By Current Modifying Sensor Patents (Class 374/183)
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Publication number: 20100134122Abstract: A substrate including a sensor unit, wherein the sensor unit includes a coil wound at least once arranged on the surface of the sensor or embedded within and near the surface thereof. With such an arrangement, an electric current that corresponds to information with respect to the substrate flows through the coil.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 19, 2009Publication date: June 3, 2010Applicants: Philtech Inc., Shinko Electric Industries Co., Ltd.Inventors: Yuji Furumura, Naomi Mura, Koki Tamagawa, Tadayoshi Yoshikawa, Hiroshi Yonekura
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Publication number: 20100118916Abstract: A flexible thin metal film thermal sensing system is provided. A thermally-conductive film made from a thermally-insulating material is doped with thermally-conductive material. At least one layer of electrically-conductive metal is deposited directly onto a surface of the thermally-conductive film. One or more devices are coupled to the layer(s) to measure an electrical characteristic associated therewith as an indication of temperature.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 15, 2010Publication date: May 13, 2010Applicant: USA as represented by the Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space AdministrationInventor: Donald L. Thomsen, III
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Publication number: 20100118911Abstract: A method for manufacturing a contact temperature sensor to be used at a temperature of use, including a) supplying a carbon fiber; b) heat treating of the fiber at a temperature higher than 800° C. and higher than the temperature of use; c) full layer depositing on the fiber, at a deposition temperature, an electrically insulating ceramic coating layer stable at the temperature of use, the ceramic material chosen among silica (SiO2), zirconia (ZrO2), and alumina (Al2O3); d) heat treating of the fiber, coated with the coating layer, at a temperature higher than the deposition temperature of the coating layer and higher than the temperature of use, or (c?) full layer depositing on the fiber a first coating layer of silicon carbide; d?) full layer depositing the first coating layer a second coating layer of boron nitride; e?) heat treating the fiber thereby obtained at a temperature above the deposition temperatures and the temperature of use of the sensor.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 8, 2008Publication date: May 13, 2010Applicant: Commissariat A L' Energie AtomiqueInventors: Christophe Lorrette, Rene Pailler, Jean-Marc Goyheneche, Jean-Christopher Batsale
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Patent number: 7712958Abstract: The invention relates to a measuring device, in particular a temperature measuring transducer, comprising an electrical resistor, which alters its value based on a chemical or physical variable that is to be measured and which is connected to an evaluation device via at least three lines. Said evaluation device checks the lines for line breaks and if such a break has occurred, switches from a four-wire circuit to a three- or two-wire circuit as required, in order to permit the continuation of the measuring operation. This improves the reliability of the measuring device.Type: GrantFiled: December 17, 2004Date of Patent: May 11, 2010Assignee: Siemens AktiengesellschaftInventors: Dirk Burmeister, Eric Chemisky
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Patent number: 7686505Abstract: The invention concerns a method for the indirect determination of local irradiance in an optical system; wherein the optical system comprises optical elements between which an illuminated beam path is formed and a measurement object which absorbs the radiation in the beam path at least partially is positioned in a partial region of the beam path selected for the locally-resolved determination of the irradiance and the temperature distribution of at least one part of the measurement object is determined by means of a temperature detector.Type: GrantFiled: January 31, 2006Date of Patent: March 30, 2010Assignee: Carl Zeiss SMT AGInventors: Frank Meltzer, Axel Scholz
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Publication number: 20100040112Abstract: A temperature sensor is disclosed having a measuring resistor which is accommodated inside a protective tube and a proximal end of which is connected to a sensor head. The sensor head includes a measurement insert for electrically connecting the measuring resistor and a measuring transducer which is connected downstream thereof to, for example, condition measurement signals. The sensor head is formed by a cylindrical housing having an intermediate base, the measurement insert being accommodated in a lower housing section which is adjacent to the measuring resistor and is sectioned off by the intermediate base, and the measuring transducer being accommodated in an opposite, upper housing section.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 12, 2009Publication date: February 18, 2010Applicant: ABB Technology AGInventors: Ralf Huck, Ulrich Staab
