive energy storage component, and a switch unit. The control device is operable in a non-working mode, in which the switch unit provides voltage on the capacitive energy storage component to the piezoelectric transducer for reducing the residual vibration of the piezoelectric transducer. The capacitive energy storage component has a capacitance value that is sufficient for enabling the voltage on the capacitive energy storage component to substantially track voltage on the piezoelectric transducer under the non-working mode.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 3, 2011Publication date: March 22, 2012Applicant: TUNG THIH ELECTRONIC CO., LTD.Inventors: Chao-Ting Wu, Wen-Jong Wu
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Patent number: 8136952Abstract: An image capturing apparatus comprises: an image sensor adapted to opto-electronically convert the image of a subject; an optical member placed in front of the image sensor; first and second piezoelectric elements placed at respective ones of both ends of the optical member; first and second driving units adapted to independently vibrate the first and second piezoelectric elements, respectively; a detection unit having first and second detecting piezoelectric elements placed adjacent to the first and second piezoelectric elements, respectively, for detecting vibration of the optical member; and a first control unit adapted to control the first and second driving units and the detection unit so as to vibrate the optical member by vibrating the first piezoelectric element and detect vibration of the optical member using the second detecting piezoelectric element, or vibrate the optical member by vibrating the second piezoelectric element and detect vibration of the optical member using the first detecting piezoType: GrantFiled: February 13, 2008Date of Patent: March 20, 2012Assignee: Canon Kabushiki KaishaInventor: Ritsuo Kashiyama
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Patent number: 8125117Abstract: An electric motor includes: a rotor; a stator; and brush gear. The rotor has a shaft, a rotor core and a commutator fitted to the shaft. The rotor core has 5n teeth, n being a positive integer. Two coils are wound on each tooth with each coil being wound about a single tooth and having two ends. The commutator has 10n bars forming a brush contact surface. The stator includes a yoke and a plurality of permanent magnets installed at an inner surface of the yoke and facing the rotor core. The ends of the two coils wound on each tooth are respectively connected to two pairs of adjacent bars and the center line between one pair of the two pairs of adjacent bars and the center line between the other pair of the two pairs of adjacent bars are diametrically opposed.Type: GrantFiled: July 21, 2009Date of Patent: February 28, 2012Assignee: Johnson Electric S.A.Inventors: Jian Zhao, Yong Li, Chang Lin Jin
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Publication number: 20120025667Abstract: A method for manufacturing a piezoelectric film wafer includes a first processing step for carrying out an ion etching on a KNN piezoelectric film formed on a substrate by using a gas containing Ar, and a second processing step for carrying out a reactive ion etching by using a mixed etching gas containing a fluorine-based reactive gas and Ar after the first processing step.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 27, 2011Publication date: February 2, 2012Applicant: Hitachi Cable, Ltd.Inventors: Fumimasa Horikiri, Kenji Shibata, Kazufumi Suenaga, Kazutoshi Watanabe, Akira Nomoto
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Publication number: 20120007468Abstract: Provided are various embodiments of an adjustment circuit, having a base layer and a piezoelectric layer juxtaposed relative to the base layer and including a first electrode such that when the piezoelectric layer is stressed a polarization charge appears between the base layer and one side of the piezoelectric layer and an opposite polarization charge appears on an opposite side of the piezoelectric layer.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 8, 2011Publication date: January 12, 2012Applicant: University of CaliforniaInventors: Richard M. White, Igor Paprotny, Qiliang Xu
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Publication number: 20110309803Abstract: In one embodiment, a method for switching an electrical load having at least one capacitive component and one inductive component in a bridge branch of a bridge circuit comprises a charging of the bridge branch to a first voltage (V1) in a forward switching phase (F), a discharging of the capacitive component of the electrical load in a first open switching phase (O1), a charging of the bridge branch to a second voltage (V2) in a reverse switching phase (R), with the second voltage (V2) being polarized inversely from the first voltage (V1), and a negative charging of the capacitive component of the electrical load in a second open switching phase (O2). A bridge circuit is also provided.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 19, 2011Publication date: December 22, 2011Applicant: AUSTRIAMICROSYSTEMS AGInventors: Andreas FITZI, Stephan DOBRETSBERGER
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Publication number: 20110260578Abstract: An electromechanical article that includes a composite material (110) including a polymer and at least one expanded microsphere having an outer shell of a shell material and a gas contained within the outer shell, wherein the polymer at least partially encapsulates the microsphere and wherein the polymer, shell material and gas all have different dielectric constants. Devices including such articles and methods of making the articles are also disclosed.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 10, 2009Publication date: October 27, 2011Inventors: Vivek Bharti, Thu-Van T. Tran
