Abstract: A refrigerator includes a door frame and a perimetric surface of an insulation door panel of a panel unit that are spaced apart from each other. A component receiving groove is provided between the door frame and the perimetric surface of the insulation door panel, so that an operation module is received in the component receiving groove. When the operation module is received in the component receiving groove, at least of a part of the operation module is arranged to face a front surface of the panel unit through a bezel portion constituting the front surface of the panel unit. Therefore, a space for installing the operation module such as a detection sensor or a touch sensor is provided to be sufficiently wide along an edge of a door.

Abstract: Tamper-respondent assemblies are provided which include an enclosure mounted to a circuit board and enclosing one or more components to be protected within a secure volume. A tamper-respondent sensor covers, at least in part, an inner surface of the enclosure, and includes at least one tamper-detect circuit. A monitor circuit is disposed within the secure volume to monitor the tamper-detect circuit(s) for a tamper event. A pressure connector assembly is also disposed within the secure volume, between the tamper-respondent sensor and the circuit board. The pressure connector assembly includes a conductive pressure connector electrically connecting, at least in part, the monitor circuit and the tamper-detect circuit(s) of the tamper-respondent assembly, and a spring-biasing mechanism to facilitate breaking electrical connection of the conductive pressure connector to the tamper-detect circuit(s) with a tamper event.

Abstract: Systems and methods for providing automated inventory management of medicine and healthcare items stored within bins in care facilities are disclosed. A method includes providing an interactive storage device for attaching to a bin, and outputting, via an audiovisual element, a visual representation of a local inventory of the bin, receiving a user input, determining a change to the local inventory according to the user input, updating the local inventory in a non-volatile data store according to the change, synchronizing the local inventory with one or more nodes via a communication interface, and receiving, from the one or more nodes via the communication interface, periodic updates for a local cache comprising locations and inventories of one or more remote bins.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods prepare an adhesive tape platform with a battery for disposal at an end of its useful life. The adhesive tape platform determines when it is at the end of its useful life and performs an action to drain remaining battery life of the battery. When remaining life in the battery is less than a threshold level, the adhesive tape platform transmits a ready for disposal notification to an Internet of Things (IOT) system of the adhesive tape platform. The adhesive tape platform may determine its life expectancy and operational phases of the adhesive tape platform and assign battery usage for each of the operational phases such that the battery is depleted at an end of a last one of the operational phases. The adhesive tape platform may activate battery draining circuitry to drain the remaining battery life of the battery.

Abstract: A postal and package receptacle includes a main body that has an open top and a lid over the top that is movable between an open position and a closed position. The lid is moved from the open to the closed position upon receiving an open command via a wireless communication, whereupon a package can be placed in the interior of the main body. After a package is placed in the interior of the main body, the lid can be closed. A drone can be programmed to deliver a package to the postal and package receptacle and upon arriving at the location of the postal and package receptacle, the drone can communicate with the postal and package receptacle to issue the open and close commands, accordingly.

Abstract: A system and a method for controlling an electronic device embedded in a package of a consumer product are disclosed. In one aspect, the consumer product packaging includes a bottle for a beverage, a memory, a receiver and a circuit. The memory stores an action to be performed in response to an input. The receiver receives the input indicative of movement of the bottle. The circuit retrieves the action stored in memory upon receipt of the input and command an electronic communication module to perform the action at a particular time or in a particular sequence.

Abstract: A power grid network is provided that features a signal processor configured to: receive signaling containing information about digital content requested by one or more smart assets locally deployed in a smart asset infrastructure and communicatively coupled to the apparatus that is mounted in relation to a transformer configured in a grid network; and determine corresponding signaling containing information about the digital content requested by the one or more smart assets for providing back to a central location in the grid network for further processing, based upon the signaling received. The signal processor provides the corresponding signaling back to the central location in the grid network for further processing.

Abstract: A depository operates to accept and make available deposit items to authorized users responsive at least in part to data read from data bearing records. The depository (10) includes a body (12) that bounds and interior area (14). The depository includes a door (18) that is controlled by a lock (24) so that only authorized users can access the interior area. The depository includes at least one input device (20) operative to receive data usable to identify users authorized to access the depository. At least one reading device (26) is operative to read indicia included on depository items so that depository items placed in or removed from the interior area can be tracked. The depository is in operative connection with a network (50) that enables the transport and tracking of deposit items.

