Impedance, Admittance Or Other Quantities Representative Of Electrical Stimulus/response Relationships Patents (Class 324/600)
  • Patent number: 7856561
    Abstract: Novel system and methodology for detecting a Powered Device (PD) in a Power over Ethernet (PoE) system. A PD probing circuit generates a detection signal supplied to the PD and determines a PD response signal produced in response to the detection signal. Based on the PD response signal, the control circuit determines a detection value for identifying the PD. In particular, the control circuit concludes that the PD is a device satisfying a PoE standard if the detection value is in a first predetermined range, and concludes that the PD is a legacy PD device if the detection value is in a second predetermined range outside of the first predetermined range.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 21, 2010
    Assignee: Linear Technology Corporation
    Inventors: John Arthur Stineman, Jr., Jeffrey Lynn Heath
  • Publication number: 20100315097
    Abstract: An amplifier circuit comprises an amplifier for amplifying an input signal and outputting the amplified signal to an external device. A power supply provides a supply voltage to the amplifier. The nature or type of external device (for example line-load or headphones) is determined by measuring a parameter related to the supply voltage. The parameter may be the time taken for the supply voltage to fall or rise a predefined threshold value. Alternatively, the measured parameter may be a voltage drop or voltage rise over a predetermined period of time. Both of these parameters give an indication as to the rate of change of the supply voltage with time, which provides an indication of the nature of the load. Processing circuitry may be provided for calibrating the rate of change of the supply voltage with time, based on the input signal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 23, 2008
    Publication date: December 16, 2010
    Inventor: John Paul Lesso
  • Patent number: 7844410
    Abstract: The field-device electronics includes an electric current adjuster, through which a supply current flows, driven by a supply voltage provided by the external energy supply and adjusted by the current adjuster. Additionally, the field-device electronics includes an internal operating and evaluating circuit for controlling the field device, as well as an internal supply circuit feeding the internal operating and evaluating circuit. Provided in the supply circuit is a first useful-voltage controller flowed-through by a first component of the supply current, and a second useful-voltage controller flowed through, at least at times, by a second current component of the supply current, and providing in the field-device electronics a second internal, useful voltage. Further, the two useful-voltage controllers are galvanically separated from one another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 30, 2010
    Assignee: Endress + Hauser Flowtec AG
    Inventor: Robert Lalla
  • Patent number: 7830153
    Abstract: The disclosure relates to a circuit arrangement for preventing overloading of magneto-inductive flowmeters. The disclosure can protect the amplifiers which are connected downstream thereof or the electronic evaluation system from overloading. To this end, the signal input circuit is provided with additional voltage-limiting diodes disposed downstream of the impedance converters so that eventual voltage tips are prevented during modulation in the downstream amplifiers of the evaluation electronics.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 9, 2010
    Assignee: ABB AG
    Inventors: Thomas Blume, Dirk Steckel, Dieter Keese
  • Publication number: 20100268440
    Abstract: In a method for calibration, a piezo-actuator (1) is actuated in a motor vehicle by a control circuit and an output stage. The piezo actuator is, in particular, part of the injection valve. The piezo-actuator (1) is subjected to an electric calibration pulse that is in the high-level signal range thereof when the control circuit and the output stage are in operation, the frequency thereof being modified over time. The associated electric impendence curve over the frequency is determined and evaluated during the calibration pulse. The output stage is controlled by the control circuit in such a manner that the calibration pulse is generated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 14, 2008
    Publication date: October 21, 2010
    Inventors: Christian Reichinger, Walter Schrod, Hans-Jörg Wiehoff
  • Publication number: 20100259281
    Abstract: A circuit, system, machine-readable storage medium and method for detecting the presence of a leakage path in a multi-cell voltage source is described. The system includes a detection circuit, the detection circuit having a first, second and third amplifiers, a first input of the first amplifier connected to a first terminal of the voltage source and the first input of the second amplifier connected to a second terminal of the voltage source, a second input of each of the first and second amplifiers connected to a reference capacitor, and an output of each of the first, second and third amplifiers connected to a respective first, second and third outputs of the detection circuit; and a processor having inputs connected to the first and second outputs of the detection circuit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 26, 2010
    Publication date: October 14, 2010
    Applicant: ANALOG DEVICES, INC.