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Publication number: 20110248603Abstract: An ultrasound transducer according to an embodiment has two-dimensionally arranged ultrasound vibrators. A wiring board block is a laminate of wiring boards which are arranged along the row direction in the arrangement. The wiring board has a first surface facing a rear surface of the ultrasound vibrators and a second surface on its opposite side. First connection parts are provided on the first surface corresponding to the arrangement, and are conducted with back electrodes of the vibrators. Second connection parts are provided on the second surface, and are provided corresponding to the first connection parts. Connecting leads establish conductivity between the first and second connection parts through a fourth surface which is perpendicular to the second and third surfaces. Electronic circuits are connected to the second surface of the wiring board block, and are conducted with the second connection parts.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 23, 2011Publication date: October 13, 2011Applicants: TOSHIBA MEDICAL SYSTEMS CORPORATION, Kabushiki Kaisha ToshibaInventors: Satoru TEZUKA, Yasuhisa Makita, Yutaka Oonuki
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Patent number: 7999447Abstract: An elastomeric piezoelectric ultracapacitor embodiment is also disclosed. A dielectric elastomer is a polymer that may be configured to operate in a “generator mode.” In generator mode the dielectric elastomer operates like a variable capacitor, and amplifies the energy of charge placed on a pair of compliant electrodes, formed on opposite sides of the elastomer, when the elastomer is in a compressed state. An elastomeric piezoelectric ultracapacitor employs generator mode techniques to further increase the power generation capabilities of an piezoelectric ultracapacitor.Type: GrantFiled: October 31, 2010Date of Patent: August 16, 2011Inventor: Joseph Anthony Micallef
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Publication number: 20110193916Abstract: An actuator that includes a substrate; first conductive layers provided so as to extend in a first direction and to be disposed adjacent to each other on the substrate; a piezoelectric body layer having a first portion formed so as to cover the first conductive layers and openings between the first conductive layers, a second portion other than the first portions, and a contact to the first conductive layer; a second conductive layer having a third portion which overlap with the first conductive layers in the second direction, a fourth portion connected to the third portion being formed over the second portion of the piezoelectric body layer, and a fifth portion connected to the first conductive layer in the contact ; and a wiring having a sixth portion which is formed over the fourth portion of the second conductive layer and a seventh portion connected to the fifth portion.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 9, 2011Publication date: August 11, 2011Applicant: SEIKO EPSON CORPORATIONInventors: Eiju HIRAI, Shiro YAZAKI
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Publication number: 20110175488Abstract: To provide a piezoelectric thin film on a substrate, having an alkali-niobium oxide-based perovskite structure expressed by a composition formula (K1?xNax)yNbO3, wherein the composition ratio x of the piezoelectric thin film expressed by (K1?xNax)yNbO3 is in a range of 0.4?x?0.7, and a half width of a rocking curve of (001) plane by X-ray diffraction measurement is in a range of 0.5° or more and 2.5° or less.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 14, 2011Publication date: July 21, 2011Applicant: Hitachi Cable, Ltd.Inventors: Kenji Shibata, Kazufumi Suenaga, Akira Nomoto, Kazutoshi Watanabe
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Publication number: 20110169374Abstract: A method for tuning a resonant frequency of a piezoelectric component is disclosed. The piezoelectric component includes a transducer extending in three spatial directions. The resonant frequency depends on an extension in at least one of the spatial directions and/or on a material-dependent elasticity modulus. The transducer includes a layered structure with at least two first electrodes and at least one second electrode, which is disposed between the two first electrodes. In the method, a DC voltage is applied to at least one of the at least two first electrodes and the at least one second electrode, so that a change of the resonant frequency results due to a change to the extension in the one spatial direction and the elasticity modulus. A control voltage with an excitation frequency is applied, the excitation frequency substantially corresponding to the modified resonant frequency. This generates a vibration of the piezoelectric component.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 16, 2010Publication date: July 14, 2011Applicant: EPCOS AGInventors: Guenter Engel, Michael Huainig, Markus Puff, Thomas Wippel
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Publication number: 20110121685Abstract: A piezoelectric generator that includes a piezoelectric element having first and second surfaces on which a first electrode and a second electrode are disposed. A vibrating plate is bonded to the piezoelectric element such that the first surface is adjacent thereto. The vibrating plate includes a first bend disposed at a first side of a vibrating-plate main section to which the piezoelectric element is bonded and a second bend disposed at a second side thereof. A support member supports the vibrating plate at a location outside the first and second bends. A vibration body including the vibrating-plate main section and the piezoelectric element is supported at both ends.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 11, 2011Publication date: May 26, 2011Applicant: MURATA MANUFACTURING CO., LTD.Inventors: Katsumi Fujimoto, Chikahiro Horiguchi
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Publication number: 20110121684Abstract: A piezoelectric actuator comprises a stack of piezoelectric elements formed from piezoelectric material, a plurality of positive internal electrodes interdigitated with a plurality of negative internal electrodes to define active regions of the piezoelectric material which are responsive to a voltage being applied across the internal electrodes, in use. The active regions are responsive to voltage applied across the internal electrodes, in use. The piezoelectric actuator also comprises an external positive electrode for connection to the positive internal electrodes and an external negative electrode for connection to the negative internal electrodes.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 7, 2006Publication date: May 26, 2011Inventors: Michael Peter Cooke, Martin Paul Hardy, Manfred Kolkman, Christophe Tapin
