Abstract: A method of providing simple, low-cost and effective alarm system protection. The method is especially useful in locations where the installation of a conventional, hard-wired alarm system would be impossible or economically impractical. The method utilizes a portable alarm system which incorporates wireless technology along with wireless transmission service, therefore providing the ability to protect virtually anything, anywhere, at any time. The present invention also provides for both automated and manned monitoring of the alarm location by a security monitoring company, which may be contacted at any time, from any location, at a single phone number or internet address, for example. The method of the present invention also utilizes a method of call retainment and multiple redundancy to ensure that any calls placed by the portable alarm system are received by the security monitoring company.

Abstract: A locator device having a transponder subcutaneously implanted in a person or animal that is to be periodically monitored in the event of emergency, abduction and other such situations. The transponder has a battery that is rechargeable by using the potential electrical energy generated by the body of the host organism. The preferred embodiment of the rechargeable transponder uses a piezoelectric battery that is to be implanted in an appropriate manner that would permit a large muscle to act upon a piezoelectric element thereby converting the mechanical energy into electrical energy to provide a recharge to the battery.

Abstract: A wireless gauge alert system including a near empty sensor, a near full sensor, a transmitter, a receiver, and an alert device used to monitor the fuel level status of a liquid fuel or pressure (vessel) tank having a measuring device with an output member and gauge. Upon detection of a predetermined near empty condition, the transmitter sends an encoded wireless alarm signal to the receiver. The alert device then generates a user notification signal. The receiver and alert device, which preferably comprise an LED, are held in a housing having a plug extending therefrom to mount the housing to an electrical socket in a high traffic area. An alternate alert system includes a receiver unit coupled with a computer that allows either the user or a vendor computer to monitor the status of the sensor and respond accordingly. Another alternate alert system includes multiple zone remote assemblies for installation on separate fuel tanks to be monitored.

Abstract: Aggregator devices and methods are disclosed for establishing device interaction in an environment containing other electronic devices and the aggregator device. The aggregator device has a transmitter, receiver, memory storing interaction rules, and a processor for implementing the interaction rules in association with the transmitter, receiver, and other devices of the environment. The methods involve transmitting a message to the aggregator from a first device, referencing rules of device interaction for the environment, and then according to the rules of device interaction, transmitting a message from the aggregator to a second device. The rules of device interaction may include instructions that are to be transmitted from the aggregator in response to the aggregator receiving change of state messages from devices of the environment.

Abstract: An electric appliance monitoring system that can report an operational state of an electric appliance includes a monitoring part and a transmission part. The monitoring part monitors the operational state of the electric appliance and outputs a detection signal to the transmission part. The transmission part transmits a signal corresponding to the detection signal output from the monitoring part.

Abstract: A wireless doorbell system which employs a radio frequency (“RF”) transmitter and a RF receiver. The doorbell transmitter has its RF source and antenna enclosed within a metal case which is designed so that the effective operating range of the transmission of the RF signals is not reduced to unacceptable levels and whose finish, such as polished brass, presents an attractive appearance which can be made to match the decorative trim at the entranceway to a building, such as a residence.

Abstract: A system is described for detecting at least one event of interest. The system comprises a detector, a programmable controller, and a network. Upon detection of an event of interest, the detector communicates that information to the programmable controller through the network. The programmable controller allows a user, who may be in diverse geographic locations, to control the detector.

Abstract: A device to enable identification to a wireless security and alerting system which includes a transmitter circuit and a receiver circuit is provided. Each transmitter is provided with at least two buttons. A visitor uses a main push button. At least one discreet button is used discreetly by a member, such that the receiver will chime differently, thus allowing the residents within the hearing range to distinguish between a visitor from a member. The device also includes a low battery warning arrangement. An example allows a plurality of locations in a building to be equipped with such transmitters, which are connected to at least one receiver. An application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC) or the like device is employed in a transmitter circuit, and a microprocessor or the like device in a receiver circuit.

Abstract: A distributed residential alarm system and method provides protection of occupants and property from loss due to theft or hazardous conditions in the residence such as fire or flooding. The alarm system includes multiple alert detectors coupled via a wireless connection to multiple control units each capable of providing master control functions. The control units and detectors communicate with the detectors and each other via a token-passing scheme, whereby unit pairs may be located within the distance limitations of each nodal connection, thus providing coverage over a longer distance than would be possible with communication to a central unit. The system also provides modularity and scalability in that sensors may be easily added to the system and the system is not dependent on any one of the control units in order to function.

Abstract: A monitor of a body parameter of an infant, comprises at least one monitoring station having at least one sensor arranged to sense a body parameter of an infant, a controller responsive to the sensing of the body parameter of the infant by the at least one sensor to generate a signal that is either indicative of the sensed body parameter or indicative of a result from a comparison of the sensed body parameter with at least one value, and a transceiver arranged to transmit the signal in response to direction from the controller and at least one companion station having a further transceiver and having an output device and being spaced from the at least one monitoring station, the further transceiver being responsive to receipt of the signal to transmit the signal to the output device.

Abstract: An HVAC service assistance device assists individuals with troubleshooting their climate control systems and with contacting an HVAC contractor for service when necessary. Stored within the device is HVAC troubleshooting information that is conveniently provided to users on demand via an audio speaker and/or a visual display. The device may also store contact information for an HVAC contractor which can be conveniently accessed by the user when the climate control system next requires servicing. By recording (or having prerecorded) their contact information in the service assistance device of the present invention, HVAC contractors may increase their opportunities for receiving repeat business from customers. The service assistance device may further include a service call button which, when depressed, automatically sends a call for service to an HVAC contractor over a communication network, such as a telephone or computer network, using prerecorded contact information for the HVAC contractor.

Abstract: A monitoring apparatus and method including a processing device for receiving video information recorded by a video recording device or a camera, wherein the video recording device or a camera is located at a vehicle or a premises and the processing device is located at a location remote from the vehicle or premises. The processing device receives a signal transmitted from a communication device located at a location remote from the processing device and remote from the vehicle or premises. The video information is transmitted from the processing device to the communication device in response the signal. The video information is transmitted to the communication device on or over at least one of the Internet and the World Wide Web.