Wireless Transmitter Patents (Class 340/5.64)
  • Patent number: 11974850
    Abstract: A nametag transmitter is a nametag transmitter that is to be attached to smartwear including an electrode for detecting biological information, the nametag transmitter including: a reception unit for receiving the biological information from the electrode; a wireless communication unit for transmitting the biological information to a data collection apparatus; a display unit for displaying identification information for specifying a user of the smartwear; and a connection portion to be attached to the smartwear. The nametag transmitter is attached to the smartwear in a state in which pairing between the wireless communication unit and the data collection apparatus has been carried out.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2019
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2024
    Assignee: Nippon Telegraph and Telephone Corporation
    Inventors: Yuzo Ishii, Toshishige Shimamura, Rena Nakatsuji, Hitoshi Okikawa, Yoshiyuki Doi, Nobutomo Yoshihashi
  • Patent number: 11836234
    Abstract: It is provided a method for enabling access control for access to a physical space secured by a lock device. The method is performed in a security device and comprises the steps of: obtaining at least one image captured using a first camera of a portable key device, the at least one image being captured in a vicinity of the lock device; receiving a template decryption key from a lock device over a short-range communication link; obtaining a credential associated with the lock device; matching the at least one image with a plurality of templates, each template being associated with a lock device, which comprises obtaining the plurality of templates by decrypting encrypted templates using the template decryption key; and wherein a positive match is a necessary condition for opening the lock device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2022
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2023
    Assignee: ASSA ABLOY AB
    Inventors: Fredrik Einberg, Fredrik Lindersson
  • Patent number: 11810414
    Abstract: Systems, apparatuses, and methods are provided herein for user access to smart locks at a retail shopping facility. In one embodiment, a system for user access to smart locks at a retail shopping facility includes an access member, a smart lock securing the access member, and a control circuit. The control circuit configured to receive authentication data from the user interface device; determine whether the authentication data matches within a threshold of stored authentication data associated with a profile stored in a database; determine that the user is a trusted user based on the determination that the authentication data matches with the stored authentication data within the threshold; and provide an optical key to the user interface device, wherein the smart lock is configured to unlock the access member in response to receiving the optical key from the user interface device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2022
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2023
    Assignee: WALMART APOLLO, LLC
    Inventors: Robert J. Taylor, Jeffrey D. Franklin, Melissa M. Wacha, Mark McCrary
  • Patent number: 11790711
    Abstract: A key and lock set for a vehicle includes: a vehicle lock set with both vehicle door lock and vehicle engine start lock; a passcode for mechanical lock; a rotary mechanical passcode dialer or push-button mechanical passcode keypad that is mounted in vehicle and accessible from vehicle outside; an electronic key in the form of a card key, tag key, passcode or biometric for an electronic lock, wireless key with a built-in power source, portable electronic appliance with key software or key hardware of cell phone, smart phone, tablet, computer, smart watch, digital camera or digital multimedia player; and an electronic key identifier that is mounted in vehicle for the electronic key.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2021
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2023
    Inventor: Yaowu Ma
  • Patent number: 11774267
    Abstract: A deadbolt lock status sensing assembly for monitoring status of a deadbolt member of a deadbolt assembly on a door may include a sensible element mountable on one of the door and the deadbolt assembly, and a sensing element mountable on one of the door and the deadbolt assembly. The sensing element and the sensing element may be configured to move with respect to each other when the deadbolt member of the deadbolt assembly moves between an extended condition and a retracted condition of the deadbolt.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2022
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2023
    Inventors: Marc Tobias, Tobias Bluzmanis
  • Patent number: 11778557
    Abstract: A device and method for communicating identifying information to a nearby portable electronic device is disclosed. A low energy electronic device comprises a transceiver operable to transmit and receive signals and a processing unit in communication with the transceiver. The processing unit, in response to being activated by user input, switches the transceiver into a one-way communication mode, wherein the transceiver transmits a generic wake-up signal comprising a generic wake-up identifier for a first time period, and transmits a user identifier signal comprising a user identifier for a second time period after the first time period as elapsed. The processing unit then switches the transceiver into a two-way communication mode after the second time period has elapsed to facilitate receipt of an incoming confirmation signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2018
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2023
    Inventor: Luis Marcelo Hayashi
  • Patent number: 11761234
    Abstract: An exemplary Internet of Things (IoT) module for a lockset includes a housing assembly configured for mounting with the lockset, a controller, a wireless transceiver, and a sensor array, and may further include an LED array. The controller is in communication with an external device via the wireless transceiver, and is configured to transmit to the external device information received from the sensor array. The controller is further configured to control operation of the LED array based on information received from at least one of the sensor array or the external device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2020
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2023
    Assignee: Schlage Lock Company LLC
    Inventors: Ryan C. Kincaid, Brian C. Eickhoff
  • Patent number: 11721195
    Abstract: A system and method for providing prescriptive analytics in an industrial process wherein a machine tap collects raw performance data from a machine, a machine user interface collects context data on operation of the machine, a server aggregates the performance data and context data, and an analytics engine analyzes the performance data and context data and generates analytics data. An alert engine compares the performance data, context data, and analytics data against a trigger definition, creates an alert if the trigger definition is satisfied, and sends the alert to a remote device to provide prescriptive guidance for improving process performance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2018
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2023
    Assignee: RAVEN TELEMETRY INC.
