Abstract: A patient identification system for relating items with patients and ensuring that an identified item corresponds to an identified patient. The patient identification system includes a computer system (42) interconnected to a plurality of remote terminals (62) by conventional telephone wiring (66,70). The patient identification system further including a portable bar code reading device (48) including a bar code wand (120), an LCD display (116) and a key pad (114). The portable bar code reading device (48) communicates via RF transmission with an RF/PLC modem (60).

Abstract: A patient identification system for relating items with patients and ensuring that an identified item corresponds to an identified patient. The patient identification system includes a computer system (42) interconnected to a plurality of remote terminals (62) by conventional telephone wiring (66, 70). The patient identification system further including a portable bar code reading device (48) including a bar code wand (120), an LCD display (116) and a key pad (114). The portable bar code reading device (48) communicates via RF transmission with an RF/PLC modem (60).

Abstract: The present invention relates to a magnetic sensor apparatus (21) for use in a remote meter monitoring system (20) for remotely monitoring the dials (54a-e) of a utility meter (56) by use of Hall Effect devices (40-49). The Hall Effect devices (40-49) are concentrically positioned about the axis of rotation of a pointer member (64) having a permanent magnetic member (66) attached to a free end thereof. The Hall Effect devices (40-49) are axially displaced from the permanent magnetic member (66) and are in alignment with the circumferential path of travel of the permanent magnetic member (66). A microprocessor (68) electrically interconnected to the Hall Effect devices (40-49) selectively drives each of the Hall Effect devices (40-49). The microprocessor (68) further monitors the Hall Effect devices (40-49) and obtains output signals therefrom representative of the angular position of the pointer member (64).

Abstract: An encapsulating apparatus for protecting an electrical circuit, the electrical circuit comprising a plurality of discrete electrical components supported on a circuit board and connected electrically to each other and to external electrical lead lines. The encapsulating apparatus comprises an imperforately walled hollow container defining oppositely first and second openings through the wall thereof. The container further comprises internal support means for receiving and positioning the electrical components in a predetermined relationship to the container and to each other with the lead lines extending outwardly through the first opening. The second opening is completely closed by a cap having a portion corresponding in size and configuration to said second opening. The cap further comprises at least one irregularly shaped arm projecting into the container when the cap is in closing relationship to the second opening, positively fixedly positioning the components in their predetermined relationship.

Abstract: A frequency shift key demodulator produces an output data stream based upon whether a FSK modulated input signal has a frequency (f.sub.FSK) which is greater than or less than a reference frequency (f.sub.0) of a reference (REF) signal. The demodulator includes a sequence generator which generates a two bit binary code which represents the phase angle between the FSK and REF signals. The sequence of the code indicates the sign of the phase velocity between the FSK and REF signals. The demodulator also includes first and second sequence detectors, first and second integrating shift registers, and a decision circuit. The first sequence detector provides an output signal to the first shift register indicating that the FSK signal has a frequency less than the REF signal based upon detection of a first predetermined sequence of the code from the sequence generator.

Abstract: A method of and apparatus for discriminator FSK signals using a tri-state phase detector is disclosed in which an input of known frequency is combined with the unknown FSK signal input and the output is fed to an integrator only after the minimum clearing time of the tri-state during each bit period. The integrator receives only the cleared signal for use in binary data signal determination thereby overcoming problems associated with lack of initial phase information at the tri-state phase detector.

Abstract: A key-actuated locking device is used with a key having a plurality of spaced-apart teeth which define a pattern. The locking device includes a key passageway into which the key is inserted with predetermined orientation. A plurality of elastomeric conductors are positioned proximate the passageway and are selectively compressed by the teeth of the key when the key is inserted into the key passageway. A plurality of pairs of separated conductors are also supported by a base (such as a printed circuit board). Each conductor pair is positioned to be engaged and conductively connected by one of the elastomeric conductors when that elastomeric conductor is connected by a tooth of the key. A circuit is connected to the separated conductor pairs which permits operation of a lock mechanism when all of the proper elastomeric conductors (corresponding to the required pattern of teeth on the key) are compressed and all other elastomeric conductors are not compressed.