Abstract: This invention concerns torque sensor systems and methods that computationally compensate in real-time for hysteresis in signals output from sense elements that are indicative of a torque, including a time-varying torque. In preferred embodiments, temperature effects can also be compensated for by such methods and systems.

Abstract: A transformer includes a primary side module, a secondary winding structure, and a magnetic core assembly. The primary side module includes a primary winding structure, a first covering structure and a second covering structure. The primary winding structure has a first opening. The first covering structure includes a second opening corresponding to the first opening and a first receiving recess for accommodating the primary winding structure. The first receiving recess is covered and sealed by the second covering structure. The second covering structure includes a third opening corresponding to the first opening. The first opening, the second opening and the third opening are in communication with each other to be defined as a channel. The secondary winding structure includes a fourth opening, which is in communication with the channel. The magnetic core assembly is partially embedded within the channel and the fourth opening.

Abstract: An electronic smoke comprising an inhale detector and a smoke effect generating circuitry. The inhale detector comprises an air-flow sensor which is arranged to detect direction and rate of air flow through the smoke apparatus, and the smoke effect generating circuitry is arranged to operate the smoke effect generating circuitry to generate smoking effect when the air flow direction corresponds to inhaling through the apparatus and the air flow rate reaches at predetermined threshold. Such an electronic smoke alleviates the problem of inadvertent triggering due to environmental vibration or noise or children playing by blowing into the device.

Abstract: A method and apparatus is disclosed for adjusting a transmission power level of a transceiver (12, 15) at a utility meter data origination site (10). A power level of transmission at the site transceiver (12, 15) is adjusted to an optimum level if an acknowledgement is not received from a network gateway (30) in response to data transmissions from the site transceiver (12, 15). Also, for each unsuccessful transmission period, the amount of metering data is increased in the next transmission period to make up for the failed communication tries. Upon establishing communication with the gateway (30), the site transceiver (12, 15) can receive commands from the gateway (30) that further adjust its power level of transmission to optimize reception at the gateway from a large plurality of utility meter data origination sites (10) within a geographical area served by the gateway (30).