    Inventors: Braden Stenning, Martin Cloake, James Robinson
  • Patent number: 11706858
    Abstract: An occupancy sensing lighting control system is disclosed. The occupancy sensing lighting control system includes an electric lighting fixture configured to illuminate a surrounding area, a wireless communication unit associated with the electric lighting fixture, a signal-generating device, a signal detector, an occupancy condition generating device, and a load control device configured to control the current supplied to the electric lighting fixture. The signal-generating device generates control signals detectable by a mobile cellular phone device which is located within the surrounding area and is not being in an active call mode. The signal detector detects communication signals generated by the mobile cellular phone device and the occupancy condition generating device determines occupancy condition in response to a detection of communication signals from the mobile cellular phone device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 2021
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2023
    Assignee: S.V.V. TECHNOLOGY INNOVATIONS, INC
    Inventor: Sergiy Vasylyev
  • Patent number: 11704951
    Abstract: Techniques are described for keyless entry to a structure (e.g., hotel room) utilizing a set-back box. Registrants (e.g., hotel guest) may scan a barcode from their mobile device to check-in to the structure. Upon scanning the barcode or by other means, a mobile device identifier (e.g., a Bluetooth low-energy address (BLE)) is registered and associated with the checked-in structure. Receiving the registered mobile device identifier, the backend server pushes such to the set-back box associated with (e.g., resides in) the checked-in structure. The set-back box is enabled (e.g., BLE enabled) to actively scan addresses of nearby mobile devices. When the registered mobile device identifier is detected within a predetermined signal strength range (e.g., by using received signal strength indicator (RSSI) levels), the set-back box transmits a command to a smart lock (e.g., via BLE or Wifi or other radio) or to a lock controlling backend processor, to open the lock.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2022
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2023
    Assignee: Sling Media L.L.C.
    Inventor: Mudit Mathur
  • Patent number: 11692385
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a door management system comprising at least one door leaf, at least one a door operator, an electronic communication unit and at least one detector unit wherein the door operator comprise a control unit and a drive unit, wherein the drive unit is connected to and adapted to move the at least one door leaf between an open and a closed position, the control unit comprise a first set of configuration parameters and is adapted to control the drive unit based on the first set of configuration parameters, the at least one detector unit comprise a second set of configuration parameters and is configured to survey the environment of the at least one door leaf based on the second set of configuration parameters, the electronic communication unit comprise a user interface and is configured to receive and display the first and second set of configuration parameters on the user interface, receive and transmit an updated first set of configuration parameters to the control unit and the u
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2017
    Date of Patent: July 4, 2023
    Assignee: Assa Abloy Entrance Systems AB
    Inventor: Roger Dreyer
  • Patent number: 11685339
    Abstract: A vehicle includes a communication interface, a sensor configured to detect biological information for a user of the vehicle, and a controller configured to perform electronic payments. The controller receives authentication information from a first terminal apparatus using the communication interface and acquires the biological information from the sensor when a first authentication using the received authentication information succeeds. The controller acquires authorization information indicating authorization to perform an electronic payment for the user, who is associated with the authentication information, when a second authentication using the acquired biological information succeeds.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2021
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2023
    Assignee: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Aya Sato, Kuniaki Jinnai, Taiki Yamashita, Eduard Vandersmitte
  • Patent number: 11677578
