Patents Issued in July 17, 2008
  • Publication number: 20080169889
    Abstract: In an emergency run down unit for a superconductive magnet assembly, a quench in the magnet is induced by the release of stored mechanical energy or by direct manual actuation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 9, 2008
    Publication date: July 17, 2008
    Applicant: Siemens Magnet Technology Ltd.
    Inventors: Matthias Ludwig GEBHARDT, Robert James McGregor
  • Publication number: 20080169890
    Abstract: A pin lock is movably mounted for linear movement along a longitudinal axis. A magnet, preferably a permanent magnet, is mounted for limited rotation between the pin extended and pin retracted positions. An electromagnet provides a controllable electromagnetic field which encompasses at least a portion of the permanent magnet. A ferromagnetic latch is located within the magnetic field of the mounted magnet in each of the pin extended and pin retracted positions. A mechanical interconnection between the pin lock and the permanent magnet for moving the pin lock when the permanent magnet is rotated wherein said movement extends or retracts the pin lock between its pin extended and pin retracted positions. Reversing the electromagnetic field of the electromagnet serves to rotate the magnet so that the pin lock moves from one to the other of said two positions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 12, 2007
    Publication date: July 17, 2008
    Applicant: SAIA-Burgess Inc.
    Inventor: James C. Irwin
  • Publication number: 20080169891
    Abstract: A first virtual axis orthogonally intersects with a second virtual axis, and a third axis (axis passing a support center point) vertical to the first and second virtual axes is permitted to be a reference axis. A magnetic drive mechanism is provided with first magnetic drive sections for applying a drive power to a movable axis, which is supporting an object to be controlled, in a rotating direction of the first virtual axis or in a rotating direction parallel to the first virtual axis, and second magnetic drive sections for applying a drive power to the movable axis, in a rotating direction of the second virtual axis or in a rotating direction parallel to the second virtual axis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 5, 2008
    Publication date: July 17, 2008
    Applicant: ALPS ELECTRIC CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Yuichi UMEDA, Yoshihiro SOMENO
  • Publication number: 20080169892
    Abstract: To provide a magnetizing apparatus and magnetizing method in which, even in preparation of a ring-shaped permanent magnet having a narrow magnetization pitch with multiple poles magnetized on an extremely small diameter, sufficient magnetization and high magnetization quality can be achieved and powerful magnetization can be carried out efficiently and quickly at low cost. A permanent magnet magnetizing apparatus includes a heating section 10, a magnetizing section 12 axially disposed as a discrete structure from the heating section 10, and a holding member 22 for holding magnetization object 20 and movable relative to the heating section and the magnetizing section. The magnetization object heated in the heating section is transferred to the magnetizing section and is magnetized therein.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 16, 2006
    Publication date: July 17, 2008
    Applicant: FDK CORPORATION
    Inventors: Haruhiro Komura, Mikio Kitaoka, Ikuo Ohashi, Teruo Kiyomiya, Sachiko Shinmura, Masutaro Suzuki
  • Publication number: 20080169893
    Abstract: A system and method reduces AC losses in a magnetic coil with a magnetic core with one or more gaps. A foil winding is formed with one or more cavities and is positioned about the magnetic core such that the cavities are adjacent to the gaps.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 29, 2005
    Publication date: July 17, 2008
    Inventors: Charles Roger Sullivan, Jennifer Pollock
  • Publication number: 20080169894
    Abstract: An electronic component in accordance with the invention includes a body, such as a base, having a high magnetic permeability material applied to an external surface thereof and a wire winding wound about at least a portion of the high magnetic permeability material. In a preferred form, the body is made of a non-conducting material, such as ceramic or plastic, and the high magnetic permeability material is made of a magnetic material such as ferrite or a metallic glass alloy (i.e., an amorphous metal). The component further includes a spacer for separating the wire winding from the high magnetic permeability material in order to prevent the amorphous metal from damaging the wire winding. The resulting electronic component is capable of sensing magnetic fields and may be used in a variety of circuits such as compasses and magnetometers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 24, 2008
    Publication date: July 17, 2008
    Applicant: COILCRAFT, INCORPORATED
    Inventors: Gregory L. Proehl, Craig Verdung, Steven W. Hickman
  • Publication number: 20080169895
    Abstract: A spiral inductor with a multi-trace structure having an insulating layer disposed on a substrate. A first spiral conductive trace with multiple turns is disposed on the insulating layer, wherein the outermost turn and the innermost turn of the first spiral conductive trace have a first end and a second end, respectively, and one of the first and second ends is connected to ground. A second spiral conductive trace with a single turn is disposed on the insulating layer and adjacent to the first spiral conductive trace, wherein the second spiral conductive trace is electrically connected to the turn that is connected to the ground and belongs to the first spiral conductive trace. The first spiral conductive trace has a relative outside and a relative inside, wherein the end of the first spiral conductive trace connected to ground and the second spiral conductive trace are located at different sides respectively.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 6, 2007
    Publication date: July 17, 2008