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Patent number: 7661877Abstract: A thermal flow detecting apparatus detects fluid flow in a main flow passage. A bypass passage portion is provided through which some fluid bypasses the main flow passage. A detecting element is provided in the bypass passage portion and arranged at a location eccentrically displaced from the center of a cross section of the bypass passage portion. A throttle portion is provided upstream of the eccentric detecting element in the bypass passage portion for throttling the cross section partially on a side of the detecting element.Type: GrantFiled: March 28, 2007Date of Patent: February 16, 2010Assignee: Denso CorporationInventor: Noboru Kitahara
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Patent number: 7658539Abstract: A process variable transmitter for measuring a temperature of a process includes a first, a second, third, and fourth terminal configured to couple to the temperature sensitive element. Measurement circuitry measures an electrical parameter between a pair of the terminals. A microprocess identifies a location of the temperature sensitive element coupled to at least two of the terminals based upon an electrical parameter measured by the measured circuitry between two terminals. In another configuration, the process variable transmitter measures temperature of a process using a thermocouple. A heating element is configured to heat terminals coupled to the thermocouple. A microprocessor determines polarity of the thermocoupled based upon a measured electrical parameter between the terminals in response to applied heat.Type: GrantFiled: December 4, 2006Date of Patent: February 9, 2010Assignee: Rosemount Inc.Inventor: Loren M. Engelstad
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Patent number: 7654733Abstract: A controller of a hob is connected to a temperature sensor of a radiation based heating element. In principle, two different groups of temperature sensors can be used, whose resistance values differ by approximately a factor of three. When the hob is first used, the resistance of the temperature sensor is measured at room temperature and is classified in one of the two groups of temperature sensors on the basis of a limit value between the two typical temperature profiles of the groups of temperature sensors. On the basis of this, calibration of the controller is carried out for the purpose of adjusting to the established group to which the temperature sensor belongs.Type: GrantFiled: August 21, 2008Date of Patent: February 2, 2010Assignee: E.G.O. Elektro-Geraetebau GmbHInventors: Eugen Wilde, Wilfried Schilling
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Patent number: 7651265Abstract: The present invention discloses an infrared clinical thermometer, which can measure both the forehead and ear temperatures, wherein after moving the temperature sensing unit close to an intended site, the user can obtain the temperature of the intended site via merely pressing the forehead or ear temperature button.Type: GrantFiled: June 12, 2007Date of Patent: January 26, 2010Assignee: Radiant Innovation Inc.Inventors: Gavin Yang, Jason Liao, Vincent Weng, Eileen Chen
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Patent number: 7651267Abstract: 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.Type: GrantFiled: August 8, 2006Date of Patent: January 26, 2010Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLCInventors: Phillip Gonzales, Ronald Elder
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Patent number: 7651263Abstract: A method and apparatus for measuring the temperature of a gas in a mass flow controller is described. One embodiment derives gas-temperature information from a mass flow sensor of the mass flow controller without relying on a separate temperature sensor. This embodiment supplies a substantially constant electrical current to a thermal mass flow sensor of the mass flow controller, the thermal mass flow sensor being designed to measure a mass flow rate of the gas; measures an input voltage of the thermal mass flow sensor to obtain a present input voltage, the input voltage varying with a temperature differential between a pair of sensing elements of the thermal mass flow sensor; calculates an adjusted input voltage by accounting for a component of the present input voltage that is dependent on the mass flow rate of the gas; and calculates the temperature of the gas based on the adjusted input voltage.Type: GrantFiled: March 1, 2007Date of Patent: January 26, 2010Assignee: Advanced Energy Industries, Inc.Inventors: Michael John Zolock, Hiroyuki Ito
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Patent number: 7648268Abstract: A method of making an electronic thermometry assembly includes assembling a magnetic source capable of generating a magnetic field into a housing of the mount. A microcontroller including a resettable anti-theft counter for recording a use-parameter of the thermometer is mounted on a circuit board so that the thermometer is disabled in an anti-theft mode when the counter reaches a pre-selected number. A solid-state sensor in communication with the microcontroller is mounted on the circuit board. The sensor is capable of being activated by the magnetic field of the magnetic source to signal to the microcontroller to reset the anti-theft counter. The circuit board is assembled with the microcontroller and solid-state sensor thereon into a housing of the thermometer.Type: GrantFiled: April 30, 2009Date of Patent: January 19, 2010Assignee: Covidien AGInventor: Denis Y. Yerlikaya