    Inventor: Lawrence C. STREIT
  • Patent number: 7804446
    Abstract: An antenna for a fill level radar includes a high-temperature process separation device and an attenuation element. The attenuation element is used to improve the measuring signal in the near zone of the antenna and is affixed to the process separation device or in the process separation device. In this way antenna ringing may be significantly reduced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2010
    Assignee: Vega Grieshaber KG
    Inventors: Klaus Kienzle, Josef Fehrenbach, Thomas Deck, Daniel Schultheiss, Jürgen Motzer
  • Patent number: 7791354
    Abstract: A system (10) for monitoring PLC impedance of a phase conductor 12.1 of a high voltage overhead power transmission line (OHTL) 12 comprises a hybrid 40 comprising a first port (40), a second port (40.2) and a third port (40.3). The hybrid is configured to divide power received at the first port between the second and third ports, at least partially to isolate the second port from power received at the third port and at least partially to isolate the third port from power received at the second port. The isolation is a function of an impedance connected to the first port 40.1. The first port is connected to the phase conductor. The second port is connected to be driven by an alternating signal source (14). The second and third ports are connected to a monitoring logging device (42) for monitoring signals at the second and third ports, thereby to monitor the isolation at second and third ports and hence impedance at the first port.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 7, 2010
    Assignee: University of Stellenbosch
    Inventors: Wernich De Villiers, Johannes Hendrik Cloete
  • Publication number: 20100217553
    Abstract: Exemplary embodiments are directed to wireless power transfer. Energy from a transmit antenna is coupled to internal signals on a transmitter. An impedance measurement circuit generates an impedance indication signal for indicating an impedance difference between the coupled internal signals by comparing them. A controller samples the impedance indication signal and determines digital signaling values responsive to changes in the impedance indication signal. The impedance measurement circuit measures one or more of magnitude difference of the internal signals, phase difference of the internal signals, and changes in power consumed by an amplifier coupled between the RF signal and the transmit antenna. A transmitter generates the electromagnetic field with a transmit antenna responsive to a Radio Frequency (RF) signal to create a coupling-mode region within a near field of the transmit antenna.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 17, 2009
    Publication date: August 26, 2010
    Applicant: QUALCOMM INCORPORATED
    Inventors: William Von Novak, Stanley S. Toncich, Roberto Rimini, Kevin D. Lee
  • Patent number: 7778784
    Abstract: An electric current controller for field-device electronics controls and/or modulates the supply current. The supply current is driven by a supply voltage provided by an external energy supply. The field-device electronics has an internal operating and evaluating circuit for controlling the field device, as well as an internal supply circuit, the internal input voltage being derived from the supply voltage for feeding the internal operating and evaluating circuit. In the supply circuit is a voltage controller flowed-through, at least at times, by a first component of the supply current. The voltage controller provides in the field-device electronics a first internal, useful voltage controlled to be essentially constant at a predetermined, first voltage level. Moreover, the supply circuit has a second voltage controller flowed through, at least at times, by a second current component of the supply current. The second voltage controller provides in the field-device electronics a second internal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 17, 2010
    Assignee: Endress + Hauser Flowtec AG
    Inventor: Robert Lalla
  • Publication number: 20100148798
    Abstract: An apparatus 10 for electrical impedance imaging of an object 12 comprises first and second electrode arrangements 14, 16 spaced apart to define an imaging region 24 therebetween. An object 12 to be imaged is locatable, in use, in the imaging region 24 so that impedance data can be collected from the object 12 using the first and second electrode arrangements 14, 16 to permit the construction of an impedance image of the object 12.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 16, 2007
    Publication date: June 17, 2010
    Inventors: Wei Wang, Mengxing Tang
  • Patent number: 7733267
    Abstract: Method and apparatus for analyzing a substance in a container, the method comprising the steps of: disposing antenna means (3) at a predetermined geometrical distance (L) from a container portion (13); transmitting a signal from said antenna means through a surface portion (12) of the substance towards said container portion; receiving a first reflected signal in said antenna means from said container portion; determining a geometrical distance (L1) from the surface portion to the container portion; varying the frequency of the transmitted signal to determine a first phase displacement between the transmitted signal and the first reflected signal; determining an optical distance from the surface portion to the container portion based on the first phase displacement; and determining the index of refraction (nt) of said substance based on the optical and geometrical from the surface portion to the container portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 8, 2010