    Applicant: VIA TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
    Inventor: Sheng-Yuan Lee
  • Publication number: 20080169896
    Abstract: A microminiature power converter includes a semiconductor substrate on which a semiconductor integrated circuit is formed, and a thin magnetic induction element. The magnetic induction element includes a magnetic insulating substrate having first and second principal planes and a plurality of through-holes. A coil is formed on a central region of the magnetic insulating substrate, and electrodes are formed on the first and second principal planes at peripheral regions of the magnetic insulating substrate, and electrically connected to the magnetic insulating substrate via respective through-holes. Wiring is formed on the first principal plane in the central region of the magnetic insulating substrate and connected to a capacitor. One end of the wiring is connected to one of the electrode electrodes, and an insulator layer is provided between the wiring and the coil.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 10, 2008
    Publication date: July 17, 2008
    Applicant: Fuji Electric Device Technology Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Masaharu EDO, Takayuki Hirose
  • Publication number: 20080169897
    Abstract: A temperature switch includes a heat-conductive plate adapted to contact a heating element, an insulating support connected to the plate, and a switching unit mounted on the insulating support and including first and second fixed contact members adapted to be connected electrically and respectively to two electrical wires, and a movable contact member having first and second contact portions for electrical connection with the first and second fixed contact members, respectively. A temperature control unit includes first and second temperature-responsive elements mounted on the heat-conductive plate, and first and second control rods respectively extending from the first and second temperature-responsive elements to the first and second contact portions so as to control the first and second contact portions, respectively. The first and second temperature-responsive elements are deformable when first and second preset deformation temperatures are reached, respectively.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 17, 2007
    Publication date: July 17, 2008
    Inventor: Yu-Kang Yang
  • Publication number: 20080169898
    Abstract: An in-vehicle device notifies a mobile device of a frequency channel which has been stored in its memory unit, and sets the notified channel to a reception channel. The mobile device transmits a reply signal through the channel notified from the in-vehicle device. When the in-vehicle device determines that a code included in the received reply signal is identical with a code specific to a vehicle, the in-vehicle device stores the channel used for receiving the reply signal in its memory unit. As a result, each communication is conducted through the same channel, which enabled the successful communication previously, thereby enhancing the certainty of communication.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 10, 2008
    Publication date: July 17, 2008
    Applicant: DENSO CORPORATION
    Inventors: Shinichiro KATO, Masahiro SUGIURA, Kazuhiro NAKASHIMA
  • Publication number: 20080169899
    Abstract: A programmable controller for activating an appliance controlled by an activation signal is voice-programmable and voice-activated. If a user verbally indicates the appliance is activated by a rolling code activation signal, the controller transmits a sequence of different rolling code activation signals until the user verbally indicates a successful rolling code transmission. The controller stores data representing the successful rolling code transmission. If the user verbally indicates the appliance is activated by a fixed code activation signal, the controller uses a fixed code word to transmit each of a sequence of different fixed code activation signals until the user verbally indicates a successful fixed code transmission. The controller then stores data representing the fixed code word and a fixed code scheme used to generate the successful fixed code transmission. In response to the user verbally identifying an activation input, the controller transmits an activation signal based on stored data.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 12, 2007
    Publication date: July 17, 2008
    Applicant: Lear Corporation
    Inventors: Jason G. Bauman, Jody K. Harwood, Sumithra Krishnan, Kenan R. Rudnick
  • Publication number: 20080169900
    Abstract: An operator system provides a mobile transmitter configured to communicate with a base operator to automatically open and close an access barrier based on the position of a carrying device that maintains the mobile transmitter. The mobile transmitter periodically transmits a mobile open signal as it moves away from the reception range of the base operator until that signal is lost. When the base operator again receives the open signal, the access barrier is automatically opened. In addition, the mobile transmitter is configured to monitor the change in position of the carrying device as it moves away from the enclosure. When the angular and/or linear position of the carrying device changes by an amount greater than a predetermined threshold, the mobile transmitter automatically transmits a mobile close signal to the base operator to close the access barrier.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 18, 2008
    Publication date: July 17, 2008
    Inventor: Willis J. Mullet
  • Publication number: 20080169901
    Abstract: To provide an arrangement for identifying persons, comprising at least a one page or a multi-page identification document, particularly a passport (100), with at least one contactless RFID chip (20) and an antenna (22) connected thereto being integrated on its outer side, at least o: ie means for shielding electromagnetic waves is provided, which precludes unauthorized access to biometrical data.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 18, 2005
    Publication date: July 17, 2008
    Applicant: KONINKLIJKE PHILIPS ELECTRONICS N.V.
