Abstract: Apparatus includes an actuator configured to provide vibrational movement of the apparatus in a first plane or having a component in the first plane, and a traction part configured to support a portion of the apparatus on a surface, a plane of the surface being perpendicular to the first plane, the traction part being configured to transform the vibrational movement of the apparatus into movement of the portion of the apparatus in a direction along the surface, the direction of the movement being predetermined by an orientation of the traction part.

Abstract: Apparatus having corresponding methods and computer-readable media comprise: a paging module configured to provide paging parameters for a mobile station, wherein the paging parameters include i) a paging listening interval length Lp for each paging listening interval, ii) a paging cycle period Pp, and iii) a paging cycle offset Qp; and a sleep module configured to determine sleep parameters for the mobile station based on the paging parameters, wherein the sleep parameters include i) a wakeup interval length Ls for each wakeup interval, ii) a sleep cycle period Ps, and iii) a sleep cycle offset Qs; and wherein the sleep module is further configured to determine the sleep parameters such that each paging listening interval overlaps one of the wakeup intervals.

Abstract: A wireless sensor probe for use in environmental monitoring and control includes a separable probe body and sensor mast. The probe body includes a void configured to house the sensor mast including one or more sensor devices for sensing a soil property surrounding the probe body when the probe body is inserted partially into the ground. The probe body includes a probe top part for encapsulating the probe body and the sensor mast. The sensor mast is inserted into the probe body to form the sensor probe. In another embodiment, a wireless sensor probe includes a housing containing one or more sensor devices. The probe further includes a collar situated near a top portion of the housing being used to anchor the housing to the top of the ground and a gasket formed on the outside perimeter of the housing for securing the housing in the ground.

Abstract: A two-stage method is used to page a target mobile station. A wireless network transmits an initial page message into a plurality of wireless coverage areas (e.g., the wireless coverage areas defined by a paging zone) that includes the target mobile station's last reported location. The initial page message is received by a plurality of mobile stations, which then transmit a plurality of responses. The plurality of responses includes a target response from the target mobile station. The wireless network determines the target wireless coverage area that received the target response and then transmits a supplemental page message into the target wireless coverage area. The initial page message may be a very short message, such as a page indicator, that does not identify the target mobile station. The supplemental page message may be a longer message that identifies the target mobile station and the reason for the page.

Abstract: A system and a method for remotely controlling at least one device based on operation of a foot pedal apparatus are provided. The system includes a device selection module (DSM) configured to transmit a first modulated RF signal at a first RF frequency having a communication linking command and a first RF frequency identifier. The first RF frequency identifier indicates a second RF frequency different than the first RF frequency. The system further includes a device control module (DCM) configured to receive the first modulated RF signal at the first RF frequency and to compare the communication linking command to a predetermined communication linking command. If the communication linking command corresponds to the predetermined communication linking command then the DCM selects the second RF frequency based on the first RF frequency identifier for subsequent RF signal reception.

Abstract: A method at an alarm monitoring station and security system arrangement for detecting alarm signals originating at security systems on incoming calls carried by a telecommunications line includes, for each call, measuring a noise level on the line in the absence of signals originated by the security systems. Based on the measuring, at least one signal detection threshold above the noise level is set, wherein a level of a signal must exceed the signal detection threshold in order to be detected as a data signal. Alarm data signals in the call are detected using the signal detection threshold.

Abstract: A system and method for determining the location of wireless sensors are disclosed. The system may generally include a plurality of wireless sensor nodes communicatively coupled to a plurality of sensing devices. Additionally, the system may include a paging device configured to wirelessly transmit a page command to at least one of the wireless sensor nodes. Further, the at least one wireless sensor node may be configured to produce a position indicator upon receipt of the page command.

Abstract: A communication device including a receiving unit and a signal processing module having a simulation unit and a decision unit is provided. The receiving unit receives a first burst of a paging message provided from a base station. Base on a reference burst code and an estimated channel impulse response of the communication channel, the simulation unit generates a simulation burst. The decision unit then determines if the paging message is a dummy message in accordance with the first burst and the simulation burst. The decision unit requests the receiving unit to stop receiving the paging message once the paging message is determined to be a dummy message.

