Abstract: A power supply unit for supplying power to a device has a rechargeable, main battery; a charging arrangement for charging the main battery; a non-rechargeable back-up battery; load terminals for connection to a load; and a control unit for controlling supply of power to the load primarily from the main battery and secondarily from the back-up battery. The device is, in particular, a single bay, stand alone parking meter. In the event that the main battery runs low, the control unit is configured to supply power to the load from both the main battery and the back-up battery or only from the back-up battery. The back-up battery is easily replaceable, and the power supply unit has a bay, with connectors for receiving the back-up battery. The main battery is charged from solar panels. A communication device is provided to communicate status messages wirelessly to a control system.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention provide a method, computer program product, and computer system for dynamically controlling an alert function on an electronic device. The method includes determining whether a user is engaged in a conversation with at least one other person. Voice and facial recognition technology determine whether the other person is an important person. If it is determined that the other person is an important person the alert function on the device will be disabled.

Abstract: A device for measuring the accuracy of a mechanical watch includes a time reference source, a calculating mechanism, and another data processing unit. The time reference source is formed by an internal time reference source, or by a receiving and processing mechanism arranged to receive and process signals transmitted by an external time source to permanently update a repeater clock internal to the device. The calculating mechanism is arranged to calculate time differences between display values, and/or between time reference points provided by the time reference source, and to calculate a variation in rate. The another data processing unit is arranged to store and process at least one variation in rate calculated by the calculating mechanism, and/or a viewing mechanism arranged to display at least one variation in rate calculated by the calculating mechanism.

Abstract: A method for controlling detached lighting units uses source light of a capable flashlight to communicate information. The capable flashlight encodes an ID Tag in modulated light, and the detached lighting units recognize the specific ID Tag and responds, for example by activating and creating illumination. A user can illuminate selected areas by shining the beam of the flashlight on detached lighting units to selectively activate them, and since the detached lighting units only respond to the encoded light, unintended activation is avoided. In addition to the encoded ID Tag, mode information can be included such that the detached lighting units can respond in a number of ways, such as selected periods of activation. Stored ID Tags can be transferred and thus shared using the same modulated light. ID Tags can be randomly re-assigned, and the new value shared among other flashlights and detached lighting units, creating a coordinated set.

Abstract: A method of securing an access point comprises transitioning to a first alarm state in response to: receiving an indication that the access point is open, sounding a first audible alarm in response to the open access point, silencing the first audible alarm and returning to the armed state in response to a disarming action by a user, transitioning to a first disarmed state in response to receiving an indication of the disarming action by the user, initiating a countdown from a first predetermined time period in response to the disarming action by the user, returning to the armed state upon the expiration of the first predetermined time period, transitioning to a second disarmed state in response to receiving an indication of a closed access point, and initiating a countdown from a second predetermined time period in response to a remaining first predetermined time period being greater than the second predetermined time period.

Abstract: A refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present invention includes: a memory for storing information on food stored in a storeroom; a weight detecting unit disposed in the storeroom for detecting the weight of the food in order to determine whether food is received or withdrawn; a controller for creating a request for confirmation information on the received or withdrawn food when the food is determined to have been received or withdrawn; a speech output unit for outputting the request created by the controller as speech; and a speech input unit for receiving the response to the output request as speech, wherein the controller analyzes the response and updates information on the food stored in the storeroom.

Abstract: A method of measuring accuracy of a watch including a visual display device, including: storing a first instant, at which the display is in a first display position corresponding to a first image, with a corresponding time reference source; determining a first display value for the first image and stored in a storage in correlation with the first instant; storing, after a determined time interval, a second instant, at which the display is in a second display position corresponding to a second image, with the corresponding source; determining a second display value for the second image and stored in the storage in correlation with the second instant; and calculating displaying on a viewing device the variation in rate of the display.

Abstract: A server device connected with a player terminal used by a player when performing a game operation over a network includes: a rental unit; a providing unit; a storage unit configured to store player information in which the rental game content rented from the rental unit is set as game content temporarily possessed by the player, and the game content provided by the providing unit is set as game content possessed by the player; a parameter varying unit; a game content determination unit; a parameter setting unit configured to set a parameter of the game content based on a parameter of the rental game content varied by the parameter varying unit; a condition determination unit configured to determine whether a return condition of the rental game content is satisfied; and an update unit configured to update the player information stored in the storage unit.

