Abstract: In accordance with the present invention, a method for automated parameter measurement includes strategically positioning an identifier tag at a location proximate a first object. The identifier tag stores location-specific information associated with the first object. A sensor in communications with the identifier tag receives the location-specific information from the identifier tag. Additionally, the sensor is used to collect quantitative data associated with a first parameter from the first object. The location-specific information received from the first identifier tag is used to process the quantitative data.

Abstract: An alarm system is disclosed for detecting and signaling that a human or an animal is in an enclosed space such as a motor vehicle which includes a monitoring device for monitoring temperature in an enclosed space. The monitoring device may specify a minimum and/or maximum temperature, or a range of temperatures in the enclosed space. A detection device detects the presence of a human or animal in the enclosed space when an unacceptable temperature is reached. In the system disclosed, the human or animal is unable to exit the enclosed space, and a signaling device is used to communicate a signal to a receiver outside the enclosed space indicating the presence of the human or the animal in the enclosed space.

Abstract: The disclosure includes an HVAC data processing and communication network, and a method of manufacturing the same. In one embodiment the HVAC data processing and communication network includes a system device and a user interface. The system device is configured to store alarm data in local memory in response to an alarm event. The user interface is configured to send an alarm request message to the system device, and to receive an alarm reporting message including alarm data from the system device via a data bus.

Abstract: A method for monitoring the body temperature of a user of a wireless telephone includes detecting the body temperature of the user using a sensor disposed in the wireless telephone. A determination is made as to whether the detected temperature is within a predetermined temperature range. In response to determining that the detected temperature is within the predetermined range, an emergency notification is generated.

Abstract: A cooking apparatus with an information exchange system that involves an assembly featuring a cooking apparatus such as a smoker or an electric turkey fryer and an information exchange system that provides for local and/or remote monitoring of cooking characteristic that preferably includes food item temperature probing that is displayed externally on the cooking appliance as in a local remote cooking characteristic information conveyance device that are preferably either in unidirectional of bi-directional.

Abstract: A multifunctional panel for a building comprises an insulative body, an exterior surface, and an interior surface. A sensor is provided to measure an interior condition in the interior of the building and an exterior condition in the exterior of the building, and generate a sensor signal in response to the difference between the measured interior and exterior conditions. A signal coupler can transmit the sensor signal to other multifunctional panels, receive an input signal from another multifunctional panel, or pass power to power a device in or about the insulative body.

Abstract: A measurement indicative of a temperature of a computer is received and a thermal health value for the computer is calculated based on the measurement.

Abstract: A method for monitoring the temperature and slope of a wafer is presented, and the steps of the method comprises: (a) providing a cooling machine, a monitoring system, a sensing module, and a wafer; (b) cooling the wafer by the cooling machine; (c) sensing all regions of the wafer by the sensing module, and detecting the temperature and slope of the wafer relative to the cooling machine; (d) if the wafer's temperature is higher than a set temperature, the monitoring system outputs a first alarm signal, if the wafer's slope is greater than a set slope, the monitoring system outputs a second alarm signal.

Abstract: A system and a method for monitoring and inspecting food safety is disclosed. The system adopts insert and use concept that only requires an initial push on a button to begin its function. The system provides visual alert for different conditions if food products are in unsafe status. The system is pre-calibrated during manufacture without complicated or multi-step calibration or recalibration procedures during application. The system relies on modern surface-mount microprocessor technology that enables long-term calibration stability along with very low power consumption for extended battery life.

Abstract: A system for tracking a location of at least one item is described. The system includes a tag associated with the at least one item during a shipping journey. The tag detects shipping information, including temperature, humidity, shock, etc. The tag sends the shipping information to a master unit. The master unit also detects certain shipping information. The master unit communicates with a central processor to provide the shipping information to the central processor. The central processor relies on the shipping information to determine one of a condition or a location of the item.

