Patents Issued in April 14, 2015
  • Patent number: 9007160
    Abstract: A laminated inductor includes a laminate constituted by multiple insulator layers, and a coil conductor formed in a spiral shape inside the laminate; wherein the coil conductor has conductor patterns formed on the insulator layers, and via hole conductors that penetrate through the insulator layers and electrically connect the multiple conductor patterns; wherein conductor patterns formed on some insulator layers each represent a C-shaped pattern that includes the four corners and has an open part on one side, of a roughly rectangular shape, while a conductor pattern formed on other insulator layer(s) represents a line-shaped pattern corresponding to the open part of one side of the aforementioned C-shaped pattern of the roughly rectangular shape; and wherein an insulator layer on which the C-shaped pattern is formed, and insulator layer(s) on which the line-shaped pattern is formed, adjoin each other at least in one part of the laminate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2015
    Assignee: Taiyo Yuden Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Ichirou Yokoyama, Taisuke Suzuki, Yasuyuki Taki, Kazuhiko Oyama
  • Patent number: 9007161
    Abstract: A method of manufacturing a ceramic electronic component prevents variations in characteristics even when the ceramic electronic component is embedded in a wiring board. Ceramic green sheets containing an organic binder having a degree of polymerization in a range from about 1000 to about 1500 are prepared. A first conductive paste layer is formed on a surface of each of the ceramic green sheets. The ceramic green sheets are laminated to form a raw ceramic laminated body. A second conductive paste layer is formed on a surface of the raw ceramic laminated body. The raw ceramic laminated body formed with the second conductive paste layer is fired.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2015
    Assignee: Murata Manufacturing Co. Ltd.
    Inventors: Koji Sato, Yukio Sanada, Yasuhiro Nishisaka
  • Patent number: 9007162
    Abstract: A “Y”-shaped transformer includes a “Y” shaped magnetic core that includes a top portion and a bottom portion. The top portion and the bottom portion both include a plurality of “Y”-shaped laminates stacked on top of one another and bent to form a plurality of core limbs. A plurality of input windings are wound around each of the plurality of core limbs. A plurality of output windings wound are wound around each of the plurality of core limbs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2015
    Assignee: Hamilton Sundstrand Corporation
    Inventors: Scott P. Wilkinson, James H. Clemmons
  • Patent number: 9007163
    Abstract: A device for protecting an electrical installation from surges. The device includes a protective component for protecting from overvoltages and two thermal disconnectors. Each thermal disconnector includes a respective mobile contact suitable to move from a closed position to an open position to disconnect the protective component from the electrical installation, and a respective thermosensitive element for making the mobile contact move from the closed position to the open position when the temperature of the protective component exceeds a predetermined threshold.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2015
    Assignee: ABB France
    Inventors: Michael Duval, Alain Lagnoux
  • Patent number: 9007164
    Abstract: The present invention provides a complex type fusible link which includes an insulative block base including a plurality of cavities; a conductive connecting plate which is integrally embedded in the insulative block base, a part of the conductive connecting plate being exposed to at least one of the cavities; a plurality of fusible elements each of which is accommodated in corresponding one of the cavities and includes a first end which is connected to the part of the conductive connecting plate and a second end; and a plurality of terminals each of which is integrally embedded in the insulative block base and includes a first end which is connected to the second end of corresponding one of the fusible elements and a second end which is exposed from the insulative block base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2015
    Assignee: Yazaki Corporation
    Inventors: Masashi Iwata, Norio Matsumura, Tatsuya Aoki, Kenya Takii
  • Patent number: 9007165
    Abstract: A substrate device includes an embedded layer of VSD material that overlays a conductive element or layer to provide a ground. An electrode, connected to circuit elements that are to be protected, extends into the thickness of the substrate to make contact with the VSD layer. When the circuit elements are operated under normal voltages, the VSD layer is dielectric and not connected to ground. When a transient electrical event occurs on the circuit elements, the VSD layer switches instantly to a conductive state, so that the first electrode is connected to ground.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2015
    Assignee: Littelfuse, Inc.