    Abstract: Various aspects and embodiments of automation in tenancy transitions are described. Among other aspects or features of the embodiments, a computing device in an automation or gateway hub receives and stores automation settings from an automation management service environment over time. The automation settings can include different settings for various states of occupancy of a rental unit or dwelling. For example, the automation settings can include a first set of automation settings, which can be used while the dwelling is occupied, and a second set automation settings for use after the dwelling is no longer occupied. The automation or gateway hub can determine whether a transition has occurred for the dwelling and, in response to the transition, load the different automation settings into one or more home automation devices of the dwelling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2020
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2023
    Assignee: Level Home, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael Andrew Rovito, Greg William Reinbach, Isaac Gregory Martin
  • Patent number: 11648914
    Abstract: A vehicle includes a communication interface, a sensor configured to detect biological information for a user of the vehicle, and a controller configured to perform electronic payments. The controller receives authentication information from a first terminal apparatus using the communication interface and acquires the biological information from the sensor when a first authentication using the received authentication information succeeds. The controller acquires authorization information indicating authorization to perform an electronic payment for the user, who is associated with the authentication information, when a second authentication using the acquired biological information succeeds.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2021
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2023
    Assignee: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Aya Sato, Kuniaki Jinnai, Taiki Yamashita, Eduard Vandersmitte
  • Patent number: 11603699
    Abstract: In one aspect, an in-vehicle computing device is provided for controlling operation of a movable barrier operator. The in-vehicle computing device includes a sensor configured to detect a vehicle characteristic and communication circuitry operable to cause automatic operation of the movable barrier operator by communicating with the movable barrier operator. The in-vehicle device further includes a processor operatively coupled to the communication circuitry, the sensor, and the memory. The processor configured to determine satisfaction of a user account condition and, upon the user account condition not being satisfied, to inhibit the communication circuitry from initiating automatic operation of the movable barrier operator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2021
    Date of Patent: March 14, 2023
    Assignee: The Chamberlain Group LLC
    Inventors: James J. Fitzgibbon, James D. Johnson
  • Patent number: 11495065
    Abstract: An indicator assembly includes, among other things, a vehicle model that is configured to communicate with a vehicle. The indicator assembly further includes an indicator portion of the vehicle model. The indicator portion is configured to indicate a status of the vehicle based on a communication sent to the vehicle model.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2020
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2022
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Ryan O'Gorman, Hannah Bailey, Aparna Velampudi, Ankur Sharma
  • Patent number: 11423723
    Abstract: Embodiments relate to enhanced access control features based on proximity between a portable electronic key and an electronic locking device. The portable electronic key receives first authentication information from an access administration device. Based on the portable electronic key being located within a threshold distance to the electronic locking device, the portable electronic key receives second authentication information from the access administration device. In some aspects, determining whether the key is located within the threshold distance to the electronic locking device comprises detecting a communication between the locking device and the portable electronic key. The portable electronic key may initiate an unlocking event at the electronic locking device based on the first authentication information and the second authentication information.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 2020
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2022
    Assignee: Videx, Inc.
