Door Or Window Movement Patents (Class 340/545.1)
  • Patent number: 8773263
    Abstract: A security method and apparatus is disclosed. In one embodiment, a method for providing an alarm for a window by a security apparatus comprises calculating a first distance between a detector mounted within a movable portion of the window and a window frame edge and calculating a second distance between the detector and the window frame edge. The method further comprises determining whether the movable portion of the window has remained stationary for more than a predetermined time period based on the first distance and the second distance and, if the movable portion has remained stationary for more than the predetermined time period, storing the second distance in a memory, placing the security apparatus into an active alarm state, calculating a third distance observed by the detector, determining a change between the third distance and the second distance, determining whether the change exceeds a predetermined distance, and generating an alarm signal if the change exceeds the predetermined distance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2014
    Assignee: Ecolink Intelligent Technology, Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas Thibault
  • Patent number: 8763913
    Abstract: An RFID tag assembly for attachment to an enclosure surface including a door, an RFID tag attached to one face of the door or wrapped around the door, and an attachment device for connecting the door to the enclosure surface to allow the door to move to a position that shows both sides of the door. The RFID tag can include a ground plane, the tag wrapped around the door such that the ground plane is on the back of the door and the RFID tag antenna is on the front of the door. A ground plane can be provided on the enclosure inner or outer surface in alignment with the RFID tag antenna, with the antenna directly or inductively coupled to the ground plane when the door is in a closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2014
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Roland K. Alo, Aaron R. Cox, Joel A. Gotelaere, Max J. C. Koschmeder, Kenneth E. Lubahn, Michael J. MacPherson
  • Patent number: 8760304
    Abstract: In certain embodiments, a system includes a security barrier attached to a structure such that the security barrier is operable to move from a first position, in which the security barrier blocks an exterior opening of the structure, to a second position, in which the security barrier does not block the exterior opening of the structure. The system further includes a latch mechanism operable to control movement of the security barrier from the first position to the second position and a sensor operable to generate an emergency signal indicating an emergency condition within the structure. The system further includes a control unit operable to access the emergency signal generated by the sensor and generate, in response to the emergency signal, a release signal to be communicated to the latch mechanism. The release signal is operable to cause the latch mechanism to permit the security barrier to move from the first position to the second position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2014
    Inventor: Max Samuel Pincu
  • Patent number: 8760296
    Abstract: Systems and associated methods for monitoring and/or controlling access to interior portions of consumer-operated kiosks and other enclosures are disclosed herein. In one embodiment, a consumer-operated kiosk includes an enclosure having a door movable between a closed position that prevents access to the enclosure and an open position that permits access to the enclosure. In this embodiment, an identifier, such as an RFID transponder or tag, is mounted to one of the enclosure or the door, and a reader, such as an RFID reader, is mounted to the other of the enclosure or the door. When the door is closed, the reader detects the identifier. Conversely, when the door moves away form the closed position, the reader ceases to detect the identifier and can generate/send a signal indicating that the door is open.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2014
    Assignee: Outerwall Inc.
    Inventor: Douglas A. Martin
  • Patent number: 8750509
    Abstract: A wireless surveillance system and methods of operating same, providing at least one data input capture device (ICDs), including cameras which have the ability to capture video, audio, and/or data from sensors such as temperature and humidity data, while being newly or retrofittably releasably mountable to a track lighting system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2014
    Assignee: Smartvue Corporation
    Inventor: Martin Renkis
  • Patent number: 8742889
    Abstract: Apparatus and methodology for providing electronic access control are disclosed. In an exemplary configuration, a retrofittable electronic lock can be used to provide secure storage to an enclosure. A user interface and LCD visual display can be provided to permit convenient adjustment of system operational parameters. In certain embodiments, the electronic access control system includes master-slave control capabilities. In other embodiments, the electronic access control system includes inventory management capability. In still other embodiments, apparatus and methodologies provide the secure storage of the enclosure when the enclosure is being moved or otherwise transported from one location to another location. Various alternative arrangements may provide various alert features, as well as battery features which facilitate rapid replacement and/or reconfiguration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2014
    Assignee: CompX International Inc.