    Inventors: Lex Kosowsky, Robert Fleming, Bhret Graydon
  • Patent number: 9007166
    Abstract: An over-current protection device comprises a PTC material layer, a first electrode layer and a second electrode layer. The PTC material layer has opposite first and second surfaces and opposite first and second lateral surfaces. The first electrode layer is in physical contact with the first surface of the PTC material layer and extends to the first lateral surface. The second electrode layer is in physical contact with the first surface of the PTC material layer and extends to the second lateral surface. The second electrode layer is insulated from the first electrode layer by a first separation. The first electrode layer and the second electrode layer are substantially laterally symmetrical, and serve as interfaces for current flowing in and out of the device when the over-current protection device is in use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2015
    Assignee: Polytronics Technology Corp.
    Inventors: Chun Teng Tseng, David Shau Chew Wang
  • Patent number: 9007167
    Abstract: Provided is a non-linear resistive element which improves the degree of freedom of design of its mounting space. A ceramic sheet 10 which constitutes the non-linear resistive element is configured by a plurality of ceramic pieces 11 being consolidated in a plate like form by an insulating resin 12. One or a plurality of ceramic pieces 11 configure each of a plurality of conductive paths which penetrate the ceramic sheet 10 in a thickness direction thereof, and the ceramic pieces 11 which configure both ends of the conductive paths partially projects from the insulating resin 12.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2015
    Assignee: Otowa Electric Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Shinsuke Takenaka, Toshihiko Suzuki, Naoyuki Tsukamoto
  • Patent number: 9007168
    Abstract: A wireless control system is configured to be trainable to control any number of remotely controlled devices. The system can be configured to gather and learn information relating to a signal transmitted by the original transmitter in a manner that is blind to a user of the system. The system can be designed to learn signals automatically such that fewer steps are necessary for a user to train the system to control a particular remotely controlled device. The system can train to remotely controlled devices in this manner with little or no user action required.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2015
    Assignee: Gentex Corporation
    Inventors: Jeremy Bos, Carl Shearer, David A. Blaker, John D. Spencer, Todd R. Witkowski
  • Patent number: 9007169
    Abstract: A charging apparatus is used to support and charge an electronic device defining a latching slot and includes a holding portion, a placement portion and controlling portion. The placement portion engages with the holding portion and defines a latching notch aiming at the latching slot when the electronic device is received in the placement portion. The controlling portion is secured in the holding portion and includes a magnetic switch and a safety latch. The magnetic switch includes a movable shaft, and the safety latch includes a latching portion engaging with the movable shaft and pivoting to the placement portion, and a buckling portion engaging with the latching notch and the latching slot. The magnetic switch drives the movable shaft move to urge the latching portion rotating relative to the placement portion and to urge the buckling portion passing through the latching notch and engaging with the latching slot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2015
    Assignee: Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Chien-Hung Lee, Shih-Chi Wong
  • Patent number: 9007170
    Abstract: A rapid-access gun safe includes a portable enclosing structure and a communication module. The portable enclosing structure encloses a firearm. The portable enclosing structure includes a fixed portion and a collapsing wall. The collapsing wall provides rapid access to the firearm. The communication module is coupled to the fixed portion of the enclosing structure. The communication module facilitates incoming and outgoing electronic communication of at least one access signal from a device external to the rapid-access gun safe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2015
    Assignee: Rocky Mountain Safe Company, LLC
    Inventors: Ross B Wall, Michael M. Austin
  • Patent number: 9007171
    Abstract: A lock device with wireless function includes a body having an entry key set assembled on a surface thereof, the body having a processing unit, a wireless unit, a power supplier and a main board assembled therein, the main board electrically connected to the entry key set, the processing unit, the wireless unit and the power supplier. Therefore, a corresponding key is unnecessary for the user to unlock the body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2015
    Inventor: Yao-Kun Yang
  • Patent number: 9007172
    Abstract: A key card device may include a memory device storing a digital signature for activating a lock, an input device, an output device, and a wireless transceiver. The key card device may further include logic configured to receive input via the input device; generate a first message based on the received input; wirelessly transmit the generated message to facility management system associated with the lock; receive a second message from the facility management system; generate output based on the received second message; and provide the generated output to the output device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2015
    Assignee: Verizon Patent and Licensing Inc.
