Abstract: An image processing device may include a disparity map estimator, which may perform an iterative technique to improve the efficiency of generating disparity map. The disparity map estimator performs disparity map refinement using varying size aggregation windows during the first iterations. The disparity map estimator uses larger size aggregation windows during the initial iterations to perform disparity map refinement. Further, the disparity map estimator may use joint bilateral up-sampling during the second (or last) iterations. Using a combination of varying size aggregation windows during the initial iterations and a joint bilateral up-sampling during the second iterations may reduce the computational complexity and memory requirements.

Abstract: An electronic access authorization system maintains location-dependent and/or time-dependent validity data which can be read out wirelessly by an access control device (4), which data can be acquired online or, in the case of an accreditation, can be requested online as a special form of access authorization, and which can be transferred following successful issuance in electronic form to an electronic terminal (1) of a user. Changes, on the part of the issuer of the access authorization, to the validity data of the access authorization can be transferred via a data communication connection between a server (2) of the issuer of the access authorization and the electronic terminal (1) to the electronic access authorization stored in the electronic terminal (1) and displayed on a display device (5) of the electronic terminal.

Abstract: Electronic systems for verifying completion of security patrols include primary and secondary identifier elements distributed along a predetermined route of the security patrol. A portable electronic device is configured to confirm an officer's presence at each of the primary and secondary identifier element locations. The primary identifier element is machine readable while the secondary identifier element requires operator input to confirm the location.

Abstract: In one embodiment, a visual reporting system generates a 3-dimensional (3D) interactive vehicle inspection report comprising 3D model data and inspection data for a particular vehicle. The inspection data, such as recommended repair items, are associated with graphical vehicle sections in the 3D model. Further, additional inspection data, such as instructional videos or inspection photographs, can be provided to a user desiring additional detail. By providing an interactive visual representation of inspection data, the 3D inspection report provides a report that can be customized to provide different levels of detail to different users. In addition, the 3D model can provide a visually compact summary of the inspection data by marking on the 3D model the repair items for the vehicle. Use of the 3D inspection report can raise the likelihood that the vehicle owner understands the need for repair, leading to more repair orders for repair facilities.

Abstract: Methods, systems, devices and computer program products for planning for failures of vehicular components are provided herein. A method includes obtaining a first set of data of maintenance events recorded for multiple vehicular components across multiple vehicles in a fleet; obtaining a second set of data of maintenance work orders performed on the vehicular components; obtaining a third set of data of measurements taken in connection with the vehicular components; analyzing (i) the first set of data and (ii) the second set of data to identify component failure events associated with the multiple vehicular components; determining failure indicators for each of the vehicular components in each of the vehicles in the fleet based on the second set of data, the third set of data, and the identified component failure events; and outputting the indicators in multiple visualized forms, each representing one of multiple levels of granularity.

Abstract: A leak detection system of a vehicle includes a first minimum module, a first maximum module, a difference module, and a diagnostic module. The first minimum module, at a first time, determines a first minimum amount of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) in an LPG tank based on a first level of LPG in the LPG tank. The first maximum module, at a second time after the first time, determines a first maximum amount of LPG in the LPG tank based on a second level of LPG in the LPG tank. The difference module determines a difference between the first minimum amount, the first maximum amount, and an amount of LPG consumed by an engine between the first and second times. The diagnostic module selectively indicates that a leak is present in the LPG tank based on the difference.

Abstract: For a method for testing a vehicle or components thereof which is as flexible as possible, it is proposed that a test control unit 3 generates or plays back a virtual world which contains both a virtual vehicle state and a virtual vehicle environment, and the test control unit 3 manipulates a number of sensors and/or actuators of the real vehicle 1 according to the requirements of the virtual world and, at the same time, activates a driving state actuator 2 according to the requirements of the virtual world, and the driving state actuator 2 generates the instantaneous vehicle state and the instantaneous vehicle environment in the virtual world by introducing additional forces or moments into the real vehicle 1 so that the real vehicle 1 experiences the vehicle state and the vehicle environment from the virtual world on the real test track 4.

