Abstract: A method for determining an aggregate state of an operating liquid in an operating liquid container for a motor vehicle, which operating liquid container has at least one capacitor fastened to a container wall of the operating liquid container and has a first electrode and a second electrode opposite said first electrode. A first method determines the aggregate state of the operating liquid by means of a frequency-dependent phase profile of the impedance of the at least one capacitor. Another method determines the aggregate state of the operating liquid by means of a frequency-dependent capacitance profile of the at least one capacitor. Further, an operating liquid container is designed for carrying out the methods.

Abstract: A method and a device for generating a signal which indicates the imminent formation of slipperiness on a roadway (2) before this arises on the roadway, wherein radiation reflected from the roadway, or from a point adjacent to the roadway, is evaluated, which radiation emanates from at least one reference surface (11) arranged in or on the roadway or the adjacent point, which reference surface is formed by a material different from the roadway covering material. The reference surface is selected from a material on which slipperiness is formed earlier than on the road surface material. The signal (13) is emitted when the evaluation shows that slipperiness has formed on the reference surface (11).

Abstract: A defrost system is disclosed that includes a cooling device disposed in a freezer, a heat exchanger pipe leading into a casing, a drain receiver unit; a refrigerating device for cooling and liquefying CO2 refrigerant; a refrigerant circuit for permitting the CO2 refrigerant to circulate to the heat exchanger pipe; a defrost circuit branched from the heat exchanger pipe forming a CO2 circulation path with the heat exchanger pipe; an on-off valve so that the CO2 circulation path becomes a closed circuit; a pressure adjusting unit for adjusting the pressure of the CO2 refrigerant; and a first heat exchanger unit for heating the CO2 refrigerant circulating with brine, disposed below the cooling device to which the defrost circuit and a first brine circuit in which brine, a first heating medium, circulates, are led, in which the CO2 refrigerant naturally circulates in the closed circuit when defrosting by a thermosiphon effect.

Abstract: An active frost warning system for the forecasting and/or detection of active frost conditions by determining the surface or skin temperature of an active frost sensor and comparing the surface or skin temperature with outside ambient temperature and frost point temperature is provided. The system predicts active frost conditions when the surface or skin temperature of the sensor is less than frost point temperature or when the rate of cooling of the surface or skin temperature indicates that the surface or skin temperature of the sensor will be less than the frost point temperature in the future.

Abstract: Technologies for communicating roadway information includes a plurality of roadway markers configured to propagate communications amongst each other. To do so, each roadway marker is configured to transmit communications to one or more other roadway markers. The communications may include sensor data generated by a sensor of a roadway marker. One or more roadway markers may transmit the sensor data to a roadway controller. Additionally or alternatively, the communication may include an alert message. A roadway marker may include a local alert device and be configured to activate the alert device in response to receiving an alert message. Additionally, one or more roadway markers may communicate with a roadway controller, a roadway traffic device, and/or an in-vehicle computing system of a vehicle to propagate roadway marker sensor data and/or alert messages. The roadway controller may be configured to control the roadway traffic devices, roadway makers, and/or communicate with remote computing devices.

Abstract: A method of detecting a fault in a de-icer probe for measuring a physical parameter on an airplane engine, the method including: prior to starting an engine, measuring a first value of the physical parameter with help of the probe; activating the probe de-icer; at an end of a determined duration from a start of de-icing, measuring a second value of the parameter with help of the probe; and comparing the first and second values and generating a fault signal if the difference between the first and second values is less than a determined threshold.

Abstract: A smoke alarm comprises smoke detection circuitry for detecting smoke and generating a detection signal responsive thereto. Proximity detection circuitry generates a proximity detection signal responsive to detection of an object within in a selected distance of the smoke alarm. Alarm generation circuitry generates an audible alarm responsive to the detection signal. The audible alarm may be deactivated for a predetermined period of time responsive to at least one proximity detection signal.