    Inventors: Kenneth A. Kaczmarz, John B. Payson, John A. Garlisch, Brock E. Robinson, Jesse Mavromatis, Mitchell S. Mlynarczyk
  • Patent number: 8736446
    Abstract: Since a sensor signal intermitted on the basis of a sensor signal including an abnormality detection signal, detected as a result of a persistence of an abnormal condition of a security sensor, is generated and an intermitted output signal in dependence on an intermitted sensor signal input is transmitted from a wireless transmitter 17 to a receiver 18, a condition in which the intermitted output signal can be transmitted from the wireless transmitter 17 to the receiver 18 can be retained even though the wireless transmitter 17 is of a type capable of transmitting an output signal in the form of, for example, one pulse on the basis of the signal input, and it is therefore possible for the side of the receiver 18 to recognize assuredly the persistence of the abnormal condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2014
    Assignee: Optex Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Koji Hayashide, Katsutoshi Tatsuoka
  • Patent number: 8674830
    Abstract: A manhole security cover includes a manhole cover body comprising a non-metallic RF signal transmissive material. The manhole cover body is seatable on a manhole frame to cover a manhole opening. In the seated position, the first side is accessible from outside the manhole, the second side is disposed within the manhole, and the peripheral edge portion engages a manhole cover support surface on the manhole frame. A manhole cover tamper sensor is responsive to a predetermined movement of the manhole security cover body. A transmitter is operatively connected to the manhole cover tamper sensor and configured to generate a radio frequency manhole cover tamper signal when the manhole cover tamper sensor detects the predetermined movement of the manhole security cover body. An antenna is operatively coupled to the transmitter to radiate radio frequency energy through the manhole cover body to a receiver located outside of said manhole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2014
    Assignee: McGard LLC
    Inventors: Thomas R. Lanham, Andrew D. Trank, Daniel J. Corby, Jeffrey R. Sullivan
  • Patent number: 8659425
    Abstract: A window safety and security device detects unauthorized movement of a double-hung window upon which the device is installed and communicates an alarm in response to the detecting. The device includes a single, high-powered suction cup with a housing configured to be removably attached to an inside glass pane of a first sash of the double-hung window formed with a first and a second sash, a first electrical switch including an actuator that toggles the switch contacts between an open or non-conducting state to a closed or conducting state when armed (powered) in a case where part of the window contacts and depresses the actuator. The device also includes a light or buzzer, which are activated when the first switch is caused to conduct. Preferably, a second electrical switch is included for “arming” and “disarming” the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2014
    Inventors: Mitchell I. Kersch, Aaron R. Kersch
  • Publication number: 20140043158
    Abstract: Debo Alarm System Second Phase (D.A.S.S.P.) is a mobile Security System for the Home, Apartment, RV, Commercial Businesses, and Vacation Suite etc. . . . This alarm system is unique because it utilizes the existing wiring in the area you are trying to secure. The system works like a traditional alarm system with 911 and Carbon Monoxide function. This system not only has the ability to monitor the inside of your home it also allows you to monitor the perimeter of your home. The Debo Alarm System Second Phase has a detachable Mobile Module with 911 and Carbon Monoxide function. The Mobile Module can be used to monitor your home system and protect you at a second location. The Mobile Module can be plugged into a wall socket like a cell phone. The Mobile Module has an internal rechargeable battery to allow a wide range of security functions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 1, 2013
    Publication date: February 13, 2014
    Inventor: Durwin Keith Lasker
  • Patent number: 8638205
    Abstract: A device is provided for preventing a collision between a pivoting element of a vehicle, with an obstacle located in its pivoting area, with a control unit which controls the pivoting movement of the vehicle pivoting element and with a lighting device which is coupled to the pivoting movement and emits light into the pivoting area. Depending on the reflection of the emitted light on the obstacle the control units intervenes in the pivoting movement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 28, 2014
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: Aiko Boehme, Heiko Bald
  • Publication number: 20140022077
    Abstract: A mine door control system and method that uses sensor input from a plurality of sensors corresponding to at least one of a position of at least one associated opposing wing mine door and a path through the at least one associated mine door to determine at least one predefined action in accordance with received sensor input. A control command is then communicated a drive mechanism associated with the at least one associated mine door, the control command including instructions for operating the drive mechanism in accordance with the at least one predefined action.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 22, 2013
    Publication date: January 23, 2014
    Applicant: AMERICAN MINE DOOR CO.
