Abstract: A monitoring system for the cargo space of a transporting device such as a goods-carrying vehicle, an aircraft or a container, including a control unit, to which a characteristic value for the actual state of motion of the transporting device can be fed and which, on the data input-side, is connected to a number of motion sensors and, on the data output-side, to a number of image recording units.

Abstract: A security system for securing a set of keys comprises a housing having an external aperture for receiving a security tag which is attached to the keys, the aperture being associated with a locking mechanism which is operable by a keypad to secure the security tag in or release the tag from the aperture. A sensor monitors the presence of the security tag in the aperture, and an alarm is activated if the security tag is removed from the housing without releasing the locking mechanism. The security system eases the location of the keys in an emergency and also provides a straightforward security system for preventing the theft of house or vehicle keys or the like.

Abstract: A burglarproof sensor for fragile object includes a sensing circuit formed on the fragile object and having a first electrode and a second electrode. A sensor is connected to the first electrode and the second electrode to form a close circuit. An alarm is electrically connected to the sensor. The sensing circuit is broken and opened when the fragile object is come to pieces due to a crash formed by a flying object. The sensor senses the opened sensing circuit and transmits a signal to the alarm. The alarm lights or sounds to warn the guards for achieving a burglarproof objective when receiving the signal from the sensor.

Abstract: A sheet-like formed material having a tape with IC tags useful for a production line for a sheet-like formed material continuously produced at high speed. A sheet-like formed material (40) where a tape (30) on which IC tags (20) are arranged at appropriate intervals is superposed on a sheet-like formed raw material, wherein the tape (30) with the IC tags is fixedly adhered, between sheet layers constructed in a layered form, to a cut sheet (100) from end to end of the sheet.

Abstract: A system for tracking an object associated with a mobile tag reader includes a first identification tag capable of providing a first set of location information associated with the first identification tag. The system also includes a second identification tag capable of providing a second set of location information associated with the first identification tag. In addition, the system includes a controller capable of correlating the first set of location information and the second set of location information to predict a current location of the object.

Abstract: A radio frequency identification (RFID) system comprises a reader, a memory, and a processor. When initiated, the reader receives an identification code of a first tag within a wireless communication range. The memory stores a time setting and an identification code of a second tag. The processor initiates the reader at a predetermined time indicated by the time setting, thus to determine whether the second tag exists in the wireless communication range.

Abstract: A continuous paper processing system comprises a post-processing device for continuous paper equipped with at least one RFID tag, an RFID reader for reading electronic information written in the RFID tag, storage device that stores check information to be checked against the electronic information read by the RFID reader, and check device that checks the electronic information read by the RFID reader against the check information.

Abstract: An RFID tag distance measuring system includes a reader that outputs a predetermined carrier signal to a tag and receives a reflected signal of the carrier signal from the tag. The reader has signal output means for outputting signals at multiple frequencies, which are different from each other, as the carrier signal, a transmitting section that transmits a signal output by the signal output means to the tag, a receiving section that receives reflected signals of the signals at multiple frequencies, which are different from each other, from the tag and estimating means for estimating the distance between the tag and the reader based on the amount of change in phase between the reflected signals received by the receiving section and the carrier signals and the frequencies of the carrier signals.

Abstract: System and method for recording temperature on an RFID tag. A first RFID tag is attached to a container. The first RFID tag includes a temperature sensor. The container contains a multiplicity of packages. A multiplicity of second RFID tags are attached to the multiplicity of packages, respectively. The first RFID tag transmits temperature information to the multiplicity of second RFID tags. In response, the multiplicity of second RFID tags record the temperature information. Consequently, there is no need for expensive temperature sensors on the multiplicity of RFID tags on the packages. According to features of the present invention, the first RFID tag is an active RFID tag, and the multiplicity of second RFID tags are passive RFID tags. The first RFID tag also transmits other information to the multiplicity of second RFID tags to enable the second RFID tags to authenticate the temperature information.