Abstract: A safety monitoring system for a catenary system that includes an overhead wire, a support pole and a counterweight attached to the end of the overhead wire and suspended by the support pole. The catenary safety monitoring system includes a temperature sensor for detecting an ambient temperature, a position sensor for detecting a position of the counterweight and an electronic controller. The electronic controller compares a detected position of the counterweight with a predicted position determined by the electronic controller using an ambient temperature from the temperature sensor. A message transmitter provides a warning to a user if the detected position of counterweight is not within a predetermined percentage of the predicted position.

Abstract: Disclosed are alternate embodiments of various components of a barrier operator system. and methods of operation, including of the mechanical drive subsystem with segmented and self-locking rail unit, rail mounting supports, belt and chain drive tensioning, and drive assembly carriage and interface; the electronics and software routines for controlled operation of the various barrier operator functions; wall console communications with the barrier operator; encryption and decryption of access codes; establishment and monitoring of travel limits and barrier speed and force profiles; thermal protection of barrier operator drive motors; and establishment and control of communications from the barrier operator to accessories by way of a wireless adapter.

Abstract: A system (10) and method (50) for controlling the transmission power of a node (14) that includes at least one base station (12), at least one node (14), a sensor (16), and a control unit (20). The node (14) is in communication with the base station (12). The sensor (16) is integrated with each of the nodes (14), wherein the sensor (16) collects data that includes at least the amount of combustible material (18) proximate to the node (14). The control unit (20) is integrated with each node (14) and configures the transmission power of each of the nodes (14) based upon the data collected by the sensor (16).

Abstract: One embodiment involves detecting the fouling of an air filter used to filter airflow entering a computer system. An expected airflow rate is obtained from a current fan speed. An expected temperature rise between two positions is computed as a function of the expected airflow rate and the power consumption of heat-generating components, such as servers. An actual temperature rise is obtained from temperature sensors. An electronic alert is automatically generated in response to the actual temperature rise exceeding the expected temperature rise by a setpoint. Different setpoints may be used to trigger distinct electronic alerts.

Abstract: Method and arrangement for monitoring an atmosphere includes a sensor system arranged to obtain data about the atmosphere at its location and a communications system coupled to the sensor system for providing data obtained by the sensor system to a monitoring facility, e.g., by wireless transmits, which monitors the atmosphere. A location determining system may be arranged in connection with the sensor system for determining the location thereof. The communication system is coupled to the location determining system and transmits the location of the sensor system along with the data obtained by the sensor system to the remote facility.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for indicating a process temperature anomaly during a power outage comprising employing a power source separate from that powering the process, setting a temperature set point; sensing presence and absence of power powering the process, sensing process temperature; and indicating to users that an absence of power was sensed and that the temperature sensed during the absence of power was below (or above) the temperature set point.

Abstract: An enclosed space monitoring system includes a controller and a plurality of sensors. The sensors may include a humidity sensor, a water presence sensor, a water pump operation sensor, a temperature sensor, a radon gas detector, a propane or natural gas detector, a smoke sensor, a carbon monoxide detector and a motion sensor. Environmental parameter data obtained by the sensors is stored within a memory connected to the controller. The controller sends the data to a remote facility periodically and/or when the data indicates a potential condition within the space needing attention or remediation. The sent data is stored at the remote facility and may be accessed by a technician or an owner of the space. Also, the data may be comparatively studied relative to earlier data from the same space and to data collected in similar spaces to discern a potential condition needing attention or remediation.

Abstract: Apparatus and a method are described for prospecting for water ice on heavenly bodies with the apparatus consisting of site preparation tools and a water ice detector unit. The apparatus is attached at the end of any robotic arm equipped lander or rover spacecraft; for instance, lander designs such as Mars Phoenix or rover designs such as Mars Spirit and Opportunity. Supported on an internal, moveable carriage, the apparatus is also incorporated into smaller, dedicated water ice detection rover spacecraft. The water ice detection unit inserts electrodes into or against a potential water ice deposit and confirms the presence of water ice by making combination impedance and thermal conductivity measurements.