    Inventors: Daniel S. Zenisek, Robert H. Chorman
  • Patent number: 8624733
    Abstract: Described is a device for electronic access control (EAC) and surveillance. The device includes an EAC module and an imager integrated in a single unit. The EAC module controls physical access through a secure portal and the imager maintains surveillance of an observation area near the portal. A data signal is provided at a data port proximate to the EAC module and imager. The data signal includes EAC data for the portal, image or video data of the observation area and optional audio data. The device can be configured to communicate with a remote server and database over an IP data network. The device can also include one or more analytical modules for real-time computation and processing of data and generation of metadata for transmission over the data network. Correlating and combining current and historical data from multiple devices results in powerful real time threat detection and forensic search capability.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2014
    Inventor: Francis John Cusack, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8624735
    Abstract: An alarm system for indicating the specific location of an intrusion into an enclosed space, as well as a method for installing the alarm system, are disclosed. The intrusion causes illumination of an indicator light outside the enclosed space and within the outer perimeter zone of the enclosed space, thereby indicating the specific location of the intrusion. At least one interior sensor located within the enclosed space generates a specific intrusion location signal in response to movement therein. A control system responsive to the specific intrusion location signal causes the indicator light to emit light that is visible from outside the outer perimeter zone of the enclosed space. The emitted light can indicate the specific location of an intrusion by directing light towards the specific intrusion location, and/or by surrounding the specific intrusion location, and/or by activating a light display that produces readable output of the specific intrusion location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2014
    Inventors: Yael Debra Kellen, Arl Saul Kellen
  • Patent number: 8610570
    Abstract: A system to detect a presence in a space is provided and includes a sensor to issue a signal at an instance when a door to the space closes, a detector to periodically issue packets that identify when a presence was last detected in the space, and a processing unit, coupled to the sensor and the detector, which is configured to receive the signal and the packets and which has executable instructions stored thereon that, when executed, cause the processing unit to identify when the door closes based on the signal and to judge the space to be unoccupied after a wait time if the packets indicate the presence was last detected prior to the closing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2013
    Assignee: Inncom International, Inc.
    Inventor: Philipp Roosli
  • Patent number: 8610571
    Abstract: The window alarm device provides an electronic receiver, a control panel within the receiver, an audio output disposed within the receiver, a video screen disposed within the receiver, a plurality of electronic transmitters, each transmitter further comprising an individual electronic identification, an electrical sensor port disposed within each transmitter, a plurality of activation strips, each having a front spaced apart from an adhesive back, the front further comprising, a plurality of valleys, a ridge disposed between an any two adjacent valleys, a smooth transition connecting each valley to each ridge, a sensor extended from each transmitter, each sensor further comprising, a vertical leg, a pivotal leg pivotally affixed atop the vertical leg, the pivotal leg frictionally positioned, and a point disposed at a distal end of the pivotal leg, the point configured to follow the activation strip front.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2013
    Inventor: Anthony E. Solieri
  • Patent number: 8599018
    Abstract: An alarm system for indicating the time that has elapsed since intrusion into an enclosed space, as well as a method for installing the alarm system, are disclosed. The alarm system detects an intrusion into the enclosed space, the intrusion thereby causing an indicator light outside the enclosed space to illuminate, thereby indicating time elapsed since intrusion. At least one interior sensor is located within the enclosed space and configured to generate an intrusion time signal in response to movement therein. The indicator light is located within an outer perimeter zone of the enclosed space, and upon receiving an intrusion time signal, the indicator light emits light visible from outside the outer perimeter zone of the enclosed space. The light can indicate time elapsed via a property of the light itself, such as wavelength, intensity and/or focus, and/or via a light display producing readable output of time elapsed, for example.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2013
    Inventors: Yael Debra Kellen, Arl Saul Kellen
  • Patent number: 8581737
    Abstract: A security system comprises a system control panel for arming and disarming the security system. A door sensing unit comprises a first radio frequency (RF) transceiver interconnected with the system control panel over a network. The first RF transceiver is mounted proximate to a door that defines at least a portion of a perimeter around an area to be monitored by the security system. The first RF transceiver has an RF detection field proximate to the door. A disarm device comprises a second RF transceiver that automatically transmits a disarm device packet. The first RF transceiver receives the disarm device packet when the second RF transceiver is within the RF detection field. The first RF transceiver sends a disarm message to the system control panel over the network to disarm the security system based on at least the disarm device packet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2013
    Assignee: Tyco Safety Products Canada Ltd.
