Instrument Mechanism Or Transmission Patents (Class 73/866.1)
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Patent number: 11840921Abstract: Methods for fabricating a sensor module for detecting carbon dioxide leakage from a subsurface reservoir are disclosed. The methods include attaching anodic aluminum oxide porous membrane onto a first conductive electrode to form an anodic aluminum oxide template; initiating growth of a plurality of TiO2 nanotubes inside the AAO template using an atomic layer deposition process; removing the anodic aluminum oxide template from the first metal electrode leaving the plurality of TiO2 nanotubes on the first conductive electrode; attaching a second conductive electrode to the plurality of TiO2 nanotubes; connecting the first and the second conductive electrodes with an electric line to form a sensor; providing a rollable sheet of non-conductive material; and attaching a plurality of sensors to the rollable sheet of non-conductive material forming the sensor module.Type: GrantFiled: March 2, 2021Date of Patent: December 12, 2023Assignee: Saudi Arabian Oil CompanyInventors: Dong Kyu Cha, Mohammed Badri AlOtaibi, Subhash Chandrabose Ayirala, Ali Abdallah Al-Yousef
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Patent number: 11789040Abstract: A measurement system including a measurement device and at least a first probe unit and a second probe unit is disclosed. The first probe unit and the second probe unit are each connected to the measurement device in a signal transmitting manner. The measurement device includes a control circuit. The first probe unit includes an interface module being configured to receive a user input, to generate an input data signal based on the received user input, and to provide the input data signal to the control circuit. The control circuit is configured to generate and provide a control signal at least to the second probe unit based on the input data signal. At least the second probe unit is configured to adjust an operational parameter based on the control signal, wherein the operational parameter relates to a measurement parameter to be measured Moreover, a method for operating a measurement system is disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: August 23, 2021Date of Patent: October 17, 2023Assignee: Rohde & Schwarz GmbH & Co. KGInventors: Christian Benisch, Werner Perndl, Markus Gallhauser, Nino Voss
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Patent number: 11315811Abstract: A process condition measurement wafer assembly is disclosed. In embodiments, the process condition measurement wafer assembly includes a bottom substrate and a top substrate. In another embodiment, the process condition measurement wafer assembly includes one or more electronic components disposed on one or more printed circuit elements and interposed between the top substrate and bottom substrate. In another embodiment, the process condition measurement wafer assembly includes one or more shielding layers formed between the bottom substrate and the top substrate. In embodiments, the one or more shielding layers are configured to electromagnetically shield the one or more electronic components and diffuse voltage potentials across the bottom substrate and the top substrate.Type: GrantFiled: September 3, 2019Date of Patent: April 26, 2022Assignee: KLA CorporationInventors: Farhat A. Quli, Andrew Nguyen, James Richard Bella
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Air physical quantity sensor for detecting a physical quantity of air flowing through a flow passage
Patent number: 10962391Abstract: A sensor body contains a sensor element in a body recess opened at a body opening. A sensor substrate has a mounting surface on which a circuit element for processing a detection signal is mounted and holds the sensor body on the mounting surface. A sensor cover has a cover window penetrating between an intake passage and the body opening and covers the sensor body. A sensor filter is interposed between the sensor body and the sensor cover. A potting resin body is cured on the mounting surface so as to seal the circuit element. The sensor cover is embedded in the potting resin body on the outer peripheral side of the sensor body.Type: GrantFiled: February 5, 2019Date of Patent: March 30, 2021Assignee: DENSO CORPORATIONInventors: Takuma Tsuchiya, Junzo Yamaguchi, Takashi Enomoto, Hiroyuki Akuzawa -
Patent number: 10888224Abstract: A computer-implemented method for learning a model to predict movements of a person in bed is presented. The method includes receiving first data from a plurality of first sensors installed on a bed patient support apparatus, receiving second data from a plurality of second sensors installed on the person, and learning a model to predict the second data based on the first data by assuming a sensing range of motion intensity by the plurality of first sensors is greater than a sensing range of motion intensity by the plurality of second sensors.Type: GrantFiled: July 11, 2018Date of Patent: January 12, 2021Assignee: International Business Machines CorporationInventors: Takayuki Katsuki, Tetsuro Morimura