Abstract: A base station adds a paging message indicator representing a position of a frame to receive a paging advertisement message and a paging subgroup indicator representing a paging subgroup to which the paging advertisement message is to be transmitted to a PGID-INFO message and transmits the PGID-INFO message to a terminal, and the terminal determines whether a paging advertising message is to be transmitted using a paging message indicator and a paging subgroup indicator of the PGID-INFO message and a position of a frame to receive a paging advertisement message.

Abstract: A portable terminal includes an alarm control. A method for controlling an alarm includes determining whether an input fact to analyze an exceptional situation of an alarm operation is generated; analyzing the exceptional situation by rule using at least one fact; and when there is an alarm which is placed in the exceptional situation, cancelling the alarm.

Abstract: The described system and method enable user health monitoring and alerting by providing an arm-mounted sensor wirelessly linked to a wrist-mounted transponder, although the wrist-mounted transponder may be omitted in favor of a user-carried cellular device. In either embodiment of the invention, a remote server is included to receive user health data and alerts, and to log received data and, when necessary, to alert health service providers. Health service providers may include physicians and emergency services providers.

Abstract: A patient bed with a multimedia system is disclosed. A patient can access a net work through the multimedia system, and to join a net meeting to chat with other patients. The multimedia system can also provide a consolidated platform of medical information for a doctor or a nurse. An input device of the patient bed may have a touch pad, which allows the patient to control the position of patient support through finger gesture.

Abstract: A method for replying to an incoming communication received by a handheld electronic device comprises detecting an incoming communication, detecting a selection of one of a number of predetermined responses to the incoming communication and, responsive to detecting a selection, providing the one of said number of predetermined responses. An improved handheld electronic device implementing the method is also provided.

Abstract: A system for activating and deactivating a remotely controlled vehicle starter includes a handheld mobile communication device having at least a speaker mounted therein and a wireless transmitter having at least a start switch mounted therein. A first wire connects a negative voltage supply path to the speaker circuit with a negative voltage supply path to the start switch circuit. A variable resistor is provided and has a pair of end terminals. There is a second wire having each of a first end thereof electrically connected to a positive voltage supply path to the speaker circuit and an opposed second end thereof electrically connected to one terminal end of the variable resistor. A third wire is also provided to connect an opposed end terminal of the variable resistor to a positive voltage supply path to the start switch.

Abstract: A system and method for billing an incoming communication. A code is received from a calling party during the incoming communication. Expenses of the incoming communication are allocated to an account of the calling party in response to receiving the code. An invoice is generated for the calling party and a receiving party specifying the expenses.

Abstract: A method for transmitting a plurality of notifications in a notification pool includes determining a first notification batch having the plurality of notifications, and assigning a priority weight to each of the plurality of notifications, at least two of the priority weights being different. The method further includes inserting the first notification batch into the notification pool, and transmitting the plurality of notifications in the notification pool sequentially, based on the priority weights of the plurality of notifications. A system for transmitting a plurality of notifications is also provided.

Abstract: A movable barrier operator system includes a motor that is used to move a movable barrier. The system also includes an audio amplifier device. First power is supplied to the audio amplifier device to thereby render corresponding content locally audible. Information regarding starting of the motor is received and the first power supplied to the audio amplifier device is automatically reduced in response to receiving the information.

Abstract: Systems and methods for supporting variable beacon timing for a first wireless device and a second wireless device are provided. An exemplary system may include a number of wireless devices configured to wirelessly communicate with one another. The system includes a beacon-transmitting wireless device and a listening wireless device. The beacon-transmitting wireless device is configured to transmit, during a first operating mode, wireless beacons separated in time by relatively long time intervals. The beacon-transmitting device is also configured to transmit, during a second operating mode, wireless beacons separated in time by relatively short time intervals. The listening wireless device is configured to listen, during the first operating mode, for wireless beacons transmitted by the beacon-transmitting wireless device, and is configured to listen, during the second operating mode, for wireless beacons transmitted by the beacon-transmitting wireless device.