    Assignee: Agellis Group AB
    Inventor: Lars Bååth
  • Patent number: 7729808
    Abstract: A system for making real-time predictions about an arc flash event on an electrical system is disclosed. The system includes a data acquisition component, an analytics server and a client terminal. The data acquisition component is communicatively connected to a sensor configured to acquire real-time data output from the electrical system. The analytics server is communicatively connected to the data acquisition component and is comprised of a virtual system modeling engine, an analytics engine and an arc flash simulation engine. The arc flash simulation engine is configured to utilize the virtual system model to forecast an aspect of the arc flash event.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Assignee: EDSA Micro Corporation
    Inventors: Adib Nasle, Ali Nasle
  • Patent number: 7714584
    Abstract: The present invention provides a gravity gradiometer for measuring components of the gravity gradient tensor. The gravity gradiometer includes at least one sensor mass for movement in response to a gravity gradient and a sensor and actuator unit for generating an electrical signal in response to the movement of the at least one sensor mass and for influencing the movement of the at least one sensor mass. The gravity gradiometer also includes an electronic circuit for simulating an impedance. The electrical circuit is arranged for amplifying the electrical signal received from the sensor and actuator unit and for directing an actuating signal to the sensor and actuator unit. The electronic circuit includes a differential amplifiers having first and second amplifier input terminals and an amplifier output terminal and impedances Z1, Z2, Z3, at least one of the impedances have an imaginary impedance component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 11, 2010
    Assignee: Technological Resources Pty. Ltd.
    Inventor: Frank Joachim Van Kann
  • Patent number: 7679546
    Abstract: An apparatus and method of determining location of an object hidden from view. The apparatus includes an imaging tool for detecting hidden objects. The imaging tool includes a housing including a first end and a second end, a display supported by the first end of the housing, and a tracking device supported by the second end of the housing. The imaging tool also includes a transmitter supported by the housing and operable to transmit electromagnetic radiation toward a hidden target, an analysis module supported by the housing and operable to analyze feedback data related to the interaction between the target and the electromagnetic radiation, and an image module operable to receive data from the analysis module to generate an image on the display.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2010
    Assignee: Techtronic Power Tools Technology Limited
    Inventors: Scott D. Bublitz, Jeffrey C. Hessenberger, John S. Scott, Matthew J. Mergener, David S. Holbrook
  • Publication number: 20100026315
    Abstract: Signal measuring systems, and measurement methods are disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 3, 2009
    Publication date: February 4, 2010
    Inventor: Gary R. Simpson
  • Publication number: 20100001740
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method and system and microchip for determining impedance of a variable impedance component. The method comprises tuning a tunable oscillator over a predefined tuning range, the tunable oscillator having the variable impedance component coupled as a load thereof. The frequency response of the tunable oscillator is measured as a function of said tuning. Finally, the measured frequency response is analyzed for determining the impedance of the variable impedance component. The invention makes possible to manufacture smaller and simpler monolithic sensor microchips.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 30, 2009
    Publication date: January 7, 2010
    Applicant: VALTION TEKNILLINEN TUTKIMUSKESKUS
    Inventor: Arto RANTALA
  • Publication number: 20100001741
    Abstract: A method for identifying leaks in pipes employs an electrical conductor extending longitudinally along a pipe between first and second measuring points. A measurement signal in the form of a temporally variable voltage is applied to the electrical conductor, and the impedance behavior of the conductor is used to determine the presence of a leak. A first measurement signal in the form of a temporally variable voltage is transmitted from the first measuring point to the second measuring point via the electrical conductor, and both measuring points evaluate the impedance of the electrical line. The second measuring point transmits a first result signal with the results of the impedance evaluation to the first measuring point via the same electrical conductor such that the first result signal temporally overlaps the first measurement signal, and the first measurement signal and the first result signal are present in non-overlapping frequency bands.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 29, 2009
    Publication date: January 7, 2010
    Inventor: Guenther Bier
  • Patent number: 7643957