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Patent number: 10491971Abstract: A sensor device for monitoring at least one lifecycle of potatoes, at least from planting seed potatoes to stocking the potatoes includes a body dimensioned and shaped to conform to a potato. The body houses electronics of the sensor device and includes a waterproof layer for protecting the electronics when the sensor device is placed underground with the seed potatoes. The electronics includes a wireless communication circuitry providing the sensor device with radio communication capability, at least one processor, and at least one of the following sensors: a humidity sensor; a temperature sensor; and a carbon dioxide sensor. The at least one processor is configured to store measurement data provided by the at least one sensor, and to cause the wireless communication circuitry to transmit the measurement data to another device.Type: GrantFiled: October 2, 2015Date of Patent: November 26, 2019Assignee: SOLENTUM B.V.Inventors: Eero Pisilä, Antti Hintikka
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Patent number: 10460966Abstract: An apparatus includes an instrumented substrate apparatus, a substrate assembly including a bottom and top substrate mechanically coupled, an electronic assembly, a nested enclosure assembly including an outer and inner enclosure wherein the outer enclosure encloses the inner enclosure and the inner enclosure encloses the electronic assembly. An insulating medium between the inner and outer enclosure and a sensor assembly communicatively coupled to the electronic assembly including one or more sensors disposed at one or more locations within the substrate assembly wherein the electronic assembly is configured to receive one or more measurement parameters from the one or more sensors.Type: GrantFiled: September 27, 2016Date of Patent: October 29, 2019Assignee: KLA-Tencor CorporationInventors: Mei Sun, Earl Jensen, Jing G. Zhou, Ran Liu
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Patent number: 10345423Abstract: A system for monitoring electrical power usage in an electrical power infrastructure of a building. The system can include: a power consumption measurement device configured to be coupled to a first surface of the circuit breaker box, the circuit breaker box containing at least part of the electrical supply conductors for the electrical power infrastructure, the power consumption measurement device comprising one or more electrical current sensors; a first calibration device configured to be electrically coupled to the electrical power infrastructure, the first calibration device comprising one or more first calibration loads; and a calibration module configured to be performed using one or more processors and further configured to at least partially calibrate the power consumption measurement device using a Kalman filter and data obtained from the one or more electrical current sensors of the power consumption measurement device.Type: GrantFiled: December 27, 2017Date of Patent: July 9, 2019Assignee: BELKIN INTERNATIONAL INC.Inventors: Yael Maguire, Karthik Yogeeswaran, Shwetak N. Patel, Matthew S. Reynolds
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Patent number: 10133367Abstract: An air pressure sensing type mouse includes a housing, a circuit board, plural air pressure sensors and a processor. One of the plural air pressure sensors is a middle air pressure sensor. The processor stores a threshold value. When an ambient airflow inputs into the housing of the mouse, the plural pressure sensors sense the ambient airflow and generates plural sensed values. If the plural sensed values are all smaller than the threshold value, the middle air pressure sensor generates a pressing signal. If the plural sensed values are all higher than the threshold value, the middle air pressure sensor generates a vertical displacement signal.Type: GrantFiled: April 21, 2017Date of Patent: November 20, 2018Assignee: PRIMAX ELECTRONICS LTD.Inventors: Cheng-Yi Tsai, Ying-Che Tseng
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Patent number: 10101292Abstract: A micro-electro mechanical system (MEMS) humidity sensor includes a first substrate, a second substrate and a sensing structure. The second substrate is substantially parallel to the first substrate. The sensing structure is between the first substrate and the second substrate, and bonded to a portion of the first substrate and a portion of the second substrate, in which the second substrate includes a conductive layer facing the sensing structure, and a first space between the first substrate and the sensing structure is communicated with or isolated from outside, and a second space between the conductive layer and the sensing structure is communicated with an atmosphere, and the sensing structure, the second space and the conductive layer constitute a capacitor configured to measure permittivity of the atmosphere, and humidity of the atmosphere is derived from the permittivity of the atmosphere, pressure of the atmosphere and temperature.Type: GrantFiled: February 25, 2016Date of Patent: October 16, 2018Assignee: TAIWAN SEMICONDUCTOR MANUFACTURING CO., LTD.Inventors: Tung-Tsun Chen, Chia-Hua Chu, Jui-Cheng Huang, Chun-Wen Cheng, Cheng-Hsiang Hsieh
