Including A Guard Or Ground Electrode Patents (Class 324/688)
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Patent number: 8397525Abstract: The invention relates to a device for controlling a condensate lift pump, comprising a means for detecting at least two condensate levels in a container, and a means for activating and for stopping the pump according to the levels, in which the detection means comprises a capacitive detector comprising at least three electrodes: a ground electrode; a first level detection electrode; and a second level detection electrode, and a processing means comprising a means for measuring the capacitance between the electrodes. According to the invention, the lengths of the first level detection electrode and second level detection electrode are defined so as to come into contact with the condensates, when the condensates respectively reach the first level and the second level in the container; these electrodes are produced on distinct supports not having a submergible physical continuity between them.Type: GrantFiled: September 15, 2009Date of Patent: March 19, 2013Assignee: Sauermann IndustrieInventors: Antoine Chauvin, Fabrice Leze, Michel Baillon
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Patent number: 8400409Abstract: An interface device and method are provided for sensing movement of an actuator across a surface of a window in an enclosure thereof. The interface device comprises an optical navigation sensor including an illuminator within the interface to illuminate at least a portion of the actuator through the window when the actuator is positioned in contact with or proximal to the surface of the window, and a detector to receive light reflected through the window from the actuator. The interface device further includes a number of capacitive guard-sensors in the enclosure adjacent to the optical navigation sensor to disable the optical navigation sensor when a conductive body is sensed in proximity to the guard-sensors.Type: GrantFiled: July 10, 2008Date of Patent: March 19, 2013Assignee: Cypress Semiconductor CorporationInventor: Mark Francis
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Publication number: 20130015868Abstract: A capacitance sensing system can include a plurality of transmit (TX) electrodes disposed in a first direction; a plurality of first electrodes disposed in a second direction and coupled to the TX electrodes by a mutual capacitance, and coupled to a capacitance sense circuit when at least one TX electrode receives a transmit signal; and a plurality of second electrodes structures, interspersed with the first electrodes and coupled to a ground node at least while the one TX electrode receives the transmit signal.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 27, 2011Publication date: January 17, 2013Applicant: CYPRESS SEMICONDUCTOR CORPORATIONInventor: Tao Peng
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Patent number: 8243043Abstract: A conductive shield that is disposed near the sensor, wherein a signal is driven on the shield that is similar to the signal induced on the sensor, thereby reducing stray capacitances and protecting the sensor from external noise sources, and resulting in a stronger signal reaching the sensor.Type: GrantFiled: March 31, 2008Date of Patent: August 14, 2012Assignee: Cirque CorporationInventor: Jared G. Bytheway
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Patent number: 8232810Abstract: An input device is provided with improved electrostatic discharge protection. Specifically, the input device includes a plurality of capacitive sensing electrodes configured for object detection. An electrostatic discharge (ESD) shunt is disposed near the capacitive sensing electrodes and configured to provide ESD protection to the capacitive sensing electrodes. The input device also includes an extended-proximity capacitive sensing electrode configured to for object detection of relatively distant objects. The ESD shunt has an associated first resistance, and the extended-proximity capacitive sensing electrode has an associated second resistance.Type: GrantFiled: May 12, 2009Date of Patent: July 31, 2012Assignee: Synaptics IncorporatedInventors: Joseph Kurth Reynolds, Tracy Scott Dattalo
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Publication number: 20120187965Abstract: A capacitive measurement device includes: at least one measurement electrode having an active surface; at least one guard made from an electrically conductive material placed adjacent to the measurement electrode(s), the guard being excited up to an alternating electric potential substantially identical to that of the measurement electrodes; and a first electronic device for exciting the electrode(s) and processing the measurement signals from the capacitive coupling of the electrode(s) to an object placed adjacent thereto, the electronic device being at least partially referenced to the electric potential of the guard. The measurement device further includes apparatus for performing another function, placed adjacent to the active surface, and a second electronic device provided for monitoring the apparatus for performing another function, the second electronic device being at least partially referenced to the electric potential of the guard.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 6, 2010Publication date: July 26, 2012Inventor: Didier Roziere
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Patent number: 8228077Abstract: An Anti-pinch sensor, in particular for detecting an obstacle in the path of an actuator of a motor vehicle is provided. The anti-pinch sensor includes a first measurement electrode and a second electrically isolated measurement electrode spaced a distance from the first measurement electrode, wherein the first measurement electrode is designed to generate an external electric field with respect to the second measurement electrode, and wherein the first and second measurement electrodes are elastically supported relative to an electrically isolated ground electrode. In addition, a sensor device having such an anti-pinch sensor is disclosed. The anti-pinch sensor is suitable as both a contactless and a tactile sensor. Detection of surface deposits of contaminants or water is easily possible.Type: GrantFiled: November 28, 2008Date of Patent: July 24, 2012Assignee: Brose Fahrzeugteile GmbH & Co. Kommanditgesellschaft, HallstadtInventors: Holger Wuerstlein, Thomas Weingaertner