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Patent number: 7641390Abstract: A method for digitally controlling the resistive output of a temperature probe is disclosed. The system is comprised of a temperature sensor, a processor and a means under the control of the processor for modifying the resistive output such as a digital potentiometer. In one embodiment, the processor reads the temperature sensor and adjusts the potentiometer based on a correlative or predictive technique so as to provide a modified output that matches that of a standard resistive temperature probe and is compatible for display on a multi-parameter monitor.Type: GrantFiled: April 12, 2008Date of Patent: January 5, 2010Assignee: YSIS IncorporatedInventors: Jack P. Shidemantle, Robert A. Kill
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Publication number: 20090323764Abstract: A temperature sensing circuit having high accuracy and an on die thermal sensor including the same are provided. The temperature sensing circuit includes a current generating unit for generating a temperature current varied according to a temperature, and a voltage generating unit for mirroring the temperature current and generating a temperature voltage generated by the mirrored temperature current.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 2, 2008Publication date: December 31, 2009Applicant: HYNIX SEMICONDUCTOR, INC.Inventor: Jong-Man IM
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Publication number: 20090316752Abstract: A thermistor includes a thermistor body and terminal electrodes disposed at both ends of the thermistor body. A first lead is longer than a second lead. The first and second leads include tips having inclined shapes that are cut such that metal lines are surface-exposed, respectively. The thermistor body is attached at a predetermined side position of the first lead such that the first lead and a side folding portion of the terminal electrode form a predetermined angle ?. The terminal electrode and the first lead are connected to each other through solder, and the second lead and the terminal electrode are connected to each other through solder. This can prevent the occurrence of damage even if an excessive thermal stress is applied. The temperature sensor with leads having stable electric connection with the temperature sensor that has satisfactory detection sensitivity and high reliability is achieved.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 3, 2009Publication date: December 24, 2009Applicant: MURATA MANUFACTURING CO., LTD.Inventors: Masahiko KAWASE, Shiro TSUJI
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Publication number: 20090304043Abstract: The invention relates to a temperature sensor comprising a sense element and being in contact with a housing configured as a contact wire of the temperature sensor. A contact wire arranged inside the housing, is configured concentrically and is held under spring tension with an angular spring. For testing purposes, a testing resistor, being connected parallel to the sensor element is proposed.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 17, 2007Publication date: December 10, 2009Applicant: Continental Automotive GmbHInventors: Manfred Glehr, Stephan Heinrich
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Patent number: 7611279Abstract: An embodiment of a temperature sensor providing a digital signal representative of temperature comprises a measurement unit providing a first measurement current equal to the sum of at least a first current proportional to temperature and of a second current; a comparator capable of providing a comparison signal which depends on the comparison between the first current and the difference between a third current and the second current; a coding unit receiving the comparison signal and providing said digital signal; a digital-to-analog converter capable of providing the second current and the third current, said difference corresponding to the conversion of said digital signal; and a unit for providing a reference voltage.Type: GrantFiled: August 20, 2007Date of Patent: November 3, 2009Assignee: STMicroelectronics MarocInventors: Lionel Vogt, Youness Chara
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Patent number: 7611280Abstract: A rugged sensor and method for manufacturing such, for use in hostile environments, the sensor exhibiting high mechanical strength to protect the sensor from physical damage. The sensor system also including a modular component that may variously be connected to the sensor to extension thereof, the modular component also exhibiting high mechanical strength to protect electrical conductors located therein.Type: GrantFiled: March 4, 2004Date of Patent: November 3, 2009Assignee: Harco Laboratories, Inc.Inventor: Samir W. Habboosh
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Patent number: 7607829Abstract: A temperature-history sensor includes a resonance circuit composed of at least a capacitor and a coil. The temperature-history sensor has a display for indicating a predetermined set temperature of the temperature-history sensor. The capacitor has at least a thermofusion material between electrodes of the capacitor, and the melting point of the thermofusion material is in the region of the set temperature.Type: GrantFiled: November 26, 2007Date of Patent: October 27, 2009Assignee: Canon Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Takayuki Sumida, Tadahiko Hirai