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Patent number: 10031154Abstract: An inertial force sensor has a first sensor element, a second sensor element, a first signal processor, a second signal processor, and a power controller. The first sensor element converts a first inertial force to an electric signal, and the second sensor element converts a second inertial force to an electric signal. The first signal processor is connected to the first sensor element, and outputs a first inertial force value. The second signal processor is connected to the second sensor element, and outputs a second inertial force value. The power controller is connected to the first signal processor and the second signal processor, and changes power supplied to the second signal processor based on the first inertial force value.Type: GrantFiled: August 2, 2017Date of Patent: July 24, 2018Assignee: Panasonic Intellectual Property Management Co., Ltd.Inventors: Isao Hattori, Takeshi Uemura, Satoshi Ohuchi, Yasunobu Tsukio
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Patent number: 9772305Abstract: A system for analyzing a content of a sample material is presented. The system includes a fiber sensitized to a first substance, and at least one electrode configured to expose the fiber to an electric field. The system includes an optical sensor configured to detect a displacement of the fiber when the fiber is exposed to the electric field, and a processor configured to use the displacement of the fiber to characterize a content of the sample material.Type: GrantFiled: September 13, 2012Date of Patent: September 26, 2017Assignee: Arizona Board of Regents on Behalf of Arizona State UniversityInventor: Nongjian Tao
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Patent number: 9763531Abstract: A household cooking utensil includes a first control member (9) mounted to move between a plurality of positions to enable the user to act on operation of the utensil. In addition, an information device (60) connected to the first control member (9) is configured to emit a signal corresponding to a first predetermined position of the first control member (9). The information device (60) and the first control member (9) are interconnected, for emitting the signal, via at least one sensor (10, 11, 12) and via an activator (13) which excites at least one sensor (10, 11, 12) remotely when the first control member (9) occupies the first predetermined position. Utensils for cooking food.Type: GrantFiled: January 14, 2010Date of Patent: September 19, 2017Assignee: SEB S.A.Inventors: Eric Laurent Baraille, Pascal Murat
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Patent number: 9753054Abstract: An inertial force sensor has a first sensor element, a second sensor element, a first signal processor, a second signal processor, and a power controller. The first sensor element converts a first inertial force to an electric signal, and the second sensor element converts a second inertial force to an electric signal. The first signal processor is connected to the first sensor element, and outputs a first inertial force value. The second signal processor is connected to the second sensor element, and outputs a second inertial force value. The power controller is connected to the first signal processor and the second signal processor, and changes power supplied to the second signal processor based on the first inertial force value.Type: GrantFiled: February 18, 2013Date of Patent: September 5, 2017Assignee: PANASONIC INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY MANAGEMENT CO., LTD.Inventors: Isao Hattori, Takeshi Uemura, Satoshi Ohuchi, Yasunobu Tsukio
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Patent number: 9734706Abstract: A cable comprises a circuit, a switching element and an input connection for engaging an output connection of a sensor, the switching element configured to selectively enable the circuit of the cable assembly to process an accepted output of at least one of at least two sensors providing differing acceptable outputs and to provide a signal output corresponding to the accepted sensor output for processing by a monitor. A sensor includes an initiation element structured to cause a switching element associated with an input connection of the cable to change a mode of operation of the switching element to selectively enable the circuit to process an output of the sensor accepted by the cable and to provide a signal output corresponding to the accepted sensor output. A system comprises a monitor and the cable including the circuit and the switching element. Methods of operation are also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: March 14, 2013Date of Patent: August 15, 2017Assignee: Clinical Innovations, LLCInventors: Brandon D. Moon, Kristian J. Olsen, Jeremy C. Horton
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Patent number: 9726284Abstract: A system for maintaining a vehicle including a shift-by-wire transmission in a neutral-hold mode is provided. The system includes a transmission control unit in signal communication with the shift-by-wire transmission and an internal control unit of the vehicle. The transmission control unit is configured to control a gear configuration of the shift-by-wire transmission. An external control unit is in signal communication with the transmission control unit. The external control unit is configured to transmit a neutral-hold mold activation signal.Type: GrantFiled: April 30, 2015Date of Patent: August 8, 2017Assignee: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.Inventors: Virgil Philip Adams, Jr., Ryo Harada, Takashi Tezuka, David B. Jackson, Hiroyuki Kuki, Dennis P. Parker, Jr.