    Inventor: Dolapo O. Kukoyi
  • Patent number: 9007173
    Abstract: A wireless device access system that employs directional antennas for short-range wireless communication to detect the proximity and orientation of a user device with respect to a structure is disclosed. The access system receives and authenticates an unlock request and confirms the proximity and orientation of the user device prior to transmitting an unlock command to the structure. This authentication may occur through the use of substantially opposing directional antennas separated by a ground plane. Additionally, the wireless device may require the proximity of a user token prior to operation and/or the access system may include an override within the structure blocking any unlock command.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2015
    Assignee: Yikes LLC
    Inventors: Jim E. McIntyre, Andrew Joseph Robertson, William Benjamin Robertson
  • Patent number: 9007174
    Abstract: A server receives a service personnel identification verification request from a computing device. The request includes identification information obtained via the computing device from a security badge. The computer determines whether there is a security concern with the identification information by comparing the identification information to stored service personnel information in a service personnel database. A response is sent to the computing device indicating the result of the determination, for presentation to a user who may be interacting with a person having the security badge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2015
    Assignee: Cellco Partnership
    Inventors: Carlos A. Cazanas, Victor M. Pagan, Jamal N. Khan, Eric Brown, Terence J. Sullivan
  • Patent number: 9007175
    Abstract: Embodiments of a biometric system with an optically adaptive interface are described. In some embodiments, an optically adaptive interface changes optical characteristics in response to the placement of a finger on the optically adaptive interface. In some embodiments, the optically adaptive interface can include an active layer and a surface layer. The active layer and the surface layer can have different optical properties. For example, one layer may be opaque and the other transparent, the two layers may have complementary colors, the two layers may have orthogonal polarization reflectors, one layer may be reflective and the other absorptive, etc. Moreover, the active layer can be a fluid with either high or low viscosity. For example, the viscosity can be such that the active layer fluid is either completely displaced or not displaced in locations corresponding to finger valleys.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2015
    Assignee: Lumidigm, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert K. Rowe, Stephen P. Corcoran, Paul Bulter
  • Patent number: 9007176
    Abstract: According to one embodiment, a portable electronic apparatus which generates random number and makes response at timing associated with the generated random number, including, a reception unit which receives initial response request from external device, recognition unit which recognizes total time frame number set in external device based on initial response request received by reception unit, random number generation unit which generates random number, communication detection unit which detects communication performed in another portable electronic apparatus, determination unit which monitors one time frame by using communication detection unit based on total time frame number recognized by recognition unit and random number generated by random number generation unit, and determines whether response to initial response request is to be transmitted to external device based on detection result obtained by communication detecting unit, and transmission unit which transmits response to external device based on
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2015
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba
    Inventor: Keisuke Uchida
  • Patent number: 9007177
    Abstract: A method for generating a behavior pattern based on information from radio frequency identification tags is disclosed. The method includes identifying a plurality of radio frequency identification tags, generating a radio frequency identification group that corresponds to the plurality of radio frequency identification tags, receiving behavior information that corresponds to the radio frequency identification group from a user device, matching the radio frequency identification group with the behavior information, generating a behavior pattern corresponding to the matched radio frequency identification group and the behavior information, and storing the behavior pattern in a database.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2015
    Assignee: KT Corporation
    Inventors: Soo-seob Won, Dong-ju Kim, Yeong-il Seo
  • Patent number: 9007178
    Abstract: In one aspect where a load or a subset of one or more tags is in motion relative to an RFID reader system, the RFID system obtains tag readings and derives tag scalar or vector motional data e.g. tag velocity, tag acceleration, and/or rate of change of tag acceleration which can be compared to known tag motional information to distinguish true tags of interest from false positives which are unavoidably also within the field of the reader system. An antenna system may also make readings during distinctive movement patterns of true tags, such as vertical or arcuate movement and utilize computed tag motional data based on the tag readings to distinguish true tags from false positives. Two components of the RFID system may communicate information on identified tags, and/or interact (e.g. by silencing tags), so as to cooperate in identifying true positive tags.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2015
    Assignee: Intermec IP Corp.