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Patent number: 8164354Abstract: Proximity sensing arrangements utilize one or more sensing devices to detect and/or to discern objects that are or become proximate, or are expected to be proximate to a position of interest. For example, one or more capacitive sensors may be distributed to locations about a machine, e.g., attached to, incorporated with, or otherwise associated with a moving or otherwise operating component of the machine. Corresponding control electronics drive each capacitive sensor, using a corresponding excitation signal, as well as process information read from each capacitive sensor to make intelligent proximity related decisions.Type: GrantFiled: November 21, 2007Date of Patent: April 24, 2012Assignee: Process Equipment Co. of Tipp CityInventor: Robert G. Lenz
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Patent number: 8149002Abstract: A device for capacitive measurement by a floating bridge, including: a sensor module including at least one measuring electrode and at least one guard electrode arranged close to a target connected to a general earth, at least one integrated circuit for capacitive measurement, provided with a guard to which the guard electrode is connected, having an input connected to the measuring electrode, a guard connected to the reference earth of the integrated circuit, an excitation output connected to the general earth, a measurement output, and structure for supplying the integrated circuit for capacitive measurement in floating mode.Type: GrantFiled: November 22, 2006Date of Patent: April 3, 2012Assignee: Nanotec SolutionInventors: Frédéric Ossart, Didier Roziere
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Publication number: 20110254572Abstract: To measure the distance between a sensing target and sensors accurately by suppressing differences in amount of change in outputs from sensors and differences in initial capacitances thereof and detect the sensing target highly accurately, capacitance-type sensor includes: sensor electrodes configuring a sensor electrode group; and a pair of guard electrodes. The sensor electrodes are driven being supplied with a sensor potential or a guard potential, and the guard electrodes are driven being supplied with the guard potential. Even when the outermost sensor electrode of the sensor electrode group is activated, the amount of change in the outputs from the sensor electrodes configuring the sensor electrode group and their capacitance values can be made substantially uniform because the guard electrodes are driven at the guard potential.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 29, 2011Publication date: October 20, 2011Applicant: FUJIKURA LTD.Inventors: Yuichiro Yamaguchi, Koichi Ichihara, Ryohei Sakurai
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Patent number: 7999562Abstract: An operator detection and presence device includes a conductive sensor and a guard electrode. The sensor and electrode are physically located and electrically connected in a manner which helps the detection circuit measure if an operator's hand is on the handle or if the change in capacitance is due to water. The sensor and electrode are preferably physically located in the handle spaced apart from one another, where the sensor is located in an area that the operator will touch. The electrode is located in an area that the operator will not generally touch. A detection circuit is connected to the sensor and electrode for measuring whether the capacitance of the sensor has changed. The electrode is used to avoid false detections and/or the ability to detect of operator presence.Type: GrantFiled: July 29, 2008Date of Patent: August 16, 2011Assignee: Vermeer Manufacturing CompanyInventors: Yuriy Khapochkin, Hans Kelpe
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Publication number: 20110193574Abstract: A capacitive sensing system, comprising a sensor having thin film structure, the thin film structure comprising a sensor having a first insulating layer and a first conductive film comprising a sensing electrode formed on a first surface of the first insulating layer and a second conductive film comprising a back guard electrode. The back guard electrode is formed in a single plane and comprises a peripheral portion in the same plane, and is disposed on a second surface of the first insulating layer and a first surface of a second insulating layer or protective layer. The peripheral portion of the back guard electrode extends beyond the sensing electrode to form a side guard electrode which substantially or completely surrounds the sensing electrode.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 23, 2010Publication date: August 11, 2011Applicant: Mapper Lithography IP B.V.Inventors: Guido DE BOER, Johnny Joannes Jacobus Van Baar, Kaustubh Prabodh Padhye, Robert Mossel, Niels Vergeer, Stijn Willem Herman Karel Steenbrink
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Patent number: 7973542Abstract: Methods, systems and devices are described for determining a measurable capacitance for proximity detection in a sensor having a plurality of sensing electrodes and at least one guarding electrode. A charge transfer process is executed for at least two executions. The charge transfer process includes applying a pre-determined voltage to at least one of the plurality of sensing electrodes using a first switch, applying a first guard voltage to the at least one guarding electrode using a second switch, sharing charge between the at least one of the plurality of sensing electrodes and a filter capacitance, and applying a second guard voltage different from the first guard voltage to the at least one guarding electrode. A voltage is measured on the filter capacitance for a number of measurements equal to at least one to produce at least one result to determine the measurable capacitance for proximity detection.Type: GrantFiled: August 13, 2010Date of Patent: July 5, 2011Assignee: Synaptics IncorporatedInventor: Joseph Kurth Reynolds