    Inventor: Paul R. Davis
  • Patent number: 11373527
    Abstract: Disclosed are techniques for providing driver assistance to a non-autonomous vehicle while operating in an autonomous vehicle environment. In one embodiment, a method is disclosed comprising establishing a secure connection with an object selected from a group consisting of a road and lane of a road; receiving, from the object, a packet, the packet describing a condition of the object; validating the packet; generating an augmented display using data within the packet; and displaying the augmented display in a vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2019
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2022
    Assignee: Micron Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: Antonino Mondello, Alberto Troia
  • Patent number: 11340649
    Abstract: An actuation system used to actuate two buttons on a remote control device, such as a key fob, based upon commands that are generated from a mobile device. The actuation system includes an outer housing that defines an isolation enclosure. The actuation system includes a support frame that allows the vertical position of the button actuator to be manually adjusted. The lateral and longitudinal position of the actuator can also be manually adjusted, as can the distance between a pair of actuator tips. The controller receives the command signals from the mobile device and converts the command signals into actuation commands that are used to activate a servo motor to move the one of two actuation tips into contact with one of the buttons of the key fob. The system includes a RF receiver and transmitter to communicate a vehicle command signal for receipt by the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2020
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2022
    Assignee: Blue Eclipse, LLC
    Inventor: Craig A. Tieman
  • Patent number: 11338773
    Abstract: A transmission control device that drives multiple antennas having different transmission ranges controls a genuine transmission antenna among the multiple antennas to transmit, with use of a carrier wave, a genuine code for activating a portable device and a noise determination purpose burst signal for determining a noise in the portable device after the transmission of the genuine code, and controls each antenna of a remaining antenna group, which includes remaining antennas except the genuine transmission antenna, to transmit the noise determination purpose burst signal at a transmission time point, which is set different from one another and shifted from a transmission time point of the noise determination purpose burst signal from the genuine transmission antenna. The transmission ranges of the multiple antennas including the genuine transmission antenna are set to not have a common area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2021
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2022
    Assignee: DENSO CORPORATION
    Inventor: Kenji Kato
  • Patent number: 11335147
    Abstract: An exemplary embodiment pertains to a method of operating an electronic lockset during a plurality of iterations of a recurring period of time, wherein the electronic lockset includes a first electronic component. The method generally includes generating a usage score for the electronic component based on usage of the electronic lockset during the first iteration of the recurring period of time, selecting a schedule for the electronic component based on the first usage score, and during a second iteration of the recurring period of time occurring after the first iteration of the recurring period of time, operating the electronic component operating according to the selected schedule.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2020
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2022
    Assignee: Schlage Lock Company LLC
    Inventors: Joshua A. Long, Joseph W. Baumgarte, John Luif
  • Patent number: 11335148
    Abstract: An electronic door lock system that saves power by putting some electronic devices, such as transceivers, in sleep mode and by executing instructions only in response to ambient trigger scenarios. Instructions sent to an electronic door lock from a remote device could be stored on a server before being downloaded to the electronic door lock system once the transceiver is awakened from sleep mode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2019
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2022
    Assignee: Hampton Products International Corporation
    Inventors: Kim Kelley, Jon Fong Quan, Howard Shen
  • Patent number: 11312329
    Abstract: Communication with a key fob of a vehicle can be controlled based on a key fob jamming condition. One or more sensors can be configured to detect the key fob jamming condition. In response to the key fob jamming condition being detected, a jamming device can be activated to cause one or more jamming signals to be emitted. The one or more jamming signals can prevent the key fob from receiving and responding to other signals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2020
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2022
    Assignee: Toyota Motor North America, Inc.
    Inventor: Evan A. Vijithakumara
  • Patent number: 11305651
    Abstract: A shortcut system (1) for controlling at least one vehicle system (2), the shortcut system comprising: an input arranged to receive configuration signals (6) generated in response to a user operating a configuration device (7) independent of the vehicle (100), the configuration signals specifying an action to be carried out by a vehicle system; a memory module (5) arranged to store the action specified in a received configuration signal; a processor (4) arranged, upon a user-selected trigger condition being met, to generate a control signal (8) for controlling the vehicle system in accordance with the stored specified action; and an output arranged to output the control signal. Also a configuration device (7) independent of a vehicle (100) that is arranged to configure a shortcut system (1) for controlling at least one vehicle system (2) of the vehicle, and a method of controlling at least one vehicle system (2) of a vehicle (100).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2017
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2022
    Assignee: Jaguar Land Rover Limited
    Inventors: Fiona Powell, Linh Nguyen, Thomas Popham, Krzysztof Kobylinski, Francis McCullough, Jonathan Randall
  • Patent number: 11302132
    Abstract: A wireless authentication interference unit comprising: a receiver; a transmitter; and a controller configured to: detect, via the receiver, a first wireless signal indicative of a wireless authentication protocol between an authentication terminal and an authentication key; and output, via the transmitter, an interference signal during a broadcast of an authentication message from the authentication key, wherein the interference signal disrupts authentication of the authentication key by the authentication terminal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 2020
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2022
    Assignee: I.D. Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Wojciech Grohman, Michael Ehrman
  • Patent number: 11295585
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention are directed to systems and methods for displaying and securing articles of merchandise. In one example, a merchandise security system includes a plurality of security devices, wherein each of the security devices includes a sensor configured to be attached to an article of merchandise. Each of the security devices further includes a base for removably supporting the sensor and the article of merchandise thereon. The system also includes a controller in communication with each of the security devices, wherein the controller is configured to communicate with a remote device to lock at least one of the security devices such that the article of merchandise and the sensor cannot be removed from the base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2021
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2022
    Assignee: InVue Security Products Inc.
