Abstract: A location device connectable to a power outlet of a mains power system, the location device being connectable to a power connection of a network appliance, the location device being operable to transmit location information to the network appliance via said power connection.

Abstract: An RF converter circuit 11 that constitutes a video signal superposing/power deriving unit 100 converts video signals generated from images taken by a surveillance camera 10, which derives a direct current voltage as a driving power from an antenna lead-in wire 6 through a filter circuit (LPF circuit 12), to radio-frequency signals. The radio-frequency signals are transmitted through the antenna lead-in wire 6 to a television receiver 2. Images taken by the surveillance camera 1 can be viewed on the television receiver 2 only by selecting the channel assigned to the surveillance camera 1. Accordingly, the driving power for the surveillance camera 1 is not relied upon a solar battery or secondary batteries, and wiring work therefor may be simplified.

Abstract: A position display system for displaying a position of a device, the system including a device, a position measuring device that measures a position of the device and a host readout device that is mounted at a first location. The host readout device receives a signal from the position measuring device that is representative of a position of the device, wherein the host readout device includes a display that displays an image representative of the position of the device. A remote readout device that is mounted at a second location, wherein the remote readout device includes a display that displays the image.

Abstract: A power monitoring section detects the interruption of AC electric power from a power line, and switches operating power within a camera to power from a battery. A control section sets control of the camera to a different mode at the power stopping time. The operation is controlled to pick-up one static image at constant time intervals, and sequentially stores the static image to a data storage section. A voice section stops collecting sounds. The control section stops communication with a master set. When the AC electric power is restored the operating power is switched to the electric power from the power line. When a user utilizing the master set knows the restoration of the power, the user gives commands for reading image information stored during the power stoppage to the camera, and monitors the state during the interruption of the AC electric power.

Abstract: A control module usable to drive audible or audible/visible output devices in an alarm system can generate a modulated pulse sequence in accordance with a desired output function. Sequence initiating pulses can be transmitted to output devices with a predetermined, substantially constant period. Additional pulses can be coupled to the output devices, between the initiating pulses, and later in time based on functions to be carried out by the output devices. The output devices in turn demodulate the received pulse train and determine the requested function which is then implemented to provide a desired audible or visual alarm indicating output.

Abstract: A module having a switch, a processor, a motion detector and a wireless transceiver. The module controls the operation of an electrical load, such as a light, based on the switch position, programming executing on the processor, an output from the motion detector or an output signal from the transceiver. The module transmits information corresponding to the electrical load, switch position, programming and detected motion. In one embodiment, the module is battery powered. In various embodiments, the module includes an intercom, a high intensity siren, and a photosensor having an output as a function of an ambient light level. In one embodiment, the module is compatible with a wireless communication protocol such as is used with BLUETOOTH®.

Abstract: A car wash controller for receiving input data from a plurality of remote input devices and for controlling the operation of multiple remote output electrical devices. The central controller is coupled to a series of input boards by a communication cable, such as a telephone cable, to receive input data from the input electrical devices. The input boards can be coupled to each other to reduce the amount of wiring within the car wash environment. The central controller is further connected to a series of output relay boards, each of which are connected to a supply of power. The central controller is connected to the output relay boards by a communication cable such that an output command can be sent to each relay board to supply electrical power to the output electrical devices. The relay boards can be coupled to each other to reduce the amount of wiring within the car wash environment.

Abstract: A technique is provided for providing total flexibility of control of any desired operation within an environment where personnel work, such as an office suite. The location of transponders is determined by a location system. A user arbitrarily selects a convenient region for controlling an operation and the location system registers this in a memory. The location system then determines the position of each transducer and, when a transducer is within one of the selected regions, the location system responds by controlling the operation. For example, a region may be selected entirely arbitrarily so as to control room lighting.

Abstract: A data transmission system which is particularly useful for a remote control apparatus for an electric fence. The apparatus includes a portable hand held housing with a contact 16 which in use can contact a conductor of an electric fence line. The output of the apparatus includes a resonating circuit with inductor L, transformer 14 and a small high voltage capacitor C2. The apparatus can thus generate information embedded within a series of short signal bursts of a frequency within a predetermined frequency range. A receiver coupled to or forming part of an electric fence energizer can receive a signal from the apparatus to control operation of the energizer.

