Detail Of Resistive Sensor Patents (Class 374/185)
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Publication number: 20130170521Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: September 7, 2010Publication date: July 4, 2013Applicant: UTC FIRE & SECURITY CORPORATIONInventors: Jan A. Braam, Paul Schatz
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Patent number: 8454231Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: August 9, 2006Date of Patent: June 4, 2013Assignee: Carrier CorporationInventors: Merle D. Sears, William Bruce Sutherlin
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Patent number: 8454229Abstract: Two vertically offset thermistors for sensing a fluid such as oil and refrigerant in a compressor shell are monitored by a method that takes into account rapidly changing conditions within the shell. The system can determine the fluid's sump temperature, high/low liquid levels, and can determine whether the thermistors are sensing the fluid as a liquid, gas, or a mixture of the two, such as a foam or mist of liquid and gas. For greater accuracy, thermistor readings can be dithered and filtered to provide temperature or voltage values having more significant digits than the readings originally processed through a limited-bit A/D converter. For faster response, limited microprocessor time is conserved by sampling thermistor readings at strategic periods that enable the microprocessor to identify certain conditions and temperatures via simple delta-temperature ratios and undemanding equations rather than resorting to exponential functions or lookup tables to determine time constants.Type: GrantFiled: December 3, 2010Date of Patent: June 4, 2013Assignee: Trane International Inc.Inventors: Ronald W. Okoren, Jerry E. Brown, Joel C. VanderZee, Charles E. Nelson, Steven K. Klingemann, Jeffrey J. DeGroot
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Publication number: 20130136153Abstract: Disclosed herein, among other things, is a stator winding temperature sensor. According to an embodiment, the sensor includes at least one sensing wire coil adapted to be connected to a stator. The sensor also includes a body, including a core material surrounding at least a portion of the sensing wire coil, and a laminate material over the core material. The body has a thickness adapted to protect the sensing wire coil. The sensor includes a lead wire adapted to connect to an external monitoring device. The sensing wire coil is electrically connected to the lead wire at a lead step portion of the sensor. In addition, the sensor includes a tab extending from the lead wire and encompassing the lead step. The tab protects the lead step and the sensing wire coil in a region where the sensor extends over an end of the stator.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 27, 2012Publication date: May 30, 2013Applicant: RTD CompanyInventors: Brad Lesmeister, Peter David Bernier, Mark Stewart
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Patent number: 8449180Abstract: This invention is to provide a temperature sensor which can measure a precise temperature of a minute region, which can measure a temperature in a wide range from a low temperature to a high temperature, and which has a simple structure. The temperature sensor comprises a two-dimensional electron gas. A resistance of the two-dimensional electron gas is used to measure a temperature. The two-dimensional electron gas may have a heterostructure selected from the group consisting of an AlGaN/GaN system, an AlGaAs/GaAs system, an InAs/GaAs system, an InAs/GaSb/AlSb system, a SiGe/Si system, a SiC/Si system, a CdTe/HgTe/CdTe system, an InGaAs/InAlAs/InP system, and nanocrystalline silicon.Type: GrantFiled: January 19, 2007Date of Patent: May 28, 2013Inventors: Adarsh Sandhu, Takuya Yamamura, Makoto Taoda, Zaki Primadani
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Patent number: 8449177Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: June 6, 2008Date of Patent: May 28, 2013Assignee: Infineon Technologies AGInventors: Terje Kvisteroy, Henrik Jakobsen
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Patent number: 8449181Abstract: An apparatus for measuring a temperature of a process fluid includes a resistance based temperature sensor (RTD) sensor configured to thermally couple to the process fluid. First and second electrical connections are configured to apply a current through the RTD. Measurement circuitry is configured to measure a voltage across the RTD and identify a degraded connection to the RTD and responsively measure a temperature of the process fluid using the electrical connections.Type: GrantFiled: August 26, 2010Date of Patent: May 28, 2013Assignee: Rosemount Inc.Inventors: Jason H. Rud, Loren M. Engelstad
