By Electrical Or Magnetic Heat Sensor Patents (Class 374/163)
  • Patent number: 8523429
    Abstract: A remote, noncontact temperature determination method and apparatus is provided, which is operable to determine the temperature of a conducting member forming a part of or in operative thermal communication with an object of interest. The method comprises the steps of first inducing a closed vortex eddy current (28) in a conducting member (16, 38, 44) by subjecting the member (16, 38, 44) to a magnetic field, such that the corresponding eddy current magnitude changes exponentially over time. A characteristic time constant of the exponential current magnitude changes is then determined, and this is used to calculate the temperature of the object. The apparatus (24) includes a field transmitting coil (14) coupled with a waveform generator (12) for inducing the eddy current (28), and a field receiving coil assembly (18) which detects the corresponding magnetic field induced by the eddy current (28).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2013
    Assignee: TSI Technologies LLC
    Inventors: Vladimir Malyshev, Evgeni Sorkine
  • Publication number: 20130223479
    Abstract: A temperature sensor 1 includes: a thermosensitive element 2 composed of a low-thermal expansion ceramics having a coefficient of linear expansion of 3×10?6/° C. to 5×10?6/° C. and of which electrical s characteristics change depending on temperature; a pair of electrode films 20 provided on the surfaces of the thermosensitive element 2; and a pair of lead wires having a coefficient of linear expansion of 15×10?6/° C. or less and bonded to the electrode films 20. When the coefficients of linear expansion of the thermosensitive element 2, the electrode film 20, and the lead wire 21 are respectively Ta(/° C.), Tb(/° C.), and Td(/° C.), the temperature sensor 1 satisfies a relationship Ta?Tb?Td.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 26, 2011
    Publication date: August 29, 2013
    Applicant: DENSO CORPOATION
    Inventors: Motoki Satou, Tsunenobu Hori, Kaoru Kuzuoka, Chiaki Ogawa, Kazuhiro Inoguchi
  • Patent number: 8517603
    Abstract: A thermometer that enables the measurement of temperature from multiple body sites comprising a body portion that has a circuit configured to measure an IR signal and convert it into an output that accurately reflects body temperature and a switch in communication with the circuit. The thermometer also comprises a probe that has an IR window configured to accept an IR signal and an attachment mechanism coupled to the probe which comprises a generally circular hollow bore at its distal end, fastening members to engage the body of the thermometer and a pin at its proximal end for interacting with the switch on the body of the thermometer. When the attachment mechanism couples to the probe, the pin interacts with the switch in various positions and the circuit converts the signal based upon the position of the switch which position reflects the location from which the temperature measurement was taken.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2013
    Assignee: Kaz USA, Inc.
    Inventor: Jacob Fraden
  • Patent number: 8511892
    Abstract: A device for measuring the body core temperature of a person contains a structure for firmly wrapping around the upper body of the person. A double temperature sensor is connected with the structure for wrapping around the upper body such that the double temperature sensor is pressed elastically onto the upper body in the state in which it is put on in the area of the sternum. The device for measuring the body core temperature is suitable for the integration of a body core temperature measurement in clothing or chest belt systems.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2013
    Assignee: Drägerwerk Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Jochim Koch
  • Patent number: 8500327
    Abstract: A safety thermometer in which power is automatically turned on when a sensor rod for measuring a temperature is taken out. The sensor rod is easily taken in the housing when a force is applied to the sensor rod. A sensor rod slider opposes a tip of the sensor rod and has a sensor contact point for connecting a sensor signal of the sensor rod to a circuit. The housing has a space for receiving the sensor rod, a partition wall and a second space to receive circuit devices. A temperature measurement unit is turned on by receiving a power from a power source unit when it contacts the sensor contact point of the sensor rod slider, the temperature measurement unit being connected to the temperature sensor of the sensor rod through the sensor rod slider to process and output a value detected by the temperature sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2013
    Inventor: Yun-Ho Son
  • Publication number: 20130195140
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a temperature sensor comprising a network of carbon nanotubes, wherein an electrical resistance of the network of carbon nanotubes is indicative of a temperature to which the network of carbon nanotubes has been exposed. The present invention further relates to a time temperature indicator and a method of manufacturing a temperature sensor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 31, 2012
    Publication date: August 1, 2013
    Inventors: Vittorio Scardaci, Graeme Scott, Richard Coull, Lorraine Byrne, Jonathan Coleman
  • Publication number: 20130195142