    Inventors: Raman Kumar Sharma, Roger Parenteau, Juan Francisco Bogarin Munoz
  • Patent number: 8558697
    Abstract: In some implementations a storage device having a voice-recognition engine stored thereon is coupled to a microcontroller, a device-controller for an automatic door is operably coupled to the microcontroller.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2013
    Assignee: Altorr Corporation
    Inventor: Bradford A. Clough
  • Publication number: 20130265162
    Abstract: A door, or window detector incorporates a magnet and a magnetometer. Dual loop processing can be provided for real-time signals from the magnetometer, as the magnet moves relative to it, to determine when at least one of small gap or large gap indicating alarms should be issued. Security can be substantially increased by randomizing the orientation of the magnet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 9, 2012
    Publication date: October 10, 2013
    Applicant: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventors: Mark C. BUCKLEY, Dave Eugene MERRITT
  • Patent number: 8552838
    Abstract: A passive wireless system for monitoring a protected area. The passive wireless system comprises at least one passive sensor for sensing an event, a reader for receiving signals from the at least one passive sensor, a plurality of exciters disposed within the protected area for transmitting a radio frequency pulse at a variable time interval to the at least one passive sensor, and a controller for controlling each of the plurality of exciters to transmit the radio frequency pulse at the variable time interval. The radio frequency pulse powers the passive sensors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2013
    Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventor: Kenneth L. Addy
  • Patent number: 8538407
    Abstract: Systems and methods for controlling a building automation system with an FMC cellular device are provided. The FMC cellular device can locally interface with a building automation system via a femtocell base station or a wireless access point, remotely interface with a building automation system over a wide area network via a macrocell base station, or remotely interface with a building automation system via a GAN enabled wireless access point.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2013
    Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventor: Kenneth Addy
  • Patent number: 8538596
    Abstract: A lighting controller may optimize a timeout value of a lamp based on the goals of saving energy and providing occupant comfort. The lamp may illuminate a lighting area. The lighting controller may determine a false-negative rate for the lamp from sensor data that represents a frequency at which the lamp is timed out while the lighting area is occupied. The lighting controller may adjust the timeout value of the lamp over time so that the false-negative rate approaches a threshold false-negative rate. The false-negatives and occupancy periods may be detected from spikes in time distributions of motion data. The amount of energy that the lamp would consume at an increased timeout value of the lamp may be determined from motion data stored while the timeout value of the lamp is at an initial timeout value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2013
    Assignee: Redwood Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Xin Gu, Kelvin Gu, Deepak Nulu
  • Patent number: 8531316
    Abstract: In at least one exemplary embodiment, an autonomous onboard monitoring and communications system for watercraft is disclosed. The autonomous onboard monitoring and communications system may include a processor, at least one system console, a plurality of sensors configured to monitor operating and environmental conditions aboard the watercraft, a system application including a plurality of software logic service modules configured to facilitate communication between the plurality of sensors and the system console, an analytic engine configured to analyze data so as to determine the existence of an event, and a plurality of communications interfaces for directly communicating with remote targeted recipients.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2013
    Inventors: Nicholas F. Velado, Fernando A. Velado
  • Patent number: 8514076
    Abstract: An entrance denial security system comprises an entrance barrier closing an entrance into a secured area having a plurality of structural tubular elements with hollow cores forming a rigid integral barrier. At least one optical fiber sensor line is laced through the hollow cores of the structural elements for detecting a fault condition signifying an unauthorized intrusion attempt. A processor in communication with the fiber sensor line generates a fault signal in response to the occurrence of a fault condition and identifying the entrance where the fault condition occurred. A communication device operatively associated with the processor communicates the fault signal and an alarm so that a proper security response can be made to the fault condition. The system further comprises a plurality of intrusion sensors disposed at certain locations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2013
    Assignee: Woven Electronics, LLC
    Inventors: Douglas E. Piper, Sr., Thomas E. Browning, Jr., Mary Hester Owens, Clifford Leroy DeYoung
  • Patent number: 8482399
    Abstract: Asset including an arrangement for monitoring objects in an interior of the asset includes a sensor system arranged on or in the asset to obtain data about the asset or an object in the asset and a communication system arranged on the asset and coupled to the sensor system. The communication system transmits the data obtained by the sensor system to a remote facility via the Internet. A data reception system is arranged on the asset arranged to obtain data to enable the position of the asset to be determined, i.e., at the remote facility, and is coupled to the communication system which transmits the data to enable the remote facility to determine the location of the asset. The sensor system may be integrated with a cell phone or PDA.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2013
    Assignee: Intelligent Technologies International, Inc.