    Abstract: Techniques for bisecting a symmetric, substantially transmissive two-port network (a THRU structure) through an optimization solution of the relevant equations defined by transmission matrix mathematics are described. Bisect de-embedding may be performed using a single substantially symmetric THRU structure, a first half of a first substantially symmetric THRU structure and a second half of a second substantially symmetric THRU structure, and by combining bisect de-embedding with conventionally known de-embedding techniques.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 5, 2010
    Assignee: Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research
    Inventor: Erik S. Daniel
  • Patent number: 7642864
    Abstract: A ring oscillator has an odd number of NOR-gates greater than or equal to three, each with first and second input terminals, a voltage supply terminal, and an output terminal. The first input terminals of all the NOR-gates are interconnected, and each of the NOR-gates has its output terminal connected to the second input terminal of an immediately adjacent one of the NOR-gates. During a stress mode, a voltage supply and control block applies a stress enable signal to the interconnected first input terminals, and an increased supply voltage to the voltage supply terminals. During a measurement mode, this block grounds the interconnected first input terminals, and applies a normal supply voltage to the voltage supply terminals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 5, 2010
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Ching-Te K. Chuang, Jae-Joon Kim, Tae-Hyoung Kim, Pong-Fei Lu, Saibal Mukhopadhyay, Rahul M. Rao, Shao-yi Wang
  • Publication number: 20090322348
    Abstract: An impedance measuring method uses an impedance measuring device for measuring an impedance of a measured electronic component, a coaxial connector electrically connected to the impedance measuring device, and a measurement substrate which can be housed in the coaxial connector The coaxial connector has a center conductor and an outer conductor located outside the center conductor. The measurement substrate has an insulating substrate and first and second conductors each formed on a first principal surface of the insulating substrate. The measurement substrate with the measured electronic component being mounted on the first and second conductors is housed in the coaxial connector connected to the impedance measuring device, so as to electrically connect the first conductor to the center conductor and electrically connect the second conductor to the outer conductor. Then the impedance of the measured electronic component is measured by the impedance measuring device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 5, 2009
    Publication date: December 31, 2009
    Applicant: TDK CORPORATION
    Inventor: Masaaki TOGASHI
  • Publication number: 20090301180
    Abstract: Some embodiments include a housing including a dielectric portion, a particulate matter (“PM”) sensor fixed inside the housing such that the exhaust streaming through an exhaust system passes near and in electrical isolation from the PM sensor, the PM sensor including a terminal couplable to a PM sensing circuit to produce a PM sensor indication associated with sensed PM and a fastener coupled to the housing and mountable to the exhaust system to dispose the housing into the exhaust system such that exhaust streaming through the exhaust system passes outside the dielectric portion of the housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 4, 2008
    Publication date: December 10, 2009
    Inventors: Peter L. Reutiman, Michael L. Rhodes
  • Patent number: 7630844
    Abstract: Field-device electronics including an electric current adjuster, through which a supply current flows is driven by a supply voltage provided by the external energy supply and adjusted by the current adjuster. Additionally, the field-device electronics includes an internal operating and evaluating circuit for controlling the field device, as well as an internal supply circuit feeding the internal operating and evaluating circuit. Provided in the supply circuit is a first useful-voltage controller flowed-through, by a first component of the supply current and a second useful-voltage controller flowed through, at least at times, by a second current component of the supply current and providing in the field-device electronics a second internal, useful voltage. The second useful voltage controller is fed by the first useful voltage delivered by the first useful voltage controller and/or a secondary voltage drived from the first useful voltage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 8, 2009
    Assignee: Endress + Hauser Flowtec AG
    Inventor: Robert Lalla
  • Patent number: 7626583
    Abstract: A voltage detection system comprising a first circuit board, a second circuit board, and a voltage detection circuit. The voltage detection circuit comprises a first connection unit, a second connection unit, a resistor, and a voltage detection unit. Dummy lines of the first and second connection units are coupled in series. When lines of the first and second connection units are not aligned to lines of the first and second circuit boards, an entirety equivalent impedance of the dummy lines is decreased. When detecting that the entirety of equivalent impedance is decreased to be less than a predetermined value, the voltage detection unit enables a control signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 1, 2009
    Assignee: Au Optronics Corp.