    Abstract: A thermal sensing system includes a circuit having a layout including standard cells arranged in rows and columns. First and second current sources provide first and second currents, respectively. The thermal sensing system includes thermal sensing units, first and second switching modules, and an analog to digital converter (ADC). Each thermal sensing unit is configured to provide a voltage drop dependent on a temperature at that thermal sensing unit. The first switching module is configured to select one of the thermal sensing units. The second switching module includes at least one switch controllable by a control signal. The at least one switch is configured to selectively couple the thermal sensing units, based on the control signal, to one of the first and second current sources, via the first switching module. The ADC is configured to convert an analog voltage, provided by the selected thermal sensing unit, to a digital value.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 23, 2012
    Publication date: August 1, 2013
    Applicant: Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yung-Chow PENG, Ching-Ho CHANG, Jui-Cheng HUANG
  • Patent number: 8496377
    Abstract: A medical measurement device, such as an electronic thermometer, having a probe. The probe includes a molded plastic substrate having a conductive circuit pattern formed directly on its surface. The circuit pattern extends at least from a first end margin of the molded plastic substrate to a second end margin opposite the first. The device also includes a sensor mounted on the molded plastic substrate for detecting a physiological parameter, such as temperature. The sensor is positioned on the molded plastic substrate at the first end margin by at least one positioning element integrally formed in the substrate. The conductive circuit pattern provides an electrical connection between the sensor and a processor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 30, 2013
    Assignee: Covidien LP
    Inventors: James Harr, Joseph T. Gierer
  • Publication number: 20130182744
    Abstract: A control system is disclosed for determining an actual temperature of a light emitting diode. The control system uses conductor that supply power to the light emitting diode to supply a pulse to the light emitting diode. The pulse is determined along with a reaction caused by the pulse and the information gained is used in determination of the light emitting diode die temperature which can then be used in controlling current to the light emitting diode to control the temperature of the light emitting diode.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 18, 2012
    Publication date: July 18, 2013
    Inventors: Anthony Catalano, Daniel Harrison
  • Patent number: 8485723
    Abstract: One-time, single-use sensor elements (22, 46) are provided for detecting the occurrence of predetermined conditions such as temperature and elapsed time-temperature. The sensor elements (22, 46) preferably comprise elongated, glass-coated, metal alloy, amorphous or nanocrystalline microwires (30, 48), which can be placed in a position to detect the predetermined condition of interest. An alternating magnetic field detector (28) may be used to continuously or periodically interrogate the sensor elements (22, 46) to determine if the predetermined condition has occurred. In one aspect of the invention, the microwires (30, 48) experience a change in configuration upon the occurrence of the predetermined condition, and have correspondingly different induced remagnetization responses.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2013
    Assignee: TSI Technologies LLC
    Inventors: Evgeni Sorkine, Brian L. Clothier
  • Patent number: 8480297
    Abstract: The present invention provides an ear thermometer that irradiates liquid crystal with backlight without increasing a battery capacity, to make a body temperature displayed with the liquid crystal easily visible even in a dark place. An MCU 1 displays a body temperature measured by a body temperature measuring part (3) on a liquid crystal display part (5), controls, through input/output ports (P1, P2), a backlight emitting part (7) in such a way that the light quantity of the backlight irradiating the liquid crystal display part (5) from the backlight emitting part (7) is maximized for a first predetermined time, controls the backlight emitting part (7) in such a way that the quantity of the backlight keeps, for a second predetermined time that follows the first predetermined time, a predetermined level that is lower than the maximum, and controls the backlight emitting part (7) in such a way that the quantity of the backlight is zeroed after the second predetermined time elapses.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2013
    Assignee: BIO ECHO NET inc
    Inventor: Hideki Tanaka
  • Patent number: 8480302
    Abstract: The present invention provides a micro-electro-mechanical-system (MEMS) temperature sensor that employs a suspended spiral comprising a material with a positive coefficient of thermal expansion. The thermal expansion of the suspended spiral is guided to by a set of guideposts to provide a linear movement of the free end of the suspended spiral, which is converted to an electrical signal by a set of conductive rotor azimuthal fins that are interdigitated with a set of conductive stator azimuthal fins by measuring the amount of capacitive coupling therebetween. Real time temperature may thus be measured through the in-situ measurement of the capacitive coupling. Optionally, the MEMS temperature sensor may have a ratchet and a pawl to enable ex-situ measurement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2013
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Jason P. Gill, David L. Harmon, Timothy D. Sullivan
  • Publication number: 20130170521