    Inventors: Volker Timm, Thomas Wille
  • Publication number: 20080169902
    Abstract: A television receiver that is equipped with a lock function for preventing the settings for the channel the user is currently viewing from being changed when a child presses an operation button such as a power button, a channel changing button, a volume setting button, etc., and that enables only a specific user to effect switching between locked and unlocked states.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 20, 2007
    Publication date: July 17, 2008
    Applicant: FUJITSU LIMITED
    Inventor: Fumie Shiroyama
  • Publication number: 20080169903
    Abstract: Conventional techniques for logging and using a user's signature are insecure and inflexible. A system and method are provided which: i) translate a user's first signature, such as a user's voice signature, into a user's second signature, such as a radio frequency identifier signature; and ii) deploy the user's second signature. By translating the user's first signature into the user's second signature and deploying the user's second signature, the provided technique assures the authenticity of the user. Furthermore, the provided system and method enable additional authentication factors, such as a user's personal identification number, to be used with the user's first and second signatures in multiple combinations and sequences to assure the authenticity of the user. As such, the invention provides a security layer offering added security and added flexibility previously unavailable, and which may be applied in a variety of contexts, such as a user device or a retail transaction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 12, 2007
    Publication date: July 17, 2008
    Inventors: Gene S. Fein, Edward Merritt
  • Publication number: 20080169904
    Abstract: An object locator system utilizes a microtransponder (12) that is used in association with an object to be located. A remote locator (10) transmits an encoded signal in which is embedded an identification code associated with the object to be located. The microtransponder (12) receives the encoded transmitted signal and processes such signal utilizing fast fourier transform techniques. The microtransponder (12) correlates the transformed received signal with a fast fourier transformed version of an identification code associated with the microtransponder (12) and upon detection of a correlation, transmits an acknowledgement signal to the remote locator (10). The remote locator (10) determines the distance to the microtransponder (12) based upon the round trip time from transmission of the coded signal to the microtransponder (12) to the receipt of the acknowledgement signal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 20, 2005
    Publication date: July 17, 2008
    Applicant: Alfred E. Mann Foundation for Scientific Research
    Inventors: Joseph H. Schulman, Lawrence J. Karr
  • Publication number: 20080169905
    Abstract: 5 A document comprises a substrate. The substrate comprises a coupling circuit having conductive tracks printed on the substrate. The coupling circuit comprises a first coupling part (40) for coupling to a memory tag (14) and of a size to receive a memory tag within the first coupling part, a second coupling (41) part for coupling to a reader, the first coupling part being smaller than the second coupling part, and a connecting part (42) to connect the first coupling part and the second coupling part.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 27, 2005
    Publication date: July 17, 2008
    Applicant: HEWLETT-PACKARD DEVELOPMENT COMPANY, L.P.