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Publication number: 20110140721Abstract: The contactless conductivity detector in one embodiment includes a microfluidic chip having a channel (102) thereon and four detection electrodes: first and second emitting electrodes (100a, 101a), and first and second receiving electrodes (100b, 101b). The channel (102) is defined by channel walls. The first emitting electrode (100a) and the first receiving electrode (100b) are adjacent a first channel wall, and the second emitting electrode (101a) and the second receiving electrode (101b) are adjacent a second channel wall, the second channel wall being opposite the first channel wall.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 7, 2009Publication date: June 16, 2011Inventors: Kambiz Ansari Mahabadi, Isabel Rodriguez Fernandez, Chee Yen Lim
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Patent number: 7902842Abstract: Methods, systems and devices are described for detecting a measurable capacitance using charge transfer techniques that can be implemented with many standard microcontrollers, and can share components to reduce device complexity and improve performance. In the various implementations of this embodiment, the passive network used to accumulate charge can be shared between multiple measurable capacitances. Likewise, in various implementations a voltage conditioning circuit configured to provide a variable reference voltage can be shared between multiple measurable capacitances. Finally, in various implementations a guarding electrode configured to guard the measurable capacitances can be shared between multiple measurable capacitances. In each of these cases, sharing components can reduce device complexity and improve performance.Type: GrantFiled: October 26, 2007Date of Patent: March 8, 2011Assignee: Synaptics IncorporatedInventors: Joseph Kurth Reynolds, Kirk Hargreaves, David Ely, Paul Routley, Julian Haines
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Publication number: 20100308847Abstract: Methods, systems and devices are described for determining a measurable capacitance for proximity detection in a sensor having a plurality of sensing electrodes and at least one guarding electrode. A charge transfer process is executed for at least two executions. The charge transfer process includes applying a pre-determined voltage to at least one of the plurality of sensing electrodes using a first switch, applying a first guard voltage to the at least one guarding electrode using a second switch, sharing charge between the at least one of the plurality of sensing electrodes and a filter capacitance, and applying a second guard voltage different from the first guard voltage to the at least one guarding electrode. A voltage is measured on the filter capacitance for a number of measurements equal to at least one to produce at least one result to determine the measurable capacitance for proximity detection.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 13, 2010Publication date: December 9, 2010Applicant: SYNAPTICS INCORPORATEDInventor: Joseph Kurth Reynolds
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Patent number: 7839282Abstract: The disclosure relates to analysis of materials using a capacitive sensor to detect anomalies through comparison of measured capacitances. The capacitive sensor is used in conjunction with a capacitance measurement device, a location device, and a processor in order to generate a capacitance versus location output which may be inspected for the detection and localization of anomalies within the material under test. The components may be carried as payload on an inspection vehicle which may traverse through a pipe interior, allowing evaluation of nonmetallic or plastic pipes when the piping exterior is not accessible. In an embodiment, supporting components are solid-state devices powered by a low voltage on-board power supply, providing for use in environments where voltage levels may be restricted.Type: GrantFiled: July 28, 2010Date of Patent: November 23, 2010Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the United States Department of EnergyInventors: Mahendra P. Mathur, James L. Spenik, Christopher M. Condon, Rodney Anderson, Daniel J. Driscoll, William L. Fincham, Jr., Esmail R. Monazam
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Publication number: 20100283487Abstract: A system and method for measuring voltage of a medium to high voltage line conductor is disclosed. The system includes an electrical insulator having a surface and an edge, the surface having an opening therein to allow passage of a line conductor therethrough in a direction generally perpendicular to the surface. The system also includes first and second electrodes positioned about the opening on the surface of the electrical insulator and spaced apart from one another to provide a common capacitive divider signal indicative of a voltage potential of the line conductor.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 8, 2009Publication date: November 11, 2010Inventors: Mark Allan Juds, Paul J. Rollmann, Xin Zhou, James J. Benke, Birger Pahl, Francois Marchand
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Patent number: 7777503Abstract: Methods, systems and devices are described for determining a measurable capacitance for proximity detection in a sensor having a plurality of sensing electrodes and at least one guarding electrode. A charge transfer process is executed for at least two executions. The charge transfer process includes applying a pre-determined voltage to at least one of the plurality of sensing electrodes using a first switch, applying a first guard voltage to the at least one guarding electrode using a second switch, sharing charge between the at least one of the plurality of sensing electrodes and a filter capacitance, and applying a second guard voltage different from the first guard voltage to the at least one guarding electrode. A voltage is measured on the filter capacitance for a number of measurements equal to at least one to produce at least one result to determine the measurable capacitance for proximity detection.Type: GrantFiled: March 13, 2009Date of Patent: August 17, 2010Assignee: Synaptics IncorporatedInventor: Joseph Kurth Reynolds