    Abstract: A detector assembly is provided and includes a board, a temperature response element and a support coupled to the board to support the temperature response element, the support including an elongate member having first and second opposing ends and being coupled to the board at the first end, guides through which temperature response element leads are threadable, and a saddle disposed at the elongate member second end to inhibit displacement of the temperature response element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 7, 2010
    Publication date: July 4, 2013
    Applicant: UTC FIRE & SECURITY CORPORATION
    Inventors: Jan A. Braam, Paul Schatz
  • Publication number: 20130163636
    Abstract: An apparatus for determining air temperature such as an air temperature sensor suitable for use on an aircraft, such as on an aircraft engine, and where the air temperature sensor may be exposed to adverse conditions including high Mach numbers and icing conditions as well as water and debris and be capable of providing accurate temperature readings.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2011
    Publication date: June 27, 2013
    Applicant: UNISON INDUSTRIES, LLC
    Inventor: John Patrick Parsons
  • Patent number: 8454232
    Abstract: A plug-in sensor for measuring at least one property of a fluid medium, in particular for use in the coolant circuit of an air conditioning system of a motor vehicle. The plug-in sensor has at least one sensor for detecting the at least one property. Furthermore, the plug-in sensor has at least one sensor body having an external thread for threading the plug-in sensor into a threaded bore hole of a housing. Furthermore, the plug-in sensor includes a sealing surface for sealing an inner space of the housing against an outer space. The external thread has at least two threaded sections: a first threaded section including at least one continuous thread, and a second threaded section including at least one interrupted thread, at least one interruption of the at least one interrupted thread forming at least one blow-out groove.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2013
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventors: Oliver Stoll, Christian Roesser, Joerg Engelhardt
  • Patent number: 8454231
    Abstract: A mounting structure (34) for receiving a sensor (18) having a sensing portion (26) and a base portion (30) includes a substantially flat sheet of material (20) having a first surface (20a), a second surface (20b) opposite the first surface (20a), and an aperture (36). The aperture (36) is configured such that the sensing portion (26) of the sensor (18) is passable through the aperture (36), and the base portion (30) is not passable through the aperture (36), but instead rests on the first surface (20a). The mounting structure (34) also includes a pair of tabs (38) that extend in a downward direction away from the second surface (20b) of the sheet of material (20) and are configured to immobilize the sensor (18) within the aperture (36).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2013
    Assignee: Carrier Corporation
    Inventors: Merle D. Sears, William Bruce Sutherlin
  • Patent number: 8449476
    Abstract: A plurality of custom thermometer models are manufactured from a universal clinical thermometer core. The thermometer core includes a housing, a controller storing a software program, a power source, a probe, a probe cord, and a display. A plurality of model selection devices are produced, each corresponding to a different thermometer model. One of the model selection devices is selected and connected to the controller. The controller operates the thermometer as a function of the connected model selection device such that the thermometer is configured with the features and default settings of the thermometer model corresponding to the connected model selection device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2013
    Assignee: Covidien LP
    Inventors: Gary J. Waldhoff, Michael E. Bisch, Denis Y. Yerlikaya
  • Patent number: 8449177
    Abstract: A micro mechanical vacuum sensor for determining the pressure within a cavity of a micro mechanical device is provided. The sensor comprises a substrate, at least one electrically conductive support member connected to the substrate, and a thermally resistive layer supported by the at least one support member and spaced from the substrate by the support member to provide a space between the thermally resistive layer and the substrate. The sensor is arranged such that the thermally resistive layer is substantially thermally insulated from the substrate. The sensor is further arranged to be driven such that the pressure within the cavity is determined by a temperature value sensed by the sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2013
    Assignee: Infineon Technologies AG
    Inventors: Terje Kvisteroy, Henrik Jakobsen
  • Patent number: 8444316
    Abstract: Current reading means detects an output current of a current source whose output current varies with a variation in temperature and outputs a value proportional to the output current. The temperature of the current source corresponding to the output value of the current reading means which is proportional to the output current of the current source is measured, and a parameter for converting the output value to temperature information is determined from the output value of the current reading means and the measured value of the temperature of the current source corresponding to the output value. The output value of the current reading means is converted to the temperature information using the determined parameter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2013
    Assignee: NEC Corporation
    Inventors: Eisuke Saneyoshi, Koichi Nose, Mikihiro Kajita, Masayuki Mizuno
  • Patent number: 8439562
