Electrical Or Electromechanical Patents (Class 368/107)
  • Publication number: 20110218765
    Abstract: Embodiments of the invention provide methods, apparatuses, and program products to manage time. In some embodiments, the method comprises receiving a countdown time that is associated with hours, minutes, and seconds, displaying a circular colored disc representing the hours, minutes, and seconds, and removing some of the disc in response to a portion of the countdown time elapsing. Alternative embodiments provide methods that comprise selecting a custom mode of an application that displays a circular colored disc, and inputting a predetermined time associated with hours, minutes, and seconds utilizing a time set area at the bottom of a window displayed in the custom mode, the disc being associated with the hours, minutes, and seconds. That method further comprises starting the custom mode to count down the predetermined time, wherein the disc represents the total of the predetermined time and, as time elapses, disappears.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 2, 2010
    Publication date: September 8, 2011
    Inventor: Janice L. Rogers
  • Patent number: 7932829
    Abstract: The present invention discloses a data tag device (100) which initially operates in a passive mode where the tag responds to queries (412). While operating passively, an expiration event occurs (512, 514) which causes the tag to disable a battery (110), preventing subsequent operation in the passive mode, resulting in the tag disabling access to the tag data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2011
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Kenneth L. Greenlee, Christian L. Hunt, Steven M. Miller, Anne I. Ryan
  • Publication number: 20110090765
    Abstract: A new disposable, elapsed time tracking device, having led display which generally comprises a main container cap or cover, an electronic elapsed time counter with memory and user interface functions, a LCD display, a battery, and any associated electronic wiring, which when combined will provide the user with a new & novel way for a user to know when a prescription, vitamin, or other article was last removed from the container, which will assist users in timely self medication.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 21, 2009
    Publication date: April 21, 2011
    Inventor: Kevin Brote
  • Patent number: 7928846
    Abstract: The present invention discloses a data tag device (100) which initially operates in an active mode where the tag occasionally transmits an unsolicited beacon (412). While operating, an expiration event occurs (512, 514) which causes the tag to disable a battery (110), preventing subsequent operation in an active mode, but may continue operating in a passive mode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2011
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Kenneth L. Greenlee, Christian L. Hunt, Steven M. Miller, Anne I. Ryan
  • Publication number: 20110069587
    Abstract: A medicine cap with a timing mechanism that automatically resets upon the removal of the cap from a medicine bottle. A timing device is housed within a medicine camp, with a diaphragm housed below the timing device. The diaphragm has a rod extending upward from a central location, and fastening the cap onto a bottle or container causes the rod to be pushed up into contact with, and activate, the timing device. Upon removal of the cap from the bottle or container, the rod loses contact with the timing device, and the timer is reset. The cap may comprise multiple pieces, so the cap may be used in child-proof mode by the engagement and disengagement of splines on the cap housing and a cap insert. Means are supplied for enabling the constant engaging of the splines.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 13, 2010
    Publication date: March 24, 2011
    Inventor: DENNIS BRANDON
  • Publication number: 20110062896
    Abstract: A digital wiring device including a user interface panel, a digital display, and a paddle including a transparent portion to reveal the digital display and an opaque portion to cover the user interface panel. The paddle rotates from a first closed position to a second open position. A digital “schedule-at-a-glance” may be provided so that a user can quickly assess a schedule of events. The digital wiring device may include a back light to illuminate the digital display. The paddle may be operatively associated with the back light. A battery may provide an electrical current to power the digital wiring device in a battery backup mode, and the back light may be disabled based on the mode. The user interface panel may be used to schedule events or otherwise configure the digital wiring device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 11, 2009
    Publication date: March 17, 2011
    Applicant: LEVITON MANUFACTURING CO., INC.