Abstract: An emergency notification system and method that is operable to provide a technique for a user to transmit an emergency signal request wherein the emergency signal request is transmitted to a 911 operations center, registered EMS providers, and at least one named contact identified by the user transmitting the emergency signal request simultaneously. The emergency notification system includes a server database having control software and further includes a software application for mobile devices. The emergency notification system is operable to receive and store relevant medical data for each of the registered users of the system wherein the medical data is transmitted to emergency medical service providers during the transmission of the emergency signal request. A customized notification message is additionally sent to a predefined list of contacts during the emergency signal request.

Abstract: A refrigerator is provided. The refrigerator may include a main body having a storage compartment, a first door rotatably installed at a first side of the main body to open and close a first portion of the storage compartment, and a second door rotatably installed at a second side of the main body to open and close a second portion of the storage compartment. A first camera may be installed at the first door to take a picture of an interior of the first storage compartment during rotation of the first door, and a second camera may be installed at the second door to take a picture of the interior of the first storage compartment during rotation of the second door. A controller may combine plural pictures taken by the first camera and the second camera into a single corrected image of a region of the first compartment spanning from the first door to the second door.

Abstract: In one aspect, a first device includes a processor and a memory accessible to the processor. The memory bears instructions executable by the processor to receive information pertaining to an event to occur at a first date and a first time, establish an entry at an electronic calendar for the event based on the first date and first time, determine a second date and a second time at which to provide a reminder for the event based at least in part on an event type to which the event pertains, and set the reminder to be provided at the second date and second time.

Abstract: This invention provides a medication dispensing system that instructs the user through visual and audio cues, such as the illumination of individual medication cups that are arrayed in accordance with a daily and weekly schedule in separate orifices within the dispenser body. It monitors compliance by determining when an indicated cup is accessed, based upon at least one of manipulating a lid and/or placing into, removing from, or replacing into the correct orifice based upon the indication. The cups can be refilled based upon an indication, and/or can be provided in removable prefilled refill tray. The dispenser can include an on-board processor that stores a current configuration including the treatment schedule. The configuration can be programmed/re-programmed, and compliance can be monitored, via a wired or wireless server connection that communicates with interested parties, and that supports a graphical user interface. Communication, messaging and/or display systems can also be integrated.

Abstract: A computing device can access a calendar entry having an associated time and an associated location, in a calendar application. The computing device can dynamically determine an estimated travel time to the location associated with the calendar entry. The computing device can provide an alarm indication for the calendar entry at a time based on the estimated travel time.

Abstract: Monitoring system alert technology, in which monitoring system data is accessed from a monitoring system that is located in a property of a user and the monitoring system data is analyzed against one or more rules that define alerts provided for the monitoring system. Based on the analysis, a determination is made that an alert for the monitoring system is needed and conditions for providing the alert are accessed. Location of a mobile device of a user associated with the monitoring system and timing related to providing the alert are monitored. The monitored location of the mobile device and the monitored timing are analyzed with respect to the accessed conditions. Based on the analysis, a determination is made that the accessed conditions for providing the alert are met and the alert is output at the mobile device.

Abstract: A method and an apparatus for controlling task execution are disclosed in the present invention which relates to the field of wireless communications technologies, addressing the problem that power consumption of a terminal in standby mode is wasted because tasks of the terminal in a standby state are fixed and corresponding time periods cannot be flexibly set for different tasks. The method includes: receiving standby state parameters sent by a terminal management module; configuring the terminal according to the standby parameters so that the terminal enters a sleeping state; enabling a timer to start timing; stopping timing when the time of the timer reaches the time point at which a current task will be executed; configuring the terminal according to working state parameters of the terminal so that the terminal enters a working state; and receiving paging information sent by the terminal management module.