Abstract: An RFID system includes a central RF network controller that processes tag data from preconfigured read point zones that span multiple antennas and RFID readers. The system includes a first RFID reader coupled to a first antenna, the first antenna having a first read point; a second RFID reader coupled to a second antenna, the second antenna having a second read point; and a controller coupled to the first RFID reader and the second RFID reader, the controller configured to group the first and second RFID readers in a read point zone and to receive tag data from the first and second RFID reader and assign the tag data to the read point zone.

Abstract: A method and system for localizing an object among a set of objects, each equipped with an improved RFID tag. The tag includes an RFID chip, an antenna, a visual indicator, an AC/DC converter, and at least a pair of conductive surfaces adapted for receiving power from an external source and for powering the electronic chip according to capacitive coupling. Each conductive surface of the pair is designed to form the half of a capacitor, the capacitor being formed when the electronic tag and a similar electronic tag are attached to a neighboring adjacent object. To localize an object, an RFID reader is used, fed with the identifier of the object to be localized. All the capacitively coupled RFID, in the RFID reader range, receive a reading trigger that carries the identifier.

Abstract: A maintenance data management system uses RFID tags associated with aircraft components to store and manage component attributes such as maintenance and service history, useful in performing aircraft maintenance. A transceiver is used to write data into the tags, read data from the tags and transmit the data to a central database for storage and access by maintenance providers. The data may include the service and maintenance history of the component. Maintenance providers may remotely access the database through the Internet.

Abstract: In a base tape having ah adhesive layer, a base film, an adhesive layer, and a separation sheet, an RFID circuit element is provided to be held between the base film and the adhesive layer, and a cover film is stuck to the front side of the base tape through the adhesive layer. The RFID circuit element is provided with an IC circuit that stores information and a loop antenna connected to the IC circuit part. An acid free adhesive is used for the adhesive layer to be located adjacently to the RFID circuit element.

Abstract: A security device for securing around a generally cylindrical article such as the neck of a bottle includes a housing which forms a lock compartment and which contains an EAS security device and a magnetically actuated lock mechanism. A ratchet strap have a series of locking teeth and is formed integrally with the housing and extends outwardly therefrom and has sufficient rigidity to assume a generally circular configuration with a curved article contact surface of the housing to facilitate attaching the device around the article. The lock mechanism includes a locking pawl which engages the strap teeth and an actuation strip which biases the pawl toward locking engagement with the strap.

Abstract: A video baby monitor system has a child unit and a receiver unit. The receiver unit has a housing assembly with a first section having a viewing surface and a second section. The first and second sections are movable relative to one another between an open position exposing the viewing surface and a closed position where the second section covers the viewing surface. A video screen is provided on the viewing surface of the first section. The first section can be moved from the closed position to the open position such that the video screen faces upward for viewing.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for calculating life expectancy in mobile communication terminal are provided that include inputting user data when a life expectancy program menu is selected, calculating the life expectancy using the inputted user data, and displaying a calculated result on a display unit.

Abstract: A system for facilitating the protection of hunters in a particular geographic area. The system includes a transmitter/receiver unit carried by each hunter in a particular area. Such units enable the hunters to ensure that proximate hunters are beyond a defined safe distance in view of type of weapons being utilized and other factors.

Abstract: Awakening degree calculating means calculates an awakening degree at intervals of 15 seconds for example that is shorter than a shortest period of changes of awakening level, and output control means updates and outputs a display output and an alarm sound output based on the awakening degree in accordance to an output condition logic set in advance. When the awakening degree drops less than a predetermined threshold value, the output control means updates the display output of the awakening degree at first time intervals in calculating the awakening degree and outputs the alarm sound output corresponding to a worsened level of the awakening degree. When the awakening degree is not lower than the predetermined threshold value or when the awakening degree recovers by exceeding the predetermined threshold value, the output control means updates the display output at second time intervals that are longer than the first time intervals.

Abstract: A vehicle control system and method for facilitating operation of a vehicle by a driver with a potentially debilitating condition. At least one sensor provides sensor data corresponding to at least one of a vehicle condition or a driver condition. A database includes potentially debilitating condition data and symptoms data corresponding thereto. A central processing unit is in data communication with the database and the at least one sensor. The central processing monitors the operation of the vehicle by the driver based on the sensor data and the database.