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Patent number: 7604401Abstract: A substrate temperature measurement apparatus and a processing apparatus, whereby thermocouple wire reliability is improved, influence of infrared rays on the chip is reduced and the temperature of the substrate can be accurately measured. A chip (16) made of metal material reflecting infrared rays and electromagnetic waves, has an insertion opening (16a) for inserting thermocouple wires (20a, 20b) is crushed and deformed with the thermocouple wires inserted, and thereby united together with the thermocouple wires, and contacted with the substrate (13); and a supporting member or members (15b, 15c), made of material of lower thermal conductivity than said chip (16), are provided for supporting said chip (16).Type: GrantFiled: June 17, 2005Date of Patent: October 20, 2009Assignee: UL Vac, Inc.Inventor: Yoshinori Fujii
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Patent number: 7600914Abstract: An RTD connector seal to couple and seal an RTD device to an RTD cable. The RTD connector seal includes a tubular sleeve defining an groove in an interior surface proximate each end of the sleeve. The RTD connector seal includes a pair of end plugs, each end plug defining a first channel configured to receive an O-ring and a second channel configured to receive stacked O-rings, with one O-ring aligned with the groove in the sleeve, each end plug defining a through hole configured to receive one of the RTD device and RTD cable. The RTD connector seal includes a terminal plate coupled to each end plug and configured to slidingly engage the interior surface of the sleeve. The RTD connector seal includes a terminal block mounted on the terminal plate, wherein the RTD device is coupled to the RTD cable on the terminal block sealed within the sleeve.Type: GrantFiled: December 2, 2005Date of Patent: October 13, 2009Inventor: Herve' X. Bronnert
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Patent number: 7572051Abstract: The presently described embodiments are directed to a calibration method and system for thin film thermistors that are locally heated with integrated thin film heaters. Initially, print head temperature is either measured or referenced. Then, transient thermistor resistances are measured and used to determine the thermistor resistance at a higher temperature. Notably, this calibration method is advantageously implemented as a step of an existing process without having to expose the print heads to operating temperatures. In some implementations of the presently described embodiments, trimming of the thermistors may be required once calibrated.Type: GrantFiled: November 15, 2004Date of Patent: August 11, 2009Assignee: Palo Alto Research Center IncorporatedInventors: Scott Jong Ho Limb, Michael Yu Tak Young, Karl A. Littau
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Patent number: 7563024Abstract: For some embodiments, skin temperature of a computer system may be determined by using a network of thermistors and conductors. A thermistor may be positioned at an intersection of two conductors. Current may be supplied to a first conductor. Voltage may be measured at a second conductor. Resistance information associated with the thermistor may be determined. Skin temperature may be determined from the resistance information.Type: GrantFiled: September 28, 2006Date of Patent: July 21, 2009Assignee: Intel CorporationInventors: Efraim Rotem, Rajiv K. Mongia
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Publication number: 20090147824Abstract: A passive wireless temperature sensor with a loop antenna is placed in a remote environment for exposure to its changing temperature conditions. The sensor includes a coil of wire wrapped around a cylinder to form an air-core inductor. The cylinder contains a small amount of eutectic material similar to a conventional thermometer which has the property of being magnetic. A capacitor is connected to the coil of wire to form a resonant LC “tank” circuit. As temperature increases, the eutectic material expands through the cylinder at the core of the inductor causing an increase in inductance and corresponding decrease in the resonant frequency of the LC “tank” circuit. The temperature of the remote sensor is proportional to resonant frequency and can be determined by generating an oscillating signal and measuring resonant frequency of the remote sensor.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 8, 2008Publication date: June 11, 2009Applicant: WT Systems, LLCInventors: William Joseph Schafer, Matthew Price
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APPARATUS, SYSTEM, AND METHOD FOR DETECTING TEMPERATURE THRESHOLD EVENTS IN AN AFTERTREATMENT DEVICE
Publication number: 20090097528Abstract: An apparatus, system, and method are disclosed for detecting temperature threshold events in an aftertreatment device. The system may include an aftertreatment device configured to treat an exhaust gas of an internal combustion engine and a temperature responder disposed within a region of interest of the aftertreatment device. The temperature responder is configured to melt at a threshold temperature. The system may further include two access points electrically coupled to the temperature responder and an observation module configured to measure an electrical resistance value across the two access points. The observation module detects the melting of the temperature responder based on the electrical resistance value measured across the access points. In alternate embodiments the observation module is included within an engine control module (ECM) or a service tool.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 11, 2007Publication date: April 16, 2009Inventors: Conrad J. Simon, III, Randall J. Stafford -