    Inventor: David Neil Slatter
  • Publication number: 20080169906
    Abstract: The present invention relates to RFID (radio frequency identification), more particularly to an RFID tag attached to a tooth and a system for using the same. The tooth-attached RFID tag of the present invention comprises a chip for storing the user's information, an antenna for transmitting the user information stored in the chip, a housing for fixing the chip and the antenna and a protective resin attached to a tooth for covering the housing, so that it may be protected from food or saliva. The semi-permanent tooth-attached RFID tag of the present invention offers an effective way of user identification.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 10, 2006
    Publication date: July 17, 2008
    Inventors: Ji Hoon Joo, Jung Seo Park
  • Publication number: 20080169907
    Abstract: A remote control transmitter and a controlled apparatus that are paired by a pairing process that remotely controls the controlled apparatus. The operator initially uses the remote control transmitter to control the controlled apparatus so that it performs a specified operation, the remote control transmitter transmits RF packet data that contains a master ID, control data, and a status code that indicates a pairing start via an RF signal, and the controlled apparatus that receives this RF signal transmits RF packet data that contains a slave ID, the master ID, and a status code that indicates pairing ACK back to the remote control transmitter via an RF signal. The controlled apparatus further performs an operation based on the control data included in the transmitted RF packet data.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 16, 2007
    Publication date: July 17, 2008
    Applicant: SMK Corporation
    Inventor: Kenji Ootsuka
  • Publication number: 20080169908
    Abstract: A radio frequency identification (RFID) system having the capacity to detect the parameter of alignment, wherein the system may be used with hand-held, fixed-in-place, stationary and permanently mounted apparatus. The system includes an RF transponder configured for use with dental x-ray, medical imaging and digital radiography apparatus The system may include a multiplicity of RF transponder carrier transmit/data receive coils, each resonant to the same or differing frequencies. An RF tag, an RF transponder and an x-ray film holder are configured to be critically aligned to a dental x-ray machine head apparatus, rendering repeat imaging unnecessary. The x-ray head apparatus may be further configured to automatically obtain a desired x-ray image or configured so that the device cannot activate and provide a radiograph until alignment to an RF tag device has occurred.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 18, 2007
    Publication date: July 17, 2008
    Applicant: ABR, LLC
    Inventors: Ramin Homanfar, Bela Incze, David Massey
  • Publication number: 20080169909
    Abstract: Provided is a RFID tag with enhanced security. The tag includes a tag memory to store thereto pre-determined password information and tag data, an antenna to receive a tag data transmission request signal from an outer reader, and a tag controller to request the reader to transmit the password if the tag data transmission request signal is received, and then to transmit the tag data if the password received from the reader is identical with the pre-determined password. Accordingly, it can be prevented for a third-party, who does not know the password, to check the tag data.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 30, 2006
    Publication date: July 17, 2008
    Applicant: SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Kyung-Ho Park, Woo-Shik Kang, Jin-Young Yang, Hyung-Min Yoon
  • Publication number: 20080169910
    Abstract: Disclosed is a device for a particular purpose. The device includes a housing. A wireless power transmitter is connected to the housing. The wireless power transmitter sends wireless power. The particular purpose is something other than sending wireless power. A method for a particular purpose.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 28, 2007
    Publication date: July 17, 2008
    Inventors: Charles E. Greene, Daniel W. Harrist, Michael Thomas McElhinny
  • Publication number: 20080169911
    Abstract: An input organ, being provided with means for detecting the touch of a fingertip, where said organ is provided with means for providing a tactile feedback to said fingertip to acknowledge an activation of said input organ, and where said means for providing a tactile feedback comprises an elongate object of shape memory metal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 15, 2007
    Publication date: July 17, 2008
    Inventors: Gunnar Klinghult, Mats Wernersson
  • Publication number: 20080169912
    Abstract: An apparatus that detects the presence of a constituent such as fog affecting a view of space which is present ahead of a vehicle, the constituent resulting from a natural phenomenon in the space is provided. In this apparatus, the determination of whether the presence of the element is determined based on an image that captured by a vehicle-mounted camera and in which a picture of a high-luminance obstacle located on a road over which the vehicle is traveling is masked.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 10, 2008
    Publication date: July 17, 2008
    Applicant: DENSO Corporation
    Inventor: Naoki Kawasaki
  • Publication number: 20080169913