Abstract: A process transmitter includes a temperature responsive indicator to indicate an operating condition of the process transmitter. The operating condition may represent a level of a sensed process variable or an operating temperature of the process transmitter.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for gas detection uses a sensor such as an electrochemical (EC) cell and includes a feedback control loop to control a pump to establish a first predetermined gas flow rate to the EC cell. The concentration of the gas at the first predetermined flow rate is measured. If the detected concentration exceeds a predetermined Alert value at the first flow rate an Initial Warning without remedial action is generated, and, the system then changes the gas flow rate before an Alarm is indicated. An Alarm is signaled only if the system verifies the first measurement. Preferably the first flow rate is set to optimize the measurement accuracy of the EC cell being used, and the second flow rate is lower than the first. Verification of an Alarm at the first flow rate may be conducted quickly by a quick-reaction process. The controller may periodically cycle the flow rates between the first and second rates for better accuracy and faster verification times.

Abstract: The invention disclosed herein describes a device allowing even people with severe disabilities (physical and/or mental) to control the generation of sound and music, using controls adapted to their capabilities. The device is to be used primarily in therapeutic, educational and training contexts. The device comprises of pressure-sensitive controls, a programmable control device and a sound/music output mechanism.

Abstract: What is described is a system (1) for detecting and recording impacts produced by shock waves and/or by non-lethal projectiles on the surface of a target (2), which comprises: a) a plurality of sensors (3i) applied to the target (2) and capable of detecting the said impacts and generating and transmitting a signal detectable by 10 a transceiver device (4); b) a transceiver device (4), also fixed to the said target (2), and capable of receiving the signals generated by the said sensors (3i), detecting which of the said sensors has emitted a signal, and sending the corresponding data to a recording apparatus (5); c) a recording apparatus (5) capable of recording and storing the data received from the said transceiver device (4).

Abstract: A system and method for monitoring a vertical shaft impact crusher comprises a plurality of sensors which continuously monitor the current status of a plurality of crusher component parts, a computer in communication with the sensors, and a graphical user interface in communication with the computer and on which is displayed a plurality of virtual instruments. The computer interprets the signals received from the sensors and renders a perceptible indication of a plurality of crusher conditions on the plurality of virtual instruments, each of which conditions are associated with or derived from one or more of the signals received from the sensors. In a preferred embodiment, a recorded history of the status of each of the conditions may be viewed on a historical data viewer for a selected time period.

Abstract: An emergency shutdown detection device for a gas turbine includes a longish, mechanically severable sensor element (5), in which at least one electric line (1 to 4) is provided, with at least one resistor (R1 to R3) being electrically connected to the electric line such that upon severance of the sensor element (5), the electrically connected resistor is electrically disconnected from the electrical line to alter a resistance value for the electrical line.

Abstract: An emergency signal apparatus for alerting police, medical service, neighbors and people passing by to emergency situations that may arise in or at a residence. The apparatus is designed for mounting on an upright post or column such as is commonly used for supporting rural mailboxes and includes a flashing strobe light and a siren which can be activated by operation of a manual switch in the residence or by operating a remote switch by a radio frequency emitter. The signal apparatus preferably includes illuminated house numbers, chimes within the residence and automatic dialing of the 911 emergency telephone number with a prerecorded message giving name, telephone number and address.

Abstract: An audible personal identification system for an article comprises (a) a device programmable to record and play back a voice message that includes identification of an article as belonging to an individual; (b) an optional packet for containing the device; (c) a visible marker for fastening to the article to indicate the presence of the device; and (d) an activating means for playing back the voice message. Included is an article to be identified as belonging to an individual, employing the audible personal identification system; a method for identifying an article as belonging to an individual; and a method for using a digital voice recorder for identifying an article as belonging to an individual.

Abstract: Another example of an audible product information device for placing proximate and associated consumer product includes a housing and electrical components in the housing configured to operate in a playback mode, a record more, and a standby mode. The electrical components include a controller, a record playback device for storing and playing an audible product information message, a speaker for audibly outputting the audible product information message, battery contact terminals in electrical communication with the record/playback device, an activation switch for starting a playback of the product information message, and a recording switch for starting a recording of the product information message A method for providing an audible product information message to a consumer is also disclosed.