    Abstract: An electronic clinical thermometer attachment unit, which is configured to be attached to an electronic clinical thermometer, inputs an external sound, determines whether the external sound is a buzzer sound notifying completion of measurement by the electronic clinical thermometer, based on whether the input external sound has a pattern of a buzzer sound notifying completion of the measurement, and performs notification output for notifying a user when it is determines that the external sound is a buzzer sound notifying completion of the measurement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2013
    Assignee: Terumo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Hitoshi Ozawa
  • Patent number: 8425114
    Abstract: A temperature sensor including a temperature sensitive device which is disposed in a flow path through which fluid flows and whose electric characteristic changes as a function of temperature of the fluid in the flow path, signal lines connected at top end sides thereof to said temperature sensitive device through electrode wires and at base end sides thereof to lead wires for connection with an external circuit, a sheath member retaining the signal lines therein, and a holding member which holds an outer circumferential surface of said sheath member directly or indirectly through another member. The resonance (primary) frequency at a top end of the temperature sensor against acceleration in a radius direction of the temperature sensor is 480 Hz or less, thereby reducing the transmission of vibration to the top end of the temperature sensor to avoid the breakage of the temperature sensitive device and the disconnection of the electrode wires 502102 even when the temperature sensor resonates.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2013
    Assignee: Denso Corporation
    Inventors: Tsunenobu Hori, Nobuo Abe, Masatoshi Kuroyanagi
  • Patent number: 8425115
    Abstract: A compact resistive thermal sensor is provided for an integrated circuit (IC), wherein different sensor components are placed on different layers of the IC. This allows the lateral area needed for the sensor resistance wire on any particular IC layer to be selectively reduced. In a useful embodiment, first linear conductive members are positioned in a first IC layer, in parallel relationship with one another. Second linear conductive members are positioned in a second IC layer in parallel relationship with one another. Conductive elements connect the first linear members into a first conductive path, and the second linear members into a second conductive path. A third conductive element extending between the first and second layers connects the first and second conductive paths into a single conductive path, wherein the path resistance varies with temperature. The path resistance is used to determine temperature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2013
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Aquilur Rahman, Lloyd A. Walls
  • Publication number: 20130083824
    Abstract: A temperature transmitter includes a dual-compartment housing and a head-mount temperature transmitter electronics module. The dual-compartment housing has a first compartment and a second compartment. The first compartment is configured to receive field wiring at a terminal block through at least one conduit. The first and second compartments are separated except for an electrical feedthrough therebetween. A head-mount temperature transmitter electronics module is disposed in the second compartment and is operably coupled to the terminal block in the first compartment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 3, 2011
    Publication date: April 4, 2013
    Inventors: Andrew J. Bronczyk, Aaron A. Perrault
  • Patent number: 8398303
    Abstract: A temperature measuring probe with a hollow outer shell including an electrically conductive section and an electrically insulating section. A temperature sensor including a resonator is disposed in the electrically conductive section and electrically conductively connected to the electrically conductive section. An antenna including a shortened monopole is disposed in the electrically insulating section. The temperature sensor and the antenna are electrically conductively connected to each other. A respective material and respective dimension of the electrically insulating section and the antenna are matched such that an effective resistance of the antenna is approximately equal to an effective resistance of the temperature sensor in an operating frequency range of the temperature sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2013
    Assignee: Miele & Cie. KG
    Inventor: Jens Kuhn
  • Patent number: 8398304
    Abstract: A device includes a current source circuit to separately provide a first current and a second current and a thermal detection device coupleable to the output of the current source circuit. The device further includes a voltage detection circuit to provide a first indicator of a first voltage representative of a voltage at the thermal detection device in response to the second current and a second indicator of a second voltage representative of a voltage difference between the voltage at the thermal detection device in response to the second current and a voltage at the voltage detection device in response to the first current. The device further includes a temperature detection circuit to provide an over-temperature indicator based on the first indicator and the second indicator, wherein an operation of a circuit component of the device can be adjusted based on the over-temperature indicator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2013
    Assignee: Freescale Semiconductor, Inc.