    Inventors: Pavel V. Nikitin, Gary Neal Spiess, Hunter Martin Leland, Lynn Carl Hingst, John Howland Sherman
  • Patent number: 9007179
    Abstract: Provided is a convertible type computer (PC) 1 comprising a second housing 3 including a display section 3a, and a first housing 2 including a palm rest 2b. A first antenna 6a is disposed on the palm rest 2b, and a second antenna 7a is disposed on a reverse surface 2e of the first housing 2 immediately beneath the first antenna 6a. An attitude sensor 8 detects whether the PC 1 has a clam shell form or a tablet form. In accordance with a detection result, a switch section 9 switches between the first antenna 6a and the second antenna 7a for establishing wireless communication with an external terminal to communicate information. Therefore, it is possible to switch between information signals through the first antenna 6a and information signals through the second antenna 7a depending on the attitude of the PC 1, and fine communication can be established.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2015
    Assignee: Panasonic Intellectual Property Management Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Naoyuki Ito, Takehiro Itotani
  • Patent number: 9007180
    Abstract: Provided are an anti-collision system and method which address the mobility of radio frequency identification (RFID) tags. An RFID reader may transmit an identification start command to identify a plurality of RFID tags in an identification area of the RFID reader. The RFID tags compare the number of collisions of each RFID tag receiving the identification start command with a collision threshold Cth and attempt to be identified in a binary tree section of a frame or in a framed slotted ALOHA (FSA) section of the frame based on the comparison.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2015
    Assignee: Research & Business Foundation Sungkyunkwan University
    Inventors: Tae Jin Lee, Jongho Park
  • Patent number: 9007181
    Abstract: A system and method for monitoring the status of wireless node devices in a network. A network controller polls one or more sensor devices for status information. The sensor devices are in communication with at least one wireless node device. More than one sensor device may be associated with a single wireless node device. The wireless node device appends its own status information to the transmission frame of the sensor device's response message, and the transmission frame, containing the address and status information for both the sensor device and the wireless node device, is transmitted to the network controller. The inclusion of the wireless node device address and status information is done without the knowledge of the sensor device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2015
    Assignee: Tyco Fire & Security GmbH
    Inventors: Jorge F. Alicot, Timothy J. Relihan
  • Patent number: 9007182
    Abstract: A package includes a chassis, a plurality of components arranged within the chassis, a plurality of RFID devices, and at least one processing device. The RFID devices are arranged at a plurality of locations to form an array configured to authenticate compliance of the actual configuration of the package with a model configuration. The processing device is configured to communicate with the RFID devices, determine if the actual configuration of the package is in compliance with the model configuration based on communications with the RFID devices, and set an operational mode of one or more of the components of the package in response to determining if the actual configuration of the package is in compliance with the model configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2015
    Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventors: Edwin D. Cruzado, William J. Dalzell, Keith A. Souders
  • Patent number: 9007183
    Abstract: Provided are a terminal having a radio frequency identification (RFID) function and a method of processing information of the terminal for allowing intuitive interaction between a screen manipulation and an RFID manipulation with respect to using an RFID related service. The method of processing the information of the terminal including a screen and an RFID recognition unit, includes detecting a screen area corresponding to a position of the RFID recognition unit disposed at a predetermined position of the screen; displaying an RFID icon at a position of the detected screen area; recording information in an RFID tag based on the RFID tag contacting the RFID icon, and recognizing the information from the RFID tag the RFID tag contacting the RFID icon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2015
    Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Sang-jun Han, Dae-Hyun Kim, Bo-mi Kim, Bo-hyun Kyung, Myoung-soon Choi, Kuk-hyun Han, Pil-seung Yang, Hark-joon Kim
  • Patent number: 9007184
    Abstract: In a method for operating a household appliance, a portable operating unit is docked to a selected one of a plurality of household appliances. The selected household appliance is identified using the portable operating unit which is then configured to operate the selected household appliance only. The portable operating unit includes at least one docking element for docking to a docking station of the selected household appliance, an identification device for identifying the selected household appliance, and a configuration device for configuration of the operating unit for operating the selected household appliance only.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2015