Abstract: The invention relates to an alarm. More particularly the invention relates to an alarm for use with a door, the alarm is adapted to be retrofitted in an existing door. In large buildings, typically hospitals, offices, hotels, industrial departments or ships, where there are very many similar doors in long corridors, it is often difficult to pinpoint the location of a fire or smoke hazard in a particular room or office, from the perspective of a fireman who may be trying to locate the fire or smoke from the corridor. The invention provides an alarm having means to detect a hazard and means to indicate that a hazard has been detected, characterised in that the means to detect a hazard is located so that it is presented to an inner surface of a door and the means to indicate that a hazard has been detected is located on an outer surface of a door. Ideally a coloured indicator, which may be spring-loaded, is arranged to displace so that a person located in a corridor can identify it.

Abstract: A method of controlling a plurality of network devices in a network with a control point includes registering the plurality of network devices with the control point through the network, providing each of the plurality of network devices with an infrared (IR) sensor, pointing an IR transmitter of the control point at a selected network device, activating the IR transmitter of the control point to emit an IR beam at the IR sensor of the selected network device, establishing a control link between the control point and the selected network device through the network in response to the IR sensor of the selected network device receiving the IR beam from the control point, and issuing a control signal from the control point to the selected network device through the network using the established control link so that the selected network device performs a specified action corresponding to the control signal.

Abstract: The present invention is an apparatus, system, and method for providing reservations for lavatory use in airplanes. In one embodiment, a passenger on an airplane may submit a lavatory reservation request to the system. The reservation system assigns an access code to the passenger making the lavatory reservation request. The reservation system reserves a lavatory for a passenger when his or her request can be accommodated according to set of rules; and notifies the passenger when a lavatory has been reserved for him or her. Passengers are required to enter their assigned access code into the reservation system when it is their turn to use a lavatory. An input means is provided at lavatory doors for this purpose. Each lavatory door has a lock with means to restrict access to the lavatory only to authorized passengers with a valid access code; and only when it is a passenger's turn to use the lavatory.

Abstract: Lighting units (22) in a room (20) are controlled automatically and remotely in response to motion sensor modules (26) located to cover the area of the room (20). A sensor module (26) detecting movement transmits a radio signal to a controller module (28), which then transmits a corresponding control signal to the responder modules (24), causing them to switch their associated lighting units on and then increase their brightness to a preset level. The system includes an emergency lighting responder module (32) to switch on emergency lighting (34) if mains power fails and is also responsive to ambient light level. Each of the controller module (28), the sensor modules (26) and the responder modules (24) include a radio transceiver and all control and management signals are transmitted from location to location by radio. Other sensor modules (responsive to different variables) and responder modules may be added to build up a wireless building management system.

Abstract: A modular remote control device (10) is described, said remote control device comprising at least one transmission unit (20a; 20b; 20c; 20d; 20e; 20f), provided with at least one pushbutton (30), and a support (40a; 40b; 40c; 40d) for said at least one unit (20a; 20b; 20c; 20d; 20e; 20f), said at least one unit (20a; 20b; 20c; 20d; 20e; 20f) being removably housed with interference inside a seat (44a; 44b; 44c) with corresponding dimensions formed in a surface (42a, 42b, 42c) of said support, so as to allow said at least one unit to be interchangeable with said support.

Abstract: An automatic meter-reading interface for a fluid sensing meter is described. In one aspect, an Automatic Meter-Reading enabling shroud (AES) encapsulates the interface. The AES is for positioning below a register and above a rotating disc magnet in a fluid meter such that a pre-existing operational relationship between the rotating disc magnet and the register is maintained. The AES includes at least one magnetic switch coupled to a microcontroller to calculate a total volume of fluid that has passed through the fluid meter over a configurable period. This calculation is based on the at least one magnetic switch periodically sensing North and South magnetic fields from the rotating disc magnet; each sensed field indicating a predetermined per-unit volume of fluid passing through the fluid meter. The AES generates a pulse indicating the total volume of fluid for interrogation by an AMR device.