    Inventors: Cheng-Lung Chou, Paul Soccoli, David Klamer, Paul Duckworth, Gordon Stannis, Joel Van Faasen
  • Publication number: 20110026371
    Abstract: Disclosed is a chronograph timepiece in which it is possible to prevent the chronograph drive timing and the magnetic field detection timing from overlapping each other to unnecessarily effect driving with correction drive pulses. A processing unit controls drive circuits so as to drive a time indication motor and a chronograph indication motor with a predetermined timing based respectively on timekeeping information obtained and chronograph measurement information obtained, and effects control such that a magnetic field detecting unit detects a magnetic field with a predetermined timing; when the drive timing for the chronograph indication motor and the magnetic field detection timing for the magnetic field detecting unit overlap each other, the processing unit changes the magnetic field detection timing for the magnetic field detecting unit so that the drive timing for the chronograph indication motor and the magnetic field detection timing for the magnetic field detecting unit may not overlap each other.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 22, 2010
    Publication date: February 3, 2011
    Inventors: Tomohiro Ihashi, Kenji Ogasawara, Kazuo Kato, Kazumi Sakumoto, Hiroshi Shimizu, Akira Takakura, Eriko Noguchi, Takanori Hasegawa, Keishi Honmura, Saburo Manaka, Kosuke Yamamoto
  • Publication number: 20110026370
    Abstract: Disclosed is a chronograph timepiece in which it is possible to prevent the battery reliability service life time from being exceeded even when the period of time that the chronograph function is used is short, making it possible to prevent failure generation in the chronograph timepiece due to liquid leakage. A 24-hour counter down-counts a period of time that has elapsed starting from 24 hours, and a chronograph counter down-counts the period of time that chronograph measurement operation is performed from a predetermined time; when the count values of the 24-hour counter and the chronograph counter become equal to each other, a processing unit consumes a battery for the residual period of time of the two counters by a battery power consuming unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 22, 2010
    Publication date: February 3, 2011
    Inventors: Tomohiro Ihashi, Kenji Ogasawara, Kazuo Kato, Kazumi Sakumoto, Hiroshi Shimizu, Akira Takakura, Eriko Noguchi, Takanori Hasegawa, Keishi Honmura, Saburo Manaka, Kosuke Yamamoto
  • Patent number: 7878367
    Abstract: A blister pack system has an upper part and a bottom part, between which a blister pack is disposed. Pouches of the blister pack are aligned with corresponding ejection openings of the upper part and corresponding ejection openings of the bottom part. Every ejection opening of the upper part is associated with an individual contact surface that can be connected to a control/computing unit via an individual strip conductor. The system includes an ejection device, which at a top section has an electrical contact, and at a peg section an additional electrical contact which is electrically connected to the electrical contact of the top section. The individual contact surfaces and the individual strip conductors associated therewith, as well as a common contact surface and a common strip conductor associated therewith or a subsection thereof extend in surfaces of the upper part that are electrically isolated from each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2011
    Inventors: Udo Simon, Ernst-Rudolf Radtke
  • Patent number: 7856374
    Abstract: Methods and apparatuses for manufacturer to present Web-based edu-games so as to train retail staff member about the manufacturer and its products and to access edu-game data and retail sales data from a database. A Website can be created to provide a point of interaction between the manufacturer, retailer, and retail staff member. By accessing this Website, the retail staff member is presented with the web-based edu-games and learns about the manufacturer and its products. The retail staff member can be presented with incentives by the manufacturer for completing the web-based training off time, which may prevent the retailer from paying for the costs of training the retail staff member. Alternately, retailers can also do training in-house (e.g., if required by statute). Manufacturers and retailers compare education levels to sales data to determine the effects of the training.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 21, 2010
    Assignee: 3Point5
    Inventor: Paul Kirwin
  • Patent number: 7851715
    Abstract: A fireman switch assembly for activating by a mechanical timer having captive trippers. The assembly includes a mounting plate, a micro-switch, and a lever arm. The mounting plate attaches to the mechanical timer. The micro-switch is attached to the mounting plate. The lever arm is operatively connected to the micro-switch and cooperates with the captive trippers of the mechanical timer to selectively turn the micro-switch ON and OFF.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2010
    Inventors: Robert M. Tuniewicz, Gilbert D. Talamo
  • Publication number: 20100246337