    Assignee: BSH Bosch und Siemens Hausgeraete GmbH
    Inventors: Julia Ehrensberger, Frank Rieser
  • Patent number: 9007185
    Abstract: A method and apparatus teach a plurality of keys to an authorization device in a vehicle. The keys that are in a reception range of a transmission unit of the authorization device receive a test signal from the authorization device. The respective key ascertains a key-specific time window from at least one signal parameter of the test signal that is dependent on the physical location of the key, during which the respective key transmits a response signal that can be received by the transmission unit and recorded by the authorization device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2015
    Assignee: Audi AG
    Inventors: Tobias Ott, Patrick Sassmannshausen
  • Patent number: 9007186
    Abstract: A system and method for remotely controlling power to an electrically powered device having a GFCI or surge protector is disclosed herein. The system preferably comprises an apparatus, an electrically-powered device and a controller. The apparatus preferably comprises a cord, an alternating current outlet socket, an alternating current input plug, a latching relay, a GFCI or surge protector, a processor and a transceiver. The system preferably uses a WiFi communication signal to transmit commands from the remote controller to the apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2015
    Assignee: Best Energy Reduction Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Michael Krummey, Scott J. Yetter
  • Patent number: 9007187
    Abstract: A communication system includes: a remote controller having an input unit inputting user operations and a communication unit performing bidirectional communication, transmitting a remote control code in accordance with the user operation with respect to the input unit from the communication unit; and a host device having a communication unit performing bidirectional communication and a host function unit executing processing corresponding to the remote control code received in the communication unit, wherein the host device transmits a status response from the communication unit in response to a status inquiry transmitted from the communication unit of the remote controller, the remote controller repeatedly executes a status check communication procedure including the transmission of the status inquiry and waiting for receiving the status response after transmitting the remote control code at given time intervals during which the communication unit is in a dormant state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2015
    Assignee: Sony Corporation
    Inventors: Takashi Tsurumoto, Yoshinori Satoh
  • Patent number: 9007188
    Abstract: A device for receiving a primary remote control signal and sending a secondary remote control signal where the primary remote control signal and the secondary remote control signal have the same signal-format, and where the secondary remote control signal comprises a secondary information value based upon a primary information value which is comprised by the primary remote control signal, is disclosed. The device is thus capable of eavesdropping on signals sent from a remote controller to a controllable device, and send secondary remote control signals which can be read by the controllable device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2015
    Assignee: Koninklijke Philips N.V.
    Inventor: Peter Bingley
  • Patent number: 9007189
    Abstract: An approach to facilitate providing leaderboards based upon in-game events within a game space. The leaderboards based on user progress to achieving one or more administrator defined objectives within the game space, where each objective requires the completion of one or more activities. An objective metric for the first user, indicating the first user's progress toward achieving the objective may be determined, based upon one or more activity metric values for the first user. The activity metric values providing an indication of the first user's progress toward completing activities required to be completed to achieve the objective, as defined by an administrator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2015
    Assignee: Kabam, Inc.
    Inventors: Matthew Curtis, James Koh, Kellen Christopher Smalley, Michael C. Caldarone
  • Patent number: 9007190
    Abstract: A sensor for installation on a steering wheel includes a pressure sensitive material mounted on a base material of the steering wheel. The pressure sensitive material is configured to provide an electrical signal to a controller when pressure is applied. The controller provides a command to a vehicle system based on the electrical signal. The pressure sensitive material has at least one of a variable resistance and a variable capacitance based on the amount or type of pressure that is applied to the material. The electrical signal is based on the at least one of a variable resistance and a variable capacitance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2015
    Assignee: TK Holdings Inc.