Abstract: A power supply integrated circuit is provided which makes it possible to make an on-vehicle apparatus compact and to allow power supply cable communication having resistance to noise. The power supply integrated circuit is connected to a micro-controller incorporated in an ECU and a power supply cable. The power supply integrated circuit has an LPF and a regulator. The power supply integrated circuit also has an interface circuit, a BPF, a transmitting section, and a receiving section. The LPF passes only the power supply voltage, and the BPF passes only transmission signal.

Abstract: Plural security units are coupled to plural control units through a communication line including transmission and response lines. Each control unit detects data collision on the transmission line to avoid the data collision. Re-transmission interval is independently assigned to each control unit. If the command to or from a security unit in charge of this control unit is received, the control unit rewrites the conditional data of the security unit in accordance with the detected command. The control (security) unit further includes a transmission (response) line monitoring portion, so that bi-directional communication is provided in addition of the response (transmission) line monitoring portion. Address data is classified to provide all unit communication, a group communication, and independent communications.

Abstract: An electric power line communication system operates with an electric power distribution system to provide through premises power distribution lines highly reliable communication links among receiving devices electrically coupled or located in proximity to the premises power distribution lines. A power line transceiver is designed to transmit and receive through the premises power distribution lines modulated carrier signals conveying information over the communication links. The power line transceiver operates in a transmitter mode as an intentional radiator to emit modulated carrier signals by transmitting them at a frequency band and a power level sufficient to form by electrical conduction a communication link with a modulated carrier signal receiving device.

Abstract: A system of controller modules allowing to remotely control a train having a first locomotive and a second locomotive separated from one another by at least one car is provided. The system of controller modules comprises a first controller module associated to the first locomotive and a second controller module associated to the second locomotive. One of said controller modules has a lead operational status and the other has a trail operational status. The controller module having the lead operational status receives a master control signal for signaling the train to move in a desired direction and releases in response to the master control signal a first local command signal. The first local command signal is operative to cause displacement of the locomotive associated with the controller module having the lead operational status.

Abstract: A controller for use in a security system based upon RFID techniques. The controller can use power line carrier communications to communicate with other devices in the security system. The controller can use a modem or wireless module to connect to public networks. Multiple controllers can be used in a system, and the controllers can arbitrate to determine a master controller. The controller contains configuration data and tables that define the relationships between devices in the security system. The controller can receive communications from other devices in the system and can interface with legacy devices previously used with wired security systems. The controller can send messages based upon predetermined events, and can support a remote alerting function.

Abstract: An RFID reader for use in a security system based upon RFID techniques. The RFID reader can use power line carrier communications to communicate with the controllers in the security system. The RFID reader of the security system can be provided with multiple modulation techniques, multiple antennas, and the capability to vary its power level and carrier frequency. The controller of the security determines which RFID readers may transmit, at what times, and the parameters with which to transmit. The RFID reader can detect interference or jamming, and respond. The RFID reader can transmit RF energy useful for detecting motion or for charging the batteries in RFID transponders. The RFID reader can receive wireless communications from active transmitters or from other RFID readers.

Abstract: A wireless remote and infrared receivers for controlling AC appliances connected to the receivers, capable of leaning codes from other infrared remotes. The system can control light intensity, has a 24-hour programmable daily timer, a selectable sleep timer, and switching for appliances connected to the receivers. The system has an energy saving interval timer for heating and fan ventilation, and a transmitter capable of learning and unifying remotes for other home equipment into one master remote. As a safety measure the receiver has a mechanical bypass switch. The receiver may decode an activation/deactivation sequence on the power line from the main switch connected to the receiver to self bypass. When bypassed, the main switch regains direct control of the appliances. Simultaneously, besides bypassing the receiver, within five seconds the user may have the receiver memorize any key from any other remote to take over control of the appliances.