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Patent number: 8449182Abstract: A temperature sensing module includes a thermal sensor and an auxiliary fixture member. The thermal sensor includes a sensing head and plural pins. The pins and respective wires are connected with each other to form plural connecting regions. The auxiliary fixture member includes a fixing part, an extension part, a receiving part and a covering part. The extension part includes plural grooves for partially accommodating the pins of the thermal sensor, the wires and the connecting regions. The receiving part is arranged between the fixing part and the extension part for accommodating the sensing head of the thermal sensor. The covering part is disposed over the extension part for covering the extension part so that the pins, the wires and the connecting regions accommodated within the grooves of the extension part are fixed between the extension part and the covering part.Type: GrantFiled: April 27, 2011Date of Patent: May 28, 2013Assignees: Delta Electronics, Inc., Delta Electronics Components (Dongguan) Co., Ltd.Inventor: Chien-Feng Hao
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Patent number: 8444318Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: August 12, 2009Date of Patent: May 21, 2013Assignee: ABB Technology AGInventors: Ralf Huck, Ulrich Staab
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Patent number: 8434941Abstract: A method of producing a temperature measuring sensor including an insulating substrate having a top surface and a bottom surface, the top surface including a first area and a second area, and a first contact and a second contact being formed in the first area, the above contacts having a structured measuring film located therebetween: creating a conductive connection between the first contact on the top surface of the insulating substrate and the bottom surface of the insulating substrate, and a first conductive layer as a first terminal area of the temperature measuring sensor on the bottom surface such that the first conductive layer is electrically connected to the conductive connection, as well as a second conductive layer on the second area of the top surface as a second terminal area of the temperature measuring sensor such that the second conductive layer is in contact with the second contact.Type: GrantFiled: June 29, 2007Date of Patent: May 7, 2013Inventors: Georg Bernitz, Heinrich Zitzmann
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Publication number: 20130102061Abstract: The invention relates to systems and methods for calibrating and using resistance temperature detectors. In one embodiment, the system includes a calibration circuit comprising a resistance temperature detector in a bridge circuit with at least one potentiometer, and a programmable gain amplifier coupled to the bridge circuit. Embodiments of the invention further comprise methods for calibrating the bridge circuit and the programmable gain amplifier for use with the resistance temperature detector and methods for determining the self heating voltage of the bridge circuit.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 17, 2012Publication date: April 25, 2013Applicant: Canon U.S. Life Sciences, Inc.Inventor: Canon U.S. Life Sciences, Inc.
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Patent number: 8425114Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: April 16, 2008Date of Patent: April 23, 2013Assignee: Denso CorporationInventors: Tsunenobu Hori, Nobuo Abe, Masatoshi Kuroyanagi
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Patent number: 8425115Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: March 31, 2011Date of Patent: April 23, 2013Assignee: International Business Machines CorporationInventors: Aquilur Rahman, Lloyd A. Walls
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Patent number: 8419275Abstract: Provided is a temperature sensor capable of stably keeping the accuracy of detected temperatures. The temperature sensor of the present invention comprises a sensor element (1) comprising a temperature sensing element (2) whose electrical resistance changes according to temperature; a pair of lead wires (4) electrically connected to the temperature sensing element (2); and a covering material (5) which seals the temperature sensing element (2) and portions of the lead wires (4) in a prescribed range; wherein the lead wires (4) are led out of the sealed ends (6) of the covering material (5). The temperature sensor further comprises a metallic protective tube (20) which houses the sensor element (1) except part of the lead wires (4); and a shield comprising a ceramic sealed end closing element (7) which encloses the sealed ends (6), and a lead wire protective tube (8). The shield is loosely fitted inside the metallic protective tube (20).Type: GrantFiled: March 18, 2010Date of Patent: April 16, 2013Assignee: Shibaura Electronics Co., Ltd.Inventors: Noriyuki Nakayama, Kazumasa Nakamura, Hiroshi Misumi, Terukazu Koike
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Patent number: 8419271Abstract: A system for compensating a thermal effect is provided and includes a substrate structure and a microcantilever. The substrate structure includes a first piezoresistor. The first piezoresistor is buried in the substrate structure and has a first piezoresistance having a first relation to a first variable temperature. The microcantilever has the thermal effect and a second piezoresistance having a second relation to the first variable temperature, wherein the thermal effect is compensated based on the first and the second relations.Type: GrantFiled: May 27, 2010Date of Patent: April 16, 2013Assignee: National Taiwan UniversityInventors: Long-Sun Huang, Yu-Fu Ku, Yi-Kuang Yen, Shu Kuan, Kuang-Chong Wu, Shiming Lin, Ping-Yen Lin