Abstract: A container arrangement (100) is disclosed, which is preferably destined for pharmaceutical products. The container arrangement includes a container body (110) and a first wireless communication systems (210) composed of a NFC system (210) including an NFC antenna (141). The container arrangement further includes a first and/or a second sensing-switching arrangement (143; 280) configured to include a preset status inhibiting a standardized operability of the first wireless communication system (210). The first sensing-switching arrangement (143) is configured to deregulate its preset status upon an initial opening event and the second sensing-switching arrangement (280) is configured to deregulate its preset status upon an unloading event.

Abstract: Systems and methods for providing automated inventory management of medicine and healthcare items stored within bins in care facilities are disclosed. A method includes providing an interactive storage device for attaching to a bin, and outputting, via an audiovisual element, a visual representation of a local inventory of the bin, receiving a user input, determining a change to the local inventory according to the user input, updating the local inventory in a non-volatile data store according to the change, synchronizing the local inventory with one or more nodes via a communication interface, and receiving, from the one or more nodes via the communication interface, periodic updates for a local cache comprising locations and inventories of one or more remote bins.

Abstract: Door sensor (30) for installation on the door leaf (21) of a swing or revolving door (20), having a 3D image sensor for monitoring a monitoring field (30) in front of the door leaf, having a rotation angle encoder for detecting the rotation angle of the door leaf, wherein the door sensor has a common support that connects the 3D image sensor to the rotation angle encoder.

Abstract: A system for securely depositing or retrieving an item includes: a deposit box with a door configured to provide selective access to an interior space in the deposit box; a lock mechanism configured to attach to the deposit box to selectively block the door from opening; and a proximity sensor operatively connected to the lock mechanism to operate the lock mechanism to allow the door to open.

Abstract: The space characterization system may obtain readings from devices with electromagnetic (EM) field radios. Based on the readings, static and moving objects may be detected. The space characterization system may allow EM-based sensing of objects and room configuration, which may be based on collaboration of devices with EM radios across different EM spectra.

Abstract: An exemplary system and method provides a product notification and recommendation technology for monitoring a computing device to detect particular use-cases of device activity and providing a notification through a user interface that indicates at least one product corresponding to the detected particular use-cases. In this way, the product notification and recommendation technology adds a new dimension of usage-based personalization to targeted advertising that results in timely product and service recommendations.

Abstract: An electronic lock may transmit advertising that the electronic lock is available for communication. A smartphone may establish communication with the electronic lock in response to the advertising. The electronic lock may transmit an encrypted lock identification to the smartphone. The smartphone may transmit the lock identification and a smartphone identification to a cloud. In response, the cloud transmits to the smartphone an encrypted update such as the user database, time and date, and lock configuration. The smartphone may transmit the encrypted update to the electronic lock.

Abstract: A system for securely depositing an item includes: a lock mechanism configured to attach to a deposit box having a door configured to provide elective access to an interior space in the box to selectively block the door from opening and allow the door to open to provide access to the interior space; and a first proximity sensor operatively connected to the lock mechanism to operate the lock mechanism to block the door or allow the door to open, a second proximity sensor configured to be attached to at least one of: a delivery person and a piece of delivery equipment; a third proximity sensor; and a first transmitter operatively connected to the lock mechanism and configured to transmit a signal indicative of operating information regarding the lock mechanism.

Abstract: A system and method are described for alerting a user that an area they have entered or are about to enter has a restriction on carriage of a firearm. Methods include detecting the presence of a firearm within an intelligent article of luggage, detecting the current geographic location, comparing the current geographic location to a set of restricted carriage locations, and presenting an alert.

Abstract: Establishing a communication link may include transmitting by a first device an unmodulated first electromagnetic EHF signal and receiving by a second device the first electromagnetic EHF signal. The second device may determine whether the received first electromagnetic EHF signal indicates that a first shield portion and a second shield portion are in alignment. The transmission of a modulated second electromagnetic EHF signal may be enabled when the received first electromagnetic EHF signal indicates that both the shield portions are in alignment and may be disabled when the received first electromagnetic EHF signal indicates that the first and second shield portions are not in alignment.