    Inventors: Marcelo de Paula Campos, Edevaldo Pereira da Silva, Jr., Ivan Carlos Ribeiro do Nascimento
  • Patent number: 8400316
    Abstract: An electronic thermometer has a probe having a temperature measuring unit at its end, a temperature sensor arranged in the temperature measuring unit of the probe, a contact sensor arranged in a position shifter from the temperature measuring unit of the probe toward a thermometer body, a determining unit for determining whether a state of contact between the temperature measuring unit and a measurement target portion of a user is good or not, based on outputs of both the temperature sensor and the contact sensor, and a notifying unit for providing a notification according to a result of the determination by the determining unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2013
    Assignee: Omron Healthcare Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hiroshi Hiramatsu, Yoshihide Onishi, Masaki Tomioka, Atsuko Fukui, Daisuke Ishihara, Katsuyoshi Morita
  • Publication number: 20130057995
    Abstract: An electronic circuit includes a temperature evaluation circuit. The temperature evaluation circuit includes a first sensor circuit with a first output terminal that is configured to sense a first temperature at a first position of the electronic circuit and to generate at the first output terminal a first output current that is dependent on the first temperature. A second sensor circuit includes a second output terminal and is configured to sense a second temperature at a second position of the electronic circuit and to generate at the second output terminal a second output current that is dependent on the second temperature. An evaluation circuit has an input terminal connected to the first output terminal and the second output terminal and is configured to provide an evaluation signal that is dependent on a current received at the input terminal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 7, 2011
    Publication date: March 7, 2013
    Applicant: Infineon Technologies Austria AG
    Inventor: Martin Feldtkeller
  • Patent number: 8388225
    Abstract: A controller measures a temperature at which an ultraviolet (UV) fluorescent lamp is operating and, in response, controls heat transfer between a heat-generating portion of the fluorescent lamp power supply circuitry, such as the ballast, and the interior of the curing chamber to maintain the fluorescent lamps operating at a stable temperature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2013
    Assignee: Novartis AG
    Inventor: Courtney Flem Morgan
  • Patent number: 8382370
    Abstract: An improved thermocouple assembly for providing a temperature measurement is provided. The thermocouple assembly includes a sheath having a measuring tip, a support member received within the sheath, and first and second wires disposed within the support member. An end of each of the first and second wires are fused together to form a thermocouple junction therebetween. A recessed region is formed in a distal end of the support member, and the thermocouple junction is fixedly located at the base of the recessed region such that the recessed region maintains the thermocouple junction in a substantially fixed position relative to the measuring tip of the sheath.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2013
    Assignee: ASM America, Inc.
    Inventors: Ravinder K. Aggarwal, Robert C. Haro
  • Publication number: 20130044787
    Abstract: In order to provide a sensor operating in a high sensitivity at a low cost and a radio sensor platform having a high energy efficiency, the sensor includes a detecting film which generates heat through incidence or adhesion of an object, a magnetic film which generates a spin current in a direction of a temperature gradient by the heat generated by the detecting film, and an electrode which convert the spin current generated by the magnetic film into an electric current.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 8, 2011
    Publication date: February 21, 2013
    Applicant: NEC CORPORATION
    Inventors: Akihiro Kirihara, Shinichi Yorozu
  • Patent number: 8376611
    Abstract: A temperature detection circuit includes a sensor, an integrated circuit (IC) chip, and a resistor. The sensor is operable for sensing a temperature. The IC chip can compare a sense voltage indicative of the temperature with a threshold voltage indicative of a temperature threshold to determine a temperature condition. The IC chip has a substantially constant parameter. The resistor is externally coupled to the IC chip. The IC chip maintains a current ratio, including a ratio of a first current flowing through the sensor to a second current flowing through the resistor, equal to the substantially constant parameter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Assignee: O2Micro International Limited
    Inventors: Guoxing Li, Xiaohu Tang
  • Patent number: 8378269
    Abstract: A wafer thermometer includes a wafer, a plurality of temperature sensors, a converter, a wafer data transmitter, and a photoelectric conversion element. The wafer has an upper surface divided to a plurality of regions. The plurality of temperature sensors are arranged at the plurality of regions, respectively. The converter is provided on the wafer and configured to convert signals output from the plurality of temperature sensors to temperature data. The wafer data transmitter is provided on the wafer and configured to transmit the temperature data converted by the converter. The photoelectric conversion element is provided on the wafer and configured to supply a current to the converter and the wafer data transmitter in response to light with which the photoelectric conversion element is irradiated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Assignee: Tokyo Electron Limited
    Inventors: Toshiyuki Matsumoto, Naozo Sugimoto
  • Patent number: 8360636
    Abstract: An apparatus, in one embodiment, can include a configuration including a plurality of heat generation devices. The apparatus also includes a plurality of thermal sensors respectively, operably connected to each of the plurality of heat generation devices, wherein each thermal sensor of the plurality of thermal sensors includes a respective output terminal configured to provide a voltage representative of the temperature of the respective heat generation device. The apparatus further includes an output circuit configured to output the highest temperature information among the heat generation devices. The output terminals of the plurality of thermal sensors are tied together. A corresponding method is also discussed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2013
    Assignee: Renesas Electronics America Inc.
