Abstract: In embodiments of the present invention improved capabilities are described for a Radio Frequency ID (RFID) tag that contains multiple Radio Frequency (RF) network nodes that provide enhanced memory capabilities, redundant functionality, and multiple frequency capabilities to the RFID tag using an inter-RF network node communication connection. The inter-RF network node communication may allow the coordination of RFID tag memory and functionality.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method and a system for radio identification with an additional close-range check, which prevent misuse of a radio identification system and increase the security of radio identification. In particular, so-called relay attacks are to be largely prevented in passive entry systems. The method according to the invention firstly provides for activation of a transponder (S1) for reading of its data. After this step, an additional close-range status signal is provided (S2) which indicates the close range of a reader. Once the close-range status signal has been detected by a transponder (S3), data transmission for reading of the data stored in the transponder by the reader is possibly enabled in reaction to the detection of the close-range status signal (S4) and the data can be read by the reader for identification of the transponder (S5).

Abstract: An Object Name Service (ONS) is provided through an electronic product code information service (EPCIS) interface that allows one or more accessing applications residing on a variety of systems and associated with a plurality of enterprises/organizations to locate a network accessible service that provides EPC-related data associated with an EPC. A root server of the ONS may identify the network accessible service using a look-up system based on Domain Name System.

Abstract: An electronic product code information service (EPCIS) interface is provided, where the EPCIS interface is capable of allowing one or more accessing applications residing on a variety of systems and associated with a plurality of enterprises to receive EPC-related data. Also provided is an enterprise profile for each enterprise that is allowed to receive the EPC-related data. An enterprise is authenticated based on its enterprise profile. A query is performed to generate a result set that is within an extent permitted by access authorization associated with the authenticated enterprise. The result set is then provided to the EPCIS accessing application of that enterprise.

Abstract: An electronic product code information service (EPCIS) interface is provided, where the EPCIS interface allows accessing applications residing on a variety of systems and associated with a plurality of enterprises/organizations to receive EPC-related data. Also provided is a consumer security profile in which access authorization governing the extent of data collection and/or access by an entity to EPC-related consumer data is specified. Access by an accessing application may be allowed within an extent permitted by access authorization specified in the consumer security profile.

Abstract: An electronic product code information service (EPCIS) interface is provided, where the EPCIS interface is capable of allowing one or more accessing applications residing on a variety of systems and associated with a plurality of enterprises/organizations to receive EPC-related data. One or more roles of an entity attempting to receive EPC-related data through the interface may be identified. A query may be performed to generate a result set within an extent permitted by access authorization associated with the identified roles of the entity.

Abstract: According to some embodiments, RFID tags may be assigned a priority level. RFID tags with higher priority levels may respond multiple times to a single interrogation signal. Further, a data-rich RFID tag may response multiple times to a single interrogation signal but with differing payloads. Further, an RFID tag may identify an unused slot and provide a response prior to the end of the slot.

Abstract: An RFID tag device has a random number generator which generates a random number or a pseudo-random number, an identification information holding unit which holds identification information having a plurality of bits, a noise addition processing unit which generates noise-added identification information by conducting either of reversal from “0” of a bit decided based on the random number generated by the random number generator to “1” or reversal from “1” of the bit to “0”, among a plurality of bits included in the identification information, and a radio communication unit which transmits the noise-added identification information by radio.

Abstract: An appliance network has messaging protocol to establish communication between a first networked appliance and a remote user interface.

Abstract: Disclosed is a method for controlling usage times for at least one device, including the steps of: (a) identifying a device to be controlled; (b) utilizing the device by a user; (c) tracking a device usage value for the device as the user utilizes the device; and (d) initiating an action sequence based upon the device usage value. Also disclosed is an apparatus for controlling usage times for at least one device.

Abstract: A master generator that updates time data of remote devices comprises an acquisition module, a clock module, an encoding module, and a transmission module. The acquisition module acquires time data representing current time of day. The clock module receives and stores the time data from the acquisition module and periodically updates the time data. The encoding module encodes the time data from the clock module into time messages. The transmission module selectively superimposes the time messages onto a power signal.

