Abstract: A system for effecting context-cognizant medical reminders for a patient; the system including: (a) at least one sensor unit situated proximately with the patient; the at least one sensor unit sensing and indicating at least one aspect of a personal context of the patient; (b) at least one long-range communication unit configured for wireless communication with a remote patient care monitoring facility via a wireless communication network; and (c) at least one short-range communication unit communicatingly coupled with the at least one sensor unit and with the at least one long-range communication unit; the at least one short-range communication unit and the at least one long-range communication unit cooperating to convey information from the at least one sensor unit to the remote patient care monitoring facility regarding the personal context of the patient.

Abstract: A system to convey user alert messages is disclosed. The system may have a alert service coupled between alert providers and a number of households. After receiving in the alert service an alert message from an alert provider, the alert service may alter the alert message to identify the household designated to receive the alert message. The alert service sends a notification to a home media system within the household designated to receive the alert message.

Abstract: A module frame for bell system modules having a module locking means for locking modules, which are to be inserted, to the frame and having a locking canceling means for canceling locking during actuator excitation. In the process, provision is made for the locking canceling means to also exhibit actuator-independent permanent catch blocking which can be selectively activated.

Abstract: An approach for providing presence-based communication over a cellular network for a dwelling is described. A notification message is received over a wireless network to a mobile device associated with a user, wherein the notification message indicates generation of a presence indication signal by a device within a premise of the user. A registration status of the mobile device with the notification service is determined. The notification message is forwarded to the mobile device based on the registration status.

Abstract: A method of self servicing an appliance includes connecting a service accessory to an appliance, recording diagnostics data associated with the appliance onto the service accessory, removing the service accessory from the appliance, coupling the service accessory to a personal computer, and uploading the diagnostics data to an automated service system. Another embodiment includes coupling a service accessory to a computer having a test script, transferring a test script from the computer to the service accessory, connecting the service accessory to the communication network of the appliance, establishing communications between the service accessory and the appliance using the communication network; and executing the test script over the communication network.

Abstract: A system and method provide for the immediate transmission of a potential alarm to a remote alarm signal escrow site and from the escrow site to a host station in the event where a control panel or an alarm signaling device is tampered with or destroyed by a disablement tactic, e.g., a “crash and smash intrusion.” A system and method may also send an alarm signal during such an attack by using predictive analysis of real-time events.

Abstract: Remote mail delivery notification is disclosed. Example embodiments include: providing a radio frequency (RF) transmitter on a mail delivery vehicle, the RF transmitter being configured to transmit a signal on a pre-determined frequency within a pre-determined transmitter proximity region; providing an RF receiver for a recipient of mail delivered by the mail delivery vehicle, the RF receiver being configured to receive a signal on the pre-determined frequency within a pre-determined receiver proximity region, the RF receiver including a mechanism for rendering an alert when the signal is received, the RF receiver further including a reset button to clear the alert and reset the RF receiver to receive a new signal; positioning the RF receiver so a central mailbox associated with the mail recipient is located within the receiver proximity region; and automatically activating an alert on the RF receiver when the mail delivery vehicle is located at the central mailbox.

Abstract: The present invention extends to methods, systems, and computer program products for wireless takeover of wired alarm system components. Embodiments of the invention can be used to bridge hardwired alarm zones for use with a wireless alarm controller. Wired sensors are wired to a takeover module that converts communication from the wired sensors into wireless communication that can be compatibly processed at an alarm controller that accepts wireless signals. Power and ground connections from an existing wired alarm controller can be used with the takeover module to facilitate wireless takeover of wired alarm sensors.

Abstract: The present invention extends to methods, systems, and computer program products for wireless takeover of wired alarm system components. Embodiments of the invention can be used to bridge hardwired alarm zones for use with a wireless alarm controller. Wired sensors are wired to a takeover module that converts communication from the wired sensors into wireless communication that can be compatibly processed at an alarm controller that accepts wireless signals. Power and ground connections from an existing wired alarm controller can be used with the takeover module to facilitate wireless takeover of wired alarm sensors.

Abstract: A device and method for accessing, monitoring, and controlling home appliances in a media exchange network by establishing a communication link between a communication initiation device and at least one home appliance and communicating at least one command from the communication initiation device to the at least one home appliance via the communication link. The at least one home appliance then generates at least one response to the at least one command. The commands may include turning the home appliance(s) on and off, parameter adjustment commands, access commands, monitoring commands, mode change commands, and programming commands. Appliance responses may include powering on, powering off, changing a mode of operation, sending a status to the communication initiation device, adjusting an operational parameter, and changing a programmed operational step.