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Patent number: 9410613Abstract: An on-screen gear selector for an automatic transmission, which provides an interface between the driver and the automatic transmission. The gear selector provides the current selection by the driver to the transmission control unit. The virtual on-screen gear selector provides safety and security features, and is incorporated into the software of the gear selector, such as not allowing the transmission to change from park until the brake pedal is depressed, or not allowing the transmission to change from drive to a lower gear or reverse if the speed of the vehicle is above a predetermined value, thereby avoiding damage to the transmission. The use of the on-screen gear selector also provides the benefit of reducing space and weight of the vehicle, by having less mechanical parts.Type: GrantFiled: November 27, 2012Date of Patent: August 9, 2016Assignee: Continental Automotive Systems, Inc.Inventor: Carlos Montes
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Patent number: 9229026Abstract: An accelerometer system can include a sensor element comprising first and second proofmasses, the first proofmass accelerating in a first direction and the second proofmass accelerating in a second direction opposite the first direction in response to an external acceleration. A force rebalance controller applies control signals to at least one control element to provide a first force to accelerate the first proofmass toward a first null position and to at least one control element to provide a second force to accelerate the second proofmass toward a second null position. The force rebalance controller can also generate opposite polarity first and second output signals associated with respective displacements of the first and second proofmasses relative to the respective first and second null positions. An acceleration component calculates the external acceleration based on the first and second output signals.Type: GrantFiled: April 13, 2011Date of Patent: January 5, 2016Assignee: Northrop Grumman Guaidance and Electronics Company, Inc.Inventors: Robert E. Stewart, Daryl Sakaida, Michael D. Bulatowicz, Ming Li, John Thomson Douglass
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Patent number: 9142129Abstract: A virtual-screen setup unit sets up a virtual screen in a seam of images captured by an image capturing unit, the virtual screen being orthogonal to a road surface and extending in a direction from a near side to a far side of the vehicle. A virtual-screen projection image generation unit performs conversion of the images captured by the image capturing unit for projection onto the virtual screen, and thereby generates a virtual-screen projection image. The virtual-screen projection image is displayed on the image display unit.Type: GrantFiled: March 8, 2011Date of Patent: September 22, 2015Assignee: Clarion Co., Ltd.Inventor: Noriyuki Satoh
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Publication number: 20150107377Abstract: Embodiments of the invention pertain to kits capable of providing authenticated health information for purposes of privacy, rewards, or incentives. In an embodiment of the invention, biometric measurement devices coupled with a communications infrastructure implement a system of secure information exchange and enhanced data security. In an embodiment of the invention, a security/verification system is built into the kit, so as to be able to provide verification of a user's identity.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 22, 2014Publication date: April 23, 2015Inventor: Kenneth J. Bagan
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Patent number: 8914195Abstract: A system for powering a steering angle sensor coupled to a steering wheel and a controller comprising a switch, coupled to the sensor and the controller. The switch is activated upon motion of the steering wheel or steering shaft. The switch, when activated, connects a power supply, such as a vehicle battery, to the sensor and the controller so that a new steering angle may be sensed and stored. After a predetermined period of time, the controller sends a signal to deactivate the switch and disconnect the power supply.Type: GrantFiled: February 11, 2013Date of Patent: December 16, 2014Assignee: Ford Global TechnologiesInventors: Erick Michael Lavoie, Bradley G. Hochrein
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Publication number: 20140228819Abstract: A module producible inside a living body is provided. The module includes an instructions receiver configured to receive wireless transmissions of instructions from a master controller located outside of the body when the module is inside the body. An energy receiver configured to receive wireless transmission of non-destructive energy from the master controller located outside of the body when the module is inside the body. The module further includes a battery and a communications and guide element electrically connected to the instructions receiver, the energy receiver and the battery.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 14, 2013Publication date: August 14, 2014Inventor: William Harrison Zurn
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Patent number: 8783102Abstract: A protective container for holding a reusable control part of a transcutaneous sensor system for detecting at least one analyte in a bodily fluid is disclosed. The control part includes at least one coupling, which has at least one sensor coupling for connection to at least one transcutaneous sensor. The protective container has at least one container housing. The control part can be held in the container housing. The container housing is adapted to shield the control part from environmental influences. The container housing also has at least one connector which can be connected to the coupling and seals the latter in a media-tight fashion.Type: GrantFiled: December 17, 2010Date of Patent: July 22, 2014Assignee: Roche Diagnostics Operations, Inc.Inventors: Wolfgang Heck, Bernd Roesicke, Gerhard Frisch