Abstract: A controllable light bulb comprises an electrical connector, a receiver module, an electronic switch, a translucent casing, and a light producing element. The electrical connector receives a power signal. The receiver module is powered by the power signal received via the electrical connector and determines control parameters based upon on/off modulation of the power signal. The receiver module generates a control signal based upon the control parameters while the power signal is on. The electronic switch outputs an output power signal and reduces the output power signal based on the control signal. The translucent casing encloses the light producing element. The light producing element receives the output power signal.

Abstract: Vehicle including a first substructure and a second substructure arranged such that an interior space is defined by or between the first and second substructures, and an arrangement for determining whether an object is present in the interior space. The arrangement includes ultrasonic transducers arranged on the second substructure and to transmit ultrasonic waves toward the first substructure and receive any waves reflected by objects in the interior space and a processor coupled to the ultrasonic transducers and arranged to determine whether an object is present in the interior space based on reception of waves by the ultrasonic transducers. If the vehicle is an automobile and the interior space is the passenger compartment therein, the first substructure can be the passenger seat and the second substructure can be the A-pillar, in which case, the processor determines the presence or absence of a passenger in the passenger seat.

Abstract: The invention relates to an electronic device (1) that is to be incorporated into a motor vehicle. Said device (1) comprises a radio module (18) for establishing a short-distance wireless connection to an authorized cellular telephone (2) which is identified based on an identification key for the authorized cellular telephone (2) stored in a memory element (28) of the electronic device (1). In order to make it easier to retrieve the electronic device after the same has been stolen, the electronic device (1) further comprises means for detecting dismounting of the electronic device (1) from a motor vehicle as well as means for automatically establishing a short-distance wireless connection to another cellular telephone and automatically initializing a mobile wireless connection to said other cellular telephone when an identification key for the other cellular telephone is to be or is stored for the first time in the memory element (28) after restarting the electronic device once dismounting has been detected.

Abstract: A theft-prevention and tracking system and method for semi truck trailers or other vehicles. One or more status indicators, such as location, indication of unauthorized tampering, disconnection of the trailer from the truck, etc. communicate an alarm to a remote monitoring and dispatch center. A stolen vehicle can be remotely stopped at the command and control of the remote monitoring and dispatch center. Upon occurrence of a predetermined condition, such as stopping and blowing off the air from the brake system, the vehicle's brakes remain locked until entry of an authorization code or otherwise receiving authorization to proceed from the remote monitoring and dispatch center.

Abstract: The present invention is directed generally to a smart modem device for vehicular and roadside applications for remote data collection and transmission to a central data collection and processing facility. The modem includes a number of sets of connection managers and monitors for performing specified tasks with respect to connections with various networks. Each set of connection managers and monitors is different and corresponds to a selected card type and/or network service.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for binding a first wireless communication unit installed on a first asset and a second wireless communication unit installed on a second asset, wherein the first asset is connected to the second asset by electrical power lines. The method and system can be used for binding a wireless communication unit of a tractor and a wireless communication unit on a trailer. The method monitors the current in the auxiliary power connection between the assets. By transmitting and detecting power pulses through the auxiliary power line, the wireless communication units can ensure that the two assets are attached and therefore it would be proper to establish a wireless connection between the two wireless communication units. The number of power pulses can be used to identify differing devices. Such method can also be used to detect an open fuse or circuit breaker. In the case of an open fuse, voltages can be used in place of power pulses to complete the binding process.

Abstract: A system and method for discouraging stop-arm violations is provided having a image recording means positioned on a stop-arm of a bus, ice cream truck or other such vehicle. The image recording means may be a digital still camera or video camera and is connected to a storage unit, such as a video cassette recorder (VCR), a digital video recorder (DVR) or solid-state memory storage. The image recording means is configured to activate and begin recording images when the stop-arm is fully extended and cease recording of images once the stop-arm is fully retracted.