    Abstract: An attractor timepiece apparatus. The apparatus may comprise a housing, a surface coupled to the housing, a plurality of numerals on the surface spanning more than 60 seconds, at least one actuator, and a rotatable arm structured to begin rotating from a starting position responsive to the actuator. The rotatable arm may be structured to automatically stop rotating at the starting position. Also disclosed is a method for self improvement using an attractor timepiece apparatus. The timepiece apparatus may begin counting from a starting position responsive to a first input from a user. The timepiece apparatus may notify the user to start meditating using a first sensory effect. Thereafter, a plurality of seconds may be traversed to an ending position more than 60 seconds from the starting position, and the timepiece apparatus may automatically stop counting at the ending position. The timepiece apparatus may notify the user to stop meditating using a second sensory effect.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 25, 2009
    Publication date: September 30, 2010
    Inventor: JOHN COWGILL
  • Publication number: 20100134149
    Abstract: An ultra-low-power transconductance device is provided, (FIG. 1b, FIG. 1c), comprising a series connection of a transistor of a first channel type (A) and a transistor of a second channel type (B), the first channel type having a different polarity than the second channel type. The transistors each have a source, a drain and a gate. The source of the transistor of the first channel type (A) is coupled with the source of the transistor of the second channel type (B) and the drain of the transistor of the first channel type (A) is coupled with the gate of the transistor of the second channel type (B).
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 29, 2008
    Publication date: June 3, 2010
    Inventors: David Bol, Denis Flandre, Jean-Didier Legat
  • Patent number: 7710830
    Abstract: Provided, among other things, is an outing record device comprising, in a compact, wall-mountable device: controller with associated memory; display(s) for displaying a outing time and an outing duration time; a receiver suitable for hanging an Object; and a trigger responsive to the removal from and placement on the receiver of an object, wherein the controller records the times of removal and placement, calculates a last outing time and duration, and makes available for display on the display(s) the outing time and duration. Methods of use, for example, are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2010
    Assignee: Accuwalk LLC
    Inventors: John Mansmann, Roland Knowlden
  • Patent number: 7688682
    Abstract: The invention relates to an electronic watch, notably for a space mission. It enables the setting, at any point in time, of a first date, start of the mission (t0) with relation to a local time scale (T1) or the Universal Time (GMT), and the determination of a first corresponding time scale (MET). It enables the setting, at any point in time, of a second date, start (t?0) of one of the mission's phases with relation to the first time scale (MET) or to the Universal Time (GMT), and the determination of a second corresponding time scale (PET). It comprises means of setting, recording, calculating and analogue and digital viewing. The digital viewing means displays a negative time value (?) when the start date is located in the future and a positive time value (+) when this date has elapsed. It comprises five audio alarms, a chronometer and a “Timer”.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2010
    Assignee: Organisation Intergouvernementale Dite Agence Spatiale Europeenne
    Inventor: Jean-Francois Clervoy
  • Publication number: 20100054086
    Abstract: Provided, among other things, is an outing record device comprising, in a compact, wall-mountable device: controller with associated memory; display(s) for displaying a outing time and an outing duration time; a receiver suitable for hanging an Object; and a trigger responsive to the removal from and placement on the receiver of an object, wherein the controller records the times of removal and placement, calculates a last outing time and duration, and makes available for display on the display(s) the outing time and duration. Methods of use, for example, are also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 2, 2008
    Publication date: March 4, 2010
    Applicant: ACCUWALK LLC
    Inventors: John Mansmann, Roland Knowlden
  • Publication number: 20100039252
    Abstract: A timing device, for indicating to a user a characteristic of a consumable product related to consumption of the product, comprises a printed circuit integrally supporting a processor, a timer, an indicator and a movement sensor thereon. The movement sensor is arranged to sense motion or vibration of the product relative to its surroundings for determining a user interaction with the product. The processor is operable in one mode so that the indicator indicates expiry of the product responsive to detection of user interaction by the sensor once the time interval of the timer has expired. In another mode, the processor is operable so that the indicator is activated responsive to a dosage interval of the timer being expired. In this later mode, the indicator is deactivated responsive to detection of user interaction by the sensor indicative of a dosage being taken.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 22, 2008
    Publication date: February 18, 2010
    Inventor: Tony George Barkus
  • Publication number: 20100034056
    Abstract: Implementations are presented herein that include a time delay path.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 7, 2008
    Publication date: February 11, 2010
    Applicant: INFINEON TECHNOLOGIES AG
    Inventors: Stephan HENZLER, Siegmar KOEPPE
  • Publication number: 20100020648