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Patent number: 7768273Abstract: A planar fingerprint pattern detecting array includes a large number of individual skin-distance sensing cells that are arranged in a row/column configuration. Each sensing cell includes a first capacitor plate placed vertically under the upper surface of a dielectric layer and a second capacitor plate that is placed vertically under the upper surface of the dielectric layer in close horizontal spatial relation to the first capacitor plate. Electrostatic discharge protection relative to electrostatic potential that may be carried by an ungrounded fingertip is provided by placing a number of grounded metal paths within the dielectric layer to spatially surround each of the first and second capacitor plates, this being done in a manner that does not disturb the ungrounded state of the fingertip.Type: GrantFiled: March 2, 2009Date of Patent: August 3, 2010Assignee: UPEK, Inc.Inventors: Alexander Kalnitsky, Alan Kramer
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Patent number: 7750649Abstract: Methods, systems and devices are described for detecting a measurable capacitance using charge transfer techniques. According to various embodiments, a charge transfer process is performed for two or more times. During the charge transfer process, a pre-determined voltage is applied to the measurable capacitance, and the measurable capacitance is then allowed to share charge with a filter capacitance through a passive impedance that remains coupled to both the measurable capacitance and to the filter capacitance throughout the charge transfer process. The value of the measurable capacitance can then be determined as a function of a representation of a charge on the filter capacitance and the number of times that the charge transfer process was performed. Such a detection scheme may be readily implemented using conventional components, and can be particularly useful in sensing the position of a finger, stylus or other object with respect to an input sensor.Type: GrantFiled: March 13, 2009Date of Patent: July 6, 2010Assignee: Synaptics IncorporatedInventors: David Ely, Paul Routley, Joseph Kurth Reynolds, Julian Haines, Kirk Hargreaves
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Patent number: 7705615Abstract: An extruded capacitive sensor assembly includes multiple sense conductors of unequal length disposed in an upper section of a non-conductive jacket, and a ground conductor disposed in a lower section of the jacket adjacent a panel or carrier to which the strip is affixed. A sensor strip with three sense conductors is formed by extruding a non-conductive jacket having first and second sense conductors in the upper section of the jacket, and severing the first sense conductor to create three unequal length sense conductor segments. Electrical termination to the sense and ground conductors can be made at the point where the first sense conductor is severed, or at the end of the sensor strip. In cases where only two sense conductor segments are needed, the third sense conductor segment is removed or simply un-used.Type: GrantFiled: December 4, 2007Date of Patent: April 27, 2010Assignee: STRATTEC Power Access LLCInventors: Zinovy Tyves, Gary D. Bree, Brent T. Repp, Seyed R. Zarabadi
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Publication number: 20100064705Abstract: The invention relates to a device for controlling a condensate lift pump (9), comprising a means for detecting at least two condensate levels in a container (20), and a means for activating and for stopping said pump (9) according to said levels, in which said detection means comprises a capacitive detector (101) comprising at least three electrodes (GE, RE, EOFF, EON, EA): a ground electrode (GE); a first level detection electrode (EOFF); and a second level detection electrode (EON), and a processing means (102) comprising a means for measuring the capacitance (C2, C3) between the electrodes. According to the invention, the lengths of said first level detection electrode (EOFF) and second level detection electrode (EON) are defined so as to come into contact with said condensates, when the condensates respectively reach said first level and said second level in said container (20); these electrodes are produced on distinct supports not having a submergible physical continuity between them.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 15, 2009Publication date: March 18, 2010Applicant: SAUERMANN INDUSTRIEInventors: Antoine CHAUVIN, Fabrice LÉZÉ, Michel BAILLON
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Patent number: 7656169Abstract: A capacitive occupant detection system has an oscillator and an electrode operatively coupled to the oscillator, to which the oscillator applies an oscillating voltage signal. In response to the oscillating voltage being applied, an electric current is caused to flow in the electrode, the current being responsive to an electric-field-influencing property of an object or occupant proximate to the electrode. The current caused to flow in the electrode has a first current component in phase with the oscillating voltage signal and a second current component 90°-phase-offset with respect to the oscillating voltage signal. A sensing circuit is operatively coupled to the electrode and to the oscillator so as to generate a first signal indicative of the first current component and a second signal indicative of the second current component.Type: GrantFiled: February 6, 2007Date of Patent: February 2, 2010Assignee: IEE International Electronics & Engineering S.A.Inventors: Ingrid Scheckenbach, Stephen Fuks, Frank Althaus, Thomas Krautheim, Christoph Wendt