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Publication number: 20130083326Abstract: A temperature sensor package includes a temperature sensor having a first side and a second side, wherein the first side of the temperature sensor includes an active region configured for coupling with a target area for temperature measurement of an object. The temperature sensor package further includes a circuit board having a first side and a second side, the first side of the circuit board coupled to the second side of the temperature sensor, wherein the circuit board provides thermal insulation between the active region of the temperature sensor and an environment on the second side of the circuit board.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 30, 2011Publication date: April 4, 2013Applicant: HONEYWELL INTERNATIONAL INC.Inventors: Matthew Clark, Terry Dean Stark, George Goblish, Myles Koshiol
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Publication number: 20130077653Abstract: A temperature sensor excellent in durability under a high-pressure atmosphere of hydrogen is provided. The temperature sensor includes a thermistor element body comprising an oxide sintered body, a pair of lead wires each electrically connected to the element body and comprising Pt or a Pt alloy, and a sealing glass sealing the element body and a part of the lead wires including a portion connected to the element body. The pair of lead wires comprising any of Pt, an alloy comprising Pt and one or two of Ir and Pd, and an alloy of Pd and Ir, and the temperature sensor is used under an atmosphere of hydrogen.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 27, 2012Publication date: March 28, 2013Applicant: SHIBAURA ELECTRONICS CO., LTD.Inventors: Kazuto KOSHIMIZU, Takayuki NAKAYA, Satoshi UCHIYAMA
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Patent number: 8393787Abstract: Two vertically offset thermistors for sensing a fluid such as oil and refrigerant in a compressor shell are monitored by a method that takes into account rapidly changing conditions within the shell. The system can determine the fluid's sump temperature, high/low liquid levels, and can determine whether the thermistors are sensing the fluid as a liquid, gas, or a mixture of the two, such as a foam or mist of liquid and gas. For greater accuracy, thermistor readings can be dithered and filtered to provide temperature or voltage values having more significant digits than the readings originally processed through a limited-bit A/D converter. For faster response, limited microprocessor time is conserved by sampling thermistor readings at strategic periods that enable the microprocessor to identify certain conditions and temperatures via simple delta-temperature ratios and undemanding equations rather than resorting to exponential functions or lookup tables to determine time constants.Type: GrantFiled: December 3, 2010Date of Patent: March 12, 2013Assignee: Trane International Inc.Inventors: Ronald W. Okoren, Jerry E. Brown, Joel C. VanderZee, Charles E. Nelson, Steven K. Klingemann, Jeffrey J. DeGroot
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Publication number: 20130058378Abstract: A sensing device includes a first current mirror configured to mirror a current flowing through a thermistor, a second current mirror configured to mirror a current flowing through a reference resistor a comparator configured to compare voltages on the thermistor and the resistor, and a counter configured to generate a control signal representative of a temperature difference based on the comparison. The control signal controls a mirroring ratio of the second current mirror. The sensing device may be employed to generate a droop current of a voltage regulator.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 31, 2012Publication date: March 7, 2013Applicant: STMicroelectronics S.r.I.Inventors: Osvaldo Enrico Zambetti, Dario Zambotti
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Patent number: 8358085Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: January 6, 2010Date of Patent: January 22, 2013Assignee: Terralux, Inc.Inventors: Anthony Catalano, Daniel Harrison
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Publication number: 20130004811Abstract: A battery temperature sensor may include a substrate and a thin film resistive temperature device (RTD). The substrate can be layered on a battery cell element. The battery cell element can be an anode, a cathode, and a separator between the anode and cathode used in a battery cell. The thin film resistive temperature device (RTD) on the flexible substrate can change resistance with a change in temperature. A battery cell housing can enclose the thin film RTD.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 29, 2011Publication date: January 3, 2013Inventors: Neel Banerjee, Andrew L. Van Brocklin, Randy Hoffman