    Inventor: James K. Sankey
  • Patent number: 11283615
    Abstract: A system and method for user authentication at a kiosk from a mobile device is disclosed. A particular embodiment is implemented for: configuring a kiosk to detect the presence of a mobile device in the proximity of the kiosk; configuring the mobile device to detect the presence of kiosk in the proximity of the mobile device; prompting a user of the mobile device to perform a login operation on the mobile device upon detection of the kiosk in the proximity of the mobile device; verifying the authentication of the user with the mobile device as a result of the login operation on the mobile device; and transferring unique kiosk session keys from the mobile device to the kiosk in proximity of the mobile device upon authentication of the user with the mobile device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2019
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2022
    Assignee: 19LABS, INC.
    Inventors: Ram Fish, Jerry Horel
  • Patent number: 11280308
    Abstract: A system and method for controlling the remote starting of a vehicle are provided to determine whether the remote starting is possible by comparing a parking lever operating force measured by a sensor with a reference parking lever operating force corrected in consideration of the durability degradation of a parking system. The method includes sensing a driving distance of the vehicle, operating times of a parking lever, a road inclination, and a parking lever operating force, when the vehicle is parked. Whether the remote starting is possible is determined by comparing a magnitude of the parking lever operating force with a magnitude of a reference parking lever operating force.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2020
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2022
    Assignees: Hyundai Motor Company, Kia Motors Corporation
    Inventor: Deok-Ho Park
  • Patent number: 11270539
    Abstract: Techniques are described for keyless entry to a structure (e.g., hotel room) utilizing a set-back box. Registrants (e.g., hotel guest) may scan a barcode from their mobile device to check-in to the structure. Upon scanning the barcode or by other means, a mobile device identifier (e.g., a Bluetooth low-energy address (BLE)) is registered and associated with the checked-in structure. Receiving the registered mobile device identifier, the backend server pushes such to the set-back box associated with (e.g., resides in) the checked-in structure. The set-back box is enabled (e.g., BLE enabled) to actively scan addresses of nearby mobile devices. When the registered mobile device identifier is detected within a predetermined signal strength range (e.g., by using received signal strength indicator (RSSI) levels), the set-back box transmits a command to a smart lock (e.g., via BLE or Wifi or other radio) or to a lock controlling backend processor, to open the lock.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 2020
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2022
    Assignee: Sling Media L.L.C.
    Inventor: Mudit Mathur
  • Patent number: 11270536
    Abstract: It is provided a method for requesting remote unlocking of an electronic lock controlling access to a physical space. The method is performed in a user device and comprises steps of: sending a control message to an access controller, the control message comprising user authentication information, the control message causing the access controller to trigger the electronic lock to emit an alert signal; and sending an unlock message to the access controller comprising the user authentication information, in order to unlock the electronic lock.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2019
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2022
    Assignee: ASSA ABLOY AB
    Inventors: Stefan Strömberg, Sona Singh
  • Patent number: 11233583
    Abstract: A human body communication device includes an electrode, a matching circuit, a switch providing a first path electrically connected to the matching circuit and a second path electrically connected to the matching circuit, a sensor, in a first state, connected to the matching circuit through the switch, outputting a first sensing signal to the matching circuit, and outputting a second sensing signal when a difference between a signal generated from the matching circuit in response to the first sensing signal and the first sensing signal is greater than or equal to a threshold, a transmitter, in a second state, connected to the matching circuit through the switch, and outputting a data signal to the matching circuit, and a controller controlling the switch from the first state to the second state in response to receiving the second sensing signal from the sensor, in the first state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2020
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2022
    Assignee: ELECTRONICS AND TELECOMMUNICATIONS RESEARCH INSTITUTE
    Inventors: Sung Eun Kim, Tae Wook Kang, Hyuk Kim, Kwang IL Oh, Kyung Hwan Park, Mi Jeong Park, Hyung-IL Park, Kyung Jin Byun, Jae-Jin Lee, In Gi Lim
  • Patent number: 11222251