Abstract: A personalized computer device comprises a three-dimensional user selectable case with one or more user accessible hardware interfaces localized at a prominent region of the case. To increase heat dissipation despite the variable shape of the case, an intake fan and one or more discharge fans are provided while heat generating components are positioned in the path of the airstream. A reaction generator, such as a sound emitter, light emitter, and a motion actuator, is operable to simulate one or more desired personality traits in response to a predetermined event and in accordance with one or more predetermined reaction parameters. A reaction triggers an emotional response from a user and thereby establishes an emotional attachment between a user and the device.

Abstract: An adaptive evacuation system and method for providing a safety route to evacuees. Active smoke and heat detector information can be obtained from a fire panel. Routes and exits in proximity to the active detectors are assumed to be unsafe and closed for use in evacuation. Evacuation planning is accomplished with the remaining “safe” routes. The progression of fire and smoke and the time-dependent degradation of evacuation route safety associated with progression of fire and smoke can be predicted and initial classification and signaling of route safety can be performed. As the fire progresses, the initial time-dependent classifications are updated and initially safe routes are reclassified as unsafe and then evacuation directions are modified.

Abstract: A universal microelectromechanical (MEMS) nano-sensor platform having a substrate and conductive layer deposited in a pattern on the surface to make several devices at the same time, a patterned insulation layer, wherein the insulation layer is configured to expose one or more portions of the conductive layer, and one or more functionalization layers deposited on the exposed portions of the conductive layer to make multiple sensing capability on a single MEMS fabricated device. The functionalization layers are adapted to provide one or more transducer sensor classes selected from the group consisting of: radiant, electrochemical, electronic, mechanical, magnetic, and thermal sensors for chemical and physical variables and producing more than one type of sensor for one or more significant parameters that need to be monitored.

Abstract: A syringe filling apparatus having a housing, a fluid reservoir, and a port for providing a fluid pathway between the syringe and the fluid reservoir. The apparatus has an alarm to indicate the fluid level within the reservoir. The apparatus has a heating system for heating the fluid within the reservoir to a predetermined temperature.

Abstract: A system and method for detecting falls is disclosed herein. A mobile pressure sensor is used to generate a mobile pressure signal and a reference pressure sensor at a reference height above a surface is used to generate a reference pressure signal. A processor in communication with the mobile pressure sensor and the reference pressure sensor is used to perform the steps of: (i) determining a height above the surface of the mobile pressure sensor based on the reference height and the reference pressure signal and the mobile pressure signal; and (ii) if the height is below a threshold height, determining that a fall has occurred.

Abstract: A temperature-sensing undergarment is provided. The temperature-sensing undergarment primarily includes a garment body, at least one temperature-sensing device and a processing device. The garment body is provided with a receiving pocket, from which at least one conductor is extended to two armpit portions of the garment body. When the garment body is worn on a human body, the temperature-sensing devices disposed at the two armpit portions of the garment body will sense the body temperature and transmit a temperature-sensing signal to the processing device via the conductor. Thus, variation of the body temperature can be detected continuously.

Abstract: A portable body temperature continuous monitoring system includes a wearable thermal detecting device, a recording device, a displaying device and an alarming device. The recording device records and stores a human body temperature detected by the wearable thermal detecting device, and then transmits a temperature signal to the displaying device and the alarming device through a wireless method. Thereby, remote and continuous monitoring of a patient's body temperature through the displaying device is possible. Besides, since the system is capable of communicating outward through the alarming device, the patient's abnormal body temperature can be reported to others so that proper treatment can be conducted timely.

Abstract: A method and system to detect misalignment of sensors used in train inspection systems are provided. The method includes receiving inputs from a train inspection sensor that is coupled to a railroad track, determining a position of the train inspection sensor using a motion detector, and identifying the inputs received from the train inspection sensor as at least one of acceptable or not acceptable based on the determined position of the train inspection sensor.