Abstract: A method and information system for capturing signals, for processing signals, and for providing signals at least partially based on, or bearing correlation to, the captured signals is disclosed. The information system includes a signal input unit, a wireless communication unit, and an output unit. The signal input unit (preferably an optical signal unit) is constructed and is positionable to capture signals associated with an eye. The output unit is constructed to provide information based on the captured signals or to provide information as a function of the captured signals or in correlation with the captured signals.

Abstract: A system for guiding an aircraft to a stopping position adjacent to a passenger boarding bridge includes a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag for being disposed at a location that is remote from the aircraft, and that is known relative to the stopping position. The RFID tag has a tag antenna and an integrated circuit for encoding data relating to the RFID tag. The system also includes an antenna for being disposed aboard the aircraft, for emitting radio frequency waves and for receiving from the RFID tag a wireless data communication signal including the encoded data. A processor disposed aboard the aircraft and in communication with the antenna identifies the encoded data within the wireless data communication signal, and determines spatial information relating to a location of the RFID tag relative to the antenna.

Abstract: A trailer hitch-mounted reverse sensing device for a vehicle for indicating to the driver an object behind the vehicle comprises a housing with an extension extending from the housing. The extension is configured to be removably received within a receiver of a towing hitch. The housing includes a front face having a central portion, and first and second end portions. The first and second portions are angled such that a line transverse to either the first or second end portions is directed toward the centerline of the vehicle between the front and rear of the vehicle. First and second sensors are disposed in respective first and second end portions and directed toward the rear of the vehicle along the transverse line. A control module is disposed within the housing and operably connected to the sensors to determine the distance of the object sensed by the sensors.

Abstract: A meter driving device 1 includes a meter (a combination meter) 6 including state display units (first and second analog display units and a digital display unit) 6b, 6c, and 6d that display vehicle states, control means (first control means and second control means) 4a and 6a for inputting state signals indicating the vehicle states, calculating vehicle state data on the basis of the state signals, and causing the state display units 6b, 6c, and 6d to operate on the basis of the vehicle state data, and storing means (a memory card) 4b for storing the vehicle state data and data other than the vehicle state data during a predetermined time in synchronization with each other.

Abstract: In a vehicle's wheel position detecting apparatus, plural transceivers respectively attached to the front and rear four wheels are provided. Each transceiver receives a triggering signal, calculates a reception intensity of the triggering signal, stores data indicating the reception intensity into a frame, and transmits the frame to a receiver attached to a vehicle's body. Each triggering signal radio-transmitted from the first and second triggering devices contains a startup command to starts up each transceiver and an execution command to allow each transceiver to calculate the reception intensity. The first and second triggering devices, which are responsible for radio-transmitting the triggering signal toward at least the front wheels and the rear wheels respectively, are positionally offset to either way in the body's lateral direction. A receiver receives the frames and uses the frames radio-transmitted from the transceivers to detect the wheels' positions using the reception intensity in each frame.

Abstract: A method and apparatus is provided for improving integrity in data representing a plurality of condition states of a variable, comprising the steps of determining which condition states are operationally incompatible with one another, and generating an array of transformed integer values comprising a separate integer value for each condition state. The transformed integer value for each condition state in binary form is at least two bit errors removed from any transformed integer value for an identified incompatible condition state in binary form.

Abstract: A heads-up speed sensing display and control system for apprising an operator of the risk of operating a vehicle at various speeds has a risk indicator display with a plurality of illuminable elements, such as three different colored LEDs, illuminable in a plurality of patterns, each of the plurality of patterns having a predetermined correlation to vehicle speed, such as green for safe, yellow for caution and red for hazardous. A speed sensor, such as a Hall-effect device is coupled to a driven element of the vehicle, like a speedometer cable, and causes the speed sensor to generate a signal indicative of vehicle speed. A control unit receives the speed signal and selects an illumination pattern to indicate the risk of operation at the speed the vehicle is then traveling. The display may be wired or wireless and be attached to a windshield, face guard or helmet.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a receptor of tire pressure monitoring system for vehicles. The receptor consists of a wiring substrate board of which is equipped with a radio-frequency receptor, a micro controller, a liquid crystal display, a vibration monitor and a buzzer. The vibration monitor could sense the vibration while the door is being opened or closed and hence start the tire pressure monitoring system. The radio-frequency receptor can receive the data and convert it to be shown on the liquid crystal display. While the tire pressure is unusual, the buzzer starts the audio alerting sound to remind the driver checking the tires. It can improve safety driving.