Patent number: 7510323Abstract: 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, a conductive element extending between first and second layers for connecting said first and second conductive paths into a single continuous conductive path having a resistance that varies with temperature. The sensor is responsive to electric current sent through said continuous path for determining temperature proximate to said continuous path from said path resistance.Type: GrantFiled: March 14, 2006Date of Patent: March 31, 2009Assignee: International Business Machines CorporationInventors: Aquilur Rahman, Lloyd Andre Walls
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Patent number: 7503689Abstract: There is described a method and sub-circuit to measure temperature coefficients (coefficient of variation of a measurable parameter of the component), by using a thermally-isolated silicon micro-platform with a mass of mono-crystalline silicon suspended from it. The particular effectiveness of the measurement of temperature coefficient(s) stems from the influence of the mono-crystalline silicon mass in maintaining a substantially uniform temperature throughout the micro-platform. The measurement of temperature coefficient can be an absolute temperature coefficient of one or more components, or can be a relative temperature coefficient of two components, or can be relative temperature coefficients between more than two components.Type: GrantFiled: July 24, 2007Date of Patent: March 17, 2009Assignee: Microbridge Technologies Inc.Inventors: Oleg Grudin, Leslie M. Landsberger
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Patent number: 7497615Abstract: A digital temperature sensor and a system and a method for measuring a temperature are provided. The system includes a reference signal generator including one or more resistance elements; a temperature sensor including a plurality of discrete resistance elements arranged parallel with one another; a multiplexer multiplexing the plurality of discrete resistance elements and the reference resistance element so that the plurality of discrete resistance elements sequentially distribute a power voltage together with the reference resistance element; a comparator having the voltages distributed by the reference resistance element and a discrete resistance element selected by the multiplexer; and a counter counting sequential switchings of the multiplexer.Type: GrantFiled: July 25, 2005Date of Patent: March 3, 2009Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.Inventors: Dong-kyun Kim, Ja-nam Ku
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Patent number: 7494274Abstract: An electronic thermometer is configured for ease and accuracy in construction. A probe of the thermometer includes a flex circuit containing electronic components used to measure temperature and transmit signals to a calculating unit of the thermometer. A locating member supported by the probe can function to pre-position the flex circuit prior to final fixation so that the electronic components are reliably positioned in manufacture.Type: GrantFiled: December 20, 2007Date of Patent: February 24, 2009Assignee: Covidien AGInventors: Ricky A. Sisk, Joseph Gierer, Mark A. Davis
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Patent number: 7484887Abstract: A method for digitally controlling the resistive output of a temperature probe is disclosed. The system is comprised of a temperature sensor, a processor and a means under the control of the processor for modifying the resistive output such as a digital potentiometer. In one embodiment, the processor reads the temperature sensor and adjusts the potentiometer based on a correlative or predictive technique so as to provide a modified output that matches that of a standard resistive temperature probe and is compatible for display on a multiparameter monitor.Type: GrantFiled: February 20, 2004Date of Patent: February 3, 2009Assignee: YSIS IncorporatedInventors: Jack P. Shidemantle, Robert A. Kill
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Publication number: 20090028214Abstract: A method for monitoring the proper functioning of a temperature-dependent resistor, particularly a NTC resistor, for measuring the temperature of a medium heated by a heat source. Said medium is preferably the air flow in a clothes dryer for drying clothes. In order to increase the safety of a device, in particular a clothes dryer, where the temperature-dependent resistor is used in combination with a heat source, it is checked, once the heat source is switched on, whether the temperature measured by the resistor after a first predetermined period of time following the switching on of the heat source falls below a predetermined temperature threshold value. If this is the case, monitoring of a resistor-temperature curve characteristic of the temperature-dependent resistor is carried out.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 8, 2006Publication date: January 29, 2009Applicant: BSH Bosch und Siemens Hausgerate GmbhInventors: Kai-Uwe Bache, Thomas Nawrot, Ulrich Nehring, Andreas Ziemann