    Inventors: Jerome Bosch, David Andrews, Jason Lisseman
  • Patent number: 9007191
    Abstract: A tactile sensor includes a plurality of first sensing elements that are arranged in a plurality of rows on a first layer and a plurality of second sensing elements that are vertically aligned in a plurality of columns on the first layer. The second sensing elements in each column are electrically connected together and each of the plurality of columns are separate conductors from one another. The plurality of second sensing elements include a plurality of vertical elements that form an interlocking pattern with the plurality of first sensing elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2015
    Assignee: Google Inc.
    Inventor: Matthew Dominic Tenuta
  • Patent number: 9007192
    Abstract: A tactile sensor includes a plurality of first sensing elements that are arranged in a plurality of rows on a first layer and a plurality of second sensing elements that are vertically aligned in a plurality of columns on the first layer. The second sensing elements in each column are electrically connected together and each of the plurality of columns are separate conductors from one another. The plurality of second sensing elements include a plurality of vertical elements that form an interlocking pattern with the plurality of first sensing elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2015
    Assignee: Google Inc.
    Inventor: Matthew Dominic Tenuta
  • Patent number: 9007193
    Abstract: One embodiment induces a display system for use on the exterior of a vehicle having a display, a vehicle speed sensor, a trigger device, and a processor coupled to the speed sensor and the trigger device. The trigger device is configured to identify a trigger event. The processor is configured to implement one of three operational modes of the display system based on the speed and state of the vehicle: a first operational mode when no trigger event is identified, the vehicle is on, and the vehicle is at a first speed; a second operational mode when no trigger event is identified and the vehicle is at a second speed different than the first speed; and a third operational mode when the trigger event is identified. The processor is further configured to render content on the display based upon the operational mode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2015
    Assignee: ReviverMX, Inc.
    Inventors: Neville Boston, Michael Jordan
  • Patent number: 9007194
    Abstract: The vehicular anti-theft device is a generally planar matt that includes a plurality of pressure sensors used to detect the presence of a weight thereon, and which is configured for placement under a tire of a vehicle. The matt includes a control panel to input a code to able and disable the alarm function. The alarm function is designed to detect a change in the weight associated with theft of a respective vehicle. The matt may include an array of solar cells on a top surface, which provides alternative means of powering the alarm function. The alarm includes a speaker to emit an audible alarm or alternatively cellular telephone capability in order to signal an alarm via a text message, phone message, or e-mail.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2015
    Inventor: Dennis E. Toews
  • Patent number: 9007195
    Abstract: A combined personal convenience and remote fob device is provided for use with a transportation vehicle. The personal convenience device includes a housing and is adapted to perform a non-transportation related convenience function. The remote fob device is supported within the housing and is capable of performing at least one of an active remote keyless entry function, an active remote start function, a passive entry function, a passive start function, and an immobilizer function.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2015
    Assignee: Lear Corporation
    Inventor: Riad Ghabra
  • Patent number: 9007196
    Abstract: A system for controlling movement of a motor vehicle door includes at least one sensor that detects a distance from the vehicle to an object near the vehicle. The sensor is also configured to provide input to an automatic parallel parking system of the vehicle. The system may include at least one ultrasonic sensor on each side of the vehicle to detect the distances to objects on opposite sides of a vehicle. The system utilizes a plurality of detected distances and vehicle positions or velocities to determine a location of the detected object relative to the vehicle. The system selectively actuates the door brake to prevent the vehicle door from contacting the detected object as the door is opened.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2015
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Eric L. Reed, Brian Bennie
  • Patent number: 9007197
    Abstract: System and method for preventing collisions between a vehicle and objects in a path of the vehicle includes a laser system arranged to direct at least one laser beam outward therefrom and which is in an eye-safe portion of the electromagnetic spectrum, an imaging receiver for receiving at least one laser beam reflected from objects in the path of the laser beam, a processor coupled to the receiver and arranged to receive signals derived from the received laser beam and process the signals to determine a distance between the laser system and the objects from which the laser beam has been reflected, and one or more reactive systems coupled to the processor. The processor controls the reactive system to indicate the presence of objects at specific distances from the vehicle. This indication may be used to take preventive action to avoid the collision, either manually or automatically.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2015
    Assignee: Intelligent Technologies International, Inc.