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Publication number: 20140176092Abstract: A method for generating an output signal and measuring arrangement for determining at least one measured variable use at least one sensor device (2) and at least one signal output (3) for outputting at least one output signal, wherein the output signal transmits information about the measured variable and/or a state of the measuring arrangement using at least one predetermined value of the current. The measuring arrangement ensures reliable outputting of an error signal indicating the presence of an erroneous state is achieved in that a first adjusting unit (4) and a second adjusting unit (5) are provided that set the value of the current of the output signal to a predetermined desired value. The first adjusting unit (4) sets a fixed current value and the second adjusting unit (5) sets a variable current value.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 6, 2013Publication date: June 26, 2014Applicant: Krohne Messtechnik GmbHInventors: Christian Kolonko, Steffen Dymek, Martin van der Linde
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Publication number: 20140144257Abstract: A system for monitoring equipment and transmitting data and/or signals from one or more satellite nodes to a base node for transmission to a monitor or controller for the equipment. The system may transmit high frequency acoustic signals from one or more satellite nodes embedded in the equipment through a structural component of the equipment to the base node, eliminating the need to hardwire the satellite nodes in harsh environments.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 28, 2012Publication date: May 29, 2014Applicant: General Electric CompanyInventor: Vivek Venugopal Badami
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Patent number: 8661923Abstract: The present invention is a sensor interface or network of interfaces that utilizes high-temperature electronics to operate at elevated temperatures for applications that include but are not limited to aircraft and automobile engines, vehicle frames, refineries, nuclear and chemical production plants, and in downhole drilling for petroleum and natural gas. The interface or network provide connectors for a variety of sensors with analog and digital outputs, and can in turn provide data to an automated electronic control system or a monitor. Because the sensor interface may be placed in so-called “hot zones” nearer to the sensors being monitored than other systems that use conventional electronics, the sensor interface can increase noise immunity, increase reliability, decrease cost, reduce weight, and increase space.Type: GrantFiled: April 12, 2012Date of Patent: March 4, 2014Assignee: Orbital Research Inc.Inventors: Michael Willett, Greg Shaw
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Patent number: 8650953Abstract: A chemical sensor is provided on a first semiconductor die. A potentiostat is provided on a second semiconductor die. An analog to digital converter and a microcontroller are provided on a third semiconductor die. The first die is configured to be connected to the second die. The second die is configured to be connected to the third die. The chemical sensor detects a chemical in the surrounding environment and outputs a signal to the analog to digital converter. The analog to digital converter converts the signal to a digital signal and outputs the digital signal to the microcontroller. The microcontroller provides a measurement of the concentration of the chemical in the surrounding environment.Type: GrantFiled: October 31, 2011Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: STMicroelectronics Pte Ltd.Inventors: Suman Cherian, Olivier Le Neel
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Publication number: 20130340543Abstract: The present disclosure provides distributed sensor grid, surface, and skin systems and methods that utilize compressive sampling systems and methods for reading and processing the outputs of sensor arrays (serial and/or parallel) such that increased speed can be achieved. These sensor arrays can be functionalized or sensitized in any desired manner and functions are derived from the outputs, as opposed to individual data points. The sensor arrays can be made in the form of a textile, a fiber optic network, a MEMS network, or a CMOS camera, for example. In general, in accordance with the systems and methods of the present disclosure, a Code is applied to a distributed sensor as part of the compressive sampling technique and derives the functions.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 20, 2013Publication date: December 26, 2013Applicant: THE UNIVERSITY OF NORTH CAROLINA AT CHARLOTTEInventors: Faramarz FARAHI, Mehrdad ABOLBASHARI
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Publication number: 20130327163Abstract: A microelectromechanical sensor module includes a sensing mechanism for measuring an acceleration, pressure, air humidity or the like, a control mechanism for controlling the sensing mechanism, an energy supply mechanism for supplying the sensor module with energy, and a transmission mechanism for transmitting signals of the sensing mechanism. At least three of the mechanisms are integrated at the chip level in at least one chip in each case. A corresponding method is implemented to produce the microelectromechanical sensor module.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 14, 2011Publication date: December 12, 2013Applicant: Robert Bosch GmbHInventors: Tjalf Pirk, Thomas Wagner, Ando Feyh, Georg Bischopink, Axel Franke