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Patent number: 7461972Abstract: A low power analog linear temperature sensor integrateable with digital and/or analog circuits in CMOS fabrication processes. The sensor is accurately calibrateable at a single temperature that yields a linear relationship between measured differential voltage and temperature over a wide variety of temperature ranges. The sensor provides stable voltage and current references that are essential for wireless sensor platforms. There are many applications where sensors require stable voltage/current references and the physics of the sensor's transduction mechanisms are themselves temperature dependent. Wireless platforms such as, but not limited to, passive RFID tags with the addition of on- or off-chip sensors provide a low cost solution for a variety of low cost sensor applications.Type: GrantFiled: February 3, 2006Date of Patent: December 9, 2008Assignee: Altivera L.L.C.Inventor: Marc Harry Cohen
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Publication number: 20080297358Abstract: Provided are a temperature sensor using a metal-insulator transition (MIT) device subject to abrupt MIT at a specific temperature and an alarm including the temperature sensor. The abrupt MIT device includes an abrupt MIT thin film and at least two electrode thin films that contacts the abrupt MIT thin film. The abrupt MIT device generates abrupt metal-insulator transition at a specific transition temperature. The alarm includes a temperature sensor comprising an abrupt MIT device, and an alarm signaling device serially connected to the temperature sensor. Accordingly, the alarm can be manufactured to have a simple circuit and be of a small size by including the temperature sensor using an abrupt MIT device.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 27, 2006Publication date: December 4, 2008Applicant: Electronics and Telecommunications Research InstituteInventors: Hyun-Tak Kim, Kwang Yong Kang, Yong Wook Lee, Byung Gyu Chae, Bong Jun Kim, Sang Kuk Choi, Sun Jin Yun
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Patent number: 7455452Abstract: A temperature sensor includes a reference voltage generator, a sensing temperature controller and a first differential amplifier. The reference voltage generator generates a reference voltage having a first slope that varies in accordance with variations of a peripheral temperature, and a temperature sensing voltage having a second slope that varies in accordance with variations of the peripheral temperature. The sensing temperature controller controls an offset of an amplifier in response to a first control signal, and amplifies a voltage difference between the reference voltage and the temperature sensing voltage to generate a first differential output signal, and a second differential output signal having an inverted phase of the first differential output signal. The first differential amplifier amplifies a voltage difference between the first differential output signal and the second differential output signal to generate a sensor output signal.Type: GrantFiled: January 24, 2006Date of Patent: November 25, 2008Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.Inventor: Young-Hun Seo
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Patent number: 7448798Abstract: An apparatus and method of measuring a parameter associated with a sample is provided. The method includes providing a probe adapted to heat the sample and applying a measuring current having a frequency ?1 to the probe. In operation, the method measures the amplitude of the voltage across the probe at a frequency ?1. This amplitude is indicative of a temperature of the probe. The preferred embodiment also provides a method of separating contamination of the thermal data caused by the probe from thermal data associated with the sample under test.Type: GrantFiled: June 18, 2003Date of Patent: November 11, 2008Assignee: Veeco Instruments Inc.Inventor: Chunhai Wang
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Publication number: 20080273573Abstract: A detection device is provided for detecting a temperature of an object, especially of a living being. The detection device may be connected to at least one temperature sensor and is designed to send a current for detecting the temperature to the temperature sensor and to receive at least one temperature signal, which represents a temperature of the temperature sensor. The detection device is designed to generate a temperature signal, which represents the temperature of the object, as a function of the temperature signal of the temperature sensor, and to send same on the output side. The detection device is designed to generate a heating current and to send the heating current to the temperature sensor during a heating time period, so that a total current, comprising the current for detecting the temperature and the heating current, is greater than the current for detecting the temperature, and thus to heat the temperature sensor.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 13, 2008Publication date: November 6, 2008Applicant: Drager Safety AG & Co. KGaAInventor: Henning Gerder
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Patent number: 7441950Abstract: Providing a probe for an electronic clinical thermometer, which can measure a surface temperature and a deep body temperature of a human body securely in short time, the probe includes a cylindrical housing, a bottomed metal pipe fitted into a top end of the cylindrical housing, and a substrate having two thin-film heat-sensitive elements arranged perpendicularly on an inner wall of the bottomed metal pipe so as to fix one side edge of the substrate tightly on the inner wall. By measuring heat flux between the two thin-film heat-sensitive elements, the surface and the deep body temperatures of the human body can be predicted by applying the measured values into a heat conduction equation without waiting the sensor to reach in heat balance.Type: GrantFiled: March 15, 2006Date of Patent: October 28, 2008Assignee: Ishizuka Electronics, Corp.Inventors: Jun Kamiyama, Shigeru Takada