Abstract: Computer-based systems and computer-implemented methods are described for monitoring medication events for an individual. Computer-based systems include systems for monitoring medication events relating to an individual, including: circuitry for analyzing data for an identifier of a first medication event for an individual; circuitry for analyzing the data for at least one attribute of an individual; circuitry for analyzing the data for at least one attribute relating to a medication during the first medication event; circuitry for analyzing the data for at least one feature of visual information and at least one feature of non-visual information relating to the individual during the first medication event; circuitry for analyzing the received data for a time associated with the first medication event; circuitry for determining a compliance likelihood for the first medication event based on the analyses of the received data; and circuitry for indicating the determined compliance likelihood.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for utilizing a timing component to optimize low battery indication in alarm devices. The method and apparatus may set a timing component based on a condition detected by a alarm device. Upon detection of a low battery condition within the alarm device, the alarm device can delay low battery indication, using the timing component, until a time of day with a higher probably of user suitability.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for assisting medication are disclosed. The apparatus includes a medication box and a medication service device. The medication box includes a plurality of containers each storing a paper bag of medication, and discharges a paper bag of medication from a corresponding one of the containers using a rotational force of an electric motor, and detects whether the stored paper bag of medication is present or is discharged. The medication service device includes a situation detector detecting a status of a user based on user identification and signal strength included in a radio frequency signal, and a status of the medication box, a situation recognizer recognizing a medication situation, and a service executor generating a service for medication. The user who has to regularly take a paper bag of medication for a long time can be assisted to take an accurate dose of medication on time.

Abstract: A flow generator for delivering breathable gas to a patient includes a processor coupled with operation sensors and a user interface. The processor is programmed to generate at least one of time-based or event-based messages relating to at least one of flow generator operation, flow generator service, flow generator use, patient health, peripheral devices and services, patient treatment, and reminders. Time-based messages are generated at predetermined time intervals based on either time of use or elapsed time. The event-based messages are generated based on signals from the operation sensors. The user interface is configured to deliver the messages to at least one of a display, a flow generator service provider, the patient and a physician. By this system, operation of the flow generator is facilitated and enhanced.

Abstract: An animal medicine reminder tag that is non-toxic, water resistant, and shock resistant, wherein the tag is automatically activated when attached to the companion animal and cannot be reset or turned off by the companion animal's caregiver. The tag is designed to be minimally harmful if accidentally swallowed by the companion animal.

Abstract: An activity monitor which can be pre-programmed at the factory, the doctor's office or the pharmacist, or that can be programmed by the user. The activity monitor is affixed to a medicine bottle or container and activity associated with the bottle or container, such as movement, opening, volume changes, etc. are monitored in view to the schedule. If the schedule indicates that a dose of medicine should be taken at a particular time, but the monitored activity does not determine that the medicine has been taken, an alert signal will be issued to alert the user that it is time to take the medicine. In addition, if the monitored activity indicates that the medicine bottle has been opened prior to a scheduled time, then a tamper alert can be triggered.

Abstract: Presenting comparative timing data to the audience of a sports or other competition multiple within an event, where timing or scoring data is stored during each heat, compared between heats, and displayed. Timing data includes lap times, split times, or other timing information. Timing data from each heat can also be compared with historical timing records such as Olympic, NCAA, or other records. A computing device coupled to timing equipment, storage, and a display operate to gather and store timing data from each heat, compare the timing data to generate comparative timing data, and present the comparative timing data to attendees. A software application running on the computing device allows a user to select particular timing data to compare with the current event timing data. Video and biographical information about a given competitor in the event can also be presented to the user.

Abstract: Aspects of the present invention relate to an apparatus for converting a container into a smart bottle. A tapered plug comprising a channel portion, wherein a first sensor is located proximate to a first end of the channel portion and a second sensor is located proximate to a second end of the channel portion, and a non-channel portion, wherein the non-channel portion houses a processor, a memory, a battery, a power-management system, a clock and a communication interface, may replace a standard container cap, thereby providing monitoring, verification and communication capabilities.

Abstract: A smoke alarm comprises smoke detection circuitry for detecting smoke and generating a detection signal responsive thereto. Proximity detection circuitry generates a proximity detection signal responsive to detection of an object within in a selected distance of the smoke alarm. Alarm generation circuitry generates an audible alarm responsive to the detection signal. The audible alarm may be deactivated for a predetermined period of time responsive to at least one proximity detection signal.