Abstract: An electronic pager has a transmitting mechanism that can transmit searching signals after activation. The transmitting mechanism has a button electrically connected with the power supply, and a transmitter electrically connected with the button. A receiving mechanism is set in the remote controller to make a sound after receiving the searching signals. The receiving mechanism has a receiver and a buzzer electrically connected with the receiver.

Abstract: Establishing a connection from a caller to a user using a pre-authorized credit from the user is described. A processor identifies one or more source identifications (IDs) for receiving pre-authorized credit for the incoming call. One or more destinations are specified to receive the incoming call. The processor defines a rule associated with the one or more destinations and the one or more source IDs. An interface receives the incoming call directed to one of the destinations from the caller. A storage area stores the defined rule. The incoming call and the caller are determined as a function of the one of the destinations, one or more identified source IDs and the defined rule. The pre-authorized credit is issued for the incoming call from the caller if it is determined that the incoming call to the destination satisfies the defined rule. The processor routes the incoming call to the user.

Abstract: A barrier operator is configured to learn and receive disparate wireless transmission signals to control movement of a barrier. The operator includes a receiver core circuit adapted to receive wireless transmission signals containing known and unknown formatted data words. A microcontroller is adapted to determine a fixed code portion of the unknown formatted data words. The microcontroller is also associated with a memory unit and connected to the receiver core circuit for storing in the memory unit the known formatted data words and the unknown formatted data words if the fixed code portion can be determined when the microcontroller is in a learn mode. The receiver core circuit may also scan only frequencies associated with learn codes, pre-selected frequencies, and incremental frequencies within a predetermined range of frequencies.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for registration-less paging comprising establishing a mobile device identity for a mobile device in a wireless network; determining a time instance for the identified mobile device to listen to pages; sending a page from the wireless network to the identified mobile device during the determined time instance. In one example, the apparatus and method is for a network-initiated attach procedure comprising receiving a request to attach a mobile device in a wireless network; generating a paging message based on the request to attach the mobile device; sending a paging indicator to a mobile device based on the paging message during a time instance based on an agreed rule; and accepting an attach procedure from the mobile device based on the paging indicator.

Abstract: In a notifying device comprising a notifying unit 2 having incorporated therein a vibrator to be resonated by a drive signal fed thereto, and a signal preparing circuit 5 for feeding the drive signal to the notifying unit 2, the signal preparing circuit 5 prepares a drive signal Dv varying in frequency within a predetermined range including the resonance frequency of the vibrator of the unit 2 and feeds the signal to the notifying unit 2. The variation of frequency of the drive signal is determined in correspond relation with a variation in the resonance frequency of the vibrator due to tolerances for specifications which govern the resonance frequency. The drive signal has an alternating waveform of rectangular waves or sine waves, and the frequency thereof varies periodically from 1.37 to 2.98 Hz. The notifying device achieves a satisfactory notifying effect despite the variation of the resonance frequency of the vibrator.

Abstract: When an entity (such as a customer using a communication device 131, 141, 151 . . . ) attempts to communicate with a target (such as an employee), an arrangement indicates to the customer, “status” information describing at least the employee's present and future ability to communicate with the entity (such as by returning his call). At least one sensing device 111-119 is configured to provide sensing information concerning the target employee's status in response to an action of the target employee with respect to the sensing device. A monitoring server 102 is configured to receive the sensing information and to govern communication to the entity (customer) of the target's “status.” In one implementation, a particular sensing device (such as a cash register 111, computer terminal 112, or time clock 113) is configured to perform both (A) a primary function that is not related to providing the sensing information, and (B) the secondary function of providing the sensing information.

Abstract: An alarm clock, a system and a method wake a user. The alarm clock may have a transmitter which sends a signal to an ear piece which may be worn in and/or on an ear of a user. The earpiece may emit an alert in response to the wireless signal to alert the user to a specified time without disturbing other individuals. The earpiece may have a vibrating module which may emit vibrations into the ear after receiving the signal. The earpiece may have a speaker which may emit an audible alert.

Abstract: An individual entertainment display device which can produce lights and sounds as part of an entertainment presentation, and can be used individually or as part of a coordinated entertainment presentation with other display devices.