Abstract: An RF converter circuit 11 that constitutes a video signal superposing/power deriving unit 100 converts video signals generated from images taken by a surveillance camera 10, which derives a direct current voltage as a driving power from an antenna lead-in wire 6 through a filter circuit (LPF circuit 12), to radio-frequency signals. The radio-frequency signals are transmitted through the antenna lead-in wire 6 to a television receiver 2. Images taken by the surveillance camera 1 can be viewed on the television receiver 2 only by selecting the channel assigned to the surveillance camera 1. Accordingly, the driving power for the surveillance camera 1 is not relied upon a solar battery or secondary batteries, and wiring work therefor may be simplified.

Abstract: A system for monitoring and controlling activation of a warning system includes a sensor module locally coupled to the warning system for sensing and controlling a flashing light of the warning system, a transceiver responsive to a microcontroller, and a power line interface for interfacing between the transceiver and the power line servicing the warning system. The sensor module includes a sensor arranged for sensing the flashing light, the microcontroller coupled to the sensor, and a power supply for providing power to the sensor module.

Abstract: An improved apparatus for high frequency multiplexed electrical line communication for cable TV, telephone, internet, security and other control applications over the mid and low voltage power lines and directly through the transformers includes a transmitter, a receiver, a modem, a multiplexer and multiple couplers at each of two or more locations along an electrical line. The couplers have capacitive circuits serially connected with an air-core or dielectric-core transformer. The capacitive circuits resonate with the transformer at a preselected frequency. The coupler eliminates noise and is matched to the characteristic impedance of the line at the preselected frequency, which linearizes communication on the line and allows high speed data and voice communication over long distances.

Abstract: A system and method for automated, wireless short-range data collection and communications for interconnected mobile systems, such as trains includes a master control unit and a plurality of data transmission units communicating in a daisy-chain fashion along the collection of interconnected mobile systems. The master control unit can verify collected data and serve as an interface with an external communications system for providing real-time data to a central control site, for example via wayside readers, satellite communications, cell phone linkage, 2-way radio, etc. Data could include sensor information, railcar identification, status, trouble spots, location, and warnings.

Abstract: A field monitoring and communication system for arranging circuits and components for environmental and other types of monitoring systems includes: (a) microprocessor-based modules for communications and a variety of input/output types and combinations: (b) remote and optionally, proximal calibration and regulator modules: (c) a variety of sensor inputs optionally comprising intrinsically safe barriers.

Abstract: A hazard alarm and alarm system enables a plurality of hazard alarms of multiple types (e.g. smoke alarms, heat alarms, motion detectors, carbon monoxide alarms, gas alarms, and the like), to communicate with one another without generating conflicting alarm warning indicators. Electronic circuitry is also provided, that may be added to at least one of the hazard alarms, for transmitting and receiving digital information with other hazard alarms connected thereto.

Abstract: The method allows communication with a built-in sensor, in particular a rotational speed sensor, which supplies successive signal pulses as output signal. The sensor is preferably built into a motor vehicle in such a way that it can be supplied with a supply voltage externally via a voltage supply line. The sensor is placed into a detection mode. The supply voltage on the voltage supply line is externally modulated. The modulated supply voltage received in the sensor is analyzed with regard to the fulfillment of a predetermined criterion stored in the rotational speed sensor. And, finally, the received modulated supply voltage is interpreted as an external communication signal if the criterion is fulfilled.

Abstract: A network enables remote users to communicate with, and to control a variety of devices whose only electrical connection is to a power line network. In hybrid networks, communications between different network domains is only available if proper message mapping is done. Message mapping leads to the determination of correct frame conversion based on the specifications of protocols identifying different networks. This invention comprises a method that does bi-directional conversion between application level information entered into the remote access device by the user and related physical layer power line communications frames.

Abstract: A technique is provided for providing total flexibility of control of any desired operation within an environment where personnel work, such as an office suite. The location of transponders is determined by a location system. A user arbitrarily selects a convenient region for controlling an operation and the location system registers this in a memory. The location system then determines the position of each transducer and, when a transducer is within one of the selected regions, the location system responds by controlling the operation. For example, a region may be selected entirely arbitrarily so as to control room lighting.

Abstract: An integrated security system includes a plurality of security devices each issuing an alarm signal. A plurality of control units are associated to control the security devices via a communication line. Each security device comprises an alarm storing section for storing alarm signals received from individual security devices as alarm information. An alarm transmitting section transmits the alarm information to all of the control units via the communication line. The alarm information stored in the alarm storing section during a predetermined storage time are transmitted at a time as an alarm notification command to the control units.