Abstract: A driving control device of a motor includes a temperature sensing circuit, a comparing circuit, a rotation speed control circuit and a driving circuit. The temperature sensing circuit detects an environmental temperature for generating a sensing signal. The comparing circuit is electrically connected to the temperature sensing circuit, and compares the sensing signal with a reference voltage signal for outputting a comparing signal. The rotation speed control circuit is electrically connected to the comparing circuit and has a first threshold voltage and a second threshold voltage, both of which are compared with the comparing signal for outputting a rotation speed control signal. The driving circuit is electrically connected to the rotation speed control circuit, and generates a driving signal to drive the motor in accordance with the rotation speed control signal.

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: Monitoring temperature excursions an assembly experiences over a life of the assembly is provided. A determination is made as to whether the assembly has been in service beyond a predetermined end of life objective. Responsive to the assembly failing to be in service beyond the predetermined end of life objective, a new temperature value associated with the assembly is read. A modifier value for a figure of merit (FOM) value is computed and added to a cumulative figure of merit value. The cumulative figure of merit value is compared to a cumulative stress figure of merit budget. Responsive to the cumulative figure of merit value exceeding the cumulative stress figure of merit budget, an identified stress management solution is implemented.

Abstract: A method of processing a digital image captured by a camera includes providing an ambient air measuring device associated with the camera; using the ambient air measuring device to measure air attributes at substantially the time the digital image was captured; determining a transform for modifying the digital image from the measured air attributes; and applying the transform to the digital image to produce an improved digital image.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method for cooling a CPU. The method includes the steps of: setting a passive cooling mode; setting a critical temperature and a reference temperature that is lower than the critical temperature; setting a plurality of temperature intervals between the reference temperature and the critical temperature; predetermining a duty cycle corresponding to each temperature interval; detecting a current temperature of the CPU; comparing the current temperature with the reference temperature and the critical temperature; entering into the passive cooling mode if the current temperature is between the reference temperature and the critical temperature; confirming which temperature interval the current temperature falls in; confirming a corresponding predetermined duty cycle according to the temperature interval; and switching the CPU between a working status and a sleeping status according to the confirmed predetermined duty cycle. A related system is also disclosed.

Abstract: An apparatus for automatically selecting and executing files associated with the environment includes a detecting module, an analysis module, and a system module. The detecting module detects environmental parameters and transmits the environmental parameters to the analysis module. The analysis module detects a present status of the apparatus, compares the environmental parameters detected by the detecting module to a plurality of predetermined parameters stored in the analysis module, and outputs control signals according to the comparison and the present status of the apparatus. The system module receives the control signals and adjusts parameters of the apparatus according to the control signals.

Abstract: The disclosed subject matter aims to provide a vehicle lighting device and an LED light source therefore. Accurate temperature detection of an LED chip and associated phosphor can be monitored in real time. The LED light source can include at least one LED chip mounted on a base and a phosphor layer disposed adjacent the LED chip. A mixed particulate phosphor for generating fluorescence through light emitted from the above LED chip can also be provided. The LED light source can be configured to output mixed color light containing the light from the LED chip and the fluorescence from the phosphor. The LED light source can also include a temperature detecting element located on the base and LED chip to detect the temperature on the periphery of the LED chip.

Abstract: According to the method a temperature module is defined, simulating the thermal behavior in the electric motor (1), based on a multi-mass model. The rotational speed (n) and the current (i) for the electric motor (1) are continuously recorded as input parameters for the temperature model and at least one bearing power loss and/or bearing inner temperature (TIL1?), corresponding to a bearing (8,9), is continuously derived from the temperature model. A first warning signal (W1) is given when a computer-determined bearing power loss exceeds a given comparative value. Furthermore, a second warning signal (W2) is given when a computer-determined bearing inner ring temperature exceeds a given temperature difference (?T) from a corresponding computed bearing outer ring temperature (TAL1?). The thermal behavior of non-accessible components, in particular, the bearing (8, 9), can thus advantageously be determined by mere evaluation of the current (i) and the rotational speed (n).

