Abstract: A security system includes an optical fiber, a plurality of sensors, and a light source, detector, and a controller. The optical fiber and sensors are attached and positioned along a fence. The optical fiber passes through the sensors. The sensors include a hinged striker having a weight that swings under the influence of gravity and is movable in response to vibration of the fence to compress and bend the optical fiber and attenuate transmission of an optical signal through the optical fiber. In another embodiment, an optical fiber cable having a plurality of optical fibers may be employed to define zones and allow determination of intrusion of a particular portion of the fence. In a further embodiment, a ground sensor is disclosed.

Abstract: A trespass detection system includes an electronic-wave trespass detection sensor which is provided near the boundary of a trespass surveillance area, and a detection device body which detects trespassing into the area on the basis of a detection output from the sensor. The detection device body includes a change quantity storing unit which stores the quantity of change in electric field intensity over a predetermined period for each detection zone that is set in advance along the direction of extension of the electronic-wave trespass detection sensor, a statistical processing unit which statistically processes each of the quantities of change, a threshold value setting unit which corrects a threshold value on the basis of the result of the processing and sets a new threshold value, and a trespass detection determining unit which compares the quantity of change and the threshold value and thus determines that there is trespassing by an object.

Abstract: An electronic devices security method comprising, responsive to detecting at least one event indicating a possible theft of an electronic device, initiating an alarm at a docking station associated with the electronic device

Abstract: A system and method for automatically determining a physical location of one or more units in a rack, including: using one or more physical cables between rack units; cascading a first signal through the one or more units located in the rack, the first signal being encoded with a unit number and a physical parameter; and creating a rack ID by utilizing hardware parameters, the hardware parameters being determined by: detecting a second signal that exists from a bottom unit, the bottom unit located at the bottom of the rack; and using a third signal to send data between the one or more units in the rack by manipulating void spaces within the rack, the third signal being either cabled or an optical signal.

Abstract: A system for locating a key from a vehicle includes a transmitter adapted to mount on the vehicle. An activation switch causes the transmitter to selectively broadcast a signal. A receiver has the key attached thereto and a speaker. The receiver receives the signal from the transmitter and emits a sound from the speaker marking the location of the key.

Abstract: In accordance with preferred embodiments or the invention, a method (and corresponding apparatus) is provided for deducing the location of one or more items or objects to be monitored. In exemplary embodiments, the method (and corresponding apparatus) is implemented in RFID (radio frequency identification) applications (e.g., reading RFID tags at 13.56 MHz and approximately 900 MHz) by deducing the location of an item associated with a unique RFID tag in one or more areas of detection covered by multiple RFID reader antennae.

Abstract: A method, radio frequency ID reader, and wireless communication device monitor radio-frequency identification enabled items associated with a group activity. The method includes receiving a set of radio frequency IDs representing a set of radio frequency ID enabled items (110) to be monitored. The set of radio frequency enabled items (110) are associated with at least one group activity. Each radio frequency ID enabled item (110) is determined to be associated with one of an individual and a group of individuals. The method also includes determining if at least one condition associated with the group activity has occurred indicating that the group activity is occurring (1004). The set of radio frequency IDs representing the set of radio frequency ID enabled items (110) is monitored for in response to determining that the at least one condition is occurring.

Abstract: A system and related methods for dynamically re-configuring a radio frequency identification tag reader, engaging software business processes, or combinations of both, using a radio-frequency-readable configuration tag which physically associated with one or more RFID-tagged articles in a physical handling flow. The configuration tag reader is positioned prior to a radio frequency identification tag reader in said material handling flow, which allows the configuration reader to read the contents of the configuration tags before the articles reach the identification tag reader.

Abstract: A system and related methods for dynamically re-configuring a radio frequency identification tag reader, engaging software business processes, or combinations of both, using a radio-frequency-readable configuration tag which physically associated with one or more RFID-tagged articles in a physical handling flow. The configuration tag reader is positioned prior to a radio frequency identification tag reader in said material handling flow, which allows the configuration reader to read the contents of the configuration tags before the articles reach the identification tag reader. Based on the contents of the read configuration tags, one or more selected business processes are initiated to customize the handling process of the tagged items.