    Inventors: Po-Tang Hsu, Meng-Chang Tsai
  • Publication number: 20090284269
    Abstract: The invention relates to an apparatus for ascertaining and/or monitoring a process variable. The apparatus includes a sensor element (1), and at least one electronics unit (2), which, for measuring the process variable, supplies the sensor element (1) with an electrical exciter signal (ES1, ES2), receives an electrical measurement signal (MS1, MS2) from the sensor element (1) and evaluates the measurement signal (MS1, MS2) with respect to the process variable. An analog-digital converter (3) is provided in the electronics unit (2). The invention includes that, for measuring the process variable, the electronics unit (2) supplies the sensor element (1) with a first exciter signal (ES1) and a second exciter signal (ES2), timewise one after the other, in such a manner, that the first exciter signal (ES1) and the second exciter signal (ES2) have a settable phase (?) relative to one another.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 16, 2007
    Publication date: November 19, 2009
    Applicant: Endress + Hauser GmbH + Co. KG
    Inventors: Roland Dieterle, Kaj Uppenkamp, Armin Wernet
  • Patent number: 7619419
    Abstract: A wideband differential signal probe includes separate paths to convert a lower frequency component and a higher frequency component of a differential signal to a lower frequency single ended signal and a higher frequency single ended signal which are combined for the probe's output which is commonly input to instrumentation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 17, 2009
    Assignee: Cascade Microtech, Inc.
    Inventor: Richard Campbell
  • Publication number: 20090267614
    Abstract: There is provided a physical property measuring method for a TFT liquid crystal panel, includes an impedance setting step of setting the impedance between the source and drain of a TFT of the TFT liquid crystal panel to be less than or equal to a predetermined value, a voltage application step of applying a voltage that cyclically varies to a liquid crystal layer of the TFT liquid crystal panel. And the method further includes a physical property measuring step of measuring a transient current flowing through the liquid crystal layer to which the voltage that cyclically varies is applied in the voltage application step to measure physical properties of the liquid crystal layer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 7, 2009
    Publication date: October 29, 2009
    Applicants: TOYO CORPORATION, SHARP KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Masaru Inoue, Kunihiko Sasaki, Takashi Kurihara, Yasuhiro Kume
  • Patent number: 7603158
    Abstract: A method for non-invasive mapping (imaging) of the electrical impedance of an object. The present invention provides a method, current density impedance imaging (CDII) which produces an impedance image of object by measuring current density distributions and directly calculating the local impedance values.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 13, 2009
    Inventors: Adrian Nachman, Michael L. G. Joy, Karshi F. Hasanov, Richard S. Yoon
  • Publication number: 20090243585
    Abstract: A system to measure thickness of a shroud is provided. The system includes at least one resistive element embedded within the shroud. The system also includes an impedance measurement device that measures a total resistance associated with the at least one resistive element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 25, 2008
    Publication date: October 1, 2009
    Applicant: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANY
    Inventors: Emad Andarawis Andarawis, Chukwueloka Obiora Umeh
  • Patent number: 7592946
    Abstract: A level measurement arrangement for measurement of a level of a product in a container, comprising: a level sensor, having: a mounting element, including a process connector, for mounting the mounting element on a mating counter connector on an opening of the container, and a conductive probe segment extending from the mounting element into the container; a conductive probe extension (19), having a first end, which is permanently fixed to an inner wall of the container, and having a second end, which is detachably connectable to an end of the conductive probe segment extending into the container; and sensor electronics comprising elements for generating and sending short electromagnetic pulses down the probe segment and the probe extension, elements for reception of the echoes of the pulses reflected at a surface of the product elements for determining the level of the product in the container, based on a time of flight needed for a pulse to travel down the probe segment and the probe extension, and its echo
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 22, 2009
    Assignee: Endress + Hauser GmbH + Co. KG