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Patent number: 7590495Abstract: A method for calculating material properties of a material includes determining a dilatational wavespeed and a shear wave speed. The dilatational wavespeed is determined by conducting vertical vibration tests of two specimens of the material, one specimen being twice as thick as the other. Transfer functions are obtained from these tests and used to calculate the dilatational wavespeed. The shear wavespeed is determined by conducting horizontal vibration tests of two specimens with one specimen being twice as thick as the other. The shear wavespeed can be calculated from transfer functions obtained from these tests and the dilatational wavespeed. Other material properties can be calculated from the dilatational and shear wavespeeds. Frequency dependence of the properties can be determined by conducting the tests at different frequencies.Type: GrantFiled: July 2, 2007Date of Patent: September 15, 2009Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the NavyInventor: Andrew J. Hull
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Patent number: 7583092Abstract: A capacitive sensing apparatus includes capacitive sensor electrodes, and a combined guard and sensing electrode that is disposed proximate to the capacitive sensor electrodes. The combined guard and sensing electrode has at least a first operating mode and a second operating mode. In the first operating mode, the combined guard and sensing electrode can detect an object at a distance that is greater than the distance at which the object can be sensed by the capacitive sensor electrodes. In the second operating mode, the combined guard and sensing electrode can electrically guard the capacitive sensor electrodes.Type: GrantFiled: July 30, 2007Date of Patent: September 1, 2009Assignee: Synaptics IncorporatedInventors: Joseph K. Reynolds, Tracy S. Dattalo
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Patent number: 7584060Abstract: A method for calculating material properties of a material includes conducting two insertion loss tests of the material having a single thickness and a double thickness. These tests are conducted at a zero wavenumber. Utilizing these insertion loss tests, a dilatational wavespeed is computed. The method continues by calculating a shear wavespeed by performing three insertion loss tests of the material at single, double and triple thicknesses. These tests are conducted at a non-zero wavenumber. A shear wavespeed can be calculated from the dilatational wavespeed and these insertion loss tests. Lamé constants, Young's modulus, Poisson's ratio, and the shear modulus for the material of interest can then be calculated using the dilatational and shear wavespeeds.Type: GrantFiled: June 27, 2007Date of Patent: September 1, 2009Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the NavyInventor: Andrew J. Hull
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Patent number: 7578195Abstract: The invention relates to a flexible, resilient capacitive sensor suitable for large-scale manufacturing. The sensor comprises a dielectric, an electrically conductive layer on the first side of the dielectric layer, an electrically conductive layer on a second side of the dielectric layer, and a capacitance meter electrically connected to the two conductive layers to detect changes in capacitance upon application of a force to the detector. The conductive layers are configured to determine the position of the applied force. The sensor may be shielded to reduce the effects of outside interference.Type: GrantFiled: February 5, 2008Date of Patent: August 25, 2009Assignee: Milliken & CompanyInventors: Alfred R. DeAngelis, David Bruce Wilson, Brian A. Mazzeo
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Publication number: 20090206852Abstract: Methods, systems and devices are described for determining a measurable capacitance for proximity detection in a sensor having a plurality of sensing electrodes and at least one guarding electrode. A charge transfer process is executed for at least two executions. The charge transfer process includes applying a pre-determined voltage to at least one of the plurality of sensing electrodes using a first switch, applying a first guard voltage to the at least one guarding electrode using a second switch, sharing charge between the at least one of the plurality of sensing electrodes and a filter capacitance, and applying a second guard voltage different from the first guard voltage to the at least one guarding electrode. A voltage is measured on the filter capacitance for a number of measurements equal to at least one to produce at least one result to determine the measurable capacitance for proximity detection.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 13, 2009Publication date: August 20, 2009Applicant: SYNAPTICS INCORPORATEDInventor: Joseph Kurth REYNOLDS
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Patent number: 7564247Abstract: An operating element, in particular for a motor vehicle component, includes an actuating element that is movably supported in a carrier element and acts, in particular, on a switch element. To detect an approach of a user to the operating element, but at the same time to prevent a misdetection by a movable component, an electrically conductive sensor element of a capacitive proximity sensor and at least one shielding element are arranged in an interior space of the actuating element, the sensor element and the shielding element being connected to a printed circuit board in an electrically conducting fashion.Type: GrantFiled: June 22, 2006Date of Patent: July 21, 2009Assignee: Siemens AktiengesellschaftInventors: Frank Born, Norbert Mankel, Joerg Reinhardt, Stefan Schaefer, Dirk Wüstenbecker
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Patent number: 7548073Abstract: One type of capacitive sensing apparatus has a sensing element that includes a first portion and a second portion adjacent opposite edges of a sensing region. Signals from the first and second portions are combined. Another type of apparatus includes: a first sensing element including first and second portions; a second sensing element including third and fourth portions; and a third sensing element including fifth and sixth portions. The first, third and fifth portions form a first pattern, and the second, fourth and sixth portions form a second pattern. The patterns are bilaterally symmetrical about a median of a sensing region. In another type of apparatus, an electrical conductor coupled to a first sensing element passes through a gap in a second sensing element. An electrical conductor coupled to the second sensing element is dimensioned such that a capacitive coupling to the second sensing element is compensated for the gap.Type: GrantFiled: February 13, 2007Date of Patent: June 16, 2009Assignee: Synaptics IncorporatedInventors: Bob Lee Mackey, Mykola Golovchenko