Abstract: A tire administration system selects a frequency of a high reception probability, when a measured data request signal is transmitted from a receiver module (1) to a sensor module (3), or when a frequency of the data request signal is changed, so as to promptly acquire a measured data from the sensor module (3). The receiver module (1) transmits the measured data request signal to the sensor module (3), at a frequency used for a latest, successful acquisition of the measured data from a sensor module (3), transmits the measured data request signal, if the measured data cannot be acquired, repeatedly until the measured data can be acquired, and transmits, if the transmission number of the measured data request signal reaches a designated transmission number, the measured data request signal to the sensor module (3) at a frequency used for a second latest, successful acquisition of the measured data.

Abstract: A brake light illumination system for use with engine braking includes an automatic illuminator switch connected to an engine retarder output line. The automatic illuminator switch is configured to be in a closed position relative to the engine retarder output line when an engine retarder is actuated and in an open position relative to the engine retarder output line when the engine retarder is in an inactive state. The brake light illumination system also includes a diode connected to the automatic illuminator switch. Upon actuation of the engine retarder, the automatic illuminator switch and the diode are electrically connected to a brake light switch to illuminate a plurality of brake lights.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method where sleep sensor signals are obtained to a mobile communication device from sensor devices. The mobile communication device checks the sleep sensor signals for a sleep state transition, determines the type of the sleep state transition, forms control signals based on the type of the sleep state transition and sends the control signals to at least one electronic device.

Abstract: A method for determining the location of partition walls within a building uses a wirelessly interconnected network of nodes to determine relative spatial positions of selected nodes using (i) received signal strength indication (RSSI) values and time of flight (ToF) values, both indicative of a distance of separation between two communicating nodes. A first map of the network topology is derived from the RSSI values and a second map of the network topology is derived from the ToF values. The RSSI values are affected by building partition walls whereas the ToF values are relatively unaffected by partition walls. A comparison of the first and second maps is used to determine the location of partition walls within the building.

Abstract: An anti-theft device with a trigger applied in a portable electronic device is provided, which has a trigger electrically connected with a trigger unit selectively. When the trigger is separated from the trigger unit, a sensing element begins to carry out the sensing operation, and the portable electronic device is put into a power saving mode. When the sensing element senses that the electronic device has been moved, it transmits a signal to a processor. Meanwhile, the portable electronic device and an alarm unit of the trigger will be enabled simultaneously, making a sound to warn the user.

Abstract: The invention relates to a system and method of a health monitoring network which automates detection of faulty or failed sensors using real-time fault checking on a dynamically registered sensor data stream. The monitoring system and sensor network can provide a one-touch system to notify users when a sensor requires attention, without prior knowledge of the operational characteristics, installation method or configuration of sensors in the network. The network uses a decision engine to assist in maintenance according to a profile based on individual preferences and capabilities.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention address deficiencies of the art in respect to alert management in an activity-centric collaborative computing environment and provide a novel and non-obvious method, system and computer program product for activity thread integration of an alert log. In one embodiment of the invention, an alert log activity thread integration method can be provided. The method can include logging a reference to an alert for an activity in an activity thread, and, in response to the selection of the alert from within the activity thread, displaying the content of the alert. For instance, logging a reference to an alert for an activity in an activity thread can include creating a branch of the activity thread for inserting all alerts pertaining to the activity and inserting the reference to the alert in the created branch.

Abstract: A system, method and medium tracking an action history of a user by recognizing a user's actions as predetermined indicator actions that might cause lost items, storing the user's locations whenever the indicator actions are recognized, and storing the recognized indicator actions as an action history of user to supply the user with information on the stored action history, thereby allowing the user to easily find the lost items. The system includes a location sensor to sense a location of a user, an action sensor to sense an action of the user, an action-recognition unit to recognize the sensed action as a predetermined indicator action, an action-history storage unit to store the sensed location and the recognized indicator action as the action history of the user, and an information-supply unit to supply the user with the stored action history upon request.