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Patent number: 7438467Abstract: An assembly and method for testing the fire performance of sheet piling sections which includes: a first wall formed from sheet piling sections; a second wall substantially parallel to the first wall; a base plate; and a pair of end sections extending between the opposing ends of the two walls. The first and second walls and the end sections are attached to, and extend upwardly from, the base plate to form a cavity, which can be filled with materials. The assembly also includes two top sections, which are attached to the first and second walls and joined together by at least one connector. The sheet piling sections of the first wall are exposed to a heat source to certify compliance with fire codes and regulations.Type: GrantFiled: October 4, 2006Date of Patent: October 21, 2008Assignee: Skyline Steel, LLCInventor: David Borger
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Patent number: 7410292Abstract: A clinical thermometer generally comprises an outer case, a flexible probe stem, a sensor cap, an inner base, an electronic processor, and a temperature sensor. The flexible probe stem has a front junction having several grooves. The inner base, which is made of a rigid material, is embedded into the front junction to almost stuff up its inside to provide it with sufficient strength for tight, secure connection with the sensor cap and make the sensor cap not easy to fall apart.Type: GrantFiled: July 19, 2006Date of Patent: August 12, 2008Inventor: Hsueh-Yu Lu
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Publication number: 20080187021Abstract: The present invention is generally in the field of measuring and indicating techniques and relates to a time-temperature indicating device and methods of manufacturing and reading this device. More specifically, the time-temperature indicator (TTI) device comprises at least one active reactant being at least a part of a component that is configured to be either an electrical component or transformable into an electrical component, said at least one active reactant being selected to be affectable by a chemical and/or physical reaction effecting a change in at least an electrical property of said electrical component at a rate that is time-temperature dependent.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 31, 2005Publication date: August 7, 2008Inventors: Dietrich Haarer, Yoav Levy
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Patent number: 7408421Abstract: A device and method for determining a thermal absorption of a part of an integrated circuit (IC) are provided. A specially designed ring oscillator including a non-silicided poly-silicon resistor is used for the determination. The parameters of the ring oscillator are designed/tuned so that a delay of the ring oscillator varies predominantly with a variation in a resistance of the non-silicided poly-silicon resistor. The dimensions of the non-silicided poly-silicon resistor are large enough so that the resistance of the non-silicided poly-silicon resistor is immune to the small process variations of the poly-silicon length and width. The resistance of the non-silicided poly-silicon resistor varies with the thermal absorption of the part of the IC. As such, the thermal absorption of the part of the IC may be determined based on the delay of the ring oscillator.Type: GrantFiled: July 5, 2006Date of Patent: August 5, 2008Assignee: International Business Machines CorporationInventors: Ishtiaq Ahsan, Edward P. Maciejewski, Noah D. Zamdmer
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Publication number: 20080170600Abstract: A double temperature sensor is provided for measuring a near-surface temperature of the ambient air and the temperature of the skin surface (9). A heat flux insulation block (4) is made of an insulation material in one piece as a housing. Two temperature sensor elements (2, 3) with respective electric connections (6) belonging to them are arranged in the heat flux insulation block (4) one on top of another at spaced locations from one another and near the surface.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 24, 2007Publication date: July 17, 2008Applicant: DRAGERWERK AKTIEGESELLSCHAFTInventors: Frank SATTLER, Hartmut STARK
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Publication number: 20080144700Abstract: Circuitry for measuring and/or monitoring device temperature may include a first node coupled to ground, and a second node and a first resistor coupled in series to ground and in parallel to the first node. A first current driven to the first node and a second current driven to the second node can be selected such that a first voltage measured at the first node and a second voltage measured at the second node are substantially equal. The circuitry may also include a third node and a second resistor coupled in series to ground. A third current driven to the third node can be selected such that a third voltage measured at the third node is substantially equal to a reference voltage. Measures of the second and third currents and measures of the first and second resistors can be used to determine device temperature.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 15, 2006Publication date: June 19, 2008Inventor: William N. Schnaitter