Abstract: Detecting a state of icing in a turbomachine fuel circuit includes reading information representative of a first temperature T1 of the fuel downstream from the metering unit, and of comparing the first temperature T1 with a first reference temperature T01. The method also includes detecting clogging of the filter unit. In the event of the temperature reading T1 being less than the first reference temperature T01 and of clogging being detected, a signal indicative of an icing state in the fuel circuit is issued. Information representative of a second fuel temperature T2 in the tank may be read and compared with a reference temperature T02 in order to confirm or contradict the icing state. A signal indicating a need for maintenance of the fuel circuit is issued when the temperature readings T1 and T2 are not less than the reference temperatures T01 and T02 and clogging has been detected.

Abstract: Systems and methods which facilitate wireless communications within a controlled environment in a controlled manner are shown. Embodiments operate to recognize wireless communications, whether voice, text, video, or data, terminating within a controlled environment facility and control one or more aspects of the communication using a call processing platform or other communication control system. In addition to providing a higher percentage of calls completed calls, embodiments of the invention provide improved investigatory tools for the controlled environment facility through controlling, monitoring, redirecting, and/or interrupting wireless communications. Embodiments deploy one or more wireless communication nodes in communication with a call processing platform operating in association with the controlled environment facility, such that wireless communications passing through the wireless communication nodes are subject to call processing by the call processing platform.

Abstract: Methods for determining need for treating a vehicle travel surface include sensing, at a first time, a characteristic of a vehicle travel surface from a mobile sensor. Sensed characteristics include temperature, friction coefficient, material volumetric buildup, e.g., composition, such as an amount or percentage of ice or snow, density, depth, freeze point and chemical concentrations. The sensed characteristic is recorded as a first measurement in a database, and GIS information correlating a location with the first measurement is attached. The characteristic of the vehicle travel surface is sensed at a second time, at the location, and recorded in the database, for example as a second measurement. GIS information correlating the location with the second measurement may be attached, and the first and second measurements compared.

Abstract: An optical system for detecting ice and water on the surface of an aircraft includes an elongated transparent optical element having first and second end portions. A light source and light detector are disposed in one end of the optical element and a reflective surface is disposed in the opposite end portion. The reflective surface defines a critical angle and reflects light from the light source to the light detector when the critical angle is in contact with air and refracts the light toward the external environment when the reflective surface is in contact with ice or water. The system may also incorporate an optical element wherein the reflective surface includes a continuous array of convex elements extending outwardly from and across one end of the optical element and wherein each of the convex elements defines a critical angle.

Abstract: A thermal stimulation apparatus for vehicles capable of exerting an effect of, for example, reducing fatigue and improving the physical condition of a vehicle occupant. In a vehicle thermal stimulation apparatus 10, the piezoelectric sensor 26 detects a biorhythm accompanying a periodic change in an occupant, a control circuit 16 switches on and off heater elements 22, 24 on the basis of the detection result of the biorhythm detector such that by the heater elements 22, 24 being switched on and off, thermal stimulus to the occupant is synchronized with the biorhythm of the occupant. It is thereby possible to exert effects of, for example, reducing fatigue and improving the physical condition of a vehicle occupant.

Abstract: A surface condition sensing and treatment system includes a transmitter for transmitting electromagnetic radiation (EMR) toward a surface material disposed upon a vehicle travel surface. Reflected EMR is received and signals indicative of the reflected EMR are processed to produce output corresponding to a characteristic of the surface material. Characteristics include friction, depth and composition, including ice present in the surface material. Sensing may be locally or remotely, automatically or manually initiated. The system may include a display and at least one computer with a database of surface material characteristics, historical, environmental and GIS positional information. Sensed characteristics processed with database information may determine a surface treatment, according to a selected outcome or level of service. A spreader system applies the surface treatment responsive to local, remote, automatic or manual command.

Abstract: The present invention is an ASIC-controlled alarm unit. The ASIC circuit performs all the necessary control functions to provide audible and visual signaling when used with external horn and strobe circuits.