    Abstract: An electronic charge retention circuit for time measurement, including: at least a first capacitive element, a first electrode of which is connected to a floating node (F); at least a second capacitive element, a first electrode of which is connected to the floating node, the first capacitive element having a leakage through its dielectric space and the second capacitive element having a capacitance greater than the first; and at least a first transistor having an isolated control terminal connected to the floating node.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 20, 2007
    Publication date: January 28, 2010
    Applicant: STMicroelectronics S.A.
    Inventor: Francesco La Rosa
  • Publication number: 20100010775
    Abstract: The present invention is characterized in that a time elapsed since activation can be retained even after a time timer is updated to time information externally acquired, by updating a value in the time timer that starts count-up after activation with the time information externally acquired, and by subtracting a value of the time timer from the acquired time information and reflecting this subtracted value into a reference time storage part.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 20, 2007
    Publication date: January 14, 2010
    Applicant: Sharp Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Takuya Ohkubo, Natsuki Yuasa, Daisuke Kamata
  • Patent number: 7632198
    Abstract: A controller for controlling a timer for measuring offense limit time in a basketball game is provided, in which offense limit time is continuously displayed on an offense limit time display when game remaining time is left less than twenty-four seconds, to thereby allow players to play the basketball game and spectators to see the basketball game more dynamically as well.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2009
    Inventor: Man Bok Lee
  • Publication number: 20090190443
    Abstract: The present invention generally relates to an electrical timer which automatically controls the activation and deactivation of electrical devices, such as light fixtures, appliances and the like based on the time of sunrise and/or sunset for a particular geographic location. In this regard, the sunrise and/or sunset times for a multitude of different geographic locations is collected and stored in the timer's memory in association with the relevant geographic location. Each geographic location is specified in memory by geographic indicia, such as postal zip code or telephone area code, of its location (e.g., latitude and longitude). The timer of the present invention is programmed to automatically activate and/or deactivate the device to which it is coupled (e.g., lights, appliances, etc.) at the sunset and/or sunrise times stored in memory for each date that is specified in memory.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 1, 2009
    Publication date: July 30, 2009
    Applicant: JG DIGITAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC
    Inventors: Andrew H. Huizi, Myron Hitchcock, John J. Driska
  • Publication number: 20090185455
    Abstract: The inventive technology, in embodiments, includes an aquatic event timer apparatus that comprises at least two independent, touch actuated electrical switches; and a structural connector that adjacently connects them, where the apparatus is configured for establishment within lane markers defining a regulation size swim lane, at the end of the swim lane, and at least partially underwater. Other aspects of the inventive technology address an aquatic event timer apparatus that comprises a first, independent, swim competition type, touch actuated electrical switch that is configured for establishment within swim lane markers, and aside at least a second, independent, swim competition type, touch actuated electrical switch.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 23, 2008
    Publication date: July 23, 2009
    Applicant: Colorado Time Systems, LLC
    Inventors: Michael Medina-Brodsky, Brett Anderson, Robert Clauson, Craig Jacobs
  • Patent number: 7561494
    Abstract: One or more remote control devices used at a sports event, by one or more officials, at that game, on activation can control, compatible game time pieces, without interference, that are located, on or off the playing field, with the option of initiating the sound of a whistle at activation location, or from compatible equipment, that are on or off the field, without any game time piece being altered.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 14, 2009
    Inventor: Max Meier Stern
  • Publication number: 20090168608
    Abstract: A method of switching working modes, the method includes: supplying a storage unit, therein the storage unit stores at least two working modes, alarm information, and alarm time, the alarm information includes indicating information and determining information; detecting whether a system time matches the alarm time; outputting the indicating information when the system time matches the alarm time; receiving input; determining whether the input matches the determining information; controlling the electronic device to switch from one working mode to another working mode when the input matches the determining information. An electronic device with working modes switching function is also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 4, 2008
    Publication date: July 2, 2009
    Applicants: HONG FU JIN PRECISION INDUSTRY(ShenZhen) CO., LTD., HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD.