Abstract: A method and a device for detecting the degree of pollution in an operational converter are disclosed. An operating state of at least one of the converter components that is exposed to the ambient air is determined and a corresponding operating state of said component in an unpolluted state is determined. The two operating states are then compared and the calculated comparison value is used as a measurement for the degree of pollution of the converter. Detecting the degree of pollution of an operational converter permits a reduction in the number of breakdowns caused by unprotected operation of a converter, and associated disadvantages such as costs and damage to a company's image.

Abstract: A sensor arrangement includes, in some embodiments, a magnetostrictive element configured to output magnetic signals in response to a magnetic field. A sensor is configured to sense a value of a property of a selected object, and to provide an electrical resistance that varies in response to variations in the sensed value. The sensor cooperates with the magnetostrictive element to vary the frequency of the signals output by the magnetostrictive element based on variations of the electrical resistance provided by the sensor. A transmitter provides an alternating magnetic field to the magnetostrictive element, and a receiver picks up the magnetic signals generated by the magnetostrictive element. The frequency of the signals received is correlated with the sensor resistance, and the resistance is correlated to a value of the property sensed.

Abstract: A method and apparatus of recognizing an alarm scenario in a chip card. The method includes detecting a deviation of a property, and determining whether the deviation is a result of an alarm scenario.

Abstract: A method for loading a semiconductor wafer into a process unit comprises opening the process unit, inserting a wafer into the process unit, adjusting the position of the wafer in the process unit so that it is in a certain position in relation to markers, and inserting a camera into the process unit facing the markers. The camera acquires an image of the markers and of a part of the wafer, and displays on a display screen the image acquired. The position of the wafer is adjusted according to the position of the wafer in relation to the markers on the image displayed.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for protecting process equipment from a fire and/or an explosion are provided. In particular, the apparatus and methods utilize Seebeck sensors or thermoelectric generators to detect the propagation of a flame front or deflagration wave within the process equipment. Upon detection of the deflagration wave, the system controller activates mitigation apparatus which may be in the form of a chemical suppressant or isolation valves in order to protect the process equipment from damage.

Abstract: A power supply device includes a power storage unit capable of being charged and a control unit controlling charging of the power storage unit. Control unit includes a battery ECU for setting, at the start of charging of the power storage unit, a target value of state of charge of the power storage unit to a first value based on the condition of power storage unit and setting, when a temperature increase instruction (change instruction) is received after the start of charging, the target value to a predetermined second value higher than the first value, and a converter ECU for executing the charging process so that the state of charge of the power storage unit attains to the target value.

Abstract: Operation of a handpiece is sensed, such as by detecting temperature and/or vibration associated with one or more of the bearing rings supporting the turbine in the handpiece. When operation exceeds a threshold, a visual or audible indication is provided, and power to the turbine may be interrupted. The sensor(s) may be built into the handpiece, or be part of a removable girdle placed on the handpiece. Typically, the handpiece is used for dental or medical applications.

Abstract: A transmitting power level controller of a communication system includes a radio-frequency unit for generating a communication signal and a power amplifier for amplifying the communication signal to generate a transmitting signal. The transmitting power level controller has a temperature sensor, a power detector, and an automatic level controller. The temperature sensor senses temperature of at least one of the RF unit and the PA to generate a detected temperature signal. The power detector detects a transmitting power of the transmitting signal to generate a detected power signal. The automatic level controller is coupled to the temperature sensor and the power detector. The power detector adjusts the transmitting power of the transmit signal according to the detected power signal when a maximal transmitting power is in a predetermined range, and adjusts the transmitting power according to the detected temperature signal otherwise.