Abstract: A dispensing system including a dispenser for dispensing a product and a waste receptacle for receiving a used product. A triggering connection is present between the dispenser and the waste receptacle. The triggering connection is suitable to trigger in response to a dispensing action an encouraging action of the waste receptacle to encourage use of the waste receptacle.

Abstract: A determination is made at a server that a network connected device is to control monitoring performed by a first network connected sensor. A first connection is established between the network connected device and the first network connected sensor, the first connection providing control of the first network connected sensor by the network connected device. A context change for the network connected device is determined. A second connection between the network connected device and a second network connected sensor is established, the second connection providing control of the second network connected sensor by the network connected device.

Abstract: A medical supply monitoring system for a medical kit monitors supplies of the medical kit. The medical kit can house medical supplies within a container at a user location. At least one medical supply can have an electronic tracking tag affixed thereon. The system can include an access sensor, a client device, and a server. The access sensor can be installed upon a covering element of the monitored compartment to indicate when an access event has occurred. The client device can be installed within the container and connected to the access sensor. The client device can be configured to collect the situational data for the access event. The server can be remotely-located from the client device and can be configured to maintain an access log for the medical kit using the situational data collected by the client device.

Abstract: Techniques are described herein that transfer information using a container-located module. The module is coupled to sensor(s) that are configured to detect characteristic(s) pertaining to a medical substance that is included in a medical container. The module wirelessly transfers information that is based on the characteristic(s) to a requesting device in response to a request from the requesting device.

Abstract: There is disclosed inter alia a transport goods monitoring device having a cover which is configured to cover transport goods received by a transport goods receptacle, the cover comprising a conductor arrangement, the conductor arrangement being in a first state when the cover is intact, the conductor arrangement being transformable from the first state into a second state by damage of the cover and the conductor arrangement being connectable to a detector which is configured to detect the existence of the second state. Furthermore, there is disclosed an arrangement comprising a transport goods receptacle which is configured to receive transport goods, and such a transport goods monitoring device, the cover of the transport goods monitoring device covering the transport goods receptacle and optionally transport goods arranged thereon. Also disclosed is the use of such a transport goods monitoring device for safeguarding transport goods received by a transport goods receptacle.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for tamper detection of an electronic lock device using a capacitive proximity sensor. The capacitive proximity sensor is positioned on a printed circuit board that is positioned in an inner region of a housing of the electronic lock device. An electronic signal is transmitted to a conductive element, such as, for example, an area of a copper layer(s) or trace(s) on the printed circuit board. The transmitted electronic signal is monitored to determine a capacitance value. The capacitance value is evaluated to determine whether the capacitance value corresponds to known or predetermined capacitance values that are associated with a cover plate covering an opening of the inner region. In the event the capacitance value is determined to be outside of predetermined capacitance values, and signal may be generated to a reporting authority indicating the removal of the cover plate from the housing.

Abstract: The electrical panel barricade is a three sided cabinet that prevents unauthorized access to electrical panels that are uncovered for maintenance purposes. The electrical panel barricade is attached directly to the uncovered electrical panel using two adjustable clamping bars. The electrical panel barricade can be installed to protect an uncovered electrical panel that needs to be left unattended. The electrical panel barricade can be installed as a temporary closure to accommodate electrical testing equipment that may not fit into the original electrical panel. The electrical panel barricade comprises a door, a left panel, a right panel, a left locking wing, a right locking wing, a top member, and a bottom member.

Abstract: Methods and systems are described for monitoring medication use with a home automation system. An example medication monitoring system includes a medication storage device, a proximity device, and a dispenser module. The medication storage device is configured to hold a plurality of medications. The proximity device is configured to detect an activity of a user relative to the medication storage device. The dispense module is configured to detect a pattern of the activity based on data received from the proximity device, and generate a notice. The notice may be generated if the pattern is broken. The notice may include a summary report on usage of the medication storage device. The notice may include an alarm if the medication storage device is, for example, tampered with or moved.