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Publication number: 20110089785Abstract: An apparatus with a micromechanical acoustic resonator formed on a substrate and enclosed in a cavity in the substrate. The resonator is partially suspended in the cavity. The resonator is shaped with a primary portion, and a first enlarged portion, where the primary portion is connected to the substrate, and the first enlarged portion is connected to one end of the primary portion. A capacitor connected in series to the resonator, and located external to the resonator cavity. The resonator is made of a compensating material and a piezoelectric material in between a first conductive film and a second conductive film.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 14, 2010Publication date: April 21, 2011Inventor: GAVIN HO
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Publication number: 20110037345Abstract: The present utility model provides a vibration device, comprising: an case which is equipped with an light sensing lens, and oscillator, battery, photonic circuit, CPU, time quartz crystal and central processing circuit board mounted inside the cavity of the case, wherein the photonic circuit and CPU are configured on the central processing circuit board. The present utility model provides a vibration device which vibrates at given time together with one or several same type of products for reminding your lovers/friends something at given time. This device with small volume can be equipped on the device in the form of a watch, key ring or waistband, which makes it portable.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 12, 2009Publication date: February 17, 2011Applicant: Think Love LLCInventor: Jonathan Paul Schultz
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Publication number: 20100320867Abstract: A driving method of an array type ultrasound probe, in which transmission and reception are carried out by changing a voltage load alternatively on the transmission piezoelectric element and the reception piezoelectric element.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 17, 2010Publication date: December 23, 2010Applicant: KONICA MINOLTA MEDICAL & GRAPHIC, INC.Inventors: Takeshi Habu, Takayuki Sasaki, Toshihisa Takeyama
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Publication number: 20100226075Abstract: The invention relates to a portable communication device which comprises a first part, a second part, and one or more electroactive polymer actuators, where the electroactive polymer actuator is connected to the first part and to the second part. The invention also comprise a control unit, where the electroactive polymer actuator is adapted to move the first part in relation to the second part, and that the control unit is adapted to control the electroactive polymer actuator.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 6, 2009Publication date: September 9, 2010Applicant: Sony Ericsson Mobile Communications ABInventor: Anders JAHGE
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Patent number: 7786676Abstract: The present invention discloses an LED driver structure, which obtains input power coming from a power source to generate a constant-current power to drive a plurality of LEDs, and which comprises: a plurality of diode groups connected in parallel, a first piezoelectric conversion unit and a second piezoelectric conversion unit respectively arranged at both sides of the diode groups. The first and second piezoelectric conversion units receive the input power and opposite-phase convert the input power into driving powers to drive the diode groups. Among the plurality of diode groups, at least one diode group is formed of a plurality of LEDs. Each of the first and second piezoelectric conversion units has a piezoelectric inverter, which can easily achieve an impedance matching and a constant-current power to drive LEDs via a piezoelectric effect. Besides, the present invention also has the advantage of cost efficiency.Type: GrantFiled: April 18, 2008Date of Patent: August 31, 2010Assignee: Zippy Technology Corp.Inventors: Ying-Chang Cheng, Shih-Hung Liu
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Patent number: 7732977Abstract: A piezoelectric transducer device includes a receive signal path, a transistor and a piezoelectric transducer connected to a first terminal of the transistor. The device also includes a switch connected to a second terminal of the transistor, wherein the switch is adapted to selectively connect the second terminal of the transistor to a transmit signal or to a bias voltage; an output connected to a third terminal of the transistor, and adapted to receive a signal from the transducer when the switch is connected to the bias voltage, wherein the switch is not in the receive signal.Type: GrantFiled: April 30, 2008Date of Patent: June 8, 2010Assignee: Avago Technologies Wireless IP (Singapore)Inventors: Steven Martin, Osvaldo Buccafusca
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Patent number: 7723898Abstract: A device for the vibrational detection of a fill-level limit state and a process for the vibrational detection of a fill-level limit state The invention relates to a device for the vibrational detection of a fill-level limit state, and to a corresponding process, with a vibrational resonator (10), at least one piezoelement (11) that is loaded with a piezo-capacitance in order to induce a vibration in the vibrating resonator (10) by providing a drive frequency, and in order to detect a vibration in the vibrating resonator (10); two connecting conductors (12, 13) for the piezoelement (11), and circuit components (18-20) for evaluating a vibration in the vibrating resonator (10) detected by the piezoelement (11), where a branch with a compensating capacitor (2) is connected in parallel to a branch exhibiting the piezoelement (11) in order to compensate a recharging current in the piezoelement (11), which recharging current is dependent on the piezo-capacitance.Type: GrantFiled: August 1, 2006Date of Patent: May 25, 2010Assignee: Vega Grieshaber KGInventor: Siegbert Wöhrle