Abstract: A detection system in which a single sensor (14) is employed to detect two, or more, levels, or ranges, of a parameter. The output signal from the sensor (14) is fed to a detection circuit (12) for amplification and thence to a control circuit (24). The control circuit (24) is switchable, either manually, or preferably programmably, for example by a timer, between two or more modes of operation for processing the output signal from the sensor (14) in a different manner, for example using different algorithms, according to the condition that is to be detected. The switching of the control circuit (24) between its modes results in a signal being sent to the detection circuit (12) to change its sensitivity to the signal received from the sensor (14), thereby to maintain accuracy of measurement of the parameter in both or all modes of operation.

Abstract: A method and system for automatically displayed data on a keypad display of a security system. The system receives the data from an external database, determines whether the data is to be displayed based upon at least one display criterion, formats the data for displaying on the keypad display in a format compatible with the keypad display and displays the data in the format compatible with the keypad display. The system actively polls a third party source for the data and stores the data in the external database. The determination whether the data is to be displayed be can performed at the local security system or a central network operation center.

Abstract: A system and method for securing a structure, such as a residence or other building, against intrusion, while reducing generation of false alarms when an occupant of the structure inadvertently trips a contact detector by opening an entry point (door, window, etc.) is provided. The contact detector is coupled with a motion detector that is directed to monitor motion within the structure at a location proximate to the entry point being monitored by the contact detector. Generally, when the contact detector detects that the entry point is being opened, a fault is issued to a control panel, which in turn generates an alarm. However, if motion is detected within the structure and proximate to the entry point prior to the contact detector registering an opening of the entry point, no fault is generated.

Abstract: An anti-intruder system which sets up an alarm when being breached, the system comprises of plurality of posts deployed apart forming a peripheral fence, each post carries at least a master optical array and a slave optical array, each optical array has a multiplicity of infra-red transceivers, each transceiver includes a light source and a light detector, the master array is mounted oppositely to and facing the slave array of an adjacent post, wherein the light detector of each transceiver of each optical array is illuminated by more than a single light source of the transceivers of the opposite optical array and the intensity of illumination of the light sources of the transceivers of the master optical array are automatically adjusted according to the light intensity arriving to the light detectors of the transceivers of the slave optical array.

Abstract: A method, wireless communication device, and radio frequency ID reader are provided for monitoring radio-frequency identification enabled items. The method includes receiving a set of radio frequency IDs (1104) representing a set of radio frequency ID enabled items (110) to be monitored. An identifier representing a user activity and its relationship with at least one radio frequency ID in the set of radio frequency IDs and at least one radio frequency ID reader is received (1106). The method also includes determining if at least one condition associated with the user activity has occurred indicating that the user activity is occurring (1108). The set of radio frequency IDs representing a set of radio frequency ID enabled items (110) to be monitored by the at least one radio frequency ID reader are monitored (1110) in response to the determining that the at least one condition is occurring.

Abstract: A radio frequency identification (RFID) inventory device attached to a container for tracking quantities of objects stored in the container having an antenna supporting wireless interrogation by an external RFID reader, a RFID chip coupled to the antenna having an embedded unique identifier and a memory element, where the RFID chip is adapted to store in the memory element at least one quantity value and to allow an external reader to wirelessly collect the identifier and at least one quantity value in response to said wireless interrogation, and one or more sensors coupled to the RFID chip, where the sensors are configured to send at least one signal to the RFID chip in response to a change in quantities of objects in the container and where the RFID chip is configured to update at least one quantity value stored in response to a signal from the sensors.

Abstract: The present method enables an RFID repeater to be used in conjunction with an RFID tag to allow data in the RFID tag to be read using wireless packet switched technologies. For example, the present method enables an RFID repeater to be coupled with an RFID tag. The RFID repeater reads and records the data from the RFID tag and then transmits the retrieved data from the RFID tag over a wireless packet network.