    Abstract: An automobile steering wheel lock with an alarm includes a lock having a lock core with a chamber containing an alarm and at least one light hole. The alarm consists of a circuit board, a battery, a buzzer and a touch switch. The circuit board capable of sending signals has a warning light and a high-density LED light. Also, a help-signaling device is installed at a conspicuous location of a car and provided with at least one lamp panel. Each lamp panel is provided with a wireless receiver for receiving signals from the alarm and formed of luminescent lamps or LED lamps to show help signals. So, should the buzzer be moved by a burglar, it would sound immediately, spontaneously activating the high-density LED light to radiate toward the driver's seat and the lamp panel lit, achieving multiple anti-theft effects.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 12, 2007
    Publication date: July 17, 2008
    Inventor: Pin-Han Yu
  • Publication number: 20080169914
    Abstract: A computer-implemented method, system, and program product includes a behavior processing system for capturing a three-dimensional movement of an operator of a vehicle, wherein the three-dimensional movement is determined by using at least one image capture device aimed at the operator, and identifying at least one behavior of the operator from the captured three-dimensional movement. An operator monitoring system for a vehicle determines whether the predicted behavior and the current operational state of the vehicle indicate unsafe operation of the vehicle and the operator monitoring system notifies the operator when unsafe operator of the vehicle is indicated by the operator's behavior for the current operational state of the vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 12, 2007
    Publication date: July 17, 2008
    Inventors: JACOB C ALBERTSON, Kenneth C. Arnold, Steven D. Goldman, Michael A. Paolini, Anthony J. Sessa
  • Publication number: 20080169915
    Abstract: There is provided a tire information detector to promptly and accurately detect tire information such as pressure of a tire. The tire information detector includes a transponder including a resonator and disposed in a tire of a vehicle; and a controller disposed in a vehicle body, transmitting an excitation signal allowing the resonator to resonate to the transponder, receiving a resonance signal concerning a resonance frequency of the resonator, and calculating a measurement value in accordance with the resonance frequency of the resonator. The controller determines a frequency of the excitation signal based on the resonance frequency of the resonator obtained from previous communications with the transponder.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 20, 2007
    Publication date: July 17, 2008
    Inventors: Hideki Masudaya, Kenichi Tamagawa
  • Publication number: 20080169916
    Abstract: A vehicle safety belt warning device which comprises a sensing member and a warning member electrically coupled to the sensing member. The sensing member comprises a magnetic element installed on a first buckle member of the vehicle safety belt buckle set and a magnetically-activated control element installed on a second buckle member of the vehicle safety belt buckle set. When the first buckle member and the second buckle member are not engaged, the warning member gives off a warning signal in the form of sound, light or combination thereof.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 9, 2007
    Publication date: July 17, 2008
    Inventor: Kee-Weng Lai
  • Publication number: 20080169917
    Abstract: An identification system for an object, particularly for an electrical or electronic device (1) is provided with an item of identification information. The object contains an electronic memory inside of which the item of identification information is stored. This memory is connected to a display device via which the item of identification information can be displayed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 10, 2006
    Publication date: July 17, 2008
    Inventor: Heinz-Josef Hautvast
  • Publication number: 20080169918
    Abstract: A school bus has a hinged stop arm, a bidirectional electric motor operatively connected to the hinged stop arm for pivoting the hinged stop arm between a stored position adjacent the school bus and a deployed position extending outwardly of the school bus, and a motor control module for controlling the bidirectional electric motor. A retainer arrangement is attached to the school bus for retaining the hinged stop arm in the stored position positively and a second control module is operatively connected to the motor control module. The retainer arrangement includes a servo motor and a lock member that is moved by the servo motor between a lock position retaining the hinged arm in the stored position and a release position allowing the hinged stop arm to be pivoted outwardly by the motor. The motor and the servo motor are operated by a common switch.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 10, 2008
    Publication date: July 17, 2008
    Inventors: Paul I. Vidri, Kevin L. Wolf
  • Publication number: 20080169919
    Abstract: Face-to-face detection by infrared-ray communication is effective in grasping interaction between persons. However the problem here is that infrared rays have a high directivity and detection fails unless the persons face each other right in front. Sensor signals having a high directivity and sensor signals having a low directivity are obtained from a sensor terminal (TR) carried by a person. Firstly, information on relative position is obtained with a sensor (TRIR) of infrared rays or the like having a high directivity and an initial group is formed at an application server (AS). A feature amount such as sound that has a low directivity and can sense surrounding environmental information is extracted from among the terminals (TRs) belonging to the initial group by personal feature extraction (ASIF), correlation with terminals (TRs) not belonging to a group is obtained, and thereby whether or not those terminals (TRs) belong to an identical group is judged.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 10, 2007