Abstract: A system and related methods for dynamically re-configuring a radio frequency identification tag reader, engaging software business processes, or combinations of both, using a radio-frequency-readable configuration tag which physically associated with one or more RFID-tagged articles in a physical handling flow. The configuration tag reader is positioned prior to a radio frequency identification tag reader in said material handling flow, which allows the configuration reader to read the contents of the configuration tags before the articles reach the identification tag reader. Based on the contents of the read configuration tags, one or more document generators are engaged, and optionally one or more business processes are initiated, and optionally one or more reader system hardware configuration changes are implemented.

Abstract: Provided are a method and apparatus for detecting a position of an object using radio frequency identification (RFID). The method includes calculating a position of a moving object using a first RFID tag installed at a particular position in a predetermined space while the moving object is moving, sensing a second RFID tag included in the object, determining the position of the object as the position calculated at a point of time when the RFID tag included in the object is sensed, and displaying the determined position.

Abstract: Radio Frequency IDentification (RFID) reader system, software, and methods are provided, such that an operational processing block for the RFID reader to communicate with an RFID tag uses a RF spectrum portion subdivided into a set of channels. The communication takes place in the presence of a foreign device that uses a subset of first channels of the RF spectrum and does not use a subset of second channels of the spectrum. The methods cause a radiating power directed towards the tag to be reduced and a radiating dwell time to be changed. This is to assure that co-existing systems can operate without compromising their functionality and operational quality. In some embodiments, the radiating power is reduced to zero.

Abstract: The invention relates to a self-checkout system that selectively activates an alarm when an item is determined to be stolen, engages the user regarding the purchase of the item, and informs the user of the purchase status of the item. When an item is determined to be stolen, and a number of occurrences of the item in the database indicating it is stolen is greater than a predetermined amount over a predetermined period of time, a theft detection module does not transmit a security signal to activate an alarm. The invention can also include a touch-screen display including a first portion dedicated to displaying POS transactions and online shopping and a second portion dedicated to displaying interactive digital media related to the item. Furthermore, the invention can include indicators on the touch screen display to indicate the status of an item.

Abstract: A PC for producing an RFID label by cutting at a predetermined full-cut position or partially cutting at a predetermined half-cutting position in the thickness direction a base tape wherein an RFID circuit element comprising an IC circuit part that stores information and a loop antenna that transmits and receives information is disposed, wherein the PC determines based on the cartridge information of a tag cartridge installed using a cartridge holder a cuttable area of the base tape wherein at least one full-cut position or half-cutting position can be set.

Abstract: An adaptive security device includes a tag module and a processor module. The processor module contains a tag disable electronic circuit and a controller. The controller provides tag control commands to the tag disable electronic circuit. The tag disable electronic circuit selectively enables or disables the tag module based on the tag control command. In one embodiment, the tag module is an electronic article surveillance (“EAS”) tag module.

Abstract: An RF port device includes a digital module within a housing, wherein the digital module is configured to communicate with a network over a data connection (e.g., a GigE Ethernet connection), from which it may receive power. The digital module and housing are configured to removeably couple to two or more RF submodules—e.g., RFID reader submodules, 802.11 a/b/g access port submodules, 802.11n access port submodules, Wi-MAX submodules, Ultra Wide Band submodules, and Bluetooth submodules.

Abstract: A radio frequency identification device comprising a first antenna configured to receive and transmit radio frequency identification signals, the first antenna being configured to transmit and receive the signals at a first frequency, a controller configured to provide data for communication, a first mixer coupled with the controller and the first antenna, the first mixer being configured to modulate the data from the controller with a first signal having the first frequency, and a second mixer coupled with the controller and the first antenna, the second mixer being configured to demodulate received signals from the first antenna with a second signal having the first frequency.