Abstract: Provided are an abrupt MIT device with variable MIT temperature or voltage, an MIT sensor using the abrupt MIT device, and an alarm apparatus and a secondary battery anti-explosion circuit including the MIT sensor The MIT device includes an abrupt MIT layer undergoing an abrupt MIT at a transition temperature or a transition voltage and at least two electrode layers contacting the abrupt MIT layer. The transition temperature or the transition voltage varies with at least one of factors including a voltage applied to the electrode layers, a temperature, an electromagnetic wave, a pressure, and a gas concentration that affect the abrupt MIT layer. The MIT sensor is a temperature sensor, an infrared sensor, an image sensor, a pressure sensor, a gas-concentration sensor, or a switch. The alarm apparatus includes the MIT sensor and an alarm-signaling unit connected in series with the MIT sensor.

Abstract: A combination fire detection and fire suppression system may include a fire detection system configured to detect an undesirably high temperature associated with an area. The fire detection system may include a temperature sensor including a temperature sensor array and a fire alerting system associated with the temperature sensor. The fire alerting system may be configured to receive information from the temperature sensor and generate a warning signal based on an undesirably high temperature associated with the area. The fire detection system may include a fire control panel configured to receive the warning signal. The system may also include a fire suppression system including a fire suppressant delivery system configured to provide at least one fire suppressant agent to the area associated with the undesirably high temperature.

Abstract: A wireless transceiver includes a microprocessor for processing signals and communication circuitry coupled to the microprocessor. The communication circuitry includes input/output circuitry for receiving signals from a plurality of wireless devices over a wireless communication path, for providing the signals to the microprocessor, and for transmitting processed signals from the microprocessor to the plurality of wireless devices. The input/output circuitry of the transceiver includes a non-wireless connection coupling the wireless transceiver to a test and measurement device. The test and measurement device receives the processed signals from the microprocessor, processes the received signal and data and/or information encoded therein, and performs a predetermined response thereto.

Abstract: An emergency notification and directional signaling apparatus includes an alarm remotely mountable from and responsive to an emergency event detector and alarm. The remote alarm activates one of a supplementary visual and audible alarm which may include one or more different colored lights, one of which is a pulsed strobe, and an audible sound which may include a recorded voice message. A temperature sensor in the remote alarm housing activates a second notification and signaling event when the ambient temperature surrounding the remote alarm reaches a preset threshold. The remote alarm may be mounted in a portable housing, on a faceplate of an existing wall electrical junction box, or in an electrical duplex body mounted in a junction box.

Abstract: A thermal detection method comprises steps of providing a rotation device, disposing a thermal sensor on the rotation device, rotating the rotation device, and using the thermal sensor to detect a temperature of an object without contacting the object. A thermal detection system comprises a rotation device and a thermal sensor disposed on the rotation device for detecting a temperature of an object without contacting the object.

Abstract: A fire suppression valve includes an RF transmitter which transmits an indication that a closed valve has opened. The transmitter can be implemented as a passive wireless identifier tag energized by a source of wireless signals.

Abstract: A tag 12.1 for a vehicle comprises collar 32 adapted to be fitted on an axle of the vehicle. The collar carries an RF transponder 20.1 comprising transponder circuitry and an antenna 40. The circuitry is connected to a sensor 44 for a parameter associated with the assembly in use. The circuitry is responsive to cause the transponder to transmit a first radio frequency signal when a value of the parameter exceeds a threshold value.

Abstract: A freshness tracking and monitoring system (“System”) and method used for ensuring the freshness of perishable goods, goods fit for human consumption, and final products made from perishable good or goods fit for human consumption (“Items”). The System monitors in a continuous manner all significant environment and transportation parameters associated with an Item, from harvest or production until acquisition for consumption or production, alerts when an Item's monitored variable exceeds a predetermined parameter, takes corrective actions while in transportation, and provides advice about possible changes in the nature of the Item.

Abstract: A detector made of lanthanum-doped lead zirconate titanate detects intensity of ultraviolet light radiated inside of a vehicle. The detector sends ultrasonic wave to an incidence direction of ultraviolet light, and detects ultrasonic wave reflected by an object. An electrical unit determines the object to be an occupant of the vehicle or not based on the reflected ultrasonic wave. The electrical unit outputs a signal representing that a predetermined or more amount of ultraviolet light is radiated to the occupant, when the detector detects the predetermined or more amount of ultraviolet light and when the electrical unit determines the object to be the occupant.