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Publication number: 20120327973Abstract: The invention relates to an electronic component (1), in particular a current sensor, having a resistance element (5) made of a resistance material, a first connection part (3) made of a conductor material for introducing an electrical current into the resistance element (5), and a second connection part (4) made of a conductor material for discharging the electrical current from the resistance element (5). According to the invention, the component (1) has a temperature-measuring device (8) for measuring a temperature difference between the resistance element (5), on the one hand, and at least one of the two connection parts (3, 4), on the other hand, in order to derive the current from the temperature difference.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 17, 2011Publication date: December 27, 2012Applicant: ISABELLENHUETTE HEUSLER GMBH & CO. KGInventor: Ullrich Hetzler
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Patent number: 8337082Abstract: The invention relates to systems and methods for calibrating and using resistance temperature detectors. In one embodiment, the system includes a calibration circuit comprising a resistance temperature detector in a bridge circuit with at least one potentiometer, and a programmable gain amplifier coupled to the bridge circuit. Embodiments of the invention further comprise methods for calibrating the bridge circuit and the programmable gain amplifier for use with the resistance temperature detector and methods for determining the self heating voltage of the bridge circuit.Type: GrantFiled: May 8, 2009Date of Patent: December 25, 2012Assignee: Canon U.S. Life Sciences, Inc.Inventors: Johnathan S. Coursey, Kenton C. Hasson, Gregory H. Owen
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Patent number: 8333506Abstract: A temperature sensor is formed from three initially unfired (or green) ceramic substrates. The first substrate has a temperature sensitive means printed on a first surface. Additionally first and second conducting elements are also printed thereon. The third substrate has a temperature sensitive means in the form of a resistor printed on a first surface. Additionally first and second conducting elements and are also printed thereon. The second substrate is provided with a conducting via in the form of a hole extending through the substrate, the hole being filled with conductive material. The via is adapted to be aligned with the ends of conducting elements. To construct the sensor the first surfaces of substrates are aligned with substrate such that via is aligned with conducting elements. The substrates are then pressed together. Subsequently the substrates are fired to provide the completed sensor.Type: GrantFiled: July 30, 2009Date of Patent: December 18, 2012Assignee: MELEXIS NV Microelectronic Integrated SystemsInventors: Chavdar Kamenov, Petar Mitsev, Peter Tilmans, Jos Rennies
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Patent number: 8328418Abstract: A process for manufacturing a platinum resistance thermometer that is stable with reduced resistance value variation over service temperature range through clarification of a quantitative mechanism of resistance value variation with respect to the oxidation/reduction of platinum resistance wire. The process including the steps of (S1) enclosing a purge gas containing an inert gas and oxygen in a protection tube provided with a thermosensitive part of platinum resistance wire; (S2) raising the internal temperature of the protection tube to a temperature region in which the platinum is in reduced form at a partial pressure of oxygen in the purge gas as determined from platinum oxide formation free energy; (S3) replacing the purge gas with an inert gas wherein oxygen is 1 kPa or below; and (S4) sealing the protection tube under the replaced condition.Type: GrantFiled: May 19, 2008Date of Patent: December 11, 2012Assignee: Azbil CorporationInventors: Toru Yamaguchi, Hideo Kimura, Kazuya Yoneshita
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Patent number: 8328420Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: October 24, 2006Date of Patent: December 11, 2012Inventor: Marcio Marc Abreu
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Patent number: 8314623Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: September 15, 2010Date of Patent: November 20, 2012Inventors: Brian Carl Nelson, Christian G. Masson, Marilyn L. Kindermann, Brian K. Kowalczyk
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Patent number: 8303173Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: October 29, 2007Date of Patent: November 6, 2012Assignee: Smiths Medical ASD, Inc.Inventors: Keith J. Bradley, Ryan E. Johnson
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Publication number: 20120275484Abstract: A temperature measuring device which measures a temperature of a heat treatment mechanism in a heat treatment apparatus which heat-treats a substrate with a predetermined temperature using the heat treatment mechanism, includes: a substrate and a Wheatstone bridge circuit which is disposed on the substrate and includes a plurality of temperature-measuring resistors whose resistance is varied depending on a change in temperature.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 18, 2012Publication date: November 1, 2012Applicant: TOKYO ELECTRON LIMITEDInventors: Masato HAYASHI, Koudai HIGASHI