Abstract: A device for dispensing a material that has a limited period of utility, a novel device comprises a first part containing the material and a second part, wherein the first and second parts have mutual engagement means and can be disengaged to allow the material to be dispensed, wherein the device includes, located within the device, control mechanisms that can be activated to initiate a time-controlled period of use and that, at the end of that period, causes the first and second parts to be permanently engaged.

Abstract: A system and method are provided for implementing an automated workstation elevation position tracking and control scheme. Software running on the user's computer generates reminders and/or to forces an individual to periodically readjust the height of the workstation in a manner that promotes standing while at work. A current position, and an elapsed time that the workstation has been at the current position, is detected with an objective of providing pre-programmed routine or random automated reminders to a user to change the current position of the workstation from one elevation state to the other. The software tracks the percent of time that a user is standing and optionally compares this with a pre-defined goal. Automatic control via the user workstation, of workstation elevator actuators is provided in a manner that makes it easier, or otherwise unavoidable, for the user to initiate repositioning from a sitting to a standing position.

Abstract: An apparatus includes a memory device configured to store computer-readable instructions and data representative of at least an alert trigger time that represents a time before an end of an operating cycle of an appliance communicatively coupled to a home energy manager. The apparatus further includes a processor coupled to the memory device and configured to execute the computer-readable instructions, which when executed by the processor, cause the processor to determine a remaining cycle time for the operating cycle of the appliance, compare the remaining cycle time to the alert trigger time stored in the memory device, generate an alert when the remaining cycle time is equal to the alert trigger time, and transmit the generated alert to at least one remote device.

Abstract: Disclosed are a system, method or device for maintaining a geofence to provide alerts in response to an object entering or exiting an area bounded by the geofence. In one example implementation, a geofence may be temporarily altered. In particular examples, such an alteration of a geofence may comprise changing a size or shape of the geofence.

Abstract: Methods and systems for facilitating initiation of resupply orders for consumable commodities include using a stand-alone electronic or audio-generating device incorporated into retail product packaging. The stand-alone device is equipped with a rudimentary processor or logic circuit, a memory, and a wireless transmitter. A simple user interface/activation device such as a push button or membrane switch is coupled to the logic circuit or processor. The stand-alone device is incorporated into or with product packaging, and may be configured with a resupply code at or after a point of sale. A user may activate the user interface of the device when the product needs resupplying, causing the resupply code to be transmitted to an access point or terminal that initiates a reorder sequence for the product.

Abstract: There is provided a medical device having a reminder function, the medical device comprising a reminder generator for issuing a reminder to a user to perform a predetermined action with the medical device; and a controller for selecting the reminder from a plurality of available reminders and for controlling the reminder generator to issue the selected reminder in accordance with a reminding schedule; wherein the controller is configured to maintain a measure of the effectiveness of each of said available reminders and to select the reminder from the plurality of available reminders based on said measures.

Abstract: A dosage cap records and displays dosage information about a medicine, including, the projected time that the next dosage of medicine is needed, the time interval between numerous administrations of the medicine, the time and/or date that the last dose was administered, the current daily intake amount, the date the dose was administered, or scheduled administration of the medicine. The time and date of the last dosage of medicine administered can be reset and updated when a subsequent dose of medicine is administered. The cap secures over a medicine container lid to provide easy visibility of the dosage information to a user. A shaft extends downwardly from the cap to secure the cap to the medicine container lid by penetrating the lid with a sharp point. A fastener attaches to the end of the shaft for securing the cap to the medicine bottle lid.

Abstract: A low cost, robust, wireless sensor that provides an extended period of operability without maintenance is described. The wireless sensors are configured to communicate with a base unit or repeater. When the sensor unit detects an anomalous ambient condition (e.g., smoke, fire, water, etc.) the sensor communicates with the base unit and provides data regarding the anomalous condition. The sensor unit receives instructions to change operating parameters and/or control external devices.