Abstract: This system connects groups of end-devices at two or more automated oil or gas production wellheads or groups of end-devices at two or more associated wellhead facilities so that such associated end devices may be wirelessly monitored and measured during wellhead production, and then wirelessly controlled by one or more master remote terminal/telemetry unit MRTU. Each MRTU is in turn in communication with and controlled by a host computer system. Such measurement and control of the end devices is accomplished through slave remote terminal/telemetry units SRTUs which are connected to and capable of communications with associated end-devices. Each SRTU is in turn connected to one or more local area network LAN communication system, each of which LAN is in turn connected, by hard wire or wirelessly, to a wide area network WAN transmitter. Each WAN is in wireless communication with a host computer.

Abstract: A traffic calming (broadly defined as methods and apparatus for the purpose of reducing or otherwise controlling vehicle speeds and improving safety appropriate to the state of the road), cautioning, early warning and emergency notification system using secure wireless transmitters, receivers and transceivers for localized point to point notification. Static, desktop, portable and vehicle mounted transmitters/transceivers are automatically or manually triggered to transmit cautioning, early warning or emergency alert messages within a specified range to desktop, portable or vehicular-mounted receivers/transceivers, notifying the user of the receiver/transceiver of an approaching traffic calming or cautioning situation (children crossing, train crossing, construction detour, accident scene, etc.) or emergency situation (approaching emergency responder vehicle, such as police, firefighters, ambulance, etc).

Abstract: A vehicle-mounted object detection system utilizing vertical cavity surface emitting laser diodes as an emitter source to alert a motor vehicle operator to the presence of another moving vehicle in a monitored zone. The object detection system includes an optical transmitter and an optical receiver.

Abstract: A method of making an insert for a pedestrian signal includes providing a mold having at least one cavity defining an outline of a person, injecting a plastic material into the at least one cavity of the mold at high pressure and thereby filling the at least one cavity, and cooling the plastic material and thereby forming a pedestrian insert, and removing the pedestrian insert from the mold. The insert includes a plurality of thin wall sections defining a plurality of light tunnels. The plurality of light tunnels includes at least a first light tunnel defining a head portion and an upper leading arm portion. In one embodiment, the plurality of light tunnels further includes at least a second light tunnel defining a trailing arm portion and a third light tunnel defining at least in part an upper portion of the trailing arm portion, wherein the third light tunnel extends approximately midway along a length of the second light tunnel. A pedestrian signal incorporating an insert is also provided.

Abstract: According to an example embodiment, a method includes receiving data about an aircraft that is moving on a surface using at least a first wheel, the data descriptive of physical characteristics of the aircraft, calculating a first path of the first wheel along the surface using the data, and displaying the first path in relation to a boundary between a first area of the surface and a second area of the surface, the first area safe for the aircraft, the second area unsafe for the aircraft.

Abstract: A system for multi-modal cockpit interface during surface operation of an aircraft comprises a head tracking device, a processing element, and a full-color head worn display. The processing element is configured to receive head position information from the head tracking device, to receive current location information of the aircraft, and to render a virtual airport scene corresponding to the head position information and the current aircraft location. The full-color head worn display is configured to receive the virtual airport scene from the processing element and to display the virtual airport scene. The current location information may be received from one of a global positioning system or an inertial navigation system.

Abstract: A system for controlling a marine vessel's existing horn to automatically sound navigational signals as set forth in Coast Guard Navigation Rules, International and Inland for Sound and Light Signals for boats 12 meters 39 feet and larger, Rules 34 through 37. The system provides a user-interface with a selection of predetermined horn/light signals that can be repeated once or continuously via lights and/or sound, with a preview of the selected signal. The system permits a helmsman and other crew members to attend to other duties without constant attention to the vessel's horn, and enhances safety and Coast Guard compliance, and in the long term helps to inform and educate the operator through observing the signal patterns, on the water, or in boating courses like Coast Guard Auxiliary, Power Squadron and Community College courses.

Abstract: Communicating operational information to a user of an appliance regarding the operational mode of the appliance and the options available for a selected operational mode and the options selected.