    Inventors: Tetsuo Sato, Ryotaro Kudo
  • Patent number: 8358085
    Abstract: A control system is disclosed for determining an actual temperature of a light emitting diode. The control system uses conductor that supply power to the light emitting diode to supply a pulse to the light emitting diode. The pulse is determined along with a reaction caused by the pulse and the information gained is used in determination of the light emitting diode die temperature which can then be used in controlling current to the light emitting diode to control the temperature of the light emitting diode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 22, 2013
    Assignee: Terralux, Inc.
    Inventors: Anthony Catalano, Daniel Harrison
  • Publication number: 20130010828
    Abstract: The invention pertains to flexible devices used for zero-heat-flux, deep tissue temperature measurement, especially to disposable temperature measurement devices. Such a device is constituted of a flexible substrate. An electrical circuit is disposed on a side of the substrate. The electrical circuit includes first and second thermal sensors disposed, respectively, on first and second substrate layers. A heater trace is disposed on the first substrate layer with the first thermal sensor. The first and second substrate layers are separated by a flexible layer of insulation disposed between the first and second substrate layers. The heater trace defines a heater with a central portion that operates with a first power density and a peripheral portion around the central portion that operates with a second power density greater than the first power density.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 13, 2012
    Publication date: January 10, 2013
    Applicant: Arizant Healthcare Inc.
    Inventors: Mark T. Bieberich, Gary L. Hansen, Ryan J. Staab, Albert P. Van Duren, Allen H. Ziaimehr
  • Patent number: 8348505
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a calibration circuit, computer program product, and method of calibrating a junction temperature measurement of a semiconductor element, wherein respective forward voltages at junctions of the semiconductor element and a reference temperature sensor are measured, and an absolute ambient temperature is determined by using the reference temperature sensor, and the junction temperature of the semiconductor element is predicted based on the absolute ambient temperature and the measured forward voltages.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2013
    Assignee: NXP B.V.