Abstract: A fire alarm system provided with a fire receiver (1) to which a plurality of fire sensors and controlled apparatuses are connected. The fire receiver (1) comprises a LAN interface (11) for connecting with other fire receivers. When a fire sensor issues an alarm, the fire receiver transmits the fire information over the LAN together with a group number set in advance, and displays (12) only the fire information of the same group number when the fire receiver receives fire information transmitted from the other fire receivers via the LAN. Thus, even is a plurality of fire receivers are used in a large building divided into ridge sections, fire information can be shared without causing disorder.

Abstract: A repeater amplifier boosts weak control signals on a PLC network, with noise discrimination and signal firewall protection. The AC supply voltage is filtered by a high frequency blocking filter to block external noise signals. Operating power for network signaling devices and the repeater amplifier is derived from the clean AC supply voltage. Noise discrimination and signal firewall protection are provided by amplifying and repeating only those receiver pulse signals that (a) have an analog amplitude that exceeds a predetermined analog threshold value, (b) occur during intervals that control data signal modulation is being applied to the filtered AC supply voltage and (c) occur at a frequency within a predetermined frequency band centered on the transmitted power line carrier (PLC) modulation frequency.

Abstract: A garage door status light system comprises a garage door. The garage door is movable between a raised open orientation and a lowered closed orientation. A garage door opener is provided. The garage door opener allows the door to be selectively moved between the open orientation and closed orientation. An electrical outlet is provided adjacent to the opener. The opener is electrically powered through the outlet. Also provided is a magnetic sensor. The magnetic sensor has a fixed component. The magnetic sensor also has a movable component constituting a switch. A light is provided. Provided next is an electrical line. The electrical line runs between the electrical outlet, the magnetic sensor and the light. Last provided is a power transformer operatively associated with the garage door opener and the electrical outlet for powering the light.

Abstract: A communication system includes a transmitter configured to pulse shape a GHM signal to confine the frequency spectrum of the GHM signal within a predefined frequency range. A receiver is also included that receives the transmitted GHM signal. The receiver includes a processor for maximizing the GHM signal to noise ratio and minimizing the bit error rate. The GHM signals are also synchronized to establish a relative time for correct interpretation of bit positions.

Abstract: An interface that provides selected information from a remote device to a utilization mechanism over a two-wire connection, wherein all power for the interface and the remote device is received from the utilization mechanism over the same two-wire connection. A switch circuit provides a high impedance between first and second wires of the two-wire connection when open and a low impedance between the wires when closed. Current flow through the switch circuit is sensed by the utilization mechanism as indicative of information from the remote device. The interface comprises a voltage regulator that provides a regulated voltage to components of the interface and the remote device, and a current regulator that regulates current provided to the voltage regulator from the two-wire connection, when the switch circuit is open, to below a predetermined level at which the utilization mechanism interprets the switch circuit as being in the open state.

Abstract: A wireless communication system by using an electric power line as a data link network is disclosed. The system includes a plurality of primary wireless communication modules, a plurality of secondary wireless communication modules. Each of the primary wireless communication modules includes a data communication device coupled to a data link port of a controller, and a filter coupled between the data communication device and the electric power line. The system status memories of the primary wireless communication modules are synchronized to each other by transmitting the system status data therebetween according to a predetermined communication protocol on a selected communication channel through the electric power line.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for data exchange between a towing vehicle and an attached trailer uses radio contact via transmission/receiving modules contained in the towing vehicle and in the trailer. To recognize that the towing vehicle and the trailer are connected, the transmission/receiving module of the towing vehicle transmits an identification signal, and at the same time, changes the electrical status of a connection line between the towing vehicle and the trailer. If the transmission/receiving module located in the trailer recognizes the change in the electrical status of the connection line simultaneously with receiving the transmitted identification signal, the identification signal is stored within the trailer. In subsequent communications between the towing vehicle and the trailer, the identification signal is always transmitted before the message. As such, only the attached trailer, with the appropriate stored identification signal, can communicate with its towing vehicle.