Abstract: A radio frequency identification (RFID) device comprising a transmitter on a first surface of a substrate, a receiver on the first surface of the substrate, a ground area on a second surface of the substrate, a first antenna on the first surface of the substrate, the first antenna being electrically connected to the ground area and capable of transmitting outgoing signals, and a second antenna on the first surface of the substrate, the second antenna being electrically connected to the ground area and capable of receiving incoming signals.

Abstract: The invention relates to a device and a method for reading and/or writing data from and/or to a multiplicity of RFID chips arranged in smart labels within a smart label production device, wherein the smart labels each comprising a first antenna are applied next to and behind one another on a common continuous film-like strip, wherein each smart label from a selected set of smart labels arranged next to and/or behind one another is respectively assigned a second antenna for the simultaneous transmission of read and/or write data between the first and second antennas by means of ultrahigh frequency waves, wherein the second antennas are arranged in a planar manner within at least one common antenna carrier.

Abstract: Disclosed is a navigation apparatus and method using RFID that is capable of providing information on a current position and a moving direction to the destination. An antenna unit has directivity in a predetermined direction and receives at least one radio signal transmitted from at least one RFID tag. An RFID reader converts the at least one radio signal provided by the antenna unit into information on the at least one RFID tag in a digital form, measures the reception strength of the at least one radio signal, and provides the information on the at least one RFID tag and information on the received strength. A control unit determines the current position and moving direction on the basis of the information on the at least one RFID tag and the information on the reception strength provided from the RFID reader. Accordingly, it is possible to accurately recognize the current position and the moving direction of the navigation apparatus and guide the moving direction to the destination.

Abstract: This Invention contemplates a system and method to manufacture an active RFID integrated circuit as a system on a chip which is powered by enzymes located in mammalian bodies. According to this Invention the active integrated circuit system on a chip is manufactured of a glass capsule containing a porous membrane which allows the free flow of bodily fluids into and out of the capsule. The enzymes in the bodily fluids of mammals produce sufficient electrical charge to power an active RFID transponder. This electrical charge is harnessed through the auspices of a standard chemical process utilizing a nano anode and cathode manufactured as an integral part of the system on a chip integrated chip capsule. The capsule or casing is coated with bio friendly enzymes which promote the surrounding tissue to grow up to the glass casing or capsule and bond with it. This is for the purpose of securing the capsule in one position in the body.

Abstract: A disposable and tamper-resistant RFID lock that employs an RFID tag. Use of tamper evident housing. Disabling an RFID tag contained in the housing cutting, crushing, or puncturing the RFID tag.

Abstract: A radio frequency identification seal comprises an antenna including a main antenna portion and at least one break-away portion and an RFID tag coupled and tuned to the antenna. The RFID tag outputs a signature in response to a scanning signal when tuned to the antenna.

Abstract: A system for tracking personnel and equipment in hazardous environments in pre or post-accident situations includes an intrinsically safe tracking tag and an intrinsically safe reader system. The intrinsically safe tracking tag transmits identification and status information to the intrinsically safe reader system, which includes a plurality of intrinsically safe antennas and a hub cable driver. In one embodiment, antennas are located at known positions in the hazardous environment and connected via a redundant, wired-mesh topology. The wired-mesh topology also allows more flexible antenna placement than line-of-sight wireless-mesh systems. The hub cable driver provides intrinsically safe power to and communication with the antennas using communication cables, receives data signals from the antennas, and transmits the data signals to a server. The server stores the data signals in a storage device and is connected to a workstation. The workstation retrieves the stored data to track persons or equipment.

Abstract: A merchandising tag comprising a housing with a first compartment defined therein and having a door pivotally mounted thereon to selectively allow or prevent access to the first compartment. The first compartment is adapted to receive a price tag therein. The housing is also provided with an attachment mechanism which has at least one portion which extends outwardly away from the housing is adapted to engage the product. The tag includes at least one alarm system disposed within the housing. A locking mechanism is provided for simultaneously locking the moveable door to prevent access to the first compartment; securing the portion of the attachment mechanism to the product so that the housing is not detachable therefrom; and for arming the at least one alarm system. When the locking mechanism is engaged, any attempt to remove the tag from the product, open the door, or remove the product with attached tag from the store will result in a loud-attention getting sound being emitted from the housing.