    Inventor: David S. Breed
  • Patent number: 8482413
    Abstract: Systems and associated methods for monitoring and/or controlling access to interior portions of consumer-operated kiosks and other enclosures are disclosed herein. In one embodiment, a consumer-operated kiosk includes an enclosure having a door movable between a closed position that prevents access to the enclosure and an open position that permits access to the enclosure. In this embodiment, an identifier, such as an RFID transponder or tag, is mounted to one of the enclosure or the door, and a reader, such as an RFID reader, is mounted to the other of the enclosure or the door. When the door is closed, the reader detects the identifier. Conversely, when the door moves away form the closed position, the reader ceases to detect the identifier and can generate/send a signal indicating that the door is open.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2013
    Assignee: Coinstar, Inc.
    Inventor: Douglas A. Martin
  • Patent number: 8471704
    Abstract: A door system includes a sensor device for monitoring a vertical door edge. The sensor device has a transmitter that generates a light beam that runs along the vertical door edge, and a receiver to receive the light emitted by the transmitter. Further, an element of the sensor device is mounted in a region of a base of the door, with the sensor element being either in or on the base in front of the vertical door edge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2013
    Assignee: Cedes AG
    Inventors: Bas Albers, Heinz Hügli, Beat De Coi, René Hug, Thomas Gay
  • Publication number: 20130154833
    Abstract: Methods, systems, and devices for managing an end-device connected to a commodity delivery network. One device includes computer-readable medium containing instructions for managing the end-device and a processor for executing the instructions. The instructions include instructions for detecting tampering of the end-device, ignoring the detected tampering when the end-device has been placed in an ignore mode, and automatically disconnecting the end-device from the commodity delivery system based on the detected tampering when the end-device has not been placed in the ignore mode.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 20, 2011
    Publication date: June 20, 2013
    Inventors: Zoltan Kiss, Petros Raptis
  • Patent number: 8436628
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a capacitive sensor system comprising a sensor circuit connected to a first (15) and a second (11) antenna, the first antenna (15) is arranged on a first object (10) and the second antenna (11) is arranged on a second object (11) movable relative to said first object (10). The first antenna (15) is arranged right next to the second object (11) for the sensor circuit to detect the movement and/or position of the second object (11).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2013
    Assignee: Electrolux Home Products Corporation N.V.