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Patent number: 8448596Abstract: A sensing device includes a cover having a window; a seat comprising a bottom first opening, a peripheral wall, a recess on the wall, and a bottom channel; a spring biased sliding unit comprising a bottom projection fitted in the first opening, a probe extending from the projection, a hollow cylinder, and two opposite cavities on a periphery; a cylindrical rotational unit comprising a rim extending inward from an inner surface, a second opening on the rim, a display plate on the rim, and two opposite guide protrusions on an inner surface opposing the display plate wherein indications are printed on the display plate, and the rotational unit is rotatably put on the sliding unit with the cylinder passing through the rim, the display plate being rested on the recess, and the guide protrusions being engaged with the cavities; and a biasing member retained on the cylinder.Type: GrantFiled: June 2, 2010Date of Patent: May 28, 2013Assignee: Valentine International Ltd.Inventor: Johnny J. T. Chiu
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Patent number: 8396628Abstract: A power on-demand steering angle sensor coupled to a steering wheel and a controller comprising a switch, coupled to the sensor and the controller. The switch is activated upon motion of the steering wheel or steering shaft. The switch, when closed, connects a power supply, such as a vehicle battery, to the sensor and the controller so that a new steering angle may be sensed and stored. After a predetermined period of time, the controller sends a signal to open the switch and disconnect the power supply.Type: GrantFiled: February 1, 2010Date of Patent: March 12, 2013Assignee: Ford Global TechnologiesInventors: Erick Lavoie, Brad Hochrein
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Patent number: 8336407Abstract: An adapter assembly that works with a standard utility meter to wirelessly transmit data about consumption. The adapter assembly generates information about consumption by cooperating with a pointer of an index of a utility meter. In some embodiments, the adapter assembly includes an upper portion and a clip that interface together. The upper portion and the clip are configured to maintain alignment with the pointer and not create stress on the index.Type: GrantFiled: March 8, 2011Date of Patent: December 25, 2012Assignee: Landis+Gyr Innovations, Inc.Inventors: Louay Ibrahim Abdul-Hadi, Nathan Edward Woody
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Publication number: 20120310599Abstract: A first collecting device is connected to a first network to which a first sensor is connected, and to an external network. A second collecting device is connected to a second network to which a plurality of second sensors for measuring a second amount of observation are connected, and to the external network, and collects second sensor data. When the first collecting device cannot collect first sensor data through the first network, an adapter transfers the first sensor data to the second collecting device through the second network, and transmits the first sensor data to the first collecting device from the second collecting device through the external network.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 16, 2012Publication date: December 6, 2012Applicant: FUJITSU LIMITEDInventors: Kyoko TANAKA, Akira Imahase, Kei Hamada
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Patent number: 8322237Abstract: A bearing device for coupling a position indication device to an apparatus for measuring a position of the apparatus is described. The apparatus includes a first connecting member. The bearing device includes a bearing housing including a first opening defined therein configured to receive the first connecting member and a second opening defined therein configured to receive at least a portion of the position indication device. The bearing device also includes a grommet configured for positioning within the first opening and for positioning around the first connecting member.Type: GrantFiled: March 10, 2011Date of Patent: December 4, 2012Assignee: General Electric CompanyInventors: Brent Allan Dietrich, Peter Damion Bells, Ivan James Hansen, Paul Nathan Manzano
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Patent number: 8322236Abstract: A measuring apparatus having a measurement voltage input with at least one input contact for an input voltage of a measuring element and a method for detecting moisture on the measurement voltage input of such a measuring apparatus are provided, wherein the measuring apparatus includes a supplemental voltage source, which delivers at least one supplemental voltage and is connected with a supplemental contact arranged in the region of the at least one input contact.Type: GrantFiled: October 15, 2009Date of Patent: December 4, 2012Assignee: Endress + Hauser Conducta Gesellschaft für Mess-und Regeltechnik mbH + Co. KGInventors: Herman Straub, Martin Lohmann, Stephan Buschnakowski, Jorg Uhle
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Publication number: 20120297889Abstract: Improved apparatuses and methods for testing turf or other surfaces, in one embodiment, a turf testing apparatus includes two actuators for moving a shoe relative to a turf surface. The first actuator moves the shoe along a substantially horizontal axis and the second actuator moves the shoe along a substantially vertical axis.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 24, 2012Publication date: November 29, 2012Applicant: TEXTILE MANAGEMENT ASSOCIATES, INC.Inventor: Paul W. Yngve
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Publication number: 20120227496Abstract: A method for the manufacture of a measuring device, and a measuring device for registering at least one measured value of at least one process variable, wherein the measuring device includes a measuring tube, which has at least one necked out portion, on which at least one measuring transducer is arranged, wherein the measuring tube together with the necked out portion is monolithic, and wherein the necked out portion is manufacturable from the measuring tube at least partially by a deformation method.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 14, 2010Publication date: September 13, 2012Applicant: Endress + Hauser Flowtec AGInventors: Andreas Berger, Michal Bezdek, Arno Lang