Abstract: A system and method for providing integrated telephony and Internet services is described. An embodiment of the present invention comprises passively collecting incoming and/or outgoing call information from communications links communicatively coupled to a first party. The call information is extracted and customer information, such as demographic information, is retrieved. The customer information may be, for example, retrieved from a data provider or may have been previously collected or gathered. Thereafter, reports, charts, graphs, maps, and the like may be made available. In an embodiment, the reports, charts, graphs, maps, and the like are made available via a network such as the Internet.

Abstract: The remote control holder of the present invention includes one or more recesses for holding remote controls and one or more cup holders. The holder may also include a heating device and/or a cooling device coupled to the cup holder. The holder may also include a paging system with one or more paging buttons. Each of the paging buttons is associated with one of the recesses. Each paging button may be a different color. In addition, each paging button may be associated with a paging receiver attached to a remote control to be stored in the recess that is associated with the paging button. The method for using the remote control holder includes locating a remote control by depressing a paging button, thereby causing the associated paging receiver attached to the remote control to emit an audible alarm. The remote control may then be disposed within the recess associated with the paging button.

Abstract: A security system capable of safely performing home device state check or operation. In the security system, a mobile telephone module of a mobile telephone transmits M-series data (call signal) to home device modules provided in home devices such as a door lock and home electric appliances. In response to this call, the home device module returns a home device ID to the mobile telephone module. The mobile telephone module authenticates the home device module according to the home device ID and after authentication, returns a mobile telephone ID and state check or operation command to the home device module. The home device module authenticates the mobile telephone module according to the mobile telephone ID. When this mutual authentication is complete, the home device module performs the home device state check or operation according to the command and returns the result to the mobile telephone module.

Abstract: A method for associating a WSTA to a service set, wherein the service set is configurable at the AP. Each service set is an arbitrary grouping of one or more network service parameters, and is typically configured for either VLAN or proxy mobile IP host. When a wireless station desires to associate with an access point, the wireless station sends a message to the access point, the message containing a SSID. The access point then matches the SSID to a service set and associates the WSTA to either a home subnet or a VLAN based on the SSID. By locally configuring the service set, the default VLAN and home subnet for a WSTA may be different at each AP the WSTA encounters. A security server is configured with a list of allowed SSIDs for each wireless station to prevent unauthorized access to a VLAN or home subnet.

Abstract: A cell broadcasting service system includes: a terminal for generating a short message service (SMS) type message and a cell broadcasting service (CBS) type message; an SMS center for transmitting a CBS type message to a CB center when receiving the CBS type message from the terminal; and a CB center for broadcasting a received message to a corresponding range area by referring to broadcast range information of the message when receiving the message from the SMS center. By assigning a CB ID to a specific subscriber group (a small circles or a local group), a general subscriber can broadcast a short message in the position of the CB entity. In addition, various get-together information and local information can be easily provided to subscribers of a group located within a broadcast range, and more efficient and substantial information can be provided at a low cost.

Abstract: A wireless electronic tracking system employs transmitters attached to moveable target items that send continuous analog radio frequency (RF) digitally-coded signals at prime number differentiated time intervals to a base receiver. The coded signals carry transmitter and base unit identifiers, low battery and attachment status information. The base unit periodically scans using an omnidirectional antenna to determine distance and azimuth for multiple active transmitters, alerting an operator to any status alerts, such as ‘out of range’ status determined by signal strength. The operator can switch to a higher gain, directional antenna to search for an errant target transmitter, or simply to check on the whereabouts of any given target item. Because the movable target items need only transmit, the transmitters can be physically diminutive and unobtrusive to the target wearer, making the system practical for tracking people (e.g.

Abstract: When an entity (such as a customer using a communication device 131, 141, 151 . . . ) attempts to communicate with a target (such as an employee), an arrangement indicates to the customer, “status” information describing at least the employee's present and future ability to communicate with the entity (such as by returning his call). At least one sensing device 111-119 is configured to provide sensing information concerning the target employee's status in response to an action of the target employee with respect to the sensing device. A monitoring server 102 is configured to receive the sensing information and to govern communication to the entity (customer) of the target's “status.” In one implementation, a particular sensing device (such as a cash register 111, computer terminal 112, or time clock 113) is configured to perform both (A) a primary function that is not related to providing the sensing information, and (B) the secondary function of providing the sensing information.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention provide systems and methods for distributing urgent public information. For example, one exemplary of the invention provides a method for providing an alert to a subscriber. The exemplary method comprises receiving an alert message from at least one alert source. The alert message often will be pertinent to at least one of the subscribers. The alert message can comprise an alert and associated alert information. The alert information can provide information about the alert such that the information can be analyzed determine whether a particular subscriber likely should receive the alert. Other embodiments provide systems, which can be used to perform the methods of the invention.