Abstract: Disclosed is a medication dispensing system comprising a container including at least two compartments each compartment including a cavity configured to contain at least one first medication, a covering over the cavity configured to break under pressure, and an elongate conductive element on at least a portion of the covering and configured sever upon breaking the covering. The medication dispensing system further includes one interrogator-readable RFID circuit operatively associated with the container and connected to the elongate conductive element of each of the at least two compartments, and one RFID circuit interrogator configured to interrogate the one RFID circuit and determine whether the elongate conductive element is severed on either on at least one of the at least two compartments.

Abstract: A universal system and method for controlling existing garage doors via existing garage door openers. The system includes a module operable both manually and automatically to control the existing garage door, Wifi communication circuitry to receive instructions wirelessly from a remote, circuitry for automatic and remote control of the garage door and circuitry for pushing garage door status information.

Abstract: In one aspect, the present invention provides control for a distributed lighting network, for selectively reducing an aggregate electrical load of the distributed lighting network according to a defined lighting reduction pattern. Among the several advantages of the provided control is the ability to define via the pattern which lamps are involved in load shedding, and how they are controlled to shed load. In another aspect, the present invention provides control for a distributed lighting network, for visibly signaling persons within sight of one or more lamps within the distributed lighting network. Among the several advantages of the provided control is the ability to provide emergency or other public safety signaling to persons that might not otherwise be alerted to an existing or impending danger.

Abstract: An electronic cigarette and the method for detecting expiration date of the electronic cigarette is provided in the present invention; the electronic cigarette comprises: a power supply battery, a microcontroller connected and an atomizer connected with said power supply battery respectively; the microcontroller contains a first timing module, a comparison module and a control module; the first timing module is configured to timing; the comparison module is configured to compare said first timing module's timing period with a presetting period; the control module is configured to control the power supply module being disconnected with the atomizer when the comparison module's comparison result is that the timing period is equal to or greater than the presetting period. When an expiration date of an electronic cigarette is passed, the electronic cigarette will stop working and remind users.

Abstract: A warning tag for providing an indication relevant to shelf life of a product is to be disposed on a product. The warning tag includes a storage unit, a clock unit, a control unit and a warning unit. The storage unit stores product information of the product. The product information includes time data associated with end of the shelf life of the product. The clock unit generates a current time. The control unit is electrically coupled to the storage unit and the clock unit, and outputs a warning signal based on the current time and the end of the shelf life of the product. The warning unit is electrically coupled to the control unit, and generates the indication according to the warning signal.

Abstract: An athletic device is worn by a participant during an athletic event (e.g., a race). In one example, a race course is provided with a plurality of mats or signal devices along the race course. The mats may have antennas and generate a magnetic field. The device may include a chip system having an RFID tag and a display. As the participant progress along the course, the tag is triggered at each mat and race data may be displayed on the device. Data relating to a location of the participant may also be provided to the participant during the athletic event.

Abstract: A method of executing an action at a predetermined time by a device is disclosed. The device has a latency time between initiation of the execution of the action and the actual execution of the action. The method includes advancing the initiation of the execution of the action by the latency time. A device in which the method is implemented and a system including the device are also disclosed.

Abstract: An alarm turning off method and a mobile device adapted to the method are provided. The method includes reproducing a preset alarm audio sound and outputting a preset beat at a preset alarm time, determining whether the mobile device receives an input beat, when the mobile device has received the input beat, muting the reproduced alarm audio sound, determining whether the preset beat is identical to the input beat in a state where the alarm audio sound is muted, and turning off the alarm when the number of occurrences where the preset beat matches the input beat is a preset number in a state where the alarm audio sound is muted.

Abstract: The illumination device disclosed in the present specification has a light source, a touchless sensor for detecting proximity and movement of an object without contact, and a control unit for controlling the driving of the light source on the basis of an output of the touchless sensor.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention provide systems and methods for wirelessly programming a prescription bottle cap. In an embodiment, the system includes a base station comprising an inductor and processor configured to receive prescription dosage instructions and instruct the inductor to alter a magnetic field in a manner representative of the prescription dosage instructions. In an embodiment, the system further includes a wirelessly programmable cap comprising a sensor configured to detect the magnetic field and to generate the prescription dosage information based on the magnetic field. A control unit is configured to instruct the wirelessly programmable cap to send an alert at a time designated by the prescription dosage information.