    Inventors: CHUNG-JEN LAN, BO-CHING LIN, XIAO-GUANG LI, YUN-RU CHEN
  • Patent number: 7552824
    Abstract: A package with electronic circuitry for use in monitoring the removal of items from a receptacle, such as medication tablets from a blister cavity. The package is assembled with a plurality of cards, including a blister card (20), a backing card (30), and a trace card (40). The blister card includes at least one protruding receptacle (29) having an open side. The backing card includes at least one breachable closed cell (32), mated to a blister card such that the closed cell spans across the open side of the receptacle. The trace card also includes at least one breachable closed cell (32) and circuitry (42), mated to the backing card so that the closed cells are aligned. In another embodiment the backing card may be a layer of conductive foil (62) and the trace card may include a dielectric overlay (64).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 30, 2009
    Assignee: MeadWestvaco Corporation
    Inventors: Thanhhung Le, Rune Haraldsson
  • Publication number: 20090135040
    Abstract: An inverter circuit configuring a delay unit is a so-called CMOS transistor including a PMOS transistor and an NMOS transistor, of which respective gates are interconnected and respective drains are interconnected. The source and a back gate of the NMOS transistor are connected to the ground. The source of the PMOS transistor is connected to a positive drive terminal and controlled by an analog input signal. The back gate of the PMOS transistor is connected to a control terminal and controlled by a control signal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 25, 2008
    Publication date: May 28, 2009
    Applicant: DENSO CORPORATION
    Inventors: Takamoto Watanabe, Shigenori Yamauchi
  • Patent number: 7539890
    Abstract: A clock object is provides, which includes a clock time and a monotonic time that are readable by the electronic device. The monotonic time is incremented every read of the monotonic time from the clock object. The clock object can also include an indication of a level of trust of the clock time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 26, 2009
    Assignee: Seagate Technology LLC
    Inventor: Robert H. Thibadeau
  • Publication number: 20090050458
    Abstract: A control device (timer) enabling activation of electric appliances for a required time period at Saturday and Holyday within the frame of Jewish religious law is disclosed. The timer comprises a first timing device, activating the appliance from time to time for a short period, and then deactivating it, and a second timing device, which, when activated manually or at any other way, delays the appliance deactivation by the first timing device for a required time period, and so makes the appliance usable for this period, beginning from the nearest initiation thereof by the first timing device. The timer can be a stand alone device or built into the appliance.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 22, 2007
    Publication date: February 26, 2009
    Inventor: Ezra Gmul Tukachinsky
  • Publication number: 20090052283
    Abstract: A disposable electronic timer in the form of a disk having a liquid crystal or similar display, adapted to be glued to a medication bottle cap. A lower major surface of the timer has an adhesive layer with a cover that can be peeled off to expose the adhesive so that the timer can be secured to the bottle cap. The upper major surface of the timer contains the timer display and a control button that in one mode starts the timer so that an alarm within the timer sounds after a preset time interval, and in another mode sets or resets the timer to a different preset time interval. Operating power is supplied by a battery within the timer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 29, 2008
    Publication date: February 26, 2009
    Inventor: Scott Puzia
  • Publication number: 20090040878
    Abstract: A tangible invitation card extends an invitation by displaying information with regard to the invitation. A settable real-time clock sets a predetermined time which is displayed on a screen on the invitation card of time remaining to a selected target date for an event or earlier RSVP date related thereto. The card is programmed such that as the target date is approached, one or more visual displays and/or sounds count down and announce the time left to the target date for the RSVP or event. The invitation card is programmed with the necessary information to enable it to perform its reminder mission.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 10, 2007
    Publication date: February 12, 2009
    Inventors: Joseph Domes, John Mizzi
  • Patent number: 7450475