Abstract: A communication device (100) includes a tactile sensor (120) configured to receive tactile input including a traced shape, a predefined shape or a constricting pressure, which is classified or characterized as a hug when covering a large area of the tactile sensor, such as forces directed toward each other applied on opposing surfaces of the tactile sensor (120). A controller (110) is configured to categorize the tactile input in accordance with presets, e.g., stored in a memory (130) of the communication device (100). The controller (110) is further configured to output a transmit signal including a characterization of the tactile input in accordance with the presets. A renderer (140) is configured to provide an illuminating pattern associated with the characterization and/or the tactile input, which may be a symbol, icon, word and drawing, where additionally the characterization may be a hug.

Abstract: The disclosure is directed to an interactive packaging system for monitoring the usage of personal hygiene products, personal hygiene product packages, and restroom facilities. The interactive packaging system may include a plurality of usage monitoring devices each configured to detect physical stimulus associated with the usage of the product, package or facility with which the usage monitoring device is associate, and to transmit usage messages containing information relating to the detected physical stimulus. The interactive packaging system may further include a base station configured to receive the usage messages transmitted by the plurality of usage monitoring devices and to generate sensory perceptible outputs corresponding to the information contained in the usage messages. Either the usage monitoring devices or the base station may be configured to determine whether the products, packages or facilities are used appropriately based on the detected physical stimulus.

Abstract: An electrified container for deterring an animal from accessing the contents thereof. The storage container having at least one access aperture and at least one section of electrically conductive material attached to the exterior of said storage container. Preferably, the section of electrically conductive material is configured to conduct current through an animal upon contact with the container, thus providing an electric shock to the animal.

Abstract: The number of piglets dying at birth is reduced by providing a temperature sensor in a farrowing crate at the piglet area thereof on a movable cover so that, when the sow is expected to give birth, the sensor is located in the crate at a location to detect the presence of one or more piglets after birth. On detection by a control unit using the sensor signal of the one or more piglets, the sensor communicates a signal to a pager carried by an operator indicating to the operator that birth of piglets is in progress and activates a heating lamp for the piglets in the pen to attract them away from the area of the sow to reduce crushing. The control unit and the sensor also control the heat output. The cover can slide along the piglet area and can lift to expose the piglet area.

Abstract: A tracking device is incorporated into a band, such as a watch band or bracelet. The tracking device appears as an ordinary band, but cannot be removed by the individual wearing it. If necessary, the location of the tracking device can be determined by a central server and reported to the authorities or to the individual's family.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention provide a sensor for detecting the presence of fluid in an absorbent article. The sensor may include a fluid activated battery. Fluid received in the absorbent article may connect electrodes of the fluid activated battery and cause a voltage to be generated between battery electrodes. The voltage generated between the electrodes may provide power to the sensor circuit. In one embodiment, the fluid activated battery may be configured to detect the presence of fluid in the absorbent article and the presence and/or amount of particular substances in the received fluid.

Abstract: A drowning or asphyxiation prevention system and methods are set forth, for facilitating drowning prevention of swimmers in bodies of water, such as pools, lakes or the like. The drowning prevention safety system comprises a wearable article worn by a swimmer, an alarm indicator for transmitting an alarm condition. The system may further include an alarm receiving system for receiving the alarm signal from the alarm transmitting device. The invention also relates to a heart rate monitoring system comprising a patch type portion to be adhesively applied to the skin of a user to monitor the electrical activity of the heart and generate heart rate information that is communicated to a separate wearable device, such as a wrist worn device.