Abstract: A pump for delivering insulin to a user comprises a pump mechanism, an alarm and a timer and an alarm program in data communication with the alarm and the timer. The alarm program module is programmed to operate a plurality of types of alerts and to associate a predetermined interval of time and a predetermined event with a selected type of alert. An alarm signal can be generated by the alarm program module based on the predetermined event and interval.

Abstract: A computer-based system for monitoring product usage, value, and suitability for use or sale. The system can include one or more processors configured to process and manage data. Additionally, the system can also include product packaging comprising a machine-readable medium. Notably, the machine-readable medium can comprise product information among other types of information. The one or more processors can be configured for receiving the product information of the machine-readable medium. The machine-readable medium and corresponding medication information can be adjusted based on automated signals or interactive signals, where the signals are generated based on current or historical data regarding the product or the packaging.

Abstract: A method includes determining whether an object is sensed by a sensor, dispensing a product responsive to determining that the object has been sensed, setting an object clear time value to a first value, setting a first timer to a first time period and starting the timer, starting a second timer with the set object clear time, determining whether the first timer has expired, determining whether an object is sensed by the sensor responsive to determining that the first timer has not expired, determining whether the second timer has expired responsive to determining that an object is not sensed by the sensor, setting the first timer to a second time period and starting the first timer responsive to determining that the second timer has expired.

Abstract: Computer-based systems and computer-implemented methods are described for monitoring medication events for an individual. Computer-based systems include systems for monitoring medication events relating to an individual, including: circuitry for analyzing data for an identifier of a first medication event for an individual; circuitry for analyzing the data for at least one attribute of an individual; circuitry for analyzing the data for at least one attribute relating to a medication during the first medication event; circuitry for analyzing the data for at least one feature of visual information and at least one feature of non-visual information relating to the individual during the first medication event; circuitry for analyzing the received data for a time associated with the first medication event; circuitry for determining a compliance likelihood for the first medication event based on the analyses of the received data; and circuitry for indicating the determined compliance likelihood.

Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for determining whether and/or when a patient is taking his or her medication and, when appropriate, providing reminders and/or alerts to the patient to improve adherence to a medication regimen. In some embodiments, a medication container is provided that includes a capacitance sensor for sensing the contents of the medication container (e.g., pill count or quantity of liquid medication). The capacitance sensor may include interleaved or interdigitated electrodes oriented vertically, horizontally, or angularly (e.g., diagonally) relative to an axis of the medication container. Reminders and/or alerts to the patient may be triggered based at least in part on the contents of the medication container, when a cap of the container was last opened and/or closed, the location of the medication container, and/or the container's surroundings.

Abstract: Presenting comparative timing data to the audience of a sports or other competition multiple within an event, where timing or scoring data is stored during each heat, compared between heats, and displayed. Timing data includes lap times, split times, or other timing information. Timing data from each heat can also be compared with historical timing records such as Olympic, NCAA, or other records. A computing device coupled to timing equipment, storage, and a display operate to gather and store timing data from each heat, compare the timing data to generate comparative timing data, and present the comparative timing data to attendees. A software application running on the computing device allows a user to select particular timing data to compare with the current event timing data. Video and biographical information about a given competitor in the event can also be presented to the user.

Abstract: The present invention is a thermally activated electrical switch for use in simulating human activity. The invention is features dual heat sources enclosed in a thermally isolated chamber within the invention. Since the activation of the switch is dependent upon the ambient temperature of the environment, it opens and closes at sufficiently random intervals to simulate human activity. Other embodiments include the use of photoelectric sensors and timers to further vary timing of the switch actuation.

Abstract: A method and an apparatus for data management through timer compensation in a wireless communication system are provided. In the method, when a data loss occurs at a first point, whether a data loss has occurred previously and so whether a timer is being driven are determined. Whether the driven timer stops or expires at a second point is determined. When the timer stops or expires at the second point, a timer value is compensated for with consideration of a time difference between the first point and the second point. A timer for the data loss of the first point is restarted based on the compensated timer value. Therefore, a delay of a retransmission request time for lost data in an RLC (Radio Link Control) layer may be minimized.