Abstract: A transparent identification server receives an ID tag associated with a transferable business item from a domain-specific entity and allocates a virtual object ID for the transferable business item. The transparent identification server also receives artifact metadata tracking the activity of the transferable business item. The transparent identification server correlates artifact metadata with the virtual object ID.

Abstract: The location of an item may be determined by first determining a coarse location and then a fine location. In one example, a coarse position of a tagged item is determined using a coarse positioning system and the item's tag. A mobile unit, carrying a fine positioning system, is moved to the determined coarse position. Then, a fine position of the tagged item is determined by communicating between the fine positioning system of the moved mobile unit and the item's tag.

Abstract: A method and wireless communication device are provided for managing information associated with purchases of active lifestyle products. The method includes receiving a notification (704) indicating a purchase transaction associated with at least one radio frequency ID enabled item. The notification is analyzed (706) and in response to the analyzing a user identifier corresponding to a user related to the purchase transaction is determined (708). A radio frequency ID associated with the at least one radio frequency ID enabled item is also determined (710). A wireless device (104) associated with the user is identified based on the user identifier (712). An information set associated with the at least one radio frequency ID enabled item is transmitted (714) to the wireless device (104). The information set includes at least the radio frequency ID associated with the at least one radio frequency ID enabled item.

Abstract: Embodiments include methods and systems by which an object can be located within an area. The system includes a moveable radio frequency identification (RFID) tag reader and multiple RFID tags, which are positioned at known locations. The RFID tag reader is associated with the object, and is adapted to interrogate the RFID tags, to receive unique identifiers from responding RFID tags, to correlate the unique identifiers with tag location information stored in memory to determine fixed positions for the responding RFID tags, and to mathematically determine at least one location solution for the RFID tag reader using the fixed positions. A responding RFID tag is adapted to respond to an interrogation signal from the RFID tag reader by transmitting a unique identifier.

Abstract: Provided are a system and method for processing freight using Radio Frequency identification (RFID). The freight processing system includes: an RFID label issuing block for issuing and attaching an RFID tag storing freight identification and destination information; an RFID linking block for generating link information between a freight and a carrier; and an RFID freight identifying block for automatically identifying the freight by reading the destination information from the RFID tag attached to the freight.

Abstract: A method and system for controlling the transmission state of a radio frequency identification transponder. A value in an event indicator is changed upon occurrence of an event. The value in the event indicator is compared to a predetermined value. Responsive to the value in the event indicator equaling the predetermined value, the transmission state of the radio frequency identification transponder is selectively changed between a first state and a second state, wherein the first state activates the radio frequency identification signal transmitted by the radio frequency identification transponder, and wherein the second state deactivates the radio frequency identification signal transmitted by the radio frequency identification transponder.

Abstract: Methods and apparatuses for assembling and implementing tamper indicating RFID devices are presented. An RFID device includes a substrate, an electrically conductive pattern formed on the substrate configured to operate as an antenna by separating a portion of a first device section from a second device section, and an electrical circuit mounted on the substrate that is electrically coupled to the antenna. The electrical circuit stores an identification code.

Abstract: Transponder having a dipole antenna which transmits and receives an electromagnetic wave having a wavelength ? and an RFID chip. The dipole antenna has at least one two-part conductor section with a total length l=?/2 and the chip is arranged between and connected to the two equal-length parts of the conductor section. Each part is composed of a first region made of a first conductive material which faces towards the RFID chip and has a first length which is proportionately small with regard to the total length, and of a second region made of a second conductive material which faces away from the RFID chip and has a second length.

Abstract: A terminal antenna which is an antenna having an end section thereof terminated is provided, and the terminal antenna is electromagnetic coupled with an antenna of a wireless tag to be communicated with. In this manner, remaining electric power and excess electric power move to the terminal antenna and converted to thermal energy at a termination. As an embodiment, for example, a communication antenna is made facing in a non-contact manner part or whole of a closed flat plane or an open flat plane formed by a wireless tag antenna and electromagnetic coupled with the wireless tag antenna, and the terminal antenna is made facing in a non-contact manner part or whole of the closed flat plane or the open flat plane formed by the wireless tag antenna to be electromagnetic coupled with the wireless tag antenna.