    Inventors: Andrei Uhov, Roberto Giordano, Girish Pimputkar
  • Patent number: 8432281
    Abstract: A method and system that creates a boundary with an alert and deterring function when the boundary is crossed. The system employs a base unit and one or more portable IR motion sensors which are capable of discriminating between objects of differing physical characteristics, and notifies the user when the parameters for sufficient obstruction have been met. Both sensors and base unit have audio and visual deterring capabilities to frighten away unwanted intruders. The method and system can be utilized in camping situations to deter dangerous wildlife and can be configured to notify users when children exit from an area. The system can be used to create a contiguous perimeter, or any boundary arrangement desired.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2013
    Assignee: Utah State University
    Inventors: James T. Reese, Rickey D Hughes
  • Patent number: 8427313
    Abstract: An expendable tamper evident seal system for monitoring a mechanism to which physical access is required in order to open or close an access-way, comprising: an embedding material moldable into a shape conforming to the mechanism and adapted to be applied to the mechanism; circuit components randomly embedded in the embedding material so as to be arranged in positions and orientations corresponding to the shape, whereby physical access to the mechanism that alters the shape of the embedding material correspondingly alters the positions and orientations of the circuit components in the material; and an electronic interrogation device (EID) including components that induce in the circuit components an electromagnetic spectral response indicative of the position of the EID relative to the positions and orientations of the circuit components in the material, and measure the spectral response.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2013
    Assignee: The Johns Hopkins University
    Inventor: Carl V. Nelson
  • Patent number: 8412382
    Abstract: According to an aspect of the disclosure, a zone based energy management system includes controlling at least one network device at a site using the proximity detection of a mobile device which may be based upon the detection of a plurality of zones. The network device may be a thermostat associated with the HVAC system of the site or other energy consuming appliances. Each of the zones may be associated with a corresponding temperature set-point of the thermostat or other energy consuming device where the temperature set point corresponding to a zone may be different from the temperature set points corresponding with each of the other zones.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2013
    Assignee: Allure Energy, Inc.
    Inventors: Kevin R. Imes, James Hollister, John Frederick Cottrell
  • Patent number: 8400301
    Abstract: A window safety and security device detects unauthorized movement of a double-hung window, sliding window, or door upon which the safety and security device is installed and communicates an alarm in response to the detecting. The device includes a housing, a suction cup affixed to or integral with the housing configured to be removably attached to an inside glass pane of a first sash of a double-hung window, sliding window or door. An electrical switch is disposed in, on or affixed to the housing for contacting a portion of a second sash when the second sash is slid to a fixed position to actuate the switch. A light or a buzzer or both communicates a detected window or door movement sufficient to cause a change of state in the switch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2013
    Inventors: Mitchell I. Kersch, Aaron R. Kersch
  • Patent number: 8395503
    Abstract: In some implementations a storage device having a voice-recognition engine stored thereon is coupled to a microcontroller, a device-controller for an automatic door is operably coupled to the microcontroller.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2013
    Assignee: Altorr Corporation
    Inventor: Bradford A. Clough
  • Publication number: 20130057404
    Abstract: A security method and apparatus is disclosed. In one embodiment, a method for providing an alarm for a window by a security apparatus comprises calculating a first distance between a detector mounted within a movable portion of the window and a window frame edge and calculating a second distance between the detector and the window frame edge. The method further comprises determining whether the movable portion of the window has remained stationary for more than a predetermined time period based on the first distance and the second distance and, if the movable portion has remained stationary for more than the predetermined time period, storing the second distance in a memory, placing the security apparatus into an active alarm state, calculating a third distance observed by the detector, determining a change between the third distance and the second distance, determining whether the change exceeds a predetermined distance, and generating an alarm signal if the change exceeds the predetermined distance.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 25, 2011
    Publication date: March 7, 2013
    Inventor: Thomas Thibault
  • Publication number: 20130057405
    Abstract: A security method and apparatus is disclosed. In one embodiment, a security method comprises storing one or more data points representing an alarm condition in a memory, generating an electronic signal from a motion sensor in response to movement of the door or window, comparing the electronic signal to the data points, and detecting an alarm condition of the door or window if the electronic signal substantially matches the data points.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 1, 2011
    Publication date: March 7, 2013
    Applicant: Ecolink Intelligent Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: George Seelman, Michael Bailey, Jay Stone, Michael Lamb, Stephen Chang
  • Publication number: 20130038449