Abstract: A method and system for monitoring. The monitoring system may include at least one wearable monitor, which may include an accelerometer, coupled to a user; at least one server communicatively coupled using a network to the at least one wearable monitor, the accelerometer facilitating detection of a fall by the user and transmitting notification of said fall to said at least one server, and the server allowing verification of the fall and adjustment of fall detection parameters either automatically or through a user interface.

Abstract: Disclosed is an apparatus and methodology for synchronizing data received at a central location that has been collected at plural remote locations and separately transmitted to the central location. A plurality of remote sensors is provided and configured to be simultaneously triggered to begin a data collection sequence and to subsequently transmit the collected data along with remote sensor identification data and timing information to the central location. Timing information may include a specifically transmitted time reference or may be derived based on successive transmissions from the individual remote sensors.

Abstract: An individual is monitored by providing a monitoring system having a control device in communication with appliances. A routine usage of the appliance by an individual is determined. A deviation from the routine usage of the appliance is detected. An alarm signal is sent to a remote communication device of a third party. The third party remotely manipulates the appliance via the control device to remove the deviation from the routine usage, such as turning off an iron or closing a refrigerator door, without involving the individual.

Abstract: In embodiments of the present invention, systems and methods for remotely monitoring an environment may include receiving sensor data from a sensor placed in an environment. The sensor data may be processed to obtain monitoring information for the environment. The monitoring information may be transmitted over a network.

Abstract: Systems, methods, and apparatus are disclosed for monitoring appliances at a site, such as a household, business office, etc. The appliances can include, for example but not limited to, an electric oven, dishwasher, refrigerator, laundry washer, freezer, pool controller, light bulb, microwave oven, computer, television, telephone, etc. In many of the embodiments, the appliance has a computer based architecture or a controller that enables communication of data concerning the electronic appliance. In some embodiments the appliance is an apparatus with a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag or other passive device that can be interrogated for information concerning the appliance.

Abstract: A security system implemented with a communication device includes a remote communication device, a local communication device, a main controller and at least one main sensor. The remote communication device and local communication device are connected via communication connection. Each main sensor detects status of a monitoring location. When each main sensor is triggered, each main sensor sends an output signal to the main controller. The main controller collects and processes each output signal, and transmits the processed output signals to the local communication device. The local communication device transforms receives output signals into a text warning message. The text warning message transmits to remote communication device via Short Message Service whereby a user is informed of the status occurred in a remote monitoring location.

Abstract: The invention provides an improved security system comprised of video cameras and microphones to remotely monitor a home using a cellular telephone. An activation button is mounted as a doorbell button and interconnected with the security system to trigger the audio and video transmissions. The security system will automatically call the homeowner and allow two-way conversation and video using a streaming transmission. In response to a wireless distress signal sent to the security system using the homeowner's cellular telephone establishes a wireless connection with the security system and a security service or local authorities allowing the third-party to monitor and assess the situation. The homeowner is contemporaneously receiving the audio and video signals from the home using his cellular telephone and is capable of communicating directly with the security service. The distress signal is a secret code consisting of an array of numbers.

Abstract: In a method and an apparatus for identifying through traffic, entry into and exit from a predefined area are ascertained and the transit time is used to determine whether unauthorized transit through the area has occurred.

Abstract: A remote control unit selectively transmits a control signal for remotely controlling an electronic device. The unit defines an imaginary cut plane that substantially bisects the unit. The unit includes a plurality of input features collectively disposed symmetrically with respect to the imaginary cut plane. The input features include a first and second input feature. The first and second input features are disposed on opposite sides of the cut plane. Furthermore, the unit includes a sensor that detects a first and second holding position of the unit. The first holding position and the second holding position are substantially opposite to each other. Moreover, the unit includes a controller that associates the control signal with the first input feature when the sensor detects the first holding position, and the controller associates the control signal with the second input feature when the sensor detects the second holding position.

Abstract: An alarm monitoring station is capable of establishing a two way communications channel over a network to connect the monitoring station and alarm panels at monitored premises, for real time voice communication between the panels and the monitoring station. The monitoring station is further operable to provide pre-programmed voice messages to the alarm panels based on the sensed alarm condition over the two way communications channel. In this way, occupants at the premises may be notified of the sensed condition before speaking with an operator at the monitoring station.