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Patent number: 8297837Abstract: This invention generally relates to sensors made of granular thin films in the discontinuous phase. More particularly, the invention relates to microbolometers and displacement sensors fabricated from thin films that are close to the metal insulator transition (MIT) or metal semiconductor transition (MST) regime. Sensors of various designs have been fabricated according to the invention and may be used for deflection measurements, nano-indentation, visco-elastic measurements, topographical scanning, explosive detection, low abundance biomolecular detection, electromagnetic radiation detection and other similar detection and measurement systems.Type: GrantFiled: April 1, 2010Date of Patent: October 30, 2012Inventor: Angelo Gaitas
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Patent number: 8287185Abstract: A printed circuit board supported over the top surface of a multi-cell battery module for battery cell voltage and temperature monitoring has an array of openings in alignment with selected battery cells for receiving temperature-sensing units that electrically couple with contacts formed on the printed circuit board and resiliently engage the cases of the selected battery cells. Each such temperature-sensing unit includes a printed circuit board mountable lamp socket and a lamp socket insert including a thermistor and a compressible element that maintains the thermistor in thermal proximity to the battery cell case when the temperature-sensing unit is installed in a respective printed circuit board opening.Type: GrantFiled: October 1, 2009Date of Patent: October 16, 2012Assignee: Delphi Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Timothy N. Pulliam, Kevin J. Hawes, Robert C. Beer
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Publication number: 20120249079Abstract: An energy storage system comprising at least one energy storage module adapted to supply electrical energy to a hybrid vehicle. The energy storage module comprises an enclosure, at least one battery array located within the enclosure, and an energy storage controller module located within the enclosure and electrically connected to the battery array. The energy storage module further comprises a compliant tipped thermistor which may be installed within a flexible clip. The thermistor is positioned to monitor the temperature of one or more of the batteries within the energy storage system.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 6, 2012Publication date: October 4, 2012Inventors: SCOTT K. BENNETT, BRIAN J. MASKEW, LEONARD F. BAXTER, II
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Patent number: 8277120Abstract: A semiconductor integrated circuit includes a delay characteristic compensating circuit that is provided in a logic area including an inside and a surface of a chip. The delay characteristic compensating circuit includes a heat generating circuit that heats the semiconductor integrated circuit, a temperature sensor that measures a junction temperature, a voltage monitor that measures a power supply voltage, and a control circuit that actuates the heat generating circuit when the junction temperature does not reach a reference temperature and when the power supply voltage is lower than a reference voltage and stops actuating the heat generating circuit when the junction temperature reaches the reference temperature.Type: GrantFiled: January 11, 2010Date of Patent: October 2, 2012Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha ToshibaInventor: Chihiro Ishii
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Patent number: 8267578Abstract: Methods and systems for compensating temperature measurements by a temperature gauge comprising a first temperature sensor and a second reference temperature sensor, having different thermal properties, located in the same temperature environment to be measured. The methods and systems compensate for errors in the measured temperatures due to variations in the reference sensor caused by temperature effects.Type: GrantFiled: February 4, 2009Date of Patent: September 18, 2012Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventor: Masahiro Kamata
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Publication number: 20120226460Abstract: Temperature sensing circuitry is used for thermal management of an electronic device. The temperature sensing circuitry includes at least one thermistor placed at or near a component of the electronic device. The temperature sensing circuitry also includes a high-precision resistor for calibration purposes. The resistance of the resistor is equivalent to the resistance of the thermistor at a reference temperature. A calibration reading is obtained using a set current that is being passed through the resistor. An error present in the temperature sensing circuitry is determined based on the calibration reading and a design value. A temperature measurement associated with the component is then made using the thermistor, while the set current is being passed through the thermistor. The error is corrected in the temperature measurement of the component. Other embodiments are also described.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 16, 2012Publication date: September 6, 2012Inventors: Hugo Fiennes, Keith Alan Cox