Abstract: Injection-molding machine arrangement comprising at least one injection molding machine with at least one, especially internal, machine control system—especially with a stored program control and/or with associated actuators and/or sensors—for computer-assisted process monitoring and control of the injection molding machine, wherein the injection-molding machine arrangement provides at least one mains supply transmission unit for data transmission via at least one mains electricity supply—preferably in a bi-directional and/or real-time-capable manner.

Abstract: A multiple input-type and multiple signal processing-type device may include an input stage for receiving a plurality of different analog signal types, and down and up-converters for respectively downwardly converting first signal types and upwardly converting second signal types to a desired processing frequency range. Furthermore, the device may include an analog-to-digital converter (ADC) for converting analog signals at the desired processing frequency range into digital signals, and time and frequency domain signal processing sections connected to the ADC for processing the digital signals. Furthermore, the device may advantageously include a user selector input for permitting a user to selectively activate one of the down-converter or up-converter and one of the time or frequency domain signal processing sections.

Abstract: A hazard alarm and alarm system enables a plurality of hazard alarms of multiple types (e.g. smoke alarms, heat alarms, motion detectors, carbon monoxide alarms, gas alarms, and the like), to communicate with one another without generating conflicting alarm warning indicators. Electronic circuitry is also provided, that may be added to at least one of the hazard alarms, for transmitting and receiving digital information with other hazard alarms connected thereto.

Abstract: An electrical unit, such as an ambient condition detector, incorporates pattern discrimination circuitry. A received pattern is analyzed and, if it is in accordance with a predetermined pattern, the unit outputs an audible and/or visible indicium synchronized with the incoming pattern for the duration thereof. The unit also includes circuitry for emitting a corresponding output signal pattern to at least one other detector. A system which incorporates a plurality of electrical units, at least one of which has the pattern discrimination circuitry produces at least one synchronized audible or visible output indicative of a predetermined condition throughout the system. Patterns can include predetermined tonal alarm indicating output patterns as well as predetermined visible alarm indicating output patterns.

Abstract: An alert system for providing an alert of an actual or impending emergency to homes, businesses and the like. The alert system is used in cable system network over which communication signals are transmitted to a receiver remote from the transmitter. Such communication signals have associated therewith at least one distinguishable modulation frequency. The alert system includes a mechanism for receiving an alert request and a transmitter for transmitting an alert signal in response to the alert request. The transmitter is coupled with the cable system and generates an alert signal which is modulated at a frequency distinguishable from the frequencies of the communication signals. The transmitter includes a sideband filter to reduce the subharmonics generated around the alert signal frequency. The receiver includes a mechanism for detecting a valid alert signal from the alert signal received and for generating an alarm signal therefrom.

Abstract: An electric power line communication system operates with an electric power distribution system to provide through premises power distribution lines highly reliable communication links among receiving devices electrically coupled or located in proximity to the premises power distribution lines. A power line transceiver is designed to transmit and receive through the premises power distribution lines modulated carrier signals conveying information over the communication links. The power line transceiver operates in a transmitter mode as an intentional radiator to emit modulated carrier signals by transmitting them at a frequency band and a power level sufficient to form by electrical conduction a communication link with a modulated carrier signal receiving device.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a redundant process control system including at least one control unit (PLC1) which produces an output signal (S1) resulting from a control function being applied to a set of input signals (E1). In addition, the system includes at least one test member (TES1) that is different from said control unit, which test member produces a test signal resulting from said control function being applied to said set of input signals (E1) and generates an alarm (AL1) whenever there is a difference between said test signal and the corresponding output signal (S1).

Abstract: A smoke detector is adapted to be coupled to a fire monitoring unit, and includes a power consuming unit and a power supply unit. The power consuming unit is adapted to be coupled electrically to the fire monitoring unit so as to draw electric power therefrom. The power supply unit is coupled electrically to the power consuming unit, and is operable so as to supply electric power to the power consuming unit when the electric power from the fire monitoring unit is cut-off.

Abstract: Determination is made as to whether or not a self-diagnostic tester 13 is connected with a K line 14. When the result of the determination indicates that the self-diagnostic tester 13 is not connected with the K line 14, data indicating vehicle-operating conditions are obtained from an engine ECU 11 and the like through a K line 14.