    Inventors: Viet Nguyen Hoang, Pascal Bancken, Radu Surdeanu, Benoit Bataillou, David van Steenwinckel
  • Patent number: 8342748
    Abstract: A method of making a probe for an electronic thermometer includes positioning a flex circuit together with a probe shaft. Connecting a locating member to the probe shaft. The locating member comprises a resilient locator that is resiliently deformed by engagement with the flex circuit thereby to bias the flex circuit to a selected position. The biasing of the flex circuit by the resilient locator is independent of movement of the probe shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2013
    Assignee: Tyco Healthcare Group LP
    Inventor: Joseph T. Gierer
  • Patent number: 8342745
    Abstract: A method is provided for determination of an operating temperature in a thermally highly loaded device. Multiple individual passive measurement elements, having a measurable physical parameter depending on a constant temperature set during heat treatment, are provided. The parameter is set differently for each of the different measurement elements which are combined to form an array. In a first measurement, values of the physical parameter for the array are determined before the array is subjected to the operating temperature. The array is subjected to the operating temperature in the device and in a second measurement, values are determined for all the measurement elements in the array. First and second measurement values of the physical parameter for each of the measurement elements are compared and the temperature of the heat treatment of that measurement element whose value of the physical parameter has changed the least is taken as the measured temperature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2013
    Assignee: ALSTOM Technology Ltd
    Inventors: Roland Moser, Klaus Germerdonk, Bernd Rabensteiner, Peter Lang
  • Patent number: 8328420
    Abstract: Support structures for positioning sensors on a physiologic tunnel for measuring physical, chemical and biological parameters of the body and to produce an action according to the measured value of the parameters. A sensor fitted on the support structures uses a special geometry for acquiring continuous and undisturbed data on the physiology of the body. Signals are transmitted to a remote station by wireless transmission such as by electromagnetic waves, radio waves, infrared, sound and the like or by being reported locally by audio or visual transmission. The physical and chemical parameters include brain function, metabolic function, hydrodynamic function, hydration status, levels of chemical compounds in the blood, and the like. The support structure includes patches, clips, eyeglasses, head mounted gear and the like, containing passive or active sensors positioned at the end of the tunnel with sensing systems positioned on and accessing a physiologic tunnel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2012
    Inventor: Marcio Marc Abreu
  • Patent number: 8317393
    Abstract: A digital temperature sensing system and method for converting a test temperature into a digital output signal are disclosed. The system comprises a temperature-to-time circuit for generating a thermally sensitive time signal of which a width varies with the test temperature; an adjustable time reference circuit for generating a time reference signal of which a width changes with the digital set value; a time comparator for generating a time comparison signal according to a width difference between the thermally sensitive time signal and the time reference signal; a logic control circuit for adjusting the digital set value of the adjustable time reference circuit according to the time comparison signal so that the width of the thermally sensitive time signal and the width of time reference signal are close enough or substantially equal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2012
    Assignee: National Taiwan University of Science and Technology
    Inventors: Poki Chen, Chun-chi Chen, Tuo-kuang Chen
  • Patent number: 8314623
    Abstract: A system includes a first module, a second module, and a third module. The first module determines a first temperature and a first power dissipation value of a thermistor based on a resistance of a first resistor connected in series with the thermistor. The second module, after disconnecting the first resistor and connecting a second resistor in series with the thermistor, determines a second temperature and a second power dissipation value of the thermistor based on a resistance of the second resistor. The third module determines a thermal dissipation factor based on the first and second temperatures and the first and second power dissipation values, and corrects temperature sensed by the thermistor based on the thermal dissipation factor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2012
    Inventors: Brian Carl Nelson, Christian G. Masson, Marilyn L. Kindermann, Brian K. Kowalczyk
  • Patent number: 8303180
    Abstract: A temperature recorder in the form of a tubular cover and with an inside piston, in which an altered position of the piston is carried out by a mechanical movement released from a bimetal washer, which, when making a sudden change, changes its form from convex to concave when a determined temperature level is reached. Two line-formed screen patterns, a picture formed by colored lines on the inner surface of the tubular cover, shows a certain pattern in the original position, and a different pattern is shown when an inside piston has been moved vertically inside the outer tubular cover. Friction between the outside of the piston and the inner surface of the tubular cover forms a braking means. A reset button can by means of a magnet or a spring repulse or press back the piston which is in the top of the tubular cover and has a magnet and the piston will be pressed back within the tubular cover to its original position and the first patterns will be shown clearly again by the line-formed screen pattern.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2012
    Inventor: Petra Wadström
  • Patent number: 8303173
    Abstract: A temperature probe, such as for a respiratory system in which breathable gases are supplied to a patient, includes a housing having an external wall and an internal cavity defining an end and an internal cavity and further includes a temperature-responsive device in an area of the cavity near the end, such as in thermal communication with the external wall. A first potting compound that is deformable and/or has a relatively high thermal conductivity holds the temperature-responsive device in the cavity and a second potting compound having a relatively low thermal conductivity may be in the cavity behind the first potting compound. The housing may be made thin to enhance thermal conductivity, at least in the area containing the temperature-responsive device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2012
    Assignee: Smiths Medical ASD, Inc.