    Publication date: July 17, 2008
    Inventors: Nobuo SATO, Norio OHKUBO, Norihiko MORIWAKI, Yoshihiro WAKISAKA
  • Publication number: 20080169920
    Abstract: A system for submitting alert notices to mobile communication devices is disclosed. An apparatus that incorporates teachings of the present disclosure may include, for example, a mobile communication device (MCD) having a controller element that transmits to an alert generation system (AGS) a location coordinate in order for the AGS to submit an alert notice to the MCD when the MCD is in proximity to an alert condition. Additional embodiments are disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 12, 2007
    Publication date: July 17, 2008
    Applicant: AT&T KNOWLEDGE VENTURES, LP
    Inventor: PERRY S. SPENCE
  • Publication number: 20080169921
    Abstract: The present invention is related to a means for detecting external threats by the use of methods and apparatuses for the wide area detection of chemical, radiological or biological threats using modified personal wireless devices combined with new advanced micro and nanosensor technologies. A cost effective method is provided for wide area surveillance of a potential terrorist or personal threat. Personal electronic devices such as mobile phones, PDAs or watches, in combination with new microsensor technologies described herein, can be used as a new type of platform detection technology for wide area surveillance of major threats. A “Homeland Security” chip is further provided which combines the elements of geo-location, remote wireless communication and sensing into a single chip. The personal electronic devices can be further equipped for detecting various medically related threats. Similarly modified personal devices can be used to detect external threats that are person-specific.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 13, 2006
    Publication date: July 17, 2008
    Inventor: John Peeters
  • Publication number: 20080169922
    Abstract: A system and method for the detection of an intruder in an area under construction is disclosed. The self-contained portable deterrent alarm system includes a plurality of means for detecting an intruder and broadcasting at least one of an audible siren or audible voice alarm. The system and method further include, in response to receiving a triggering signal, establishing a telephone communication to a monitoring center to report an intrusion at the construction site. The system is adapted for quick install, removal and relocation to an alternate construction area.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 14, 2008
    Publication date: July 17, 2008
    Inventor: Peter Alan Issokson
  • Publication number: 20080169923
    Abstract: A security system and display module therefore protects an item of merchandise mounted on the display module in a retail environment. The item of merchandise is electrically and mechanically connected to a sensor which is removably mounted on the display module by a first power cord. A second power cord connects the display module to the sensor and a third power cord connects the display module to a source of electricity for supplying electric power to the sensor through the display module and then to the displayed item for maintaining the charge on a battery of the displayed item. The display module contains an alarm unit having an audible alarm which is actuated if the integrity of either of the first or second power cords is compromised. A plunger switch and LED may be contained in the sensor and in a base of the display module and connected to the internal alarm to provide additional security for the protected item of merchandise.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 7, 2008
    Publication date: July 17, 2008
    Applicant: INVUE SECURITY PRODUCTS INC.
    Inventors: Dennis D. Belden, Christopher J. Fawcett, Anthony M. Cupolo
  • Publication number: 20080169924
    Abstract: A security alarm is removably attached to a band extending about a package which sounds an alarm should tension on the band be reduced to prevent theft of the package contents. The band extends through a passage formed between the bottom of an alarm housing and a bottom lock plate pivotally connected to the housing. A plunger switch is mounted in the housing and engages the band. Reduction of the band tension permits the switch plunger to move and actuate an audible alarm. A slide lock locks the bottom lock plate to the alarm housing to prevent removal of the alarm from the band. A key unlocks the slide lock from the alarm housing enabling the alarm to be slid from beneath the band.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 12, 2007
    Publication date: July 17, 2008
    Applicant: Alpha Security Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Dennis D. Belden
  • Publication number: 20080169925
    Abstract: Certain embodiments of the present invention provide a catheter monitoring system including a catheter input module (CIM) adapted to be connected to at least one catheter, an amplifier base, and a host adapted to process data from the amplifier base. The CIM is adapted to be connected to an amplifier base during a study. The amplifier base is adapted to receive data from the CIM when the CIM is connected to the amplifier base.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 17, 2006
    Publication date: July 17, 2008
    Applicant: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Patrick Thomas Moran, Rodger F. Schmit, Daniel Richard Schneidewend
  • Publication number: 20080169926