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Patent number: 7548075Abstract: A capacitive proximity sensor comprising an emitter electrode (104) capacitively coupled to receive an electrode (102). A first active guard electrode (110), driven by the output of a unity gain amplifier (108), is provided in respect of the receive electrode (102), to shield parts thereof not facing a potential obstacle (122), and a grounded shield (126) is provided in respect of the emitter electrode (104) to shield parts thereof not facing a potential obstacle (122). A second active guard electrode (103) is provided between the emitter and receiver electrodes (104, 102), just behind the cover (106), which is also driven by the output of the amplifier (108). The second active guard electrode (103) acts to block shortened electric field lines (124) between the emitter and receiver electrodes (104, 102), thereby improving accuracy and reliability of the sensor.Type: GrantFiled: August 26, 2005Date of Patent: June 16, 2009Assignee: Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V.Inventor: Petrus Lambertus Maria Somers
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Patent number: 7548809Abstract: An apparatus for controlling and sensing a closure member (20) movable between an open position and a closed position, more particularly an electrically powered window pane (20) of a motor vehicle (10) is provided with a sensor. The sensor comprises a sensor electrode (40) generating an electric field (F) in an opening range of the closure member (20) and a controller (22) connected to the sensor which senses any change in capacitance of the sensor electrode (40) in providing a control signal. For detecting a film of moisture (23) formed by condensation on the closing member (20) by simple and relatively low-cost means, the controller (22) detects a change in capacitance of the sensor electrode (40) caused by the presence of a film of moisture (23) on the closure member (20).Type: GrantFiled: January 18, 2005Date of Patent: June 16, 2009Assignee: Metzeler Automotive Profile Systems GmbHInventor: Ing. Bernd Westerhoff
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Patent number: 7545155Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: April 20, 2007Date of Patent: June 9, 2009Assignee: Keithley Instruments, Inc.Inventor: Wayne C. Goeke
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Patent number: 7541816Abstract: In a capacitive sensor, a sensing electrode is positively charged, the sensing electrode and a sensing capacitor are charge-balanced, the sensing electrode is negatively charged, and then the sensing electrode and the sensing capacitor are again charge-balanced. The sensing electrode is positively and negatively charged in the same period when the capacitive sensor is sensed. So, the invention can not only effectively improve the high-frequency external interference but also effectively resist the interference when an external direct current electrical field approaches.Type: GrantFiled: August 27, 2008Date of Patent: June 2, 2009Assignee: Generalplus Technology Inc.Inventors: Tung-Tsai Liao, Li Sheng Lo
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Patent number: 7521942Abstract: Methods, systems and devices are described for determining a measurable capacitance for proximity detection in a sensor having a plurality of sensing electrodes and at least one guarding electrode. A charge transfer process is executed for at least two executions. The charge transfer process includes applying a pre-determined voltage to at least one of the plurality of sensing electrodes using a first switch, applying a first guard voltage to the at least one guarding electrode using a second switch, sharing charge between the at least one of the plurality of sensing electrodes and a filter capacitance, and applying a second guard voltage different from the first guard voltage to the at least one guarding electrode. A voltage is measured on the filter capacitance for a number of measurements equal to at least one to produce at least one result to determine the measurable capacitance for proximity detection.Type: GrantFiled: October 29, 2007Date of Patent: April 21, 2009Assignee: Synaptics, Inc.Inventor: Joseph Kurth Reynolds
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Publication number: 20090079444Abstract: An operator detection and presence device includes a conductive sensor and a guard electrode. The sensor and electrode are physically located and electrically connected in a manner which helps the detection circuit measure if an operator's hand is on the handle or if the change in capacitance is due to water. The sensor and electrode are preferably physically located in the handle spaced apart from one another, where the sensor is located in an area that the operator will touch. The electrode is located in an area that the operator will not generally touch. A detection circuit is connected to the sensor and electrode for measuring whether the capacitance of the sensor has changed. The electrode is used to avoid false detections and/or the ability to detect of operator presence.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 29, 2008Publication date: March 26, 2009Applicant: Vermeer Manufacturing CompanyInventors: Yuriy Khapochkin, Hans Kelpe