Abstract: An apparatus for detecting the presence of ice includes a sensory circuit including a sensor operable to be coupled to a surface exposed to moisture. The sensory circuit is operable to create an electromagnetic standing wave. A heating element is coupled to the surface and a first transmission line. A first source is coupled to the first transmission line and is operable to inject a driving signal into the first transmission line, the driving signal being operable to drive the heating element. A mixing element is coupled to the sensory circuit and first transmission line and is operable to produce a mixed signal from the driving signal and a measure of the standing wave. A comparator is operable to compare at least one characteristic of the mixed signal with reference data for determining the presence of ice contacting the sensor.

Abstract: A low cost flame sensing system having at last one floating point. For instance, the system may have two grounds. There may be a flame sensing rod for detecting a flame which has a model circuit which appears upon the existence of the flame proximate to the sensing rod. The sensing rod may function without an explicit or dedicated excitation source connected to it. There may be diagnostics in the system for detecting leakage or shorts of the sensing rod to ground. Also, the system may have AC grounding phase detection.

Abstract: An optical system for detecting ice and water on the surface of an aircraft includes an elongated transparent optical element having first and second end portions. A light source and light detector are disposed in one end of the optical element and a reflective surface is disposed in the opposite end portion. The reflective surface defines a critical angle and reflects light from the light source to the light detector when the critical angle is in contact with air and refracts the light toward the external environment when the reflective surface is in contact with ice or water. The system may also incorporate an optical element wherein the reflective surface includes a continuous array of convex elements extending outwardly from and across one end of the optical element and wherein each of the convex elements defines a critical angle.

Abstract: A detection mechanism for monitoring airflow in an electronics enclosure includes a first thermal sensor positioned proximate the enclosure for measuring an ambient air temperature and a second thermal sensor positioned proximate an exit air stream for measuring the temperature of air that is heated by the electronics in the enclosure. A control circuit is coupled with the first and second thermal sensors and is configured for determining a temperature differential between the measured temperatures of the thermal sensors. The control circuit may initiate an alarm when the temperature differential exceeds a setpoint thereby indicating restricted airflow in the enclosure. The control circuit might also take other remedial steps prior to initiating the alarm.

Abstract: An apparatus for detecting the presence of ice includes a sensor including a radio-frequency transmission line providing a characteristic impedance, a source coupled to the transmission line and operable to inject a wave into the transmission line, a summer operable to create standing wave, the standing wave including the sum of the injected wave and a reflected wave reflected by the end of the transmission line, the summer being connected between the source and the transmission line, and a detector for detecting the voltage of the standing wave. An embodiment may further include a comparator operable to compare the detected voltage with reference data for determining the presence of ice contacting the sensor.

Abstract: Methods for determining need for treating a vehicle travel surface include sensing, at a first time, a characteristic of a vehicle travel surface from a mobile sensor. Sensed characteristics include temperature, friction coefficient, material volumetric buildup, e.g., composition, such as an amount or percentage of ice or snow, density, depth, freeze point and chemical concentrations. The sensed characteristic is recorded as a first measurement in a database, and GIS information correlating a location with the first measurement is attached. The characteristic of the vehicle travel surface is sensed at a second time, at the location, and recorded in the database, for example as a second measurement. GIS information correlating the location with the second measurement may be attached, and the first and second measurements compared.

Abstract: System and method are disclosed for monitoring slurry from a central location and replenishing the slurry as needed. The method/system allows a slurry supplier to track various properties of the slurry, as well as monitor various aspects of the slurry storage and delivery system. When the volume of slurry at the remote location falls below a predetermined point, the slurry supplier can schedule both the production of the appropriate slurry and its timely delivery to the customer. Changes in the condition of existing slurry, as well as leaks and other malfunctions in the slurry storage system, may be promptly detected and the slurry supplier immediately notified so that corrective actions may be taken. Multiple slurry storage systems at several remote locations may be monitored simultaneously from the central location. Such an arrangement offers a complete, one-stop solution to customers whose businesses depend on a reliable supply of “field ready” slurry.