Abstract: This invention is for somebody, who has fallen asleep, while driving a car, and wants it never to happen again. This invention is for family father, who has to drive to work every day and who wants to be sure, that breadwinner arrives every night from work, this is for taxi drivers, pizza delivery men, UPS truck drivers, school bus drivers and whose income depends on safe driving. This invention is needed also for trucking co's who want their customers goods to arrive without car accidents, caused by drivers falling asleep while driving a truck. This invention is eyeglasses attachable optosensor, which detects, when the drivers eyes are closed or open, and after eyes are closed over half of a second starts a wake up buzzer signal. In case the driver doesn't wake up after 3-5 seconds, the Freeway Blaster truck horn's sound will definitely wake up the sleepy driver.

Abstract: Combustion instability in combustion appliances may be recognized before excessive carbon monoxide may be produced. In some instances, combustion instability may be manifested in flame oscillation, or rather, in oscillations in flame intensity as measured, for example, by a flame sensor. If flame instability is detected, appliance operation may be corrected or terminated.

Abstract: An emergency notification and directional signaling apparatus includes an alarm remotely mountable from and responsive to an emergency event detector. The remote alarm activates one of supplementary visual, audible and/or voice message alarms which may include a pulsed strobe, and an audible sound, and/or a recorded voice message. A temperature sensor coupled to the remote alarm initiates another notification and signaling event when the ambient temperature proximate the remote alarm reaches a preset threshold. Emergency event detectors and/or mass notification devices may also activate the remote alarms throughout a building or exterior area in the event of an impending storm, tornado, earthquake, hurricane, etc., to provide localized area support and guidance.

Abstract: A signaling device for absorbent articles is disclosed. A signaling device is configured to be electrically connected to a wetness sensor contained in the absorbent article. When a conductive substance is detected in the absorbent article, the wetness sensor is activated causing the signaling device to emit an audible signal. In accordance with the present disclosure, the signaling device is adjusted and configured such that the audible signal emits and adjusted so that the audible signal has a frequency or range of frequencies that maximizes perceived loudness in a particular environment.

Abstract: Disclosed is an insult-sensing absorbent article including an absorbent assembly, an insult-sensing means coupled to the absorbent assembly, and a tuned antenna system coupled to the insult-sensing means. Also disclosed is a method for indicating an insult to an absorbent article to be worn by a wearer, the method including providing an absorbent article including a conductive element; providing an antenna system associated with the absorbent article, the antenna system including a signal generator and an antenna, wherein the antenna includes the conductive element, and wherein the antenna system is adapted to transmit a signal; and maximizing the receivability of the signal by optimizing an aspect of the antenna system.

Abstract: The Domestic Water Leak Automatic Detection and Control is a system to be installed in the home to detect any water leaks from plumbing, appliances and spills. The system is designed for the home owner to be simple and intuitive in nature. No setup or programming is required by the owner. Indicators assure the normal operation of the system. When an abnormal condition occurs, the system controller alerts by both visual and aural means and turns off the main water supply to the home.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for actively monitoring pipelines guiding pressurized media and consumers, which are connected to the respective pipeline or pipeline system, by means of differential pressure measurement. According to the invention, monitoring occurs as to whether permanent and quasi-constant consumption takes place during a specific time period, preferably at the transfer point or behind the point of transfer between the supply device and consumer connection in a continuous manner or in predetermined cycles. If this is the case, it is possible to deduce an abnormal state, e.g. a leak, and an alarm is triggered or the downstream pipeline system is blocked.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a battery residual quantity display method for performing display of battery residual quantity of a battery pack mounted at an electronic equipment and serving to supply power to the electronic equipment.

Abstract: Computer systems and techniques for predicting a cable failure in a network system begin by receiving a remote alarm indicator followed by a remote alarm indicator clear as a transmission alarm indicator of an intermittent short duration failure on the transmission path of a circuit. If the transmission alarm indicator is of a duration less than or equal to a preset threshold D it is considered an acceptable short hit transmission alarm. When at least N acceptable transmission alarms have been received and the time stamps of the last N acceptable transmission alarms have been recorded, then a determination is made as to whether N acceptable transmission alarms have been received within a preset time period. A moving window time period is calculated as the difference between the time stamp of the present acceptable transmission alarm K and the time stamp of the [(K?N)+1] acceptable transmission alarm. If the difference is less than or equal to T, a cable error signature is indicated.