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Publication number: 20120227518Abstract: An adapter assembly that works with a standard utility meter to wirelessly transmit data about consumption. The adapter assembly generates information about consumption by cooperating with a pointer of an index of a utility meter. In some embodiments, the adapter assembly includes an upper portion and a clip that interface together. The upper portion and the clip are configured to maintain alignment with the pointer and not create stress on the index.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 8, 2011Publication date: September 13, 2012Applicant: Cellnet Innovations, Inc.Inventors: Louay Ibrahim Abdul-Hadi, Nathan Edward Woody
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Patent number: 8229057Abstract: An embodiment of the invention relates to a sampling circuit comprising at least one clock, a reference trace, a sensor trace adapted to be connected to a sensing element, and a device to measure a length of delay between a reference signal transmission time of a reference signal transmitting through the reference trace and a sensed signal transmission time of a sensed signal transmitting through the sensor trace, wherein the length of delay is determined by counting the number of burst tones occurring during the length of delay.Type: GrantFiled: October 12, 2007Date of Patent: July 24, 2012Assignee: Intel-GE Care Innovations LLCInventors: Terry Dishongh, Fergal Tuffy, Benjamin Kuris
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Patent number: 8176803Abstract: The present invention is a sensor interface or network of interfaces that utilizes high-temperature electronics to operate at elevated temperatures for applications that include but are not limited to aircraft and automobile engines, vehicle frames, refineries, nuclear and chemical production plants, and in downhole drilling for petroleum and natural gas. The interface or network provide connectors for a variety of sensors with analog and digital outputs, and can in turn provide data to an automated electronic control system or a monitor. Because the sensor interface may be placed in so-called “hot zones” nearer to the sensors being monitored than other systems that use conventional electronics, the sensor interface can increase noise immunity, increase reliability, decrease cost, reduce weight, and increase space.Type: GrantFiled: July 29, 2008Date of Patent: May 15, 2012Assignee: Orbital Research Inc.Inventors: Michael Willett, Greg S. Shaw
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Patent number: 8079278Abstract: An end-effector is provided for use on a micro/nano manipulation device. The end-effector is comprised of: a micropump fluidly coupled to a microtube; a piezoelectric sensing structure disposed in the microtube; and a processing circuit electrically coupled to the sensing structure for determining the force of the fluid flowing through the microtube. The end-effector is a closed loop control-enabled micro/nano manipulation system.Type: GrantFiled: July 21, 2006Date of Patent: December 20, 2011Assignee: Board of Trustees of Michigan State UniversityInventors: Ning Xi, Uchechukwu Wejinya, Yantao Shen
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Publication number: 20110283821Abstract: A sensor system utilizing flexible electronics for on-line real-time high-sensitivity sampling, monitoring, and analysis of a parameter or analyte of interest in a fluid or in or on a solid is provided. The flexible substrate sensor system comprises a plurality of sensors, a flexible substrate, a network, and a connection between the sensors and the network, wherein the network reads out or collects information from the sensors. The network can be onboard, connected by via a physical connection to the sensors and the flexible substrate, or external to the sensors and flexible substrate, connected via a telemetric or wireless connection to the sensors. The flexible substrate sensor system can be deployed in systems that conduct or distribute fluids or solids, such as distribution systems (municipal water systems, oil or gas pipeline systems), industrial systems (production facilities, piping, and storage systems), and large structures (dams, bridges, walkways, buildings).Type: ApplicationFiled: November 19, 2007Publication date: November 24, 2011Inventors: Christopher Kemper Ober, Thomas Denis O'rourke, Michael G. Spencer, James N. Turner, Stephen B. Wicker
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Patent number: 8033190Abstract: A measuring device incorporating a substrate with sensors that measure the processing conditions that a wafer may undergo during manufacturing. The substrate can be inserted into a processing chamber by a robot head and the measuring device can transmit the conditions in real time or store the conditions for subsequent analysis. Sensitive electronic components of the device can be distanced or isolated from the most deleterious processing conditions in order increase the accuracy, operating range, and reliability of the device. Isolation may be provided by vacuum or suitable material and phase change material may be located adjacent to electronics to maintain a low temperature.Type: GrantFiled: May 25, 2010Date of Patent: October 11, 2011Assignee: KLA-Tencor Technologies CorporationInventors: Wayne G. Renken, Mei H. Sun