    Abstract: A system for adjusting control of an industrial vehicle comprises a badge communicator that communicates with electronic badges that are in short range proximity of the industrial vehicle; and a controller coupled to memory, wherein the controller executes program code stored in the memory to adjust control of operating parameters of the industrial vehicle. The controller executes the program code to receive a badge identifier wirelessly transmitted by a detected electronic badge and identify a role associated with the badge identifier. Based on the role associated with the badge identifier, the controller modifies a set point of the industrial vehicle from a first set point to a second set point by communicating information concerning the set point to a vehicle control module of the electronic vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2020
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2022
    Assignee: Crown Equipment Corporation
    Inventors: Andreas Simon, Juergen Buchmann, Lewis H. Manci, Sebastian Theos
  • Patent number: 11199622
    Abstract: A distance measurement apparatus of an embodiment includes a first device provided in a vehicle and a second device provided in a key-fob, and calculates a distance between the vehicle and the key-fob based on carrier phase detection. In at least one of the first device and the second device, transmission powers at which a plurality of first distance measurement signals are respectively transmitted when the key-fob is inside the vehicle are set to be lower than transmission powers at which a plurality of first distance measurement signals are respectively transmitted when the key-fob is outside the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2020
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2021
    Assignees: KABUSHIKI KAISHA TOSHIBA, TOSHIBA ELECTRONIC DEVICES & STORAGE CORPORATION
    Inventors: Hiroshi Yoshida, Shoji Ootaka, Katsuya Nonin, Masaki Nishikawa, Masayoshi Oshiro
  • Patent number: 11193309
    Abstract: An electronic sensor and key operated lock is disclosed which provides users with the option to use at least one of a manually operated mechanism or for example a biometric sensor to unlock the lock. The lock integrates both the manually operated mechanism and a biometric sensor into one device. The manually operated mechanism and a biometric sensor are coupled to a common toggle switch so that operation of at least one of the manually operated mechanism and the biometric sensor moves the toggle switch and a shackle from locked and unlocked positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2020
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2021
    Assignee: BenjiLock, LLC
    Inventor: Roberto Abelardo Cabral Herrera
  • Patent number: 11174907
    Abstract: A forced neutral remote start-up control method is provided. The method includes performing an E-clutch neutral switching control, which confirms the presence of an E-clutch upon receiving a remote start-up request signal of an Electronic Control Unit (ECU) to form a vehicle neutral state by an E-clutch state switching before generating an engine start-up signal, and performing an engine start-up by generating the engine start-up signal after confirming the vehicle neutral state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2020
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2021
    Assignees: HYUNDAI MOTOR COMPANY, KIA MOTORS CORPORATION
    Inventors: Oh-Eun Kwon, Sun-Young Park
  • Patent number: 11155238
    Abstract: A transceiver is configured to: pair with a mobile device; and transmit a predetermined signal from an antenna to the mobile device. A zone module is configured to: receive a signal from the mobile device in response to the predetermined signal; and based on the signal, select a zone within which the mobile device is present from a group consisting of: a first zone that is defined by a first radius from the antenna; a second zone that excludes the first zone and that is defined by a second radius from the antenna, where the second radius is greater than the first radius; and a third zone that is radially outward of the second zone and that excludes the first and second zones.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2019
    Date of Patent: October 26, 2021
    Assignee: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC
    Inventors: Rohit Uttam, Thomas E. Utter, David T. Proefke, Kenneth Strong
  • Patent number: 11151817
    Abstract: Exemplary embodiments described in this disclosure are generally directed to systems and methods for reducing latency in a passive entry system of a vehicle. In an exemplary method, a computer detects a presence of a passive entry device inside a passive entry zone of the vehicle. The passive entry device may be a phone-as-a-key (PaaK) device or a key fob, and the passive entry zone is an area around the vehicle that is monitored by a wireless detection system of the vehicle. The computer authenticates the passive entry device, which can include determining an identity of an individual authorized to use the passive entry device. Upon successful authentication, the computer may unlock a door of the vehicle and provide a visual prompt to the individual to unlatch the unlocked door. The visual prompt can include an unlatch icon displayed upon a door access panel of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 2019
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2021
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Ali Hassani, Hamid M. Golgiri, Kirk Leonard
  • Patent number: 11151818