    Inventor: David S Breed
  • Patent number: 9007198
    Abstract: A method, system, device and computer readable medium for adaptively warning a driver includes detecting a behavior of the driver, the behavior including engagement in a secondary activity, which is an activity other than driving a vehicle. Based on the detected behavior, a level of engagement in the secondary activity is estimated, and, based on the estimated level of engagement in the secondary activity, the driver's level of perception of an external hazard is determined. A warning alert for the driver, when the level of perception is below a threshold is actuated. A reaction of the driver to the actuated warning alert is determined. Based on the reaction of the driver to the actuated warning alert, the warning alert is adjusted, and the warning alert is terminated when the level of perception becomes above the threshold because of the reaction of the driver to the actuated warning alert.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2015
    Assignee: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc.
    Inventor: Pujitha Gunaratne
  • Patent number: 9007199
    Abstract: A drive mode selection system for a vehicle is provided that includes a drive mode selector that can facilitate selection of a current drive mode from among a plurality of drive modes of the vehicle based at least in part on input from a driver of the vehicle. Each of the plurality of drive modes can be associated with a distinct visual indicator. Additionally, the system can include a mode indication component that can display the current drive mode of the plurality of drive modes by providing the distinct visual indicator associated with the current drive mode. The system can further include a mode recommendation component that can recommend a drive mode of the plurality of drive modes based at least in part on the current drive mode and data received from one or more sensors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2015
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Hajime Yamada
  • Patent number: 9007200
    Abstract: The disclosure provides a process method and apparatus for preventing an alarm jitter, which are applied to an ASON system. The method comprises: obtaining a time interval weight T between generation and recovery of an alarm of a device through a pretest (S202); comparing the time interval weight T with a predetermined standard time interval W of the device, and determining an alarm jitter processing policy to be adopted according to a magnitude relation between the time interval weight T and the standard time interval W, wherein the alarm jitter processing policy comprises performing a jitter preventing process for alarm information reported by a lower layer according to a priority and/or a type of an alarm (S204); and performing the jitter preventing process by using the alarm jitter processing policy (S206). The solution improves stability of a control plane, and increases flexibility and process capability of the system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2015
    Assignee: ZTE Corporation
    Inventor: Zhenlv Zhang
  • Patent number: 9007201
    Abstract: A method for self-testing notification appliances in an alarm system, including the steps of measuring ambient noise at a notification appliance, comparing the measured ambient noise to a threshold ambient noise level, and performing a self-test of the notification appliance if the measured ambient noise does not exceed the threshold ambient noise level. The method may further include the step of recording a fail result for the notification appliance if the measured ambient noise exceeds the threshold ambient noise level. Performing the self-test of the notification appliance may include the steps of activating a notification feature of the notification appliance, measuring output of the notification feature, comparing the measured output to a predefined value, recording a pass result for the notification appliance if the measured output exceeds the predefined value, and recording a fail result for the notification appliance if the measured output does not exceed the predefined value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2015
    Assignee: Tyco Fire & Security GmbH
    Inventors: Joseph Piccolo, III, David Dahlstrom
  • Patent number: 9007202
    Abstract: A human being tracking and monitoring system comprising parent and child units, each of which include a microcontroller, a transceiver, a crystal, a battery, a voltage regulator and a switch with all of these elements except the battery being strategically positioned on one side of a circuit board, manual activation of the two switches in a first predetermined manner establishing a communication link between the parent and child units wherein a plurality of random identification signals are generated, this communication link between said parent and child units being broken by activation of the switches in a second predetermined manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2015
    Inventors: Benson Chan, Jianzhuang Huang, Subahu Desai
  • Patent number: 9007203