Abstract: A temperature warning system for a heavy-duty vehicle, having at least one axle formed with an inner diameter. The axle includes a pair of spindle ends, and a wheel end assembly rotatably mounted on each spindle end. A thermal switch is disposed in the inner diameter of at least one of the axle spindle ends. The switch is electrically connected to a control module to form a closed electrical circuit, and the control module is electrically connected to an indicator device. When the temperature of the switch reaches a predetermined minimum temperature, such as from undesirable increased temperature in the axle spindle end and/or the wheel end assembly, the switch opens, breaking the closed electrical circuit, and causing the control module to activate the indicator device. The indicator device is viewable by the vehicle operator during its operation, thus warning the operator of the undesirable high temperature condition.

Abstract: Ice detection apparatus for monitoring ice accretion on aircraft surfaces, comprising an array of optical fibres which are mounted flush with an outer surface of an aircraft skin, and an intermediately located electromagnetic radiation emitter which is provided by an optical fibre. In use radiation is emitted by the emitter generally outwardly of the aircraft surface, and the layer of accreted ice diffuses the emitted radiation scattered and reflected. The diffused radiation is detected by the sensors, and the spatial distribution of the detected intensity diffused radiation about the emitter can be used to calculate the thickness of the layer of ice and the type of ice.

Abstract: A method and a measuring arrangement for monitoring the condition of a grinder stone of a pulp grinder. A temperature profile for a grinding surface of the grinder stone is determined substantially along the entire length of the grinder stone, a variable representing at least one piece of temperature data of the grinding surface of the grinder stone is determined on the basis of said temperature profile, and the variable representing said temperature data is compared with a reference variable corresponding to said temperature data. If this variable differs from the reference variable in a predefined manner, the state relating to the condition of the grinder stone is identified as abnormal.

Abstract: A system for a virtual frost sensor is disclosed including a method for operating the virtual frost sensor. The method includes determining a first temperature indicative of a fluid upstream of the component and determining a second temperature indicative of a fluid downstream of the component. The method also includes sensing at least one engine parameter and determining a first parameter as a function of the at least one engine parameter. The method further includes determining a third temperature indicative of a temperature associated with the engine component as a function of the first temperature, the second temperature, and the first parameter.

Abstract: Apparatus, methods, and systems for ice detection, e.g., ice detection using a reference probe and a collection probe to detect ice formation on an aircraft.

Abstract: An ice detection system that detects the onset of ice accreation on an aircraft's external surfaces, continuously measures its thickness and growth time history and provides the type of ice, glaze or rime, is disclosed along with an independent way to confirm that the contaminant is known to be ice and only ice. Total impedance data, thermal conductivity value and complex dielectric properties are used to discriminate between ice, water, deicing fluid and snow with measurements made by low cost, low power consumption, low profile, miniature electronic chips, components and devices collocated together on the external surface in a thin pliant patch that does not effect the airflow about the aircraft. The ice detection system provides ice accreation data and warning signals to displays and aural signaling devices in the cockpit for the pilot and to the control console of a ground controller flying the aircraft if it is unmanned.

Abstract: An optical system for detecting ice and water on the surface of an aircraft includes an elongated transparent optical element having first and second end portions. A light source and light detector are disposed in one end of the optical element and a reflective surface is disposed in the opposite end portion. The reflective surface defines a critical angle and reflects light from the light source to the light detector when the critical angle is in contact with air and refracts the light toward the external environment when the reflective surface is in contact with ice or water. The system may also incorporate an optical element wherein the reflective surface includes a continuous array of convex elements extending outwardly from and across one end of the optical element and wherein each of the convex elements defines a critical angle.

Abstract: Methods for determining need for treating a vehicle travel surface include sensing, at a first time, a characteristic of a vehicle travel surface from a mobile sensor. Sensed characteristics include temperature, friction coefficient, material volumetric buildup, e.g., composition, such as an amount or percentage of ice or snow, density, depth, freeze point and chemical concentrations. The sensed characteristic is recorded as a first measurement in a database, and GIS information correlating a location with the first measurement is attached. The characteristic of the vehicle travel surface is sensed at a second time, at the location, and recorded in the database, for example as a second measurement. GIS information correlating the location with the second measurement may be attached, and the first and second measurements compared.