Abstract: A dispensing system includes a container within which a material is contained. The dispensing system includes a nozzle, attached to the container, having a first portion and a second portion. The dispensing system includes a magnet attached to the first portion and a compliance system attached to the second portion. The compliance system includes a transmitter and a magnet sensor, coupled to the transmitter, for detecting a presence of the magnet when the first portion with respect to the second portion is in a closed position, and for detecting a non-presence of the magnet when the first portion with respect to the second portion is in an opened position. The transmitter transmits a wireless compliance signal indicative of the magnet sensor detecting at least one of the presence or the non-presence of the magnet.

Abstract: A beverage forming method and system in which a carafe is positionable at a carafe receiving area of a beverage forming machine with a lid of the carafe in an open position or a closed position. The carafe may be positioned at the carafe receiving area in any one of multiple rotational positions within a range of 45 to 180 degrees, and the machine may detect whether the lid is open or not for any of the rotational positions. Beverage forming is prevented if the lid is detected to be closed, allowing the carafe to be safely stored on the machine regardless of lid position.

Abstract: A circuit board anti-tamper mechanism comprises a circuit board having a frangible portion, a trigger having a trigger spring, a trigger arming mechanism actuated by the trigger wherein the trigger arming mechanism is initially non-actuated, a force producing mechanism, a latch providing mechanical communication between the trigger arming mechanism and the force producing mechanism, wherein the latch initially retains the force producing mechanism in a refracted position. Arming pressure applied to the trigger sufficient to overcome the trigger spring force will actuate the trigger arming mechanism, causing the anti-tamper mechanism to be armed. Subsequent tampering with the anti-tamper mechanism results in a decrease of pressure on the trigger below the trigger spring force, thereby causing the trigger arming mechanism to actuate the latch, thereby releasing the force producing mechanism to apply force to the frangible portion of the circuit board, thereby breaking the circuit board.

Abstract: Embodiments include systems and methods for improving electromagnetic compatibility of a data storage library to meet electromagnetic interference (EMI) requirements. Embodiments can operate in context of a data storage library having one or more robots to ferry storage media between media cells and media drives. The robot(s) can communicate with a controller system via a communications link using respective drivers, thereby employing coordinated-spread-spectrum, frequency-shifted keying (FSK) signals. For example, a transmitting driver can modulate instruction data into an FSK signal and transmit the FSK signal over a predefined spread-spectrum carrier signal; and a receiving driver can receive the FSK signal on the predefined spread-spectrum carrier signal and demodulating the FSK signal to recover the instruction data.

Abstract: A security tag or device for use with a product package. The security tag has an optical sensor that detects ambient radiation (or light, if any) within the package interior (e.g., from a source outside the package). The optical sensor is temporarily limited from detecting the ambient radiation within the package by a lock section. A device may be provided to activate the lock section so that the optical sensor can detect light in the package. The optical sensor can be aligned with an opening in the package after the lock section is activated. After calibration, the optical sensor is used to determine changes in detected ambient radiation within the package. The security tag has an alarm adapted to provide an alert when a change (e.g., above a threshold) in intensity of ambient radiation within a package is detected by the optical sensor.

Abstract: An electronic communication device includes an antenna configured to receive a radio frequency (RF) signal and generate a differential current signal at a first tag pin and a second tag pin. A first variable resistor is coupled to the first tag pin and a second variable resistor is coupled to the second tag pin. A mixer circuit is coupled across the first variable resistor and the second variable resistor and is configured to generate an output voltage. The output voltage is used for RF signal detection at all RF signal levels.

Abstract: A verification system including a block gage configured to connect to a voltage source comprising a ground terminal and a positive terminal, and to receive a top cover configured to mate with a base unit for a storage device. The block gage includes a plurality of pins, each of which being configured to: be electrically insulated from each other, form a completable circuit, be electrically connected to the positive terminal, and correspond in location and height to a top cover contact point in the base unit or a keep out point in the base unit. The block gage includes a spring mounted probe configured to be electrically connected to the ground terminal, wherein when the top cover contacts the spring mounted probe and a pin of the plurality of pins, a completable circuit for the contacted pin is completed, thereby indicating that the top cover contacted the contacted pin.