    Abstract: A method according to one embodiment includes determining, by an access control device that controls access to a passageway, a location of a mobile device relative to the access control device based on a signal distance traveled and an angle of arrival of a signal received by the access control device from the mobile device, determining whether the location of the mobile device relative to the access control device is a location that indicates an intent of the user of the mobile device to access the passageway, and unlocking a lock mechanism of the access control device in response to a determination that the location of the mobile device relative to the access control device indicates that the user intends to access the passageway.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2020
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2021
    Assignee: Schlage Lock Company LLC
    Inventors: Devin A. Love, Joseph W. Baumgarte, Ryan C. Kincaid
  • Patent number: 11132854
    Abstract: An access control device including a keypad member and an communication module. The keypad member may include a substrate layer having a mounting surface and an internal surface, and a capacitive sensing layer mounted on the internal surface of the substrate layer and including a keypad circuit having a plurality of capacitive sensors defining a plurality of keys. They keypad circuit may include a clear conductive ink. The keypad member may further include a user interface layer mounted on the capacitive sensing layer. The access control device may be configured to be in communication with the capacitive sensing layer and have a mounting structure positioned at a spacing distance from the mounting surface of the substrate layer and a communication link electrically connecting the communication module and the capacitive sensing layer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2019
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2021
    Assignee: SENSORMATIC ELECTRONICS, LLC
    Inventor: Alexis Brooke Ehrlich
  • Patent number: 11117549
    Abstract: In embodiments, Bluetooth® proximity sensors installed in a vehicle are configured to pair with a user mobile device and estimate distances to the user mobile device based on signal strength of the Bluetooth® emissions of the user mobile device. Each sensor, communicates its distance estimates to a vehicle control system (VCS) of the vehicle, using Bluetooth® communications. In response to the distance acre tying above a predetermined distance departure limit, the VCS causes predetermined departure actions to be performed, for example, locking the doors, turning off headlights, and activating the vehicle's security system. In response to the distance decreasing below a predetermined distance arrival limit, the VCS causes predetermined arrival actions to be performed, for example, unlocking the doors, flashing the headlights, beeping the horn, and deactivating the security system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2019
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2021
    Assignee: VOXX INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION
    Inventor: James S. Turner
  • Patent number: 11049336
    Abstract: System, apparatus, device and methods relating to a telematic vehicle sharing platform ecosystem and a telematic vehicle share I/O expander to automate sharing and management of a vehicle that is shared by more than one operator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2020
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2021
    Assignee: Geotab Inc.
    Inventors: Christopher J. Mendes, Stephen Michael Fox, Benjamin John Gordon Gaffney
  • Patent number: 11040698
    Abstract: A vehicle alarm notification system including a housing having a plurality of directional indicia on a front side thereof. A wireless transceiver is operably connected to a power source disposed within the housing, wherein the transceiver can receive an alert signal from a vehicle alarm system when the vehicle alarm system is activated. A microprocessor is operably connected to the wireless transceiver. The microprocessor can determine a location of a vehicle, via an associated vehicle GPS, relative to a position of the housing. The microprocessor is further programmed to illuminate one of the plurality of directional indicia to indicate the location of the vehicle relative to the position of the housing when the alert signal is received. In some embodiments, a speaker is disposed within the housing, wherein the speaker can emit an audible alarm when the alert signal from a corresponding vehicle alarm system is received.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 2020
    Date of Patent: June 22, 2021
    Inventor: Ronald Foster
  • Patent number: 11028617
    Abstract: A wireless ultra-low power portable lock may be realized as a lock apparatus including: a locking mechanism having at least locked and unlocked states, the locking mechanism operable to provide physical resistance to being unlocked when in the locked state; an actuator operable to move the locking mechanism from the locked state to the unlocked state in response to a received signal; and a controlling unit configured to control the actuator and to receive one or more signals from one or more devices external to the lock apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2019
    Date of Patent: June 8, 2021
    Assignee: VELO LABS, INC.