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Patent number: 8256956Abstract: A temperature sensor including a temperature sensing element (102) having a temperature sensing unit (103) and a pair of device electrode wires (104) extending from the temperature sensing unit; a sheath member (106) including a sheath wire (108) connected at a junction (110) to one of the device electrode wires and a sheath outer pipe (107) retaining the sheath wire in an insulating material (114); an inner tube (112) which has a bottomed cylindrical shape, the inner tube accommodating the temperature sensing element and the junction in a bottom portion side of the inner tube serving as a leading end of the temperature sensor, and extending in an extension direction of the device electrode wire and the sheath wire; and an outer tube (120) which has a bottomed cylindrical shape including a gas inlet hole (122a, 122b, 122c), the outer tube covering the inner tube, and being spaced, from the inner tube on a leading end side of the junction when viewed in a direction perpendicular to an axial direction of the inType: GrantFiled: May 8, 2009Date of Patent: September 4, 2012Assignee: NGK Spark Plug Co., Ltd.Inventors: Tatsuya Suzuki, Mitsunori Oi, Takashi Maeda, Norimichi Saito, Toshinori Nishi, Go Hanzawa, Takeshi Morita
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Patent number: 8246252Abstract: A bearing apparatus has a rolling bearing including an outer ring (11), an inner ring (12), and rolling elements (13) disposed between the two rings, and a temperature sensor (TS) for measuring an internal temperature of the rolling bearing. A wire from the temperature sensor extends to the outside via a through-hole (11d) formed in a component of the bearing apparatus, and hence the temperature sensor can be disposed in a desired position with excellent wiring extension flexibility, thereby enabling a temperature in the desired position of the bearing to be measured. The temperature sensor, which can be configured thin in a small size with flexibility, can therefore be incorporated into whichever portion of the bearing, wherein a high response to temperature detection is attained, and detectability of abnormality in temperature can be improved.Type: GrantFiled: March 15, 2007Date of Patent: August 21, 2012Assignee: NSK Ltd.Inventors: Keisuke Yokoyama, Kunihiko Sasao
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Publication number: 20120209558Abstract: An apparatus includes a temperature measuring device within a thermally conductive package. A crystal within the package is thermally coupled to the temperature measuring device and subjected to a same temperature as the temperature measuring device. A controller external to the package is configured to receive a signal from the crystal and a temperature measurement from the temperature measuring device. The controller is configured to estimate a frequency error of the crystal based on the temperature measurement and to provide a frequency error estimate to an external system.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 9, 2012Publication date: August 16, 2012Applicant: QUALCOMM INCORPORATEDInventors: Rick A. Wilcox, Daniel F. Filipovic, Xu Mike Chi, Chris M. Rosolowski
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Publication number: 20120193086Abstract: A temperature probe having a terminal attachment arrangement for securing and selectively releasing an electrical connection is disclosed. The temperature probe further includes a housing for sealing the temperature probe to a structure, such as a HVAC duct.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 18, 2012Publication date: August 2, 2012Applicant: TASSERON SENSORS, INC.Inventors: Thomas J. van DIJK, Kevin POOL
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Patent number: 8222950Abstract: A power supply circuit includes a PWM controller, which is capable of providing pulse signals to the CPU, a temperature feedback circuit coupled to the PWM controller, and a temperature sensor. The temperature sensor is coupled to the temperature feedback circuit, the temperature sensor is located adjacent the CPU, and capable of detects a temperature of the CPU. The PWM controller is capable of adjusting the pulse signals to maintain the pulse signals stably when the temperature sensor detects the temperature of the CPU rising.Type: GrantFiled: November 4, 2009Date of Patent: July 17, 2012Assignees: Hong Fu Jin Precision Industry (ShenZhen) Co., Ltd., Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.Inventor: Ke-You Hu