Abstract: A projection apparatus includes a projecting module, a key input device and a controlling unit. The projecting module generates an image light beam. The key input device includes a key unit and a decoding conversion unit coupled to the key unit. The key unit includes a plurality of keys. When at least one of the keys is pressed, the decoding conversion unit outputs an identifying signal to the key unit and performs a decoding operation according to the identifying signal sent back from the key unit, and outputs a controlling signal to the controlling unit accordingly. The controlling unit coupled to the projecting module is for receiving the controlling signal and driving the projecting module accordingly.

Abstract: An air permeable keyboard module suitable for a portable electronic apparatus is provided. The air permeable keyboard module comprises a bottom plate, a flexible printed circuit board (PCB), a plurality of keys, and a unidirectional air permeable material layer. The flexible PCB is disposed on the upper surface of the bottom plate and has a plurality of touch portions. The unidirectional air permeable material layer is disposed on the bottom surface of the bottom plate. The keys are assembled with the bottom plate, and are disposed respectively above the corresponding touch portions.

Abstract: A method for accessing and browsing the internet through the use of a telephone and the associated DTMF signals is disclosed. The preferred embodiment provides a system that converts the information content of a web page from text to speech (voice signals), signals the hyperlink selections of a web page in an audio manner, and allows selection of the hyperlinks through the use of DTMF signals generated from a telephone keypad. Upon receiving a DTMF signal corresponding to a hyperlink, the corresponding web page is fetched and again delivered to the user via one of the available delivery methods such as voice, fax-on-demand, electronic mail, or regular mail.

Abstract: A signal processing system is taught to be formed by combining a crossbar array with programming circuitry and signal input circuitry so as to provide a linear transformation from a set of input signals to a set of output signals. Applications of such a system to waveform generation, signal filtering, communications, and pattern recognition are explained. In one embodiment the crossbar array of the signal processing system may be a molecular nanowire crossbar array in which the crossbar interconnects are addressed via dual arrays of scanning probe tips so as to provide an interface between the molecular crossbar electronics and conventional solid state electronics used in the programming and signal processing circuitry.

Abstract: A reflection-based optical encoding apparatus for the detection of position and/or motion of a mechanical device includes an encoding medium having at least a first reflective portion, and an encoder housing having a light-emitting source and a light-detecting sensor embedded within, the encoder housing being placed in proximity to the encoding medium such that a functional light path can be established from the light-emitting source to the light-detecting sensor via the first reflective portion of the encoding medium. The encoder housing includes a first flat facet positioned between the light-emitting source and the encoding medium, the first flat facet having a first angle relative to a common geometric plane such that light passing from the light-emitting source to the encoding medium is refracted along a first angled path in a manner that the refracted light strikes a desired location of the encoding medium.

Abstract: Systems and methods are provided applicable to all choice scenarios where alternative competition is a function of alternative proximity along some attribute dimension. Discrete choice models can be developed which assign probabilities that a given decision-maker will choose different alternatives. Ordered Generalized Extreme Value (OGEV) and Hybrid-OGEV models are utilized to assess the probability that a given alternative is chosen based on its attributes and the parameter estimates of these attributes (obtained during model estimation). The attribute parameter estimates yield the relative importance of each attribute to a decision-maker. The attribute importance can differ by decision-maker such that different decision-makers can have different parameter estimates for the same attribute.

Abstract: A convergence and automation system includes (a) an internet-protocol based (IP) network implemented with a web service for devices (WSD) protocol, (b) a plurality of devices connected to the network, wherein each device is configured to perform at least one service, (c) a server implemented with the WSD protocol, connected to the network and configured to control the devices for converging and automating the services thereof, and (d) at least one client implemented with the WSD protocol, connected to the network and configured to control at least a portion of the services of the devices. One of the server and the at least one client is configured to establish communication with the devices and further configured with a control panel application allowing a user to configure and test the convergence and automation system.

Abstract: A circuit for rounding the edges of a digital pulse so as to reduce interference has a first rounding block, a second rounding block and an output stage. The first rounding block rounds the second and fourth pulse edges so as to prolong rising and falling time of the digital pulse. The second rounding block rounds the first and third pulse edges in accordance with non-linear characteristics of a semiconductor of the second rounding block. The output stage is a feedback circuit where the first rounding block is coupled with the second rounding block and the second rounding block is coupled with the feedback circuit.