    Inventors: Keith J. Bradley, Ryan E. Johnson
  • Patent number: 8303172
    Abstract: The disclosure relates to methods and devices for monitoring e.g., fatigue levels by measuring a subject's body core temperature. In one embodiment, microwave radiometry is used to measure such core temperature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2012
    Inventors: Paul Zei, Bryant Lin, Robert C. Allison, Kenneth Carr
  • Publication number: 20120269229
    Abstract: Disclosed is a temperature measuring apparatus which is provided with: a substrate (2); a temperature sensor (3) disposed on one surface of the substrate (2); and a wire (8) disposed to electrically connect together a circuit, which detects a temperature using the temperature sensor (3), and the temperature sensor (3). In said surface of the substrate (2), a recessed section (7) having a heat capacity smaller than that of the material of the substrate (2) is formed on the periphery of the temperature sensor (3). The recessed section (7) is formed at a predetermined interval from the temperature sensor (3) such that the recessed section surrounds the temperature sensor (3) and has predetermined width and depth. Preferably, the low heat capacity zone is the recessed section (7), i.e., the groove having a recessed cross-section.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 6, 2010
    Publication date: October 25, 2012
    Applicant: TOKYO ELECTRON LIMITED
    Inventors: Hisaki Ishida, Masato Hayashi, Koudai Higashi
  • Patent number: 8292495
    Abstract: A zero-heat-flux DTT measurement device is constituted of a flexible substrate supporting an electrical circuit including a heater trace defining a heater, thermal sensors, and a thermal sensor calibration circuit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2012
    Assignee: Arizant Healthcare Inc.
    Inventors: Mark T. Bieberich, Gary L. Hansen, Ryan J. Staab, Albert P. Van Duren, Allen H. Ziaimehr
  • Patent number: 8292502
    Abstract: The invention pertains to flexible devices used for zero-heat-flux, deep tissue temperature measurement, especially to disposable temperature measurement devices. Such a device is constituted of a flexible substrate. An electrical circuit is disposed on a side of the substrate. The electrical circuit includes first and second thermal sensors disposed, respectively, on first and second substrate layers. A heater trace is disposed on the first substrate layer with the first thermal sensor. The first and second substrate layers are separated by a flexible layer of insulation disposed between the first and second substrate layers. The heater trace defines a heater with a central portion that operates with a first power density and a peripheral portion around the central portion that operates with a second power density greater than the first power density.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2012
    Assignee: Arizant Healthcare Inc.
    Inventors: Mark T. Bieberich, Gary L. Hansen, Ryan J. Staab, Albert P. Van Duren, Allen H. Ziaimehr
  • Publication number: 20120263209
    Abstract: Techniques described herein generally relate to methods of manufacturing devices and systems including devices including a substrate with a surface, a conductive polymer film arranged on the surface of the substrate, wherein the conductive polymer film has one or more temperature reactive characteristics, and a pair of electrodes coupled to the polymer film, wherein the pair of electrodes are configured to communicate electrical signals to the conductive polymer film effective to measure the one or more temperature reactive characteristics. The conductive polymer film may be arranged on the surface of the substrate such that a thickness and dopant ratio of the conductive polymer film on the substrate is configurable.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 9, 2010
    Publication date: October 18, 2012
    Applicant: INDIAN INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY KANPUR
    Inventors: Siddhartha Panda, Hakeem Abrar Ahmed
  • Publication number: 20120257648
    Abstract: A temperature sensor includes: a gate voltage generation unit including a bias resistor, a first source resistor, and a first MOS transistor and configured to generate a gate voltage; and a variable voltage output unit including an output resistor, a second source resistor, and a second MOS transistor and configured to generate the variable voltage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 26, 2011
    Publication date: October 11, 2012
    Applicant: HYNIX SEMICONDUCTOR INC.
    Inventors: Hyun Sik JEONG, Saeng Hwan KIM
  • Patent number: 8282277
    Abstract: The invention discloses a replaceable probe holder structure for thermometer, including a thermometer shell. Inside the thermometer shell installs a slot and an elastic positioning mechanism; inside the slot installs a probe holder; after the insertion of the probe holder in the slot, the probe holder will match with the elastic positioning mechanism and then fixed in the slot. By adopting the above structure, the probe holder structure of this invention requires fewer components, and convenient for installation; the adoption of the elastic positioning mechanism to fix the probe holder is more convenient to replace in practical use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2012
    Assignee: Edan Instruments, Inc.
    Inventors: Chuanxi Guo, Anqiang Liao