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Publication number: 20120161741Abstract: A current generator includes a thermistor configured to receive an input current, a reference resistor of a value substantially corresponding to a resistance of said thermistor at a reference temperature, a current mirror configured to generate a mirrored current proportional to said input current, a feedback circuit configured to generate an output compensation current proportional to a difference between voltages on said reference resistor and on said thermistor, and a first adder configured to force through said reference resistor a difference current between said mirrored replica current and said output compensation current.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 21, 2011Publication date: June 28, 2012Applicant: STMicroelectronics S.r.lInventor: Osvaldo Enrico Zambetti
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Publication number: 20120163414Abstract: A test apparatus for a thermal resistor includes a control device, a temperature processing circuit, a voltage regulating circuit and a temperature detecting circuit. The control device stores a plurality of predetermined voltage values and outputs control signals according to those predetermined values. The temperature processing circuit receives the control signals and outputs a pulse width modulation (PWM) signal according to the control signal. The voltage regulating circuit receives the PWM signal and outputs a first direct current (DC) voltage to heat the thermal resistor. The temperature detecting circuit detects temperature signals and current signals from the thermal resistor. The control device receives the temperature signals and current signals of the thermal resistor and generates a resistance-temperature graph of the thermal resistor.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 29, 2011Publication date: June 28, 2012Applicants: HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD., HONG FU JIN PRECISION INDUSTRY (ShenZhen) CO., LTD.Inventors: LING-YU XIE, XING-PING XIE
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Patent number: 8201992Abstract: New sensors and methods for qualitative and quantitative analysis of multiple gaseous substances simultaneously with both high selectivity and high sensitivity are provided. The new sensors rely on a characteristic difference in energy between the interaction of a particular substance with a catalyst coated heat transfer device (HTD) and a non-catalyst coated (or one coated with a different catalyst) reference HTD. Molecular detection is achieved by an exothermic or endothermic chemical or physical reaction between the catalytic surface of the sensor and the molecule, tending to induce a temperature change of the sensor. Both high temperature and non-destructive low temperature detection are possible. The magnitude and rate of endothermic or exothermic heat transfer from a specific molecule-catalyst interaction is related to molecular concentration.Type: GrantFiled: November 6, 2007Date of Patent: June 19, 2012Assignee: Sensor Tech, Inc.Inventors: Michael L. Horovitz, Karl F. Anderson
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Patent number: 8197123Abstract: Temperature detection circuitry is selectively coupled to a thermistor and one of two sources representing the impedance at respective ends of the expected range of temperature to which the thermistor is to be exposed. The offset of an amplifier and a scale factor to account for gain set of the amplifier are determined in an automatic calibration process while coupled to the source(s), and thereafter temperature readings are taken from the thermistor. During the calibration process, if the gain or scale factor are outside of expected ranges, a failure is determined and an alarm given and/or a heater is disabled.Type: GrantFiled: October 29, 2007Date of Patent: June 12, 2012Assignee: Smiths Medical ASD, Inc.Inventors: Robert L. Snyder, Maurice Wheatley
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Patent number: 8191792Abstract: A temperature sensor (10) includes: a temperature-sensing portion for measuring a temperature of an object (50) by contacting the object; and a supporting portion for supporting the temperature-sensing portion from a side opposite to a contact surface, the supporting portion having a space at a portion partially corresponding to the temperature-sensing portion. A temperature controller includes: a temperature control device; the temperature sensor (10) for measuring the temperature by contacting the object (50); and a controller for controlling the temperature control device. The controller includes: a mounting-state judging means for judging a mounting-state of the object (50); a switching means for switching a control gain and a target temperature of the temperature control device based on the judging result; and a control-command generating means for generating a control command based on the control gain, the target temperature and a measurement value of the temperature sensor (10).Type: GrantFiled: July 3, 2007Date of Patent: June 5, 2012Assignee: Komatsu Ltd.Inventor: Kenichi Bandoh