Abstract: A portable computer is described that contains a circuit for receiving pages and performing security functions based on the received page. Once a page has been received by the portable computer, the computer's hard drive can be automatically reformatted, or the portable computer can be prevented from booting. In addition, the portable computer can be programmed to use a modem to automatically dial a security center and transmit security information such as the Caller ID Tag of the current telephone number.

Abstract: A portable computer is described that contains a circuit for receiving pages and performing security functions based on the received page. Once a page has been received by the portable computer, the computer's hard drive can be automatically reformatted, or the portable computer can be prevented from booting. In addition, the portable computer can be programmed to use a modem to automatically dial a security center and transmit security information such as the Caller ID Tag of the current telephone number.

Abstract: A system for monitoring and controlling a set of power users, in particular household appliances, which users (U) are connected to a first communication network (RE) through appropriate interfacing means (N) for the exchange of information and/or instructions, where transmitter/receiver means (MC) connected to said first communication network (RE) are provided for establishing a communication channel to a second remote network (IN) and/or remote terminal (TC). According to the present invention, said transmitter/receiver means (MC) are associated to one of said electric users (LB) and share one of the interfacing means (N) associated to said user (LB).

Abstract: A system and associated method for controlling access to a designated area. The system includes a programmable unit, a programming unit, a programmable tag, and a validation system. The programmable unit generates a first and second key for each access to the designated area. The programming unit generates an access key using the first key. The programmable tag stores the access key. The validation system includes a control unit, a memory, and a communication device. The control unit generates a validation key using the second key. The memory stores the validation key. The communication device establishes a data communication with the programmable tag to receive the access key therefrom. The control unit compares the access key and the validation key and causes the security device to allow access to the designated area if the access key matches the validation key.

Abstract: A method of paging a plurality of users by synchronizing user equipment (UE) specific paging and Point-to-Multipoint (PtM) user group paging to reduce power consumption when the UE is in a discontinuous reception state. The UE identities are defined such that paging occasions and common paging channels are synchronized for multiple users within a PtM user group.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention provide systems and methods for distributing urgent public information. For example, one exemplary of the invention provides a method for providing an alert to a subscriber. The exemplary method comprises receiving an alert message from at least one alert source. The alert message often will be pertinent to at least one of the subscribers. The alert message can comprise an alert and associated alert information. The alert information can provide information about the alert such that the information can be analyzed determine whether a particular subscriber likely should receive the alert. Other embodiments provide systems, which can be used to perform the methods of the invention.

Abstract: A method and system for controlling vehicle functions using a walkie-type cellular phone is provided. A cellular phone is used to make a walkie-talkie type connection with a device disposed within a vehicle. The cellular phone sends a message to a receiver of the device disposed with the vehicle. The message instructs the device on how to control the vehicle. The device is electrically connected to one or more vehicle controls of the vehicle.

Abstract: A method, apparatus, and computer program are provided for remotely controlling the ignition of a vehicle. A variety of conditions can be placed on the vehicle for operation, such as time or geography, from a variety of remote wireless technologies. The ignition control system is also capable of effectively learning safe zones under which the vehicle can operate. Also, the ignition control system can cease operations upon request by an owner or law enforcement.

Abstract: A pager-based alert system includes a monitor center that is in telephonic or data communication with a paging station allowing the command center to send multi-digit code words where selected digits comprise an address for selecting one or more of a plurality of physical units (paging receivers) and to direct the receiver to output visible and/or audible signals indicative of a particular alert condition. By providing the physical unit with graphic icons overlaying the visual indicators, an observer can readily determine the nature of the alert condition so that appropriate remedial action can be taken.