    Abstract: The invention relates to a burglar alarm arrangement, which can be installed in a mechanical lock, which mechanical lock comprises at least a lock cylinder (204), a lock frame (208) and a turn knob (214). A burglar alarm arrangement according to the present invention can be installed in a mechanical lock without a need to change keys, rekeying the lock or without adding code systems. Additionally, the burglar alarm arrangement can identify an authorized opening of the door by use of the key or the turn knob, and deactivate the alarm system for that time. The burglar alarm arrangement comprises an alarm system and first means (206) and second means (212), which first and second means (206 and 212) are functionally connected to the alarm system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 15, 2011
    Publication date: February 14, 2013
    Inventor: Ben Salomonson
  • Patent number: 8368534
    Abstract: A remote door access monitoring system includes a central monitoring component and a remote monitoring component. The central monitoring component includes an optical source, an optical power level receiver, and a microcontroller. The optical power level receiver is in communication with the microcontroller. The remote monitoring component includes an optical switch that is operably associated with a door of a communications equipment cabinet. The communications equipment cabinet is located at a geographical location different from a geographical location of the central monitoring component. The optical source transmits an optical signal from the optical source to the optical switch and back to the optical power level receiver. The optical switch attenuates the optical signal in response to opening and closing of the door. The optical power level receiver is configured to detect an attenuated optical signal and then notify the microcontroller of the existence of an attenuated optical signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2013
    Assignee: CommScope Inc. of North Carolina
    Inventors: W. Larkin Crutcher, Anil Kumar Trehan
  • Publication number: 20130009785
    Abstract: Apparatus and method for a warning system for an automated door capable of moving between open and closed positions, the door having engagement ends adjacent to a peripheral edge when the door is closed. Audio and visual warning indicators attached to engagement ends of the door, frame and header indicate when the door is opened, closed, opening and closing, or about to open or close, thus keeping the door ADA compliant. A hand-held wireless communicator transmits automated door safety check, test, and inspection requests to a server which records test requests, results, date, time, door identification and unique hand-held wireless communicator identification. The hand-held wireless communicator includes GPS capabilities enabling the server to record the specific location of the hand-held wireless communicator while performing tests. The server sends default emails or texts if scheduled safety checks, tests or inspections have expired after a predetermined time.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 22, 2012
    Publication date: January 10, 2013
    Inventors: Clayton L. Finn, Daniel R. Williams
  • Patent number: 8350714
    Abstract: A method and system for generating an alert for a possible collision between objects and a swinging barrier is provided. The method and system provides multiple sensing devices, a control unit, and multiple indicator devices at predetermined areas proximal to the swinging barrier. The sensing devices and the control unit electronically communicate with the indicator devices. The sensing devices are configured to establish sensing zones proximal to the swinging barrier. The sensing devices detect presence of one or more of stationary objects, approaching objects, and receding objects in the established sensing zones. The control unit tracks and differentiates the presence of the stationary objects, approaching movements of the approaching objects, and receding movements of the receding objects in the established sensing zones, and generates an alert signal. The indicator devices selectively indicate a possible collision on receiving the alert signal from the control unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2013
    Inventor: Matthew Ian Trim
  • Publication number: 20130002428
    Abstract: A hidden burglar alarm device for a door or window includes a casing, an alarm mechanism mounted in the casing, a separator detachably inserted into the casing, a magnetic set detachably connecting the separator to the casing, a connector connected with the separator, a ballast fixed on the connector and a flexible wire connected with the ballast. The alarm mechanism includes an alarm member and a trigger connected with the alarm member. The separator selectively abuts against the trigger. The magnetic set includes a metallic object fixed on the separator and a magnet portion fixed on the casing for magnetically attracting the metallic object. The connector has two ends respectively fixed on the separator and the ballast. The flexible wire has two ends respectively fixed on the ballast and a door or window.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 28, 2011
    Publication date: January 3, 2013
    Inventor: Yu-Kong Chiu
  • Publication number: 20120326869
    Abstract: This alarm system operates on 110 volts AC and provides audio and light illumination. Toggle switch (19) with a flat rectangular elongated flexible plastic strip (20) attached to its knob (24) is enclosed in switch box (28) which is mounted on assembly bracket (17). This bracket (17) is fastened adjacent to a door on its swinging side. Switch (19) is connected to an alarm circuit. When a door is opened or closed, it will contact elongated plastic strip (20) which extends beyond the door jamb. This contact will turn knob (24) to its “on” or “off” position, thus activating or deactivating an alarm system. This occurs when a main switch is turned on.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 22, 2011