Abstract: A communications unit is provided that can be coupled to a building's telecommunication wiring to provide an automated mechanism for isolating the building's wiring from a PSTN, while also providing a telecommunications connection to an alternative communications network via, for example, broadband or cellular networks. The communications unit can further be configured to be coupled to an alarm controller unit of a security system, thereby permitting the security system to communicate with a remote server system without loss of alarm data. The communications unit can also be configured to permit the legacy security system to provide normal disconnect functionality of building telephones from an outgoing telecommunications line while an alarm condition is present.

Abstract: A remote user interface system and method for effectively controlling functions of a client device and remote user interface rendered on the client device by means of a client-specific or content-specific control user interface rendered on a remote control device is provided. A method for controlling a remote user interface device with a remote control device includes broadcasting, at the remote control device, a discovery message for discovering the remote user interface device; performing, when a response is received, a capability exchange and matching with the remote user interface device; rendering a control user interface transmitted by the remote user interface device and displaying the rendered control user interface on a screen; and transmitting, when an input is detected on the control user interface, a control command corresponding to the input to the remote user interface device.

Abstract: Described herein are various techniques for transferring command codes between multiple remote controls. A first controlled device receives a signal from a remote control associated with a second controlled device. The signal is associated with a command for the second controlled device. The first controlled device receives user input, assigning the command to a selected button of a second remote control. The first controlled device transmits a message to the second remote control. The message includes information utilized by the second remote control to reproduce the signal responsive to actuation of the selected button, allowing the second remote control to generate the command for the second controlled device.

Abstract: According to one embodiment, a power supply tap includes a first wireless reception module which receives a control request which is transmitted from a remote-control terminal by a first wireless signal, a power observation module which is activated in a case where the received control request includes a power information acquisition request, and observes a total amount of power including power supplied to an electric apparatus from a power output module and power consumed by a communication control module, a first wireless transmission module which transmits the observed total amount of power to the remote-control terminal by a second wireless signal, and a switch control module which turns off a switch in a case where the control request received by the first wireless reception module includes a power-off request, thereby shutting off power supply to the electric apparatus from the power output module.

Abstract: A consumable holder is provided for use with the appliance configured to perform a physical cycle of operation on an article. The consumable holder is configured to communicate with the appliance using a well formed command according to a taxonomy dataset.

Abstract: A system and method provide for the immediate transmission of a potential alarm to a remote alarm signal escrow site and from the escrow site to a host station in the event where a control panel or an alarm signaling device is tampered with or destroyed by a disablement tactic, e.g., a “crash and smash intrusion.” A system and method may also send an alarm signal during such an attack by using predictive analysis of real-time events.

Abstract: An intermediary between a remote control device and a remotely controllable device implements identification and/or authentication. The intermediary is, e.g., a node or set of nodes within a head end of a cable network service provider. A remote control device at a customer premise sends a command intended to control a remotely controllably device which is also located at the same customer premise. The customer premise includes a network interface, e.g., a cable modem, which has associated identification information. The command and the associated network interface identification information are communicated to the intermediary, e.g., via a cable modem. The intermediary accesses a subscriber record corresponding to the location based on the network interface identification information. The intermediary identifies the device to be controlled, e.g., a particular set top box and/or authenticates the remote control device. A command is sent via the network to the device to be controlled.

Abstract: Disclosed is an indoor location system that uses an electrical power line, power line signal injection devices, and portable position receivers (tags) to generate location data relating to positions of the tags in a structure such as a residence or business. The indoor location system fingerprinting of multiple signals transmitted along the power line to achieve sub-room-level localization of the positioning receivers. Details regarding power line positioning are described along with how it compares favorably to other fingerprinting techniques.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for assisting medication are capable of assisting medication of users who have to regularly take medications in daily life. The apparatus includes a medication box having a plurality of containers, each of which stores a dose of medication to be taken at one time according to a medication schedule, a radio frequency (RF) transmitter carried on a user and transmitting an RF signal, an RF receiver receiving the RF signal from the RF transmitter, and a controller controlling medication assisting. Thus, the apparatus checks a spatial-temporal situation of the user, i.e. an medication, notification or information situation, using the received RF signal, and creating and providing medication service corresponding to the checked situation.

Abstract: A system for sensing and communicating in a pipeline that contains a fluid. An acoustic signal containing information about a property of the fluid is produced in the pipeline. The signal is transmitted through the pipeline. The signal is received with the information and used by a control.