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Patent number: 8192081Abstract: A temperature sensor including: a temperature sensing element (102) having a temperature sensing unit (103) and a pair of device electrode wires (104); a sheath member (106) having a sheath wire (108) connected at a junction (110) to at least one of the device electrode wires and a sheath outer pipe (107) retaining the sheath wire in an insulating material (114); an inner tube (112) which has a bottomed cylindrical shape; and a cylindrical outer tube (120) having an open end, covering the inner tube such that the open end is located at a front end side of the junction and in a region to the rear end side of or aligned with the front end of the inner tube, and being spaced from the inner tube at the front end side of the junction.Type: GrantFiled: May 8, 2009Date of Patent: June 5, 2012Assignee: NGK Spark Plug Co., Ltd.Inventors: Tatsuya Suzuki, Mitsunori Oi, Takashi Maeda, Norimichi Saito, Toshinori Nishi, Go Hanzawa, Takeshi Morita
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Publication number: 20120132805Abstract: An electronic circuit, for biasing and reading at least one resistive thermal detector, comprising: biasing means able to bias the resistive thermal detector by making a biasing current of substantially constant value flow in the resistive thermal detector when the electrical resistance thereof varies; conversion means able to convert a voltage at the terminals of the resistive thermal detector into a current, comprising at least one MOS-type transistor the gate of which is electrically connected to one of the terminals of the resistive thermal detector; means of generating a base clipping voltage electrically connected to the source of the MOS-type transistor of the conversion means.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 14, 2011Publication date: May 31, 2012Applicant: COMMISSARIAT A L'ENERGIE ATOMIQUE ET AUX ENE ALTInventors: Gilles CHAMMINGS, Gaëlle Repellin, Michaël Tchagaspanian
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Publication number: 20120128033Abstract: A system and a method for measuring temperature within an operating circuit use a Wheatstone bridge within a temperature sensing circuit. One of the resistors in the Wheatstone bridge is a thermally sensitive resistive material layer within the operating circuit. The other three resistors are thermally isolated from the operating circuit. Particular configurations of NFET and PFET devices are used to provide enhanced measurement sensitivity within the temperature sensing circuit that includes the Wheatstone bridge.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 19, 2010Publication date: May 24, 2012Applicant: INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MACHINES CORPORATIONInventors: Wagdi W. Abadeer, Cathryn J. Christiansen, John A. Fifield, Dimitris P. Ioannou, Tom C. Lee, Lilian Kamal
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Patent number: 8182139Abstract: Temperature sensing circuitry is used for thermal management of an electronic device. The temperature sensing circuitry includes at least one thermistor placed at or near a component of the electronic device. The temperature sensing circuitry also includes a high-precision resistor for calibration purposes. The resistance of the resistor is equivalent to the resistance of the thermistor at a reference temperature. A calibration reading is obtained using a set current that is being passed through the resistor. An error present in the temperature sensing circuitry is determined based on the calibration reading and a design value. A temperature measurement associated with the component is then made using the thermistor, while the set current is being passed through the thermistor. The error is corrected in the temperature measurement of the component. Other embodiments are also described.Type: GrantFiled: May 30, 2008Date of Patent: May 22, 2012Assignee: Apple Inc.Inventors: Hugo Fiennes, Keith Alan Cox
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Patent number: 8182145Abstract: A temperature sensor including a temperature sensing element (102) having a temperature sensing unit (103) and a pair of device electrode wires (104) extending from the temperature sensing unit; a sheath member (106) including a sheath wire (108) connected at a junction (110) to one of the device electrode wires and a sheath outer pipe (107) retaining the sheath wire in an insulating material (114); an inner tube (112) which has a bottomed cylindrical shape, the inner tube accommodating the temperature sensing element and the junction in a bottom portion side of the inner tube serving as a leading end of the temperature sensor, and extending in an extension direction of the device electrode wire and the sheath wire; and an outer tube (120) which has a bottomed cylindrical shape including a gas inlet hole (122a, 122b, 122c), the outer tube covering the inner tube, and being spaced, from the inner tube on a leading end side of the junction when viewed in a direction perpendicular to an axial direction of the inType: GrantFiled: May 8, 2009Date of Patent: May 22, 2012Assignee: NGK Spark Plug Co., Ltd.Inventors: Tatsuya Suzuki, Mitsunori Oi, Takashi Maeda, Norimichi Saito, Toshinori Nishi, Go Hanzawa, Takeshi Morita