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Publication number: 20080112463Abstract: For some embodiments, skin temperature of a computer system may be determined by using a network of thermistors and conductors. A thermistor may be positioned at an intersection of two conductors. Current may be supplied to a first conductor. Voltage may be measured at a second conductor. Resistance information associated with the thermistor may be determined. Skin temperature may be determined from the resistance information.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 28, 2006Publication date: May 15, 2008Inventors: Efraim Rotem, Rajiv K. Mongia
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Patent number: 7354195Abstract: A temperature measuring device and a temperature measuring method are provided which are capable of obtaining precise measured temperature values with respect even to old persons, sucklings or infants, which device may be formed into a disposable type according to need, which method may be carried out using such a disposable type device according to need, and which enable precise temperature measurement in real time. An on-subject temperature measuring device 1, which is attached to a subject when a temperature of the subject is measured, receives a radio wave from a reader 2 as an external device and is thereby electrically powered. Using the electric power, temperature measurement is performed in the on-subject temperature measuring device 1. The results of the measurement are transmitted through radio waves to the reader 2 in the form of a temperature of the subject and ID data.Type: GrantFiled: March 20, 2003Date of Patent: April 8, 2008Assignees: Zixsys Inc., FEC Inc.Inventor: Motoya Sakano
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Publication number: 20080043811Abstract: A flexible thin metal film thermal sensing system is provided. A self-metallized polymeric film has a polymeric film region and a metal surface disposed thereon. A layer of electrically-conductive metal is deposited directly onto the self-metallized polymeric film's metal surface. Coupled to at least one of the metal surface and the layer of electrically-conductive metal is a device/system for measuring an electrical characteristic associated therewith as an indication of temperature.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 18, 2006Publication date: February 21, 2008Applicant: U.S.A. as represented by the Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space AdministrationInventor: Donald L. Thomsen III
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Patent number: 7333038Abstract: An embodiment of the present invention is directed to a method for reducing the effects of temperature coefficients of series resistance in a temperature sensing circuit having a temperature sensing element. The currents through the temperature sensing element are relatively constant over temperature. The method includes adjusting the gain of an analog to digital converter to compensate for the change in current densities in the temperature sensing element multiplied by a characterized temperature coefficient of the series resistance of a signal path of the temperature sensing circuit. The method also includes adjusting an offset of the analog to digital converter to compensate for the change in current densities in the temperature sensing element multiplied by a characterized resistance of the signal path of the temperature sensing circuit.Type: GrantFiled: March 2, 2006Date of Patent: February 19, 2008Assignee: National Semiconductor CorporationInventor: Mehmet Aslan
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Patent number: 7318004Abstract: A thermometer system and method that rapidly predict body temperature based on the temperature signals received from a temperature sensing probe when it comes into contact with the body. A nonlinear, multi-parameter curve fitting process is performed and depending on the errors in the curve fit, parameters are changed or a prediction of the temperature is made. Criteria exist for the differences between the curve fit and the temperature data. The processor switches to a Continuous Monitor State if the curve fit over a limited number of time frames is unacceptable. Determining the start time on which the measurement time frame for prediction is based is performed by tissue contact threshold coupled with a prediction time delay.Type: GrantFiled: April 1, 2005Date of Patent: January 8, 2008Assignee: Cardinal Health 303, Inc.Inventor: Robert D. Butterfield
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Patent number: 7316507Abstract: An electronic thermometer is configured for ease and accuracy in construction. A probe of the thermometer includes a flex circuit containing electronic components used to measure temperature and transmit signals to a calculating unit of the thermometer. A locating member supported by the probe can function to pre-position the flex circuit prior to final fixation so that the electronic components are reliably positioned in manufacture.Type: GrantFiled: November 3, 2005Date of Patent: January 8, 2008Assignee: Covidien AGInventors: Ricky A. Sisk, Joseph T. Gierer, Mark Davis