Abstract: Concepts and technologies are disclosed herein for spoofing bone conduction signals. According to one aspect, a device can compare a first unique body signature associated with a first user to a second unique body signature associated with a second user to determine a first unique effect of a first body of the first user on a signal and a second unique effect of a second body of the second user on the signal. The device can generate an authentication signal based upon the first unique effect and the second unique effect to include signal characteristics that, after propagating through the first body of the first user, are representative of the second unique body signature. The device can transmit the authentication signal through the first body of the first user to an authentication device that authenticates the first user on behalf of the second user.

Abstract: The invention comprises a personal tracking system that identifies an individual, tracks achievements and/or failures of the individual, reports the achievements and/or failures to an authority within an authority system, and provides rewards for the achievements and/or provides punishments for the failures. In one example, the identification system is a personal identification bracelet used as part of an ignition interlock breathalyzer system. Generally, any information associated with the personal identification device and/or the peripheral tracking/monitoring device is maintained in a secure format warranting true information, which is usable in a legal setting, in a training program, or as part of a reward/punishment system.

Abstract: An original generator generates a sequence of access values that are stored into a longer range communication device. A short range communication device, which can be the original generator, uses short range communication during a programming process to transmit an identification number to enable subsequence access from the longer range communication device using the sequence of access values.

Abstract: A remote control system includes a portable device and a security device. The portable device includes a motion sensor. The security device is configured to communicate with the portable device through wireless signals to control a vehicle in accordance with an action request motion detected by the motion sensor. The motion sensor is operated in an ON mode, which enables detection of an action request motion, and an OFF mode, which disables detection of the operation request motion. The security device controls the operation mode of the motion sensor in accordance with the condition of a vehicle.

Abstract: A cash box (10) has a housing (12) and a base tray (16) arranged within the housing. The base tray (16) delimits a receiving area (28) for receiving a value note stack (22). The base tray (16) is movable relative to the housing (12) between a removal position and a retracted position.

Abstract: Provided is a banknote processing device capable of efficient pay-in processing for large quantities of banknotes. The banknote processing device includes a pay-in port into which banknotes are inserted, a conveyance section that conveys banknotes from the pay-in port, a pay-in port opening-closing member capable of opening and closing the pay-in port by moving, and a controller that controls the banknote conveyance of the conveyance section and controls opening and closing operation of the pay-in port opening-closing member, wherein the controller pauses count processing and opens the pay-in port opening-closing member in cases in which a count processing stoppage event arises during count processing of banknotes inserted into the pay-in port.

Abstract: A stack of valuable media for separation within deposit module are inserted into a feeder module. A force sensor regularly receives force readings as the stack of notes are depleted and a pressure paddle is regularly adjusted to maintain a constant and optimal amount of force on the stack of notes using the force readings.

Abstract: Embodiments allow loading and reloading contactless payment devices using only a contactless terminal interface, while providing user authentication. The contactless terminal interface could be at a merchant POS location, kiosk, or embedded or attached to a personal computing device with contactless read/write capability such as a personal computer or mobile phone or Internet device.

Abstract: A method of conducting a financial transaction includes a first party's financial account information being entered once, e.g, with a single initial entry to the payment service. For future uses of the first party's financial account to transfer funds using the payment service to a second party, the first party's financial account information need not be entered again with the payment service. The second party's personal identifying information is entered. Funds are transferred from the first party's financial account to an account of the second party with the use of the payment service.