    Abstract: Disclosed are a system for notifying electronic anklet information to prevent sexual violence by searching information regarding a person wearing an electronic anklet using an application on a smartphone whether the person is located within a predetermined radius from a user and by notifying the existence of the electronic anklet wearer within a predetermined range using an alarm, vibration, or a text message, and a method thereof. When the electronic anklet is within a reference distance, a text message may be displayed on a smartphone, vibration may be generated, an alarm may be output, an electronic anklet wearer located within a predetermined radius from the user may be searched for, and the user may immediately ask for help at a risk of sexual violence using an application installed in the smartphone.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2015
    Inventor: Gunsoo Lee
  • Patent number: 9007204
    Abstract: Disclosed herein are systems, methods, and non-transitory computer-readable storage media for automatically generating and updating a list of previously visited locations that are popular to a user. A data point can be generated from sampling a position of an electronic device. It can be determined if the data point represents a destination of the electronic device based upon metadata of the data point. An entry of a list of previously visited locations can be updated based upon the data point when a first previously visited location is within a distance threshold of the position of the data point.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2015
    Assignee: Apple Inc.
    Inventor: Ralph Zazula
  • Patent number: 9007205
    Abstract: An embedded security system for an environment-controlled trailer including a transportation refrigeration unit. The security system includes a plurality of sensors mounted to the trailer and a communication device embedded in the transportation refrigeration unit of the trailer, the communication device being configured to receive data from the plurality of sensors, and to send the received data to a controller being remote from the trailer. The controller is configured to monitor the security status of the trailer and to determine a security risk at the trailer based, at least in part, on the received data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2015
    Assignee: Thermo King Corporation
    Inventors: Timothy Alan Walker, Eduardo S. Tan, Ulrich Fink
  • Patent number: 9007206
    Abstract: A patch panel is provided including a patch panel frame, an indicator module connected to the patch panel frame, a microcontroller unit (MCU), a connector connected to the patch panel frame and a detection device for detecting a connection state at the connector. A circuit board interface is provided with a communication path between the indicator module and the MCU and between the detection device and the MCU. A communication unit is connected to the circuit board interface. The communication unit conveys signals between any one of patch panels of a group, between groups of patch panels, between the patch panel and a control unit and between the group of patch panels and the control unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2015
    Assignee: Surtec Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Chou-Hsin Chen
  • Patent number: 9007207
    Abstract: A dynamic alarm system for operating a power plant is disclosed. The dynamic alarm system includes a sensor configured to generate a signal related to a measurement of an operation of the power plant. An interface displays a generated alarm to an operator and receives a dynamic rating value from the operator related to the generated alarm. A processor generates the alarm using the generated signal, compiles the rating value and alters an operation of the power plant from the compiled rating value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2015
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Justin Varkey John, Robert William Grubbs, Jonathan Carl Thatcher
  • Patent number: 9007208
    Abstract: Data is received that comprises at least one data stream derived from each of a plurality of sensors that each characterize one or more attributes of equipment components. Thereafter, using the received data and a density-based clustering algorithm that produces micro-clusters for each pair of sensors, correlated sensors having component correlations above a pre-defined threshold are identified. It can then be determined that data from two or more correlated sensors triggers at least one alert event. Subsequently, data is provided that characterizes the at least one alert event. Related apparatus, systems, techniques and articles are also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2015
    Assignee: SAP SE
    Inventors: Zbigniew Jerzak, Yuanzhen Ji
  • Patent number: 9007209
    Abstract: Implementations for a system to receive a message indicating that an ambient light level measured by an ambient light sensor within a container exceeds a first threshold value or falls below a second threshold value; in response to the message indicating that the ambient light level exceeds the first threshold value, activate a cargo sensor; and in response to the message indicating that the ambient light level falls below the second threshold value, de-activate the cargo sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2015
    Assignee: I.D. Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael L. Ehrman, Steven R. Wendler, James E. Gripp