    Abstract: An identifying coding apparatus employing modulated reflectance technology involving a base station emitting a RF signal, with a tag, located remotely from the base station, and containing at least one antenna and predetermined other passive circuit components, receiving the RF signal and reflecting back to the base station a modulated signal indicative of characteristics related to the tag. A long-range communications apparatus utilizing modulated-reflector technology is described. The apparatus includes an energy-transmitting base station and remote units that do not emit radiation in order to communicate with the base station since modulated-reflector technology is used whereby information is attached to an RF carrier wave originating from the base station which is reflected by the remote unit back to the base station. Since the remote unit does not emit radiation, only a low-power power source is required for its operation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 11, 2007
    Publication date: July 17, 2008
    Inventor: Paul Reep
  • Publication number: 20080169927
    Abstract: A system for more optimally providing a service, such as a communications service, in an institutional setting by use of smart context-aware approaches. The system comprises an environmental context processing engine configured to transform sensed data indicative of activity relevant to provision of said service into data indicative of an environmental context in which said activity is deemed to have occurred; a situational context processing engine configured to transform the data indicative of the environmental context into data indicative of a situational context in which said activity is deemed to have occurred; and a decision making engine configured to apply data indicative of an institutional context to the data indicative of the situational context in order to determine an action to be taken in accordance with provision of said service.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 20, 2007
    Publication date: July 17, 2008
    Inventors: Alan Graves, Brian Vezza, Thomas Chmara, John Watkins, Jeffrey Fitchett
  • Publication number: 20080169928
    Abstract: Transponder networks and transponder systems are provided which help to overcome the issues presented to transponders systems by FCC power limitations. One embodiment provides a transponder network that includes a plurality of RFID straps in order to increase the amount of memory that is practically available in the network. Other embodiments provide transponder systems employing a touch probe RFID reader device that enable information to be communicated to and from a transponder or a transponder network by establishing physical contact with the reader device rather than through an air interface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 9, 2008
    Publication date: July 17, 2008
    Applicant: University of Pittsburgh - Of the Commonwealth System of Higher Education
    Inventors: Marlin H. Mickle, Peter J. Hawrylak
  • Publication number: 20080169929
    Abstract: A computer-implemented method, system, and program includes a behavior processing system for capturing a three-dimensional movement of a monitored user within a particular environment monitored by a supervising user, wherein the three-dimensional movement is determined by using at least one image capture device aimed at the monitored user. The behavior processing system identifies a three-dimensional object properties stream using the captured movement. The behavior processing system identifies a particular defined adverse behavior of the monitored user represented by the three-dimensional object properties stream by comparing the identified three-dimensional object properties stream with multiple adverse behavior definitions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 12, 2007
    Publication date: July 17, 2008
    Inventors: Jacob C Albertson, Kenneth C. Arnold, Steven D. Goldman, Michael A. Paolini, Anthony J. Sessa
  • Publication number: 20080169930
    Abstract: A method for use with a media player includes playing an item of content for a user on the media player, wherein the media player includes one or more sensors configured to allow the user to interact with the media player, receiving information from at least one of the one or more sensors during the playing of at least a portion of the item of content; analyzing the received information, and forming at least an indication of the user's level of attention to the portion of the item of content based on the analysis of the received information. A storage medium storing a computer program executable by a processor based system causes the processor based system to execute similar steps. A system for use in playing media includes a media player portion and a processing portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 17, 2007
    Publication date: July 17, 2008
    Applicant: Sony Computer Entertainment Inc.
    Inventor: Dominic Saul Mallinson
  • Publication number: 20080169931
    Abstract: A bed exit and patient detection system especially adapted for use in the general medical or surgical floor area of a hospital or other healthcare facility as part of a vital signs monitoring and remote warning system includes a plurality of pressure sensors disposed in the patient's bed in a series of rectangular strips or zones that run laterally across the bed in the area of the patient's mid-back, hips and mid-legs, respectively. Each zone contains a plurality of sensors, arranged symmetrically about the centerline of the bed, with the corresponding sensors on opposite sides of the centerline in each zone being connected in parallel. The sensors are connected to a processor with multiple input channels that continuously monitors the sensor states to determine, from the pattern of sensor states observed, whether the patient is in bed, out of bed or is actively attempting to ext the bed at the sides or foot of the bed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 17, 2007
    Publication date: July 17, 2008
    Applicant: HOANA MEDICAL, INC.