Abstract: A method and system for monitoring the temperature of dies during the processing of thermoplastics. A non-contact infrared remote sensor is configured to remotely monitor each die of a cuber extruder. The face of the cuber dies is divided into four quadrants. A sensor is aimed at the center of mass of each quadrant. The selected sensors are equipped with lenses that have an active sensing area that includes the entire surface of the quadrant, but none of the area of the adjacent quadrants. The signal from each sensor is sent to a temperature controller co-processor directly linked to an industrial control computer. The co-processor executes a modified proportional integral derivative algorithm with the response limits tuned to respond specifically to the thermal inertial factors represented by the cuber die ring and the material being cubed. In addition to the remote sensors, additional infrared or ultrasound sensors are used to insure that the air space between the sensors and the dies is unobstructed.

Abstract: A system for detecting ice formation on metal, painted metal and other material surfaces can include a transparent window having an exterior surface upon which ice can form; a light source and optics configured and arranged to illuminate the exterior surface of the window from behind the exterior surface; and a detector and optics configured and arranged to receive light backscattered by the exterior surface and any ice disposed on the exterior surface and determine the thickness of the ice layer. For example, the system can be used with aircraft by placing one or more windows in the wings of the aircraft. The system is used for a novel optical method for real-time on-board detection and warning of ice formation on surfaces of airplanes, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), and other vehicles and stationary structures to improve their safety and operation.

Abstract: Apparatus, methods, system and devices for monitoring road surface temperature to detect hazardous road surface conditions. An indicator provides the sensed road surface temperature and hazardous road condition warning to a driver while a tail light interface automatically produce a tail light signal to warn drivers traveling behind the vehicle when a hazardous condition is detected. In an embodiment, the system includes a vehicle engine retardation system interfaced with the hazardous road condition warning system. When the retardation system is in use and hazardous road surface conditions are detected the controller automatically produces the brake light signal unless a tail light control switch is used to manually deactivating the automatic tail light flashing signal when the vehicle is traveling in a state that does not allow alternative control of the brake lights.

Abstract: In a flammable vapor sensor-based shut-off system of a fuel-fired water heater the sensor resistance output signal degradation caused by aging of the sensor is automatically compensated for using an operational timer having an output signal indicative of the total life of the sensor subsequent to its installation on the water heater. In one embodiment of the system, a resistance adjustment signal having a magnitude related in a predetermined manner to the timer output signal is created and added to the sensor resistance output signal. In another embodiment, the timer output signal is used to appropriately adjust the minimum-maximum received sensor signal magnitude range, based on the installed age of the sensor, which will preclude combustion in the appliance. Additionally, in each embodiment thereof the system is provided with an improved initial minimum-maximum sensor signal magnitude range. Other types of shut-off gas sensors may be alternatively utilized.

Abstract: A circuit is disclosed for detecting and eliminating the buildup of snow and/or ice on the viewable face of an LED traffic signal lens. The circuit measures the ambient temperature within the LED signal, and when the temperature falls to a level where snow and/or ice accumulation can occur, the circuit begins looking for snow and/or ice buildup on the lens of the LED signal. An infrared LED transmits a signal which is reflected when snow or ice is present on the lens of the traffic signal. When the reflected signal is received by an infrared receiver, it sends a signal to a microcontroller, which analyzes the signal to determine if it is a valid signal. If it is, a heater is turned on until the ice and snow are removed.

Abstract: A system for monitoring the ambient conditions of a mammalian joint, and particularly a joint that has been instrumented with a joint endoprosthesis includes a sensor supported by a component of the joint endoprosthesis. The system includes a transmission element that is also supported within the body of the patient, preferably within the endoprosthesis. The transmission element transmits a signal indicative of the sensed ambient condition within the instrumented joint. For example, the sensor can be a temperature sensor used to evaluate the temperature within a joint, such as a hip joint, during activity or exercise by the patient.