    Abstract: An elapsed time indicator has a see-through region which has a plurality of windows. These windows are each congruent and are arranged at a uniform angular distance from one another. A solid disc is arranged below the said see-through region and has at least two sectors which have different colours and/or designs. In this case, the solid disc is rotatable and the see-through region is firmly connected to the dial plate. The solid disc has a number of radial sectors, adjacent sectors in each case having different colours or grey tints, and each sector has approximately the width of a window.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2008
    Assignee: Eterna AG Uhrenfabrik
    Inventor: Ernst Seyr
  • Publication number: 20080259736
    Abstract: A timer has a dial, a captured tripper, and/or a retainer. The captured tripper has active and inactive positions on the dial. In the inactive position, the captured tripper is captured to the dial but is free to move independently of the dial. Alternatively or additionally, in the inactive position, the captured tripper is not positioned to operate a switch. In the active position, the captured tripper is captured to the dial and is prevented from moving independently of the dial. Alternatively or additionally, in the active position, the captured tripper is positioned to operate the switch. The retainer maintains a predetermined orientation between the captured tripper and the dial when the captured tripper is in both the active and inactive positions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 20, 2007
    Publication date: October 23, 2008
    Inventor: William L. Richter, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20080253234
    Abstract: An elapsed time and remaining time liquid crystal measuring device having a display face around the periphery of which there are a plurality of numerical indicia marks arranged in a generally clockwise pattern with successive numerical indicia marks decreasing in numerical value in a clockwise direction from a twelve o'clock position. An annular ring of electronically generated graphic indicia are visible on the display face and spaced inwardly from the peripheral numerical indicia and a digital numerical read-out display of elapsed times is visible internally of the annular ring of graphic indicia. There is at least one electronic control element for setting a desired elapsed set time into the device, which desired elapsed set time is indicated both on the digital read-out display and as a complete ring or an arcuate section of the annular ring on the display face.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 19, 2007
    Publication date: October 16, 2008
    Inventor: Janice L. Rogers
  • Publication number: 20080232199
    Abstract: A time management device includes a body portion including a front side and a back side, the front side including at least one elapsed time indicator, and at least one of the front side and back side including a programmable elapsed time controller, wherein the programmable elapsed time controller receives at least one time indicator and actuates at least one of the elapsed time indicators responsive to the time indicator, and a support portion connected to the body, the support portion configured to mate with a door knob and support the body on the door knob.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 23, 2007
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Inventor: Leslie Shafton
  • Publication number: 20080206729
    Abstract: A timer and a watch for managing the behavior of children are disclosed. The timer and watch both utilize linear movement to depict the passage of time, which relates a child's instinctive understanding of speed and distance of linear movement to the passage of time.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 22, 2007
    Publication date: August 28, 2008
    Inventors: Karolyn Woolverton, Frederick Woolverton, Joanna Ferrone
  • Patent number: 7408371
    Abstract: An apparatus for measuring on-chip characteristics in a semiconductor circuit is provided. The apparatus for measuring the on-chip characteristics includes an oscillation unit, a timing test unit, and a selection unit. The oscillation unit is configured to selectively output a first oscillation signal responsive to a first control signal. The timing test unit is configured to generate a second oscillation signal using an input clock signal, generate a pulse from the second oscillation signal responsive to a second control signal, and determine whether an operating time violation has occurred based on a comparison of the second oscillation signal and the pulse. The selection unit is configured to select one of the output of the oscillation unit and the output of the timing test unit responsive to a test mode signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2008
    Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Tak-Yung Kim, Jin-Yong Lee, Shin-Mo Kang
  • Patent number: 7398180