    Inventors: Jack Al-Kahwati, Gerardo Barroeta Perez
  • Patent number: 11017069
    Abstract: The method disclosed herein provides for performing device authentication based on the of proximity to another device, such as a key device. When a key device is not near a mobile communications device, an unlock screen is allowed to be presented on a display screen. Based on the mobile communications device receiving a first code to unlock the mobile communications device, the mobile communications device is unlocked in a first mode. Based on receiving a second code while the unlocked mobile communications device is in the first mode, the unlocked mobile communications device changes from the first mode to a second mode, wherein a level of functionality of the mobile communications device in the second mode is greater than a level of functionality of the mobile communications device in the first mode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2019
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2021
    Assignee: LOOKOUT, INC.
    Inventors: William Robinson, Kevin Patrick Mahaffey, Brian James Buck
  • Patent number: 10999092
    Abstract: A modular door and frame that can be manufactured and supplied to end users with various combinations of intelligent features. The intelligent features allow functions to be performed by the door and/or frame. Also, conditions or events to be detected and monitored at the intelligent door and/or remote locations. Data relating to the various functions, events, or conditions can be communicated across a network that is communicatively coupled to the door.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2018
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2021
    Assignee: EDST, LLC
    Inventors: Dave Marcinkowski, Thomas Mandry
  • Patent number: 10970954
    Abstract: Systems, methods, and apparatus for managing and controlling network-enabled movable barrier operators is provided. A method for managing network-enabled movable barrier operator includes receiving a user account identifier and a movable barrier operator identifier from a user device, providing an instruction to perform a specified action with a movable barrier operator associated with the movable barrier operator identifier to the user device, determining a registration condition is met upon detecting that the specified action has been performed, and, upon the registration condition being met, associating the movable barrier operator identifier with the user account identifier to allow a user account associated with the user account identifier to control the movable barrier operator over a network.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 2019
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2021
    Assignee: The Chamberlain Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Jordan Ari Farber, James Scott Murray
  • Patent number: 10940830
    Abstract: One variation of an upgrade kit—for an ignition key corresponding to a vehicle and including an immobilizer transponder and a keyless entry transmitter—includes: a wireless jammer configured to interfere with wireless transmission from the immobilizer transponder; a wireless receiver configured to receive an unlock request from an external device; a relay configured to actuate the keyless entry transmitter to unlock a door of the vehicle in response to the unlock request; and an enclosure configured to contain the wireless receiver and a portion of the ignition key.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 2018
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2021
    Assignee: ZIPCAR, INC.
    Inventors: John Stanfield, Eric D. Aeby, Michael Javault, Clement Gires, Brian Ng
  • Patent number: 10931150
    Abstract: A vehicle communicates with a remote key fob while ensuring an RF environment is sufficient to maintain adequate power from an RF-harvesting power supply that allows the fob to operate without a battery. The vehicle has a receiver adapted to detect a backscatter communication signal from the fob. A harvesting emulator in the vehicle is responsive to ambient RF around the vehicle to duplicate a concurrent response of the fob power supply. A vehicle-powered RF transmitter is activated to broadcast energizing RF radiation around the vehicle when the duplicated response is below a threshold.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2020
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2021
    Assignee: FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC
    Inventors: Vivekanandh Elangovan, Aaron M. DeLong, John R. Van Wiemeersch
  • Patent number: 10922747
    Abstract: The disclosure generally relates to a system and method for managing distributed encrypted combination over-locks from a remote location. In an exemplary embodiment, the invention is a distributed management system for self-storage facilities that allow for vacant units to be secured with over-locks, and which allow the over-locks to be removed by customers without human or manual intervention from the self-storage facility, where an API is used to facilitate communications between a lock management system and a property management system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2019
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2021
    Assignee: 10F Pursuit LLC
    Inventors: Bradford Minsley, Clifton Minsley
  • Patent number: 10906393
    Abstract: Methods and systems are provided for a refueling cap locking mechanism. In one example, a method includes unlocking the refueling cap in response to an engine start. The unlocking occurs without a vehicle operator input outside of a request to start the engine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2019
    Date of Patent: February 2, 2021
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Ahmet Cinar, James Weinfurther, Denney Vellaramkalayil