    Inventors: Dan Klees, Rob Vermeulen
  • Publication number: 20090224771
    Abstract: In one aspect the present disclosure relates to a system for measuring an internal resistance of a battery. The system may involve: a processor; a load module responsive to the processor for applying a load across the battery; a current sense subsystem for sensing the current flowing to the load module and generating a sensed current signal in accordance therewith; a multiplexer module in communication with the current sense subsystem for detecting voltages with the load coupled across the battery and uncoupled from the battery, and generating voltage signals in accordance therewith; and a filtering and amplification subsystem responsive to the multiplexer module, for filtering and amplifying a level of each of the voltage signals to produce modified voltage signals for use by the processor in determining the battery internal resistance.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 9, 2009
    Publication date: September 10, 2009
    Applicant: Liebert Corporation
    Inventors: Edward W. Deveau, Marc J. Radzikowski
  • Patent number: 7586435
    Abstract: A radar level gauge system, for determining a filling level of a product contained in a tank, said radar level gauge system comprising: a transceiver for generating, transmitting and receiving electromagnetic signals within a frequency range; a waveguiding structure arranged to extend into said product contained in the tank and to guide a transmitted signal from said transceiver towards a surface of said product and to guide echo signals resulting from reflections at impedance transitions encountered by the transmitted electromagnetic signals, including a surface echo signal resulting from reflection at said surface, back to said transceiver; a plurality of reference impedance transitions provided substantially periodically along said waveguiding structure with a distance between adjacent reference impedance transitions that is selected such that signals resulting from reflection of said transmitted signal at each of said reference impedance transitions combine to form a reference signal having a frequency
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 8, 2009
    Assignee: Rosemount Tank Radar AB
    Inventor: Olov Edvardsson
  • Publication number: 20090174414
    Abstract: A system for testing the safety of electricity includes steps as following. First step is inserting a testing apparatus into a socket of utility power. Second step is providing a first amplifier and rectifier unit for measuring a first voltage wave as no-loading. Third step is providing a signal capturing unit at driver circuit for capturing an instant load cycle current wave. Fourth step is providing a second amplifier and rectifier unit for simulating a second voltage wave according to the instant cycle current wave. At least, a processing unit provides for comparing the first voltage wave with the second voltage wave. Therefore, the above-mentioned method is provided for determining the quality of household electricity wire and further improving the electricity safety.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 9, 2008
    Publication date: July 9, 2009
    Applicant: Powertech Industrial Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Yu-Lung Lee
  • Patent number: 7554334
    Abstract: Embodiments of a method of calculating the equivalent series resistance of a matching network using variable impedance analysis and matching networks analyzed using the same are provided herein. In one embodiment, a method of calculating the equivalent series resistance of a matching network includes the steps of connecting the matching network to a load; measuring an output of the matching network over a range of load impedances; and calculating the equivalent series resistance of the matching network based upon a relationship between the measured output and the load resistance. The load may be a surrogate load or may be a plasma formed in a process chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 30, 2009
    Assignee: Applied Marterials, Inc.
    Inventors: Steven C. Shannon, Daniel J. Hoffman, Steven Lane, Walter R. Merry, Jivko Dinev
  • Patent number: 7554337
    Abstract: The semiconductor device of the invention includes a circuit and a protecting structure. It is provided with a first and a second security element and with an input and an output. The security elements have a first and a second impedance, respectively, which impedances differ. The device is further provided with a measuring unit a processing unit and a connection unit. The processing unit transform any first information received into a specific program of measurement. Herewith a challenge-response mechanism is implemented in the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 30, 2009
    Assignee: NXP B.V.