Abstract: An embedded security system for an environment-controlled trailer including a transportation refrigeration unit. The security system includes a plurality of sensors mounted to the trailer and a communication device embedded in the transportation refrigeration unit of the trailer, the communication device being configured to receive data from the plurality of sensors, and to send the received data to a controller being remote from the trailer. The controller is configured to monitor the security status of the trailer and to determine a security risk at the trailer based, at least in part, on the received data.

Abstract: An integrated security system that includes a security alarm reporting system (SARS) that is resilient to equipment failure and, as such, provides a comprehensive solution to the problem of an intruder attempting to disable an alarm reporting system. The integrated security system includes a gateway/touchscreen coupled to a security system. The gateway/touchscreen and the security system are at a first location and manage a variety of security and network devices at the first location. A security server at a second location is coupled to the security system and receives a first signal from the security system. A heartbeat signal is initiated that monitors health of the security system. The heartbeat signal may be initiated in response to the first signal. The security server detects a failure of the heartbeat signal and generates a report and sends the report to a central monitoring station. The report is an electronic report that indicates failure of the security system.

Abstract: Systems and methods are operable to perform pre-operations at a media device in anticipation of an occurrence of a user action. An exemplary embodiment receives an in-use signal from an electronic device that is remotely proximate to the media device, wherein the received in-use signal corresponds to a user interaction with the electronic device; and performs the pre-operation at the media device. The pre-operation is performed prior to receiving an initial user action configured to operate at least one of the media device and a media presentation device coupled to the media device.

Abstract: A registering and counting system operated in response to information included on data bearing records is used for maintaining inventory records related to narcotics items. Data corresponding to users is read through record reading devices. Authorized users are allowed access to a narcotics vault. Narcotics holding containers are removable from storage locations in drawers. Wireless transmitters on the containers operate in conjunction with wireless readers in the storage locations to enable a computer to track the use of the narcotics items and operating parameters of the registering and counting system.

Abstract: A tool for configuring a replacement electronic control unit for a vehicle is provided. The tool includes a computer storage medium having a computer program encoded thereon which may be stored on an electronic module or installed on a computing device that connects to a communications bus in the vehicle. The program includes code for accessing a first memory associated with an original electronic control unit for the vehicle, retrieving a configuration for the original electronic control unit from the first memory, associating the configuration with a vehicle identification number associated with the vehicle in a second memory remote from the vehicle and downloading the configuration from the second memory to a third memory associated with the replacement electronic control unit for the vehicle.

Abstract: A cabinet lock for protecting merchandise within a merchandise display cabinet having an inner door and an outer door. The cabinet lock includes a strike plate affixed to the inner door and a lock housing affixed to the outer door such that the cabinet is in a locked configuration that prevents access to the merchandise when the lock housing is operably engaged to the strike plate. A programmable electronic key communicates a security code with the cabinet lock and transfers electrical power to the cabinet lock to operate a lock mechanism between the locked configuration and an unlocked configuration. An indicator is provided for indicating whether the cabinet lock is in the locked configuration or the unlocked configuration. The indicator includes a first segment and a second segment that can be energized to visually indicate the status of the cabinet lock.

Abstract: Mounting devices for attaching electronics equipment to a cargo container. An embodiment of the present invention comprises a mounting plate comprising a first portion for securing the electronics equipment to the mounting device, a second portion, coupled to the first portion at an edge of the first portion, at an approximate right angle to the first portion, and a third portion, coupled to the second portion at a second edge, wherein the third portion is approximately parallel to the first portion, wherein a length of the second portion being substantially similar to a width of a door of the cargo container, and the third portion is of sufficient length to retain the mounting device on the cargo container when the door of the cargo container is closed.

Abstract: A monitoring device in accordance with the disclosure stores a serial number list in non-volatile memory, the serial number list including data indicative of at least one valid serial number associated with one or more key fobs permitted to interact with the monitoring device. The monitoring device is configured to receive a wakeup signal via a key fob interface configured to communicate with a key fob. The monitoring device reads a serial number from a key fob via the key fob interface and searches the stored serial number list for data indicative of a valid serial number matching the serial number read via the key fob interface. The monitoring device reads action data from the key fob via the key fob interface, the action data being indicative of an action to be taken by the monitoring device. The monitoring device, in response to the read serial number matching a valid serial number of the stored serial number list, takes an action based on the action data.