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Patent number: 7900527Abstract: An electrically-induced deflective amplification sensor as an actively controlled and reconfigurable nanomechanical sensor for the detection and recognition of chemicals, biomolecules, and gaseous molecules. The electrically-induced deflective amplification sensors use electric fields to control the bending of transducers, have adjustable sensitivities that depend on electric field strength, and reconfigurable operation ranges for the detection of target molecules at ultra-low and ultra-high concentrations. The sensors are highly integrated, sensitive, provide real-time detection ability, and do not require labels. The electrically-induced deflective amplification transducers can be reconfigured to identify molecules in spectroscopy. A new type of electrophoresis is established using nanostructured transducers. The E-IDEA is applicable to optical fiber, nanomechanical cantilever, waveguide and nanowire or nanotube tranducers.Type: GrantFiled: December 19, 2007Date of Patent: March 8, 2011Assignee: University of Central Florida Research Foundation, Inc.Inventor: Ming Su
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Patent number: 7895894Abstract: A driver device includes a gain control amplifier that causes a vibrator to produce driving vibrations by controlling an oscillation amplitude in an oscillation loop, a signal generation circuit that generates a signal having a given frequency, and a modulation circuit that modulates the frequency of the signal generated by the signal generation circuit to a resonance frequency of the vibrator. The driver device causes the vibrator to produce the driving vibrations using the signal modulated by the modulation circuit, and then causes the vibrator to produce the driving vibrations by controlling the oscillation amplitude in the oscillation loop formed by the vibrator and the gain control amplifier.Type: GrantFiled: November 2, 2007Date of Patent: March 1, 2011Assignee: Seiko Epson CorporationInventors: Masahiro Kanai, Naoki Yoshida, Eitaro Otsuka
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Publication number: 20100319470Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for manufacturing a housing-less sensor, in particular a proximity sensor. Here it is proposed to build all of the components needed for the mechanical and electrical functions on one sensor chassis and then to inject a plastic compound around the components.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 16, 2010Publication date: December 23, 2010Applicant: BAUMER INNOTEC AGInventors: Wolfgang Wehrle, Alexander Juergens
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Patent number: 7849746Abstract: A driver device that forms an oscillation loop with a vibrator and causes the vibrator to produce driving vibrations includes a current-voltage converter that is provided in the oscillation loop and converts a current that flows through the vibrator into a voltage, and a GCA as a comparator that is provided in the oscillation loop and outputs a signal corresponding to a comparison result between an output from the current-voltage converter and a given voltage. The GCA outputs a first high-level voltage or a low-level voltage during oscillation startup, and outputs a second high-level voltage or the low-level voltage in a steady oscillation state. The first high-level voltage is a voltage higher in potential than the second high-level voltage.Type: GrantFiled: November 26, 2007Date of Patent: December 14, 2010Assignee: Seiko Epson CorporationInventors: Masahiro Kanai, Naoki Yoshida, Eitaro Otsuka
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Patent number: 7819033Abstract: A measuring device incorporating a substrate with sensors that measure the processing conditions that a wafer may undergo during manufacturing. The substrate can be inserted into a processing chamber by a robot head and the measuring device can transmit the conditions in real time or store the conditions for subsequent analysis. Sensitive electronic components of the device can be distanced or isolated from the most deleterious processing conditions in order increase the accuracy, operating range, and reliability of the device.Type: GrantFiled: April 21, 2008Date of Patent: October 26, 2010Inventor: Wayne G. Renken
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Patent number: 7798025Abstract: A sensor circuit has a first input terminal, a second input terminal and an output terminal, a capacitive sensor connected between the first input terminal and the output terminal, a field-effect transistor coupled to the output terminal at one of a source and a drain terminal and coupled to the second input terminal at the other one of the source and drain terminals, and a driver implemented to set a potential at a control terminal of the field-effect transistor such that in sensor operation the field-effect transistor is operated in a sub-threshold voltage range.Type: GrantFiled: March 9, 2007Date of Patent: September 21, 2010Assignee: Infineon Technologies AGInventors: Olaf Roesch, Ralf Schledz
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Publication number: 20100180718Abstract: A sensing mechanism of pedaling assistant system, including a crank and a sensing element. The crank includes an elongated first crank member and an elongated second crank member connected therewith. A first axial end of the first crank member is connected with a pedal component of a bicycle. A first axial end of the second crank member is connected with an axle of the bicycle. An end face of a second axial end of the second crank member abuts against an end face of a second axial end of the first crank member. The sensing element is disposed between the second axial end of the first crank member and the second axial end of the second crank member for detecting a force transmitted from the pedal component through the first crank member to the second crank member.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 12, 2010Publication date: July 22, 2010Inventors: Kuang-Hsiung Liu, Chin Lee Liao