Abstract: A system and method for remotely monitoring and controlling building security are provided. A controller is communicatively coupled to various security devices of a building and can communicate an activity event detected by one of the security devices to a remote user device. The controller can then establish a communication session between the remote device and a security communication device via the controller, thereby allowing the user to communicate with any visitors. Video from a security device can be transmitted by the controller to the user device or an alternative user-device. Access instructions can be provided by the user to the controller, in response to which the controller can deactivate various building security measures. Security measures can be reactivated by the controller automatically or in response to a user command. Additionally, the controller can monitor visitor compliance with the deactivated security measures and activate alarms or notify security agencies if necessary.

Abstract: In embodiments of the present invention, systems and methods for remotely monitoring an individual may include providing a sensor integrated in a monitoring object at a first location where the monitoring object may be configured as a household item. The sensor may be associated with an environment of an individual at the first location. The sensor may also be associated with a network. The sensor data may be processed to obtain monitoring information for the activity of the individual in the environment. The monitoring information may be transmitted over the network from the first location to a receiving object at a second location where the receiving object may be configured as a household item.

Abstract: In embodiments of the present invention, systems and methods of remotely monitoring a plurality of individuals may include providing a plurality of monitoring objects, wherein each monitoring object is associated with the environment of one of the plurality of individuals. A sensor may be integrated into each monitoring object, wherein the sensor collects activity data for the individual associated with the monitoring object. The sensor data may be processed at each monitoring object to obtain monitoring information for the activity of the individual associated with the monitoring object. The monitoring information obtained with each monitoring object may be transmitted over a network to a receiving object, wherein the receiving object may display a picture associated with the particular individual being monitored at the time that it displays information about that individual.

Abstract: In embodiments of the present invention, systems and methods for remotely monitoring an individual may include providing a sensor integrated in a monitoring object at a first location where the monitoring object may be configured as a household item. The sensor may be associated with an environment of an individual at the first location and a network. The sensor data may be processed to obtain monitoring information for the activity of the individual in the environment and the monitoring information may be transmitted over the network from the first location to a receiving object at a second location.

Abstract: An audio warning monitoring device, system and method including an audio detector, one or more audio screens to determine if monitored sound is an alarm, a processor or logic device to potentially analyze sound data and then instruct a transmitter to send a message with the monitoring device identification and signals representing sound detected by the audio detector to a server. The computer server analyzes the message and authenticates the audio detector, looks up user data associated with the detector, and contacts a user from previously stored user data in order to notify of the alert and then relay the audio signals in an audio file. At the user's option, the server may contact a staffed or automated monitoring center. Here a human operator may listen to the signals in the audio file and take appropriate action, such as calling the location of the alarm for verification or contacting a professional first responder(s).

Abstract: A mobile surveillance appliance receives sensed data over a wireless link from a remote sensing post which monitors a remotely monitored space having a predefined spatial location and transmits the sensed data. The mobile surveillance appliance provides a display of the sensed data from monitored space and an intervention controller which, when activated responsive to an event perceived on the display, encodes the predefined spatial location and an event melioration onto a remote intervention request, and transmits the intervention request to a remote intervener. The remote sensing post, mobile surveillance appliance, and remote intervener may communicate using SIP messaging.

Abstract: A wireless contextual prompting device provides contextual (context-aware) prompting in the home for applications such as Activities of Daily Living (ADL) monitoring, medication adherence, journaling, social messaging and coaching. The device combines the advantages of a small, wireless, battery-operated sensor that may be easily mounted at critical places in a person's daily routine with a low-power, high-contrast display panel that may be palm sized. The context may be displayed on the display screen as images, icons and/or text such that it is easy to interpret warnings by the young, elderly, or the language-challenged.

Abstract: A remotely activated exterior intermittent alert lighting system has a case upon a base and receives power from utility service. Upon the case, a light assembly receives power from internal wiring controlled by a processor receptive to short range radio. The processor receives ON and OFF signals through an antenna that receives a signal from a nearby radio transmitter. Upon detecting an ON signal, the processor closes circuits to deliver power to a lighting assembly. The lighting assembly then flashes its elements by the processor or a lighting assembly component. Upon detecting an OFF signal, the processor deactivates the lighting assembly. The lighting assembly typically operates upon direct current provided from a transformer connected to the utility service. Alternatively, the system operates upon battery power.

Abstract: A central collector has appliance communication links to communicate with multiple appliances, and removable memory to store operational data retrieved from the appliances. When the memory is removed from the central collector and installed in a device capable of communication, the operational data can be communicated from the removable memory to a remote service center or a portable computing device.

Abstract: An alarm system includes one or more audio stations, and an audio station network interface. The audio stations communicate wirelessly with the audio station network interface. The audio station network interface communicates with a monitoring center over a cellular network, to allow audio monitoring of the premises at the audio stations. The audio station network interface may be called by the monitoring center. Calls may optionally be placed by it in response to user interaction with one of the audio stations.