Abstract: The present invention provide a motion detection circuit for a handheld item detection system, where the motion detection circuit includes an accelerometer outputting at least one signal corresponding to a measured acceleration. A differentiator differentiates the measured acceleration. A motion detection device evaluates a discriminated version of the acceleration and a discriminated version of the acceleration to determine whether the handheld item detection system is in motion. The present invention extends battery life and allows a handheld system to quickly enter an active operational mode without any user intervention other than handling (moving) the system.

Abstract: The present invention provides a portable device comprising: a control unit; a display coupled to the control unit; a dual wireless module coupled to the control unit for wireless data transferring, wherein the dual wireless module includes a first and a second wireless data transferring modules to allow a user to select desired one to communicate with an external device. The dual wireless module further includes a management unit to manage the first and second wireless data transferring modules according to a policy engine.

Abstract: A kiosk comprises: a motion sensor; electronics; and a speaker. The motion sensor senses a customer adjacent to the kiosk. The electronics, which are communicatively coupled to the sensor, determine if the customer has lingered by the kiosk for a period of time. The speaker, which is communicatively coupled to the electronics, emits an aural greeting if it is determined that the customer has not lingered.

Abstract: A system is provided for tracking an asset within a geographic area. The system includes an antenna mast supportable by, and extending upward from, an object configured to move or facilitate movement of the asset. The antenna mast is capable of supporting a plurality of wireless locating units of a plurality of geo-spatial positioning systems, which are configured to locate a respective one or more locating units, and thereby the asset, within the geographic area. The system also includes a controller positionable on the object and configured to control operation of the wireless locating units. The controller is further configured to direct transmission of data to a host via one of the locating units or another wireless transmitter, and in a manner that accounts for a wireless link between the respective locating unit or other wireless transmitter and the host.

Abstract: A data collection management system comprises collection logic configured to store incoming data in a memory at a collection rate, and memory management logic configured to automatically downsample at least a portion of the stored data in response to a usage level of the memory reaching a threshold.

Abstract: A utility meter adapted to communicate with a device external to the utility meter comprises a meter housing, a first port, a second port and a processor. The first port is adapted to receive signals transmitted from outside the meter housing. The second port is connected to a communications module associated with the meter. The communications module is adapted to communicate with the device external to the utility meter. A processor is connected to the first port and the second port. The processor is configured to pass signals received at the first port to the communications module through the second port.

Abstract: A signal is received from a first portion of a power line via a connection to the power line and at least a portion of the signal is converted to a non-electrically conducting signal. The non-electrically conducting signal may be communicated to a non-electrically conductive communication path. In this manner, the non-electrically conducting signal may have properties that do not provide imminent danger from human contact.

Abstract: The illustrative embodiments provide a method, a system, a computer program code, and a computer implemented method for sending events between vehicles. A vehicle detects an event, wherein the event is for a user action that indicates an intent to change movement of the vehicle. The vehicle determines whether the event should be sent to another vehicle. If the event should be sent to another vehicle, then the vehicle sends the event to the another vehicle.

Abstract: The present invention provides an attachment installed unobstructively on a visor about a lens of a traffic signal and configured to receive a preemptive signal from an emergency or other authoritative source and transmit a correlating message visually or audibly to a surrounding citizenry via a display and optionally a speaker. The attachment can include one of a variety of display means to animatedly or statically communicate a directive to the citizenry. An optional series of LEDs can be included to draw attention to the directive as displayed. The directive can communicate an action to be taken by the citizenry, the type of vehicle approaching, or a route to be followed. Optionally, the frame or display may be shaped at least in part similarly to a standard street sign. The attachment provides a way to quickly and clearly direct people in a manner that clears a path for authorities.