Abstract: The method is for warning for alcohol fueled fires in vehicles such as racing vehicles. The method comprises providing a vehicle (44) with an engine (46) fueled by alcohol. Sensors (20, 22, 24) are mounted adjacent to the engine. The sensors sense a trigger temperature (54, 56, 58) of an alcohol-fueled fire (62) and send a signal to a central unit (12). The central unit activates a smoke generator (41) to generate a visible smoke (60) in response to the signal from the sensors.

Abstract: Upon detection of a flammable gas condition, an intelligent thermostat regulates operation of appliances that have sources of ignition which could be the source of or may ignite the flammable gas. This hazardous condition is detected by a flammable gas detector and is communicated to the intelligent thermostat by wired or wireless communications. The intelligent thermostat then communicates with these appliances either via wired or wireless communications. The intelligent thermostat may also provide a visual warning user interface screen to inform the occupant of the hazardous condition, and may signal smoke detectors in the dwelling to sound an audible flammable gas warning. Alternatively, the flammable gas detector may signal the smoke detectors in the dwelling to sound an audible flammable gas warning directly.

Abstract: A system and apparatus for detecting and evaluating surface conditions on a road surface and atmospheric conditions simultaneously from a vehicle includes a sensor for detecting the presence of deposited material on a road surface, a detector for determining one or more characteristics of the deposited material such as freezing temperature, process means for converting a detected signal and display means for displaying the condition of the road surface, and a sensor for detecting falling precipitation. An embodiment of the present invention includes a remote sensing apparatus which utilizes electromagnetic radiation to sense actual surface material conditions, temperatures, and composition and local atmospheric conditions at the vehicle as it is moving over a travel surface. This information is then processed through a computer in order to determine those additional steps necessary to apply additional materials to the road surface in order to minimize hazardous driving conditions.

Abstract: A wireless communication and global location enabled intelligent health monitoring system comprising of a plurality of wireless medical sensor apparatus that include an active sensor, a transducer, a digital-to analog converter, a frequency synthesis, a plurality of bandpass filter, a plurality of linear power amplifier, a signal mixer, a packaged antenna, a thin-film battery, for measuring patient vital signs on different parts of patient body, and a main processing unit apparatus that contains a system software including intelligent controller which uses active, real-time monitoring method to measure and process vital signs and location information for providing alert on location and transmitting emergency request to remote patient monitoring station for immediate assistance. Intelligent controller and all application tasks of said system software are running under separate parallel execution threads.

Abstract: An intelligent thermostat communicates with threat detectors to allow periodic remote testing of the detector. The real-time clock and calendar functions of the thermostat allow the consumer to program the day, time, and frequency of the testing. The thermostat then communicates a test control signal to each of the detectors to initiate the self-test. The communication may be wired or wireless. During testing the thermostat displays a detector test screen. Upon completion of the self-test, the thermostat displays a test results screen for user confirmation. This results screen will indicate that the test passed or failed along with any diagnostic information provided by the detector. The thermostat also provides a test initiation screen from which the consumer may initiate a detector self-test manually. Loss of communications with a detector is also communicated to the user, as is the location of the detector that first identified a threat.

Abstract: The measuring arrangement contains a measuring cell and a reference cell, respectively, and microphones assigned to these cells, to which microphones an electronic evaluation circuit is connected and in which a subtraction of the signals of the microphones takes place, as well as a radiation source for applying a modulated signal to the measuring cell. The modulation frequency of the radiation source coincides with the resonant frequency of the measuring cell, and the measuring cell and the reference cell are open at at least one end to the gas to and/or aerosol to be detected. The measuring arrangement is used as smoke alarm, gas alarm, fire hazard alarm or as combined smoke and gas alarm, wherein each of the measuring cells is exposed to a radiation of a wavelength at which a relevant substance to be detected is absorbent and an opto-acoustic effect is produced as a result.

Abstract: An ice detector for an aircraft comprises a strut and probe assembly, and it is positioned on the aircraft so that the pressure field around the ice detector causes a lower temperature region on the probe assembly compared to the aircraft. Ice will therefore form on the probe assembly before it forms on the aircraft to provide an early warning of icing conditions near freezing temperatures.