Abstract: Apparatus for counteracting a suicide attempt of a person trying to hang himself from a cord extended over the top edge of a door which door has an inside upper surface facing the interior of the room, the apparatus including an elongated pressure sensor mountable on that inside upper surface of the door, the sensor having an exposed surface facing away from the inside surface of the door, that exposed surface being responsive to a force applied thereagainst by a segment of a cord when it is draped over the top of the door and hanging downward adjacent the inside surface, and the apparatus being adapted to forward an alarm signal indicating the sensing of the force by the cord, and an electrical controller to forward an alarm signal indicating that the sensor has sensed the downward force.

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.

Abstract: A system for providing communications for container security is provided. The system includes a sensing system for monitoring the contents of the container; a signal receiving element for receiving sensor data from the sensing system; a control element for analyzing received sensor data; a first transceiver element for receiving signals containing sensor data from within the container and for transmitting those signals outside of the container.

Abstract: An alarm for digital storage discs includes an alarm module positioned within the central indention found in conventional CD and DVD jewel cases. A lid sensor in communication with the alarm module includes a pair of spaced trigger arms that form an ovate opening. A nodule on the uppermost arm engages the jewel case lid to maintain engagement of electrical contacts on the arms. An arming switch includes a magnetically-operated pin that is extended into the opening formed between the triggers to prevent the contacts from separating. Once the jewel case is sealed, an arming station initially retracts the pin while the case lid firmly engages the nodule to maintain the contacts in engagement. If an unauthorized user opens the jewel case without first extending the pin at the arming station, the triggers will automatically separate thereby activating the alarm.

Abstract: A secure data entry device including a housing, tamper sensitive circuitry located within the housing and tampering alarm indication circuitry arranged to provide an alarm indication in response to attempted access to the tamper sensitive circuitry, the tampering alarm indication circuitry including at least one conductor, a signal generator operative to transmit a signal along the at least one conductor and a signal analyzer operative to receive the signal transmitted along the at least one conductor and to sense tampering with the at least one conductor, the signal analyzer being operative to sense the tampering by sensing changes in at least one of a rise time and a fall time of the signal.

Abstract: A structure breach may be determined. A sensor, provided in the structure, may be driven with a constant frequency signal. The sensor may comprise a first conductive element and a second conductive element. The first conductive element may be substantially parallel with the second conductive element. A standing wave pattern may be induced on the sensor by the constant frequency signal reflecting off a termination point of the sensor. A least one characteristic of the sensor caused by the voltage standing wave pattern may be measured. A breach occurrence in the structure may be determined when the measured at least one characteristic varies from a previously determined value by a predetermined amount. The first conductive element and the second conductive element may be sandwiched between two layers comprising the structure. The structure may comprise a shipping container floor. The detected breach may comprise an opening greater than nine square inches.

Abstract: A cover access notification device is employed with a utility meter box having a cover. The device is operable to detect when an impermissible open condition has occurred, for example, if an intruder breaks into a meter box. If a tampered condition is sensed, the device transmits a signal through a smart grid network which can be received by a revenue protection system that in turn monitors tampering of a utility meter.

Abstract: A system for providing communications for container security is provided. The system includes a sensing system for monitoring the contents of the container; a signal receiving element for receiving sensor data from the sensing system; a control element for analyzing received sensor data; a first transceiver element for receiving signals containing sensor data from within the container and for transmitting those signals outside of the container; and a satellite transceiver element for receiving signals from the first transceiver element and for forwarding the received signals via satellite uplink to a remote location.

Abstract: A compact wireless security sensor having a magnetically operated plunger switch. The compact nature of the sensor of the present invention makes it ideal for being substantially concealing into a door frame or window as part of a wireless security system. The sensor unit includes a housing having an inner end, an outer end, and a magnet positioned within a moveable plunger, and an antenna, preferably a flexible wire antenna. The housing further contains a sensor switch, a microprocessor with a PCB, a wireless transmitter, such as an RF transmitter, and a power source, such as a small coin cell battery, for emitting signals to a master station or controller when the plunger switch is depressed and activates the internal sensor switch.