Abstract: An automated theater warning technique makes use of a digital cinema projection system to provide a display of a visual message indicative of an emergency condition. Upon receipt of a trigger generated in response to an emergency condition, the digital cinema projection system automatically switches from displaying the feature presentation to displaying the visual message. The digital cinema projection system can advantageously display different messages responsive to different conditions.

Abstract: An intelligent power supply apparatus includes a power converting circuit, one or more sensors, an audio processor, an operating status processor, a storage unit and a loudspeaker. The power converting circuit is used for converting an input voltage into a regulated DC output voltage. The sensors detect operating statuses of the intelligent power supply apparatus, thereby generating corresponding sensing signals. The audio data are processed by the audio processor. The operating status processor is electrically connected to the sensors and the audio processor for controlling the audio processor to generate corresponding output audio signals in response to the sensing signals. The storage unit is electrically connected to the audio processor and/or the operating status processor for storing therein audio data. The loudspeaker is electrically connected to the audio processor for generating audio prompts corresponding to the output audio signals.

Abstract: The invention discloses a method for protecting data in a non-volatile storage device and a computer thereof The computer includes a non-volatile storage device, a temperature sensing unit, and a controller. The temperature sensing unit is disposed at the non-volatile storage device to sense a sensed temperature of the non-volatile storage device and to compare the sensed temperature with a predetermined temperature. The controller is coupled with the temperature sensing unit. When the sensed temperature is higher than the predetermined temperature, the controller makes the computer enter into a hibernation state.

Abstract: A wildlife protection guard for electrical power distribution equipment has an enclosure constructed to surround a power line connection and formed by a pair of half-shells. The enclosure has a base member, a sidewall extending from the base member, a tapered member extending from the sidewall, and a top member on the tapered member. The base member has a central opening with a plurality of flexible fingers. The top member has a central opening which defines a first port. A second opening is provided on the tapered sidewall to define a second port. The pair of half-shells is configured to be held in a closed configuration by a first latch on the sidewall and a second latch provided on a portion of the enclosure different from the sidewall. The pair of half-shells is connected together by a robust hinge configuration.

Abstract: A temperature indicating device includes a temperature sensing element, for sensing the temperature of an object and transforming the temperature into a signal; an illuminating unit, for emitting light of predetermined colors; a control unit, for receiving the signal from the temperature sensing element, and driving the illuminating unit to emit light of a predetermined color corresponding to the sensed temperature according to the signal; a power supply, for supplying power to the temperature sensing element, the control unit, and the illuminating unit; and a body, wherein the temperature sensing element, the illuminating unit, the control unit, and the power supply are located inside the body.

Abstract: Provided is a system and method for providing monitoring of hazardous materials, including collecting environmental data via one or more sensors directed at the hazardous materials source, the environmental data including one or more environmentally detectable reference points; comparing the environmental data to a set of current ambient conditions, the environmental data detectable in a reference frame by the one or more sensors directed at the hazardous materials source, the reference frame including at least one of the one or more environmentally detectable reference points; performing an alert determination according to the comparison of the environmental data to the set of ambient conditions; and transmitting the alert determination to an existing fault detection system for the hazardous material source to enable the existing fault detection system to override a status rating of the hazardous materials source.

Abstract: An appliance having an input device, a control, a motor, and an analog display is provided. The input device is employed to input a set point temperature. The control is operably coupled to the input device and receives the set point temperature from the input device. The motor is operably coupled to the control and receives instructions from the control based on the set point temperature. The analog display is operably coupled to the motor. The analog display is driven by the motor to temporarily display the set point temperature and then to display a current temperature as the current temperature increases toward the set point temperature.