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Publication number: 20090045824Abstract: A capacitive proximity sensor is described for mounting to a body for sensing external objects. The sensor comprises a dielectric film substrate (2) having front and rear major surfaces which, in use of the sensor, face respectively outward from and towards the body; a sensor conductor (6) on the front major surface, and a guard conductor (8) on the rear major surface to provide an electrical shield for the sensor conductor. The sensor is configured so that electrical contact can be made to the sensor conductor and to the guard conductor at the edge of the film substrate. In one embodiment, this is achieved through the provision of a tongue portion (5) which extends from a peripheral edge (4a) of a main part (4) of the substrate, and onto which the sensor and guard conductors extend to provide respective terminals (10, 12) by which external electrical connections can be made to the sensor.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 19, 2007Publication date: February 19, 2009Inventors: Malcolm F. Douglas, David Cook, Richard A. Loyd
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Publication number: 20090033343Abstract: A capacitive sensing apparatus includes capacitive sensor electrodes, and a combined guard and sensing electrode that is disposed proximate to the capacitive sensor electrodes. The combined guard and sensing electrode has at least a first operating mode and a second operating mode. In the first operating mode, the combined guard and sensing electrode can detect an object at a distance that is greater than the distance at which the object can be sensed by the capacitive sensor electrodes. In the second operating mode, the combined guard and sensing electrode can electrically guard the capacitive sensor electrodes.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 30, 2007Publication date: February 5, 2009Inventors: Joseph K. Reynolds, Tracy S. Dattalo
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Publication number: 20090001999Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a capacitive sensor film (50) for mounting to a body, said film comprising a backing layer (2) having, on one side, a rear major surface (2a) facing, in use, the body and, on the other side, a front major surface (2b), said rear major surface (2a) bearing a guard conductor (1) and said front major surface (2b) bearing a sensor conductor (7), and at least on through-going hole (10) extending through the backing layer to enable electrical contact to be made to one of the conductors from the respectively opposite side of the film, wherein the inner wall of the through-going hole is covered, at least partly, by an electrically-insulating film (11).Type: ApplicationFiled: January 19, 2007Publication date: January 1, 2009Inventor: Malcolm F. Douglas
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Patent number: 7466146Abstract: An electric field sensor may be used to detect accumulation of frozen material. In one embodiment, an e-field system includes a first electrode, a second electrode located at a distance from the first electrode, the second electrode forming a capacitive element with the first electrode, wherein a gap is present between the first and second electrodes, and an electric field sensor having an electrode terminal coupled to the first electrode and providing an electric field output value representative of an amount of frozen material located in the gap between the first and second electrodes. The system may also include a first insulator adjacent the first electrode and outside the gap, and a conductive layer adjacent the first insulator, where the first insulator is between the first electrode and the conductive layer, and where a shield output of the electric field sensor is coupled to the conductive layer.Type: GrantFiled: March 10, 2006Date of Patent: December 16, 2008Assignee: Freescale Semiconductor, Inc.Inventors: Bradley Clayton Stewart, Sergio Garcia de Alba Garcin, Rogelio Reyna Garcia, Gabriel Sanchez Barba, David L. Wilson
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Publication number: 20080231292Abstract: A device for capacitive measurement by a floating bridge, including: a sensor module including at least one measuring electrode and at least one guard electrode arranged close to a target connected to a general earth, at least one integrated circuit for capacitive measurement, provided with a guard to which the guard electrode is connected, having an input connected to the measuring electrode, a guard connected to the reference earth of the integrated circuit, an excitation output connected to the general earth, a measurement output, and structure for supplying the integrated circuit for capacitive measurement in floating mode.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 22, 2006Publication date: September 25, 2008Inventors: Frederic Ossart, Didier Roziere
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Publication number: 20080211519Abstract: A code-type sensor for detecting a change in capacitance includes a plurality of detection electrodes for detecting a change in capacitance, a shield electrode surrounding the plurality of detection electrodes so as to restrict a detection range of the capacitance and having an opening in a direction of detection, and a contact detecting electrode for detecting contact disposed along a longitudinal direction of the sensor. The detection electrodes are disposed at a position close to the opening in the shield electrode and at a position far from the opening in the shield electrode. The contact detecting electrode is disposed on a back side in the direction of detection of the shield electrode.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 20, 2008Publication date: September 4, 2008Applicants: OMRON CORPORATION, HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.Inventors: Yukinori Kurumado, Keiichi Nagayama, Masato Kasashima, Hiroyuki Sueyasu, Ryuichi Nakano, Taizo Kikuchi
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Patent number: 7417441Abstract: Methods, systems and devices are described for determining a measurable capacitance for proximity detection in a sensor having a plurality of sensing electrodes and at least one guarding electrode. A charge transfer process is executed for at least two executions. The charge transfer process includes applying a pre-determined voltage to at least one of the plurality of sensing electrodes using a first switch, applying a first guard voltage to the at least one guarding electrode using a second switch, sharing charge between the at least one of the plurality of sensing electrodes and a filter capacitance, and applying a second guard voltage different from the first guard voltage to the at least one guarding electrode. A voltage is measured on the filter capacitance for a number of measurements equal to at least one to produce at least one result to determine the measurable capacitance for proximity detection.Type: GrantFiled: August 3, 2007Date of Patent: August 26, 2008Assignee: Synaptics IncorporatedInventor: Joseph Kurth Reynolds