    Abstract: A vehicle technician time clock tool comprises a computer-implemented interface to a database, wherein the database contains vehicle service task-related information and time-related information, the vehicle service task-related information and time-related information pertaining to at least one vehicle technician, and a computer-implemented graphical user display (GUI), wherein the GUI displays in real time at least some of the vehicle service task-related information, at least some of the time-related information, and at least one calculation based on at least some of the time-related information.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2008
    Assignee: Daimler Trucks North America LLC
    Inventors: Tom D. DeBoard, Paul Adams, Frank Fox
  • Publication number: 20080130422
    Abstract: Among other things, a programmable, microprocessor-based timing device provides multiple, independent countdown-type timers in conjunction with a visual metaphor that provides a unique way to visually organize the timers such that multiple timers operating concurrently can be quickly associated with the item or items being timed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 4, 2006
    Publication date: June 5, 2008
    Inventor: Adam B. Hocherman
  • Patent number: 7345958
    Abstract: A wrist worn lap counter and method of use for a swimmer including an electronic lap counter/timer module and a wrist strap connected to the module for attachment around the wrist of the swimmer. The module includes a water resistant housing having a viewable front face and a transparent lens covering a digital display, the digital display being operable to simultaneously display a lap set number, lap indicating number, and a current set elapsed time number. First and second input buttons are positioned on the housing, the first input button being operable to incrementally increase the lap set number and to zero and restart the elapsed time number, the second input button being operable to increment or reset to zero the lap indicating number. Pressing either button will activate the module while deactivation preferably requires pressing and holding both buttons.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2008
    Inventor: Marilyn B. Kneafsey
  • Patent number: 7342848
    Abstract: The invention relates to an electronic timing device. The timing device has several modes including Basic mode and Lap mode. Additionally, the timing device computes the speed of an item being timed. Further, the outside of the device is designed to display information, including advertisements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 11, 2008
    Assignee: Lapster, LLC
    Inventor: Peter Haugh
  • Patent number: 7317664
    Abstract: A multiplayer gaming button for tracking dealer position and betting schedules. The multiplayer gaming button includes a single input configured to set the primary countdown timer without using any other inputs and/or a primary countdown timer configured to be set to a primary time interval and countdown from the primary time interval to zero, wherein the primary countdown timer automatically resets to the primary time interval upon reaching zero. The multiplayer gaming button can be packaged in a standard card box.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2008
    Inventor: Jeff Klein
  • Patent number: 7292084
    Abstract: A timer circuit includes a current mirror, a capacitor, a first switch, a resistor and a comparator. The current mirror receives a reference current and provides first and second currents with a predefined current ratio. The capacitor receives the first current as a sinking current or as a sourcing current. The first switch, controlled by a control signal, allows the capacitor to be charged by the first current or be discharged. The resistor is biased by the second current to provide an adaptive reference voltage. The comparator compares the voltage across the capacitor and the adaptive reference voltage and triggers an output signal when the capacitor voltage is increased to the adaptive reference voltage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2007
    Assignee: Micrel, Incorporated
    Inventors: Boris Briskin, William Andrew Burkland
  • Patent number: 7289016
    Abstract: A home system includes a server having a first wireless communication port, and a plurality of devices, such as sensors. Each one of the devices includes a corresponding second wireless communication port. One or more of the devices is a timer/reminder sensor device associated with an object of interest. The timer/reminder sensor device includes a timer mechanism having a time input and an output. The timer mechanism is associated with the object and is adapted to input a time interval from the time input, time for the time interval and then responsively output to the output. The timer mechanism communicates the time input and the output of the timer mechanism between the second wireless communication port of the timer/reminder sensor device and the first wireless communication port of the server.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2007