Abstract: An apparatus for high frequency electrical line communication includes a transmitter, a receiver, a modem, and a coupler at each of two or more locations along an electrical line. The couplers have capacitive circuits serially connected with an air-core or dielectric-core transformer. The capacitive circuits resonate with the transformer at a preselected frequency. The coupler eliminates noise and is matched to the characteristic impedance of the line at the preselected frequency, which linearizes communication on the line and allows high speed data and voice communication over long distances.

Abstract: Apparatus and a method for temporarily disabling the operation of a noise-producing electrical device or internal combustion engine upon detection of a predetermined awareness condition, such as an incoming telephone call, doorbell ring, security system alarm or other awareness condition. For disabling operation of an electrical device, the apparatus includes a command module and one or more switchable power receptacles that respond to a control signal from the command module, de-energizing the electrical device, when at least one of the predetermined awareness conditions is detected. Control signals are communicated to the switchable power receptacles via either a radio frequency signal, or by a modulated signal that is conveyed over an alternating current electrical power circuit to which the command module and switched power receptacle(s) are connected.

Abstract: An ambient condition detector incorporates a control switch which can be actuatable by one of a plurality of circumstances. In a response to an actuated switch, control circuitry of the detector selects at least one predetermined function or process to carry out. The control circuitry can include a programmed processor and a storage unit. A plurality of processes or functions can be stored in the storage unit. One or more of the processes can be selected for execution in response to signals received from the control switch. The switch can be closed in response to manual actuation, a magnetic field, or incident electromagnetic radiation such as RF signals or a beam of light.

Abstract: A building alarm system includes addressable notification appliances connected to a system controller, with each notification appliance having a status indicator and an alarm indicator. The status indicator, such as an LED, provides for system test modes that avoid disruption of building occupants. To test the alarm system, the system controller selects which notification appliances to operate in response to a test alarm input and communicates to each selected appliance an instruction to operate its associated status indicator without operating its associated audible or flashing visible alarm indicators. In a troubleshooting mode, the system controller polls each of the notification appliances and receives an answer in response to the poll from any of the appliances. The controller operates the LED indicators of those appliances which answer the poll.

Abstract: An alarm system which includes multiple notification appliances for signaling an alarm condition. The system controller intelligently controls the notification appliances including notification devices such as an audible or visual alarm through multi-bit digital messages sent over common communication lines. The alarm system has both a supervisory or standby mode and an active mode of operation. In the standby mode, the notification appliances are powered at a first polarity DC voltage. In an active mode of operation, the first polarity voltage is reversed (or forward biased) to energize all the notification appliances on the communication lines. The system controller controls operation of the visual alarms by issuing synchronization signals, wherein the line voltage drops to zero, which trigger the visual alarms. An audible alarm command signal is embedded within the synchronization signal to control operation of the audible alarm.

Abstract: An apparatus to establish bi-directional digital communication over a power line network includes a signal launching circuit to impose a digital communication signal onto a power signal carried by a power line network and thereby form a digital communication power signal at a first point in the power line network. The signal launching circuit is configured to position a pulse of the digital communication signal at any phase location of each half cycle of the power signal. A receiver reads the digital communication power signal at a second point in the power line network. A signal processor is connected to the receiver to recover the digital communication signal from the digital communication power signal.

Abstract: A modular system for providing security to an office or residence is provided that includes a plurality of modular components that each connect to a common AC electrical power supply line and communicate digitally with each other by supplying and decoding a digitally encoded message via a carrier signal that is modulated over the AC line. At a minimum, a control panel and at least one sensor are required. A signaling device provides indication of an emergency situation. Easy installation is provided by installing each of the modular components and by powering the control panel lastly which, upon power-up, polls every possible digital address to determine which modular components are connected. Optional telephone connections to a central monitoring site are also provided as well as remote control of the system over the telephone line by the monitoring site or by the user.

Abstract: An automated appliance control system includes a unit which transmits binary coded address and function control signals along the a.c. power line to a plurality of appliance control modules connected to the power line at various locations in the home. The binary coded signals transmitted along the a.c. power line are in the form of binary rf bursts which occur before and after the a.c. power line zero crossing points.