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Patent number: 7417418Abstract: An electrically operated, particle detecting, or characterizing, sensor structured as a thin film multilayer sandwich. Three or more electrodes are deposited onto thin layers of film, and stacked to form the sandwich. A representative stacking arrangement provides a pair of stimulated electrodes spaced apart from an intermediate measurement electrode by insulating layers of thin film. A fluid conducting channel, having an axis perpendicular to the film layers, provides electrolytic electrical communication between the three electrodes. Contact pads, arranged to permit electrical interrogation of the electrodes by electrical circuitry, are desirably arranged for access to electrical interrogation probes from a single side of the sensor. Certain sensors may be included in single-use, disposable cartridges adapted for analysis by an interrogation platform.Type: GrantFiled: June 14, 2006Date of Patent: August 26, 2008Inventor: Harold E. Ayliffe
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Patent number: 7414414Abstract: A guarded sense impedance for use in a measurement instrument includes a sense impedance adapted to have a spatially distributed electrical potential and at least one guard structure adapted to have the spatially distributed electrical potential. The guard structure is arranged to provide a spatially distributed guard potential for the sense impedance.Type: GrantFiled: July 19, 2006Date of Patent: August 19, 2008Assignee: Keithley Instruments, Inc.Inventors: James A. Niemann, John Gibbons, Kevin Cawley, Wayne C. Goeke
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Patent number: 7403025Abstract: A membrane probing assembly includes a probe card with conductors supported thereon, wherein the conductors include at least a signal conductor located between a pair of spaced apart guard conductors. A membrane assembly includes a membrane with contacts thereon, and supporting at least a signal conductor located between a pair of spaced apart guard conductors. The guard conductors of the probe card are electrically interconnected proximate the interconnection between the probe card and the membrane assembly. The guard conductors of the membrane assembly are electrically interconnected proximate the interconnection between the probe card and the membrane assembly.Type: GrantFiled: August 23, 2006Date of Patent: July 22, 2008Assignee: Cascade Microtech, Inc.Inventors: Paul A. Tervo, Kenneth R. Smith, Clarence E. Cowan, Mike P. Dauphinais, Martin J. Koxxy
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Patent number: 7400153Abstract: A detector for detecting an object that may be feared to or about to be caught by a closing door such as a slide door of a vehicle incorporates a capacitance sensor with a directionality characteristic in the direction of its detection surface. The detector has a main body enclosing detection electrodes, an insulating material placed in between and a shield electrode serving to provide the directionality. A protective cover may cover the shield electrode and the detection electrodes. A water-repellant finish may be provided at least on a portion of the outer surface of the main body including the detection surface for preventing water drops from remaining or becoming larger. A plurality of mutually adjacent protrusions may be formed on the protective cover with thickness decreasing in the direction of protrusion for making it difficult for water drops to remain.Type: GrantFiled: April 20, 2006Date of Patent: July 15, 2008Assignees: OMRON Corporation, Honda Motor Co., Ltd., Mitsuba CorporationInventors: Shinichi Shoji, Akihiro Okushima, Hiroyuki Sueyasu, Keiichi Nagayama, Yukinori Kurumado
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Publication number: 20080111563Abstract: The device for examining a solid, elongate product to be tested contains a measurement capacitor with a measurement part-electrode and guard electrodes electrically insulated therefrom. The device further comprises means for applying an alternating voltage to the measurement capacitor for the purpose of generating an alternating electrical field in the measurement capacitor. The guard electrodes are set up for active guarding, in that, with regard to the alternating voltage, they are kept at the same potential as the measurement part-electrode. Differently thick products to be tested may be tested with one and the same measurement head thanks to the active guarding. The signal noise is reduced, the output signal is largely independent of the position of the product to be tested in the transverse direction, and the measurement head has small geometric dimensions.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 6, 2006Publication date: May 15, 2008Applicant: USTER TECHNOLOGIES AGInventors: Philipp Ott, Peter Schmid
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Patent number: 7358741Abstract: A shielding member is provided as an electrostatic protection device in extension lines that extend from a sensing area to switching devices via extension areas correspondingly. As a result, even if a body to be detected such as a finger contacts the extension area, it is possible to reduce the amount of the change of an electrostatic capacitance with respect to the movement of the body to be detected. Therefore, it is possible to reduce influences exerted on data to be detected, and an electrostatic detection apparatus having improved coordinate detection accuracy can be provided.Type: GrantFiled: May 23, 2005Date of Patent: April 15, 2008Assignee: Alps Electric Co., LtdInventors: Tadamitsu Sato, Shuzo Ono