    Assignee: Eaton Corporation
    Inventors: Charles J. Luebke, Michael L. McManus, John A. Kolojejchick
  • Patent number: 7274200
    Abstract: A semiconductor circuit is disclosed, including a DLL circuit for supplying a desired signal-delay amount. The DLL circuit includes detecting means for detecting variations of a signal-delay amount, and delay-amount control means for generating a delay-amount control signal for controlling, depending on the variations of the signal-delay amount detected by the detecting means, the signal-delay amount of the DLL circuit. The semiconductor circuit further includes a part for monitoring circuit performance of the semiconductor circuit based on the delay-amount control signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2007
    Assignee: Fujitsu Limited
    Inventors: Hiroshi Miyake, Noriyuki Tokuhiro
  • Patent number: 7206260
    Abstract: An interval timer that is constructed of a polygonal shaped housing which has a time display screen and a pressure activating button within one surface of the housing and another surface of the housing includes a mode selection switch, time increment button and second time increment button. With the mode selection switch in the set position the first time increment button and second time increment button can be operated to produce a selected time value such as in minutes and in seconds to be displayed within the time display screen. Movement of the mode selection switch to a usage position and pressing of the pressable activating button will result in the selected preset time interval to count down a second at a time (or other minimum time increment) to eventually reach zero.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2007
    Inventor: Dennis M. Klein
  • Patent number: 7190266
    Abstract: A limited-use appliance, such as a garage door operator or a home network bridge device, is disclosed which has at least one input device for generating an input signal and a controller associated with the input device and receiving the input signal. The controller initiates at least one limited-use function of the appliance upon receipt of the input signal. A test device is maintained by the controller, and has a predetermined criteria which determines whether the input signal should be sent on to the controller or not. A warning system may be incorporated so that imminent expiration of the limited-use functions initiate warnings for the benefit of the end-user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2007
    Assignee: Wayne-Dalton Corp.
    Inventors: Willis J. Mullet, Thomas B. Bennett, III, Yan Rodriguez
  • Patent number: 7187626
    Abstract: A method for tracking total usage time of an electronic device comprising the steps of evaluating a predetermined usage increment timer until a predetermined time period expires, incrementing a total-usage counter, resetting the timer to measure a next occurrence of the predetermined time period, repeating the aforementioned steps and outputting the value representing the total usage time of the device. A multi-mode electronic device that carries out the aforementioned method is also provided. Still further, the present invention provides a method of and device for tracking total usage time or number of activations of any feature or mode within the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2007
    Assignee: Timex Group B.V.
    Inventor: Ronald S. Lizzi
  • Patent number: 7184370
    Abstract: Underwater pace clock allows competitive and recreational swimmers the benefit of being able to observe training times without having to stop to observe a pool area clock. This invention will be solar and/or battery operated with a reset mechanism allowing synchronization with pool area clocks for benefit of instructional staff.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2007
    Inventors: Daniel Joseph Rogacki, Francis X. Graney
  • Patent number: 7167419
    Abstract: A timer is provided for indicating when a beverage within a beverage container is no longer fresh. The timer includes a timer body and a clip. The timer body contains electronic circuitry adapted to display a time remaining before the beverage is no longer fresh. The timer body further includes two L-shaped lugs spaced apart from one another. The clip includes two timer clamps attached to one another and a central retainer. Each timer clamp has a first end and a second end. The first end of each of the timer clamps is resiliently biased in a direction away from the other. The central retainer further includes a lug adapted to be attached to the L-shaped flanges of the timer body. The second end of the timer clamps is adapted to be easily attached to a beverage container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 23, 2007
    Assignees: Newco Enterprises, Inc., Marketing Resources International, Inc.
    Inventors: David Kwan, David S. Felty, Joseph P. Webster