    Inventors: JASON M. GENTRY, MATTHEW S. GLEI, ROSE A. MILLS
  • Publication number: 20080169932
    Abstract: Disclosed herein are child monitor systems and methods in which a device includes a receiver that receives a wireless signal including audio data indicative of sounds captured at a remote location. The receiver includes a demodulator to derive a digital data stream from the wireless signal. The device further includes a processor coupled to the receiver to obtain the digital data stream and configured to analyze the digital data stream to determine whether to initiate a vibration alert. In some cases, a transmitter device includes a processor configured to generate a vibration alert command based on an analysis of the digital audio data and for incorporation in the wireless signal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 16, 2007
    Publication date: July 17, 2008
    Applicant: Graco Children's Products Inc.
    Inventors: Craig Desrosiers, Jeffrey Swan
  • Publication number: 20080169933
    Abstract: A sound control system with an automatic sound receiving function is provided. The sound control system includes a sensor sensing a trigger signal; a sound receiving apparatus coupled with the sensor to initiate a receiving of a sound according to the trigger signal, and a sound control unit coupled with the sound receiving apparatus and operating according to the sound received from the sound receiving apparatus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 23, 2007
    Publication date: July 17, 2008
    Applicant: DELTA ELECTRONICS, INC.
    Inventors: Min-hong Wang, Jia-lin Shen, Tien-ming Hsu
  • Publication number: 20080169934
    Abstract: A portable apparatus is provided for detecting the presence in a local atmosphere of gases that are hazardous to the health of humans and animals, the detector providing a warning to the operator of the apparatus of the presence of such gases.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 10, 2007
    Publication date: July 17, 2008
    Inventors: Steve Lang, Barry Siskind
  • Publication number: 20080169935
    Abstract: Digital indicator comprising a display device (20), a control circuit (30) connected to the display device (20) for transmitting to the display device (20) signals that indicate values measured by a certain type of measuring device (15) connectable to said control circuit (30). The indicator (12) is characterised in that the display device (20) comprises a plurality of display entities (22, 25, 26, 28, 29) selectively actuatable by the control circuit (30) on the basis of the type of measuring device (15) connectable to the control circuit (30).
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 18, 2005
    Publication date: July 17, 2008
    Applicant: S.I.E.M. S.R.L.
    Inventor: Jorge Miguel Aguglia
  • Publication number: 20080169936
    Abstract: A sensing system for sensing the proximity of a part of a user to a control input, such as a control panel (14), for a vehicle subsystem (10), includes a transmitter (26) for transmitting a signal, a primary receivers (22) for receiving the signal via the user as a primary signal and a reference receiver (28) for receiving the signal via the user as a reference signal. One of the transmitter and primary receiver is associated with the user and the other with the control input (14). The reference receiver (28) is associated with the user and a controller (12) is provided to receive and process the primary and reference signals to provide a measure of the proximity between the part of the user and the control input (14).
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 9, 2004
    Publication date: July 17, 2008
    Inventors: Carl A Pickering, Ian R Thorp, Richard D Parkinson
  • Publication number: 20080169937
    Abstract: Using cell phones or other wireless devices to notify users of those devices of impending arrival at a selected customer location. The current location of the wireless device is determined and compared with the known location of the destination. When the wireless device is within a predetermined distance or at a predetermined estimated arrival time from the selected destination, an alert is sent to the wireless device and, if authorized, an alert also is sent to the destination. In response to the impending arrival, the destination may provide information for the user concerning offerings at that destination.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 16, 2007
    Publication date: July 17, 2008
    Inventor: Sadie Lowry
  • Publication number: 20080169938
    Abstract: A variable blind spot warning system for detecting objects in a blind spot of a motor vehicle. The system includes at least one movable side view device coupled to a position sensor. The position sensor generates a position signal corresponding to an orientation of the side view device. At least one external detector generates a detector signal corresponding to a location of objects outside of the motor vehicle. A processor reads the position signal and the detector signal and calculates blind spot boundaries based on the position signal. The processor thereafter compares the blind spot boundaries to the object locations and provides an indication to a driver of the vehicle if an object is within the calculated blind spot boundaries.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 17, 2007
    Publication date: July 17, 2008
    Inventor: Dinu Petre Madau