    Inventors: Pim Theo Tuyls, Thomas Andreas Maria Kevenaar, Petra Elisabeth De Jongh, Robertus Adrianus Maria Wolters
  • Publication number: 20090140749
    Abstract: A device for measuring a load current in a load circuit that has a switch that switches the load current. The switch has a control variable as a first switch variable and an output variable, which is dependent on the control variable, as a second switch variable. A setting unit keeps one of the switch variables constant at a predetermined value, and an evaluation unit determines the load current from the other switch variable. It is thus possible to dispense with an additional measuring element for measuring the load current, thus keeping the power loss low.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 4, 2008
    Publication date: June 4, 2009
    Applicant: DIEHL AEROSPACE GMBH
    Inventor: Jurgen Spah
  • Patent number: 7525476
    Abstract: A method for determining a filling level of a product contained in a tank, by means of a radar level gauge system comprising a transceiver for generating, transmitting and receiving electromagnetic signals; a probe connected to the transceiver and arranged to guide a transmitted electromagnetic signal from the transceiver towards and into the product inside the tank, and to return a reflected electromagnetic signal resulting from reflection of the transmitted electromagnetic signal by a surface of the product back towards the transceiver; and a plurality of reference reflectors each being arranged at a respective known position along the probe and being configured to reflect a portion of the transmitted electromagnetic signal back towards the transceiver.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 28, 2009
    Assignee: Rosemount Tank Radar AB
    Inventors: Håkan Delin, Olov Edvardsson
  • Publication number: 20090096520
    Abstract: A method and a circuit for detecting a radio-frequency signal, including at least one first MOS transistor with a channel of a first type, having its gate coupled to an input terminal capable of receiving said signal; a circuit for biasing the first transistor, capable of biasing it to a level lower than its threshold voltage; and a circuit for determining the average value of the current in the first transistor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 9, 2008
    Publication date: April 16, 2009
    Applicant: STMicroelectronics (Rousset) SAS
    Inventors: Gilles Bas, Marc Battista
  • Patent number: 7515095
    Abstract: An antenna for a level sensing gauge comprises an environmentally sealed chamber extending from the level sensing gauge and mounting and positionable within the interior of a storage compartment, including a breathable aperture for permitting pressure and humidity equalization between the interior of said chamber and an exterior environment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2009
    Assignee: Ohmart/VEGA Corporation
    Inventors: Neil T. Wilkie, Douglas A. Groh, Christopher P. Lewis, William C. Gable
  • Patent number: 7498974
    Abstract: A radar level gauge (RLG) using electromagnetic waves for determining a process variable of a product in a tank is provided which includes timing circuitry adapted to provide timing control of a transceiver, and a communication interface arranged to receive power in an intrinsically safe manner and to connect the radar level gauge externally thereof. The RLG further comprises an isolation interface arranged to galvanically isolate the transceiver from the timing circuitry and the communication interface, the isolation interface being arranged to transfer power and timing control from the timing circuitry and the communication interface to the transceiver circuitry.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2009
    Assignee: Rosemount Tank Radar AB
    Inventor: Valter Nilsson
  • Patent number: 7492164
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method for manufacturing a product sensor (2), and a product sensor (2). In the manufacturing method, a circuitry pattern is formed in the product sensor (2) for achieving an antenna circuit (L, C1, C2). In addition, the product sensor (2) is provided with at least one measuring means (13), whose at least one electrical property is affected by at least one condition. Product control is performed by measuring the at least one measuring means (13) formed in the product sensor (2), which means is affected by at least one condition, at least one electrical condition. In order to form a product sensor, at least a first (3) and a second module (5) are formed, the first of the modules (3) being provided with at least a part of said antenna circuit, and the second module (5) being provided with said at least one measuring means (13). Said at least two modules (3, 5) are connected to each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2009
    Assignee: UPM-Kymmene Corporation
    Inventors: Marko Hanhikorpi, Samuli Strömberg
  • Patent number: 7486226
    Abstract: The invention relates to a system, device, and method for using radar signals to measure the distance (h) to a surface from said device, the device comprising a transmitter and a transmitting antenna for transmitting radar signals, and a receiver and a receiving antenna for receiving a radar signal. The device may also comprise a first additional reflecting object separate from the receiving antenna, which additional reflector is designed so as to introduce a first predetermined alteration in radar signals upon reflection, with the device being equipped with means to differ between received signals with and without said predetermined alteration. The first predetermined alteration introduced by the first separate reflector can be, for example, a modulation shift or a shift in the polarization of the signal. In a typical embodiment the additional reflector is located close to the radar unit creating a double transition from radar unit to the surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2009