    Publication date: December 27, 2012
    Inventor: Anthony Peter Romeo
  • Patent number: 8319638
    Abstract: A motion detector and a method for detecting a tampering of the motion detector. The tampering can include a spraying or brushing of a lens of the motion detector. The motion detector comprises a lens, a single sensing section for detecting infrared signals within a protected area, and detecting vibrations on the lens in the form of acoustic signals, the vibrations and the infrared signal causing a voltage change in the single sensing section, a first and second amplifier for amplifying the voltage change for processing for tampering and motion, respectively, first and second filter for filtering the voltage change for processing for tampering and motion, respectively, a microcontroller for determining if the detected voltage change is consistent with a pattern that is indicative of tampering or motion and alarm generating section for generating a tamper alarm or a motion alarm based upon the determination by the microprocessor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2012
    Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventor: Richard A. Smith
  • Patent number: 8305212
    Abstract: A door security alarm includes an alarm housing, an alarm horn provided in the alarm housing and having a horn activation button, a housing attachment bracket carried by the alarm housing and a chain slot provided in the housing attachment bracket in general proximity to the horn activation button of the alarm horn.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2012
    Inventor: William A. Brumfield
  • Patent number: 8305090
    Abstract: A capacitance touch sensing device that detects the touch of a user against a surface of a door handle on the outside of a vehicle includes an upper sensor electrode provided in an upper portion of the door handle, a lower sensor electrode provided in a lower portion of the door handle, an upper detecting portion that detects when the user has touched an upper surface of the door handle based on output from the upper sensor electrode, and a lower detecting portion that detects when the user has touched a lower surface of the door handle based on output from the lower sensor electrode. The detection sensitivity of one of the upper detecting portion or the lower detecting portion is lower than the detection sensitivity of the other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2012
    Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Tamotsu Tsuchida, Arinobu Kimura
  • Patent number: 8294584
    Abstract: A monitor implements a protocol for evaluating the sufficiency of a worker's hand washing activity in a desirably sanitary area. After a quantity of cleanser has been dispensed to the worker, data representative of the frequency, amplitude and duration of hand reciprocation by the worker are combined according to a predetermined mathematical proposition to provide a hand cleansing quality indicator. The indicator is then compared to a predetermined threshold level to determine if the protocol has been satisfied. Preferably, the predetermined mathematical proposition includes variable multipliers which can be selected to reflect the importance to the user of the frequency, amplitude and duration components of the proposition and the user can also select the predetermined pass/fail threshold.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2012
    Inventor: Gerald N. Plost
  • Patent number: 8289148
    Abstract: An electronic device that functions as an area-intrusion informing device for announcing the unauthorized entry into an enclosure or area which has at least one access opening and closing means. The device uses components that are small for inconspicuous insertions, or for surface mounting, and preferably utilizes a dummy hinge arrangement as an electrical conductor between the various components. The device is used for access doors, windows, filing cabinets, desk draws, closets, and the like, and typically includes at least one light emitting diode, an optional numeric liquid crystal display, a timer, and alert signaling and reset components. The components act together to provide notification of illegal entry between the times of departure, and arrival, of authorized users of the enclosure or area. A simple security alert system is provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2012
    Inventor: Albert G. Adams
  • Patent number: 8274385
    Abstract: A security system includes a perimeter sensor configured to cause an alarm signal to be issued after a first period of time upon sensing a security breach. An interior sensor is configured to cause an alarm signal to be issued after a second period of time upon sensing a security breach. The second period of time is shorter than the first period of time. A controller is communicatively coupled to each of the perimeter sensor and the interior sensor. The controller is adapted, in response to the perimeter sensor entering into a fault condition, to reconfigure the interior sensor to cause an alarm signal to be issued after a third period of time upon sensing a security breach. The third period of time is longer than the second period of time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2012
    Assignees: Bosch Security Systems, Inc., Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventors: Stein Arne Meier, Alan Hayter, Dennis Caler
  • Patent number: 8269602
    Abstract: A security system to identify a true door forced open alarm is provided. The security system includes an electronic entry means configured to allow access through a door. The security system also includes a request to exit device configured to indicate a request to exit the door. The security system also includes a logic unit configured to control access through the door and determine whether an open state of the door is allowed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2012
    Assignee: UTC Fire & Security Americas Corporation, Inc.
    Inventor: Catherine Mary Graichen