Abstract: A system and method for remote activation of a device includes, in one embodiment, a user interface for selecting a command associated with the one or more vehicle functions, a controller for processing the selected command, the controller having a plurality of input ports, and a switch array including a plurality of switches corresponding to the one or more vehicle functions. The plurality of switches can be divided into a first set and a second set with the first set of switches being connected across a fixed voltage and a controller input port and the second set of switches being connected across multiple controller input ports. The at least one of the controller input ports connecting the second set of switches may be temporarily configurable to an output port for determining which of the plurality of switches has been actuated.

Abstract: Monitoring assemblies for determining an operational state of a circuit protector in an electrical circuit.

Abstract: Methods and systems for providing data communication in medical systems are disclosed.

Abstract: A method includes activating a tamper monitoring circuit of a security seal configured to securely lock a utility meter. The method also includes wirelessly transmitting an identification data and/or an integrity information associated with the security seal and/or the utility meter to the external transceiver upon activating the tamper monitoring circuit or being queried by the external transceiver through a transceiver of the tamper monitoring circuit. The transceiver of the tamper monitoring circuit and the external transceiver are configured to securely communicate with each other through a secure protocol. Further, the method includes detecting a tamper condition associated with tampering of the security seal through the tamper monitoring circuit, and wirelessly transmitting data associated with the tamper condition to the external transceiver.

Abstract: A method for rendering an alert message on a digital radio broadcast receiver is described. A digital radio broadcast signal is received at the digital radio broadcast receiver. Data corresponding to an alert message comprising type information for identifying a type of the alert message and message information is detected. If the type information satisfies a triggering condition for a type of alert message pre-selected by a user of the digital radio broadcast receiver, the message information is rendered at the digital radio broadcast receiver. A digital radio broadcast receiver that performs the method is also described.

Abstract: Disclosed is an intelligent access authentication system and method. The intelligent access authentication system includes a door lock that can be locked and released in a predetermined manner, a door phone for communicating with the visitor; a smart communicator which configures access approval levels of expected visitors and access authentication information for each access approval level, communicates with the visitor, and controls the door lock, and a home network server which stores the access approval levels of expected visitors and access authentication information for each access approval level received from the smart communicator, checks the access approval level of the visitor attempting to release the door lock by referring to previously stored information, and transmits a door lock operating command to the door lock according to the access approval level of the visitor.

Abstract: A system is provided including a first detection unit detecting a position of a first terminal, a second detection unit detecting a position of a second terminal, and a notification area determination unit determining a notification area based on the detected position of the second terminal, wherein, within the notification area, position information regarding the position of the first terminal is not notified. The system also includes a first route prediction unit predicting a route from a position of the first terminal to the notification area, a time calculation unit calculating a time period required for arriving at the notification area when the first terminal travels along the predicted route, and a notification unit permitting the notification when the first terminal does not arrive at the notification area after the time period elapses from the current time, and suppressing the notification while the time period does not elapse.

Abstract: In embodiments of the present invention, systems and methods for remotely monitoring an individual may include providing a sensor integrated in a monitoring object at a first location where the monitoring object may be configured as a picture frame. A sensor may be associated with an environment of an individual at the first location. The sensor may be associated with a network. Sensor data may be processed to obtain monitoring information for the activity of the individual in the environment. The monitoring information may be transmitted over the network from the first location to a receiving object at a second location, where the receiving object may be configured as a picture frame.

Abstract: A mechanism for managing energy consumption of electrical devices within a home or building. Energy usage data is collected for a first electrical outlet connected to an unidentified electrical device in a facility. A pattern of energy usage is determined from the energy usage data collected at the first electrical outlet. The pattern of energy usage of the first electrical outlet is then compared against known patterns of energy usage for one or more other electrical outlets. Responsive to identifying a match between the pattern of energy usage of the energy usage data collected at the first electrical outlet and a known pattern of energy usage of a second electrical outlet in the one or more other electrical outlets, the electrical device connected to the first electrical outlet is identified as the same electrical device that is associated with the known pattern of energy usage of the second electrical outlet.

Abstract: The invention relates to devices, systems and methods for thwarting attempts to circumvent breath alcohol level testing and monitoring programs. In-home monitoring systems as well as ignition interlock systems are described. Accelerometers and/or compasses are used to detect movement of the device. GPS and image data are collected at the time samples are collected to verify their authenticity. A system is provided for use by a third party service provider to provide reports and notification to monitoring authorities.