Abstract: In a system for remotely controlling the supply of electric power to customer premises, each customer premises is fitted with a power-switching arrangement coupled to a paging receiver (5-1, 5-2, 5-3). A utility company supplying the electric power can input requests to a server (1), optionally via a terminal (2) or a network link (3). A software application running on the server generates a control instruction in response to a request and sends it to a paging service (4) for transmission over a paging network. When a paging message is received at one of said customer-premises paging receivers, if the control instruction is appropriately addressed the power-switching arrangement will put it into effect, for example to connect or reconnect the customer premises power supply.

Abstract: A method for voice based communication between a number of mobile terminals of a telecommunication network, the method comprising the steps of creating a group of said number of terminals and storing group information in each of the number of terminals, recording a voice message in one of the terminals of the group, dispatching the voice message to the terminals of the group from the one of the terminals, and receiving the voice message at at least all other terminals of the group. The step of creating a group of terminals further comprises the steps of coupling together a number of mobile terminals, initiating a group creation command from at least one of the terminals, sending predetermined information from terminal to terminal to each terminal of the number of terminals for forming a group information, and transmitting the group information to all of the terminals thus forming a group of the terminals.

Abstract: A terminal usage limiting apparatus for limiting the use of a portable telephone in a specific predetermined area. The terminal usage limiting apparatus 105 is installed to provide service to mobile terminals 101 in a usage limiting area 108. The terminal usage limiting apparatus 105 outputs control signals as a base station and additional usage limit messages. The terminal usage limiting apparatus 105 enables a mobile terminal 101 in the usage limiting area 108 to recognize the apparatus 105 as a base station so that the mobile terminal is switched from the base station to the apparatus 105. As a result, the mobile terminal 101 receives a usage limit message from the apparatus 105. Thus, the mobile terminal 101 enters into a predetermined operation limit mode where call originations are restricted. In addition, in this mode, the mobile terminal 101 receives control messages from the terminal usage limiting apparatus, and the control message includes a long code mask corresponding to the apparatus 105.

Abstract: A curtailment module is disclosed for enabling an energy provider to send a request to curtail energy use to a user. The curtailment module includes an interface for electronic communications with a temperature control device. A paging module is used to receive the request from the energy provider through a paging network. The curtailment module also includes a processor in electronic communication with the paging module for receiving the request from the paging module. Memory is also included and is in electronic communication with the processor for storing a curtailment message and history data. The curtailment module also includes a sound component in electronic communication with the processor for outputting an audio verification. A code generator is stored in the memory and executable by the processor to generate a verification code using the curtailment message and the history data as inputs.

Abstract: A client/server based system provides an integrated messages system for a user having access to accounts on a number of different terminal communication devices, including at least one wireless terminal device. In a preferred embodiment, the system includes an agent that formats messages according to the formatting requirements of a receiving terminal device. The agent is connected to a wireless communications server and is adapted to receive and distribute messages, such as e-mail, from and to a multiplicity of senders and recipients, such as terminal devices interconnected over a network. Messages received from a terminal device and intended for a user may be forwarded to the user by the agent via a wireless communications server and wireless terminal device. The system enables the user to receive the incoming message and to reply to such a message or to generate an original message.

Abstract: A curtailment module is disclosed for enabling an energy provider to send a request to curtail energy use to a user. The curtailment module includes an interface for electronic communications with a temperature control device. A paging module is used to receive the request from the energy provider through a paging network. The curtailment module also includes a processor in electronic communication with the paging module for receiving the request from the paging module. Memory is also included and is in electronic communication with the processor.

Abstract: A system and method for a call receiving pager apparatus, system and method utilizing a dedicated switch for providing proprietary access, billing functions and other enhanced features is described. The system utilizes a subscriber apparatus having pager or radiotelephone functions whereby a caller may call the apparatus and gain direct two-way communication with the subscriber. The caller is billed for the communication. A call receiving pager apparatus, system and method which enables two-way text messaging as well as the storage, retrieval, and recall of telephone numbers making calls to the pager apparatus where the recalls are made by way of sending a data package to the stored caller number is described. The subscriber is unable to initiate any real time two-way communication with the outgoing connection.