    Assignee: Rosemount Tank Radar AB
    Inventor: Olov Edvardsson
  • Patent number: 7483735
    Abstract: A method for measuring dielectric constant of body endermic tissues and body impedance based on the method of frequency digital sampling and for evaluating body composition is provided, inputting the method through the I/O interface of a microprocessor the measured body weight frequency signals, oscillating frequency signals related to dielectric constant of body endermic tissues and body impedance signals corresponding to non-fixed different frequencies, and calculating through the software of the microprocessor the body fat content, total body water, ratio between intracellular water and total body water. The body weight, body fat content, total body water and ratio between intracellular water and total body water are displayed on the display. A body composition monitor based on the above method, which includes a weighing sensor, a weighing signal processing circuit, and a display unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2009
    Assignee: Research Institute of Tsinghua University
    Inventors: Yan Liu, Gang Jing, Jian Wu, Yuye Jin, Guanping Feng, Yueqiu Li
  • Patent number: 7463039
    Abstract: When using a rigid substrate eddy current probe to measure a non-planer test piece, the probe must be adapted to the test piece shape in order to avoid incorrect measurement values. Disclosed is a probe which is configured in a flexible manner via a flexible substrate so as to be adjustable to different radii of curvature of a test piece. Furthermore the probe lining is also embodied in an elastic manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2008
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Ludwig Bär, Werner Heinrich
  • Publication number: 20080297169
    Abstract: The present invention provides a device, test cards, methods and kits which are useful for determining the particle fraction and rate of viscosity of a fluid sample, the presence of an analyte in a fluid sample, or the aggregation of particles in a fluid sample to detect an analyte or as an immunologic assay.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 31, 2007
    Publication date: December 4, 2008
    Inventors: Alfred C. Greenquist, Margaret McInerny
  • Publication number: 20080265912
    Abstract: A technique is disclosed for determining capacitive, inductive, and resistive components of power line impedance via a portable line impedance measurement system. The measurement system includes a circuit that switches a burden resistor between power line conductors to cause a droop in a voltage waveform. The voltage waveform is sampled prior to inclusion of the resistor in the circuit, as well as after to identify the droop. The short circuit between the power lines is then removed by opening the circuit and a first effective capacitance in the test circuitry causes a resonant ring due to the inductive component of the power line impedance. The process is repeated a second time with a second effective load capacitance enabled in the test circuitry to cause a second resonant ring. Based upon the frequency of the rings and the voltage measurements, the individual impedance components of power line impedance can be computed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 30, 2007
    Publication date: October 30, 2008
    Inventor: Michael L. Gasperi
  • Patent number: 7443310
    Abstract: A multi-sensor network having a plurality of receivers and sensors connected to a common communication line is provided. A controller will activate one of the plurality of receivers, thereby allowing one of the plurality of sensors to transmit data to the communication line. The plurality of sensors each individually have a logic device preventing more than one sensor from transmitting data in a given time interval.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2008
    Assignee: Autoliv ASP, Inc.
    Inventors: Colm Boran, Myron Senyk, David Eiswerth
  • Publication number: 20080258741
    Abstract: A method for making electrical measurements of a first and a second DUT, the DUTs being in sufficient proximity to exhibit crosstalk therebetween, the method comprising: applying a first signal to the first DUT; applying a second signal to the second DUT, the first signal and the second signal being contemporaneous and orthogonal to each other; measuring a first DUT response; and measuring a second DUT response. The first and second DUT responses exhibit independence from the second and first signals, respectively.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 20, 2007
    Publication date: October 23, 2008
    Inventor: Wayne C. Goeke
  • Publication number: 20080238440
    Abstract: A measuring system measuring an impedance of an object to be measured, including an impedance measuring instrument; a casing formed of a grounded conductor and capable of locating the object to be measured therein; and a radially-shaped electrode connected to the impedance measuring instrument and capable of being connected to the object to be measured.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 26, 2008
    Publication date: October 2, 2008
    Applicant: TOKYO ELECTRON LIMITED
    Inventor: Yohei YAMAZAWA
  • Publication number: 20080199775
    Abstract: In a method for examining a negative electrode of a battery, a total thickness of a current collector and an active material layer is measured. Then, in order to estimate a composition of the active material layer, the total resistivity of the current collector and the active material layer is measured.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 1, 2008
    Publication date: August 21, 2008
    Inventors: Hideharu TAKEZAWA, Takayuki Shirane, Shinya Fujimura, Sadayuki Okazaki, Kazuyoshi Honda