Abstract: An automatic food and beverage vending machine includes: a case; an ordering and billing system; an electronic control system; and an output system; wherein the output system comprises a food provider and a food outlet, the food provider is mounted in a food storage area of the case; the food provider comprises a tray holder, a food box transporter, and a sliding device; the tray holder and the food box transporter are mounted on the sliding device; the sliding device comprises an up-down sliding mechanism, a left-right sliding mechanism, and a front-rear sliding mechanism; the food outlet is provided on a door of the case. The machine provides a small volume, a small land occupation space, convenience of moving, a short time before obtaining the food, a proper food temperature for eating immediately, and a quick manner of dining for people in a hurry.

Abstract: A vending machine comprising two or more compartmentalized storage units (CSUs), each comprising a compartment array configured for accommodating items in different compartments of the grid. The items are independently accessible; a retrieval system configured for accessing the compartments to retrieve an item and providing it to a desired location within the vending machine, other than its respective compartment; a controller associated with an items map indicative of the content and location of the items within the compartment array of the CSU.

Abstract: Vending machines and dispensers, devices, apparatus, systems, and methods of providing and using a vending machine that dispenses goods in recyclable and reusable packaging having automated deposits and returns for the packaging. Customers purchase items such as products, goods, liquids and gasses in reusable containers having electronic tags from automated vending machines. Customers pay for the items at time of purchase along with an extra money deposit fee for using the reusable container. Electronic activator tags fixably attached reusable containers are detected when the containers are returned which triggers a sensor allowing for the deposits to be returned to the customer.

Abstract: Systems and methods for analyzing wireless signals in a wagering game environment are described herein. In some embodiment, a wagering game machine includes a wagering game unit configured to present wagering games. The wagering game machine can also include a network interface configured to exchange, with other devices on a wagering game network, information about the wagering games. The wagering game machine can also include a wireless signal detection device configured to detect wireless signals in a wagering game environment and to create wireless signal data for use in determining whether the wireless signals interfere with wireless communications of the wagering game network.

Abstract: A wagering game system configured to perform operations including receiving application data provided from multiple applications on a wagering game machine. The application data can indicate needs by the multiple applications to present content on the wagering game machine. The operations can also include prioritizing the presentation of the content based on control rules that govern interoperability between the multiple applications. The operations can also include determining access rights, subscription levels, or other limitations on the multiple applications to present the content and access to each other's application data. The operations can further include presenting controls so that player accounts can modify the manner or priority of presenting the content.

Abstract: Some implementations of the invention provide methods and devices for various types of adventure sequences that preferably involve, at least in part, wagering games. Such sequences may involve wagering and/or other games at a plurality of gaming devices, tables and/or gaming establishments. Some implementations provide a virtual gaming experience wherein one or more other environments (e.g., environments that include gaming establishments) are simulated at a single location. Accordingly, adventure sequences described herein may comprise stages in one or more virtual environments, stages in one or more real environments or a combination of the two. Virtual players, also referred to herein as player game agents (“PGAs”), may act on behalf of real players. A PGA may be able to play games autonomously, e.g., when the associated player is at a different location and/or is not aware of the PGA's current activities. PGAs may be enabled to negotiate on behalf of real players, e.g.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods related to multi-player casino games are described. An electronic gaming device is provided that allows a live player to compete against a virtual player in a multi-player wager-based game using playing cards derived from the insertion of a physical denomination of currency. The electronic gaming device can be configured to simulate the decision making of a virtual player and associated behaviors of the virtual player during game play. In some instances, the simulated behaviors of the virtual player output at the electronic gaming device can be learned by a live player so that the live player can make better or more advantageous game play decisions. The simulated behaviors of the virtual player can be conveyed to the live player via visual images, such as simulated facial expressions of the virtual player.

Abstract: Systems for validating wagering game data are described herein. In one embodiment, an apparatus includes an application program configured to transmit a request for wagering game data. The apparatus can also include a wagering game data security controller configured to detect the request. The wagering game data security controller can include a wagering game data processor configured to fetch the wagering game data and a reference value from a data store. The wagering game data security controller can also include a wagering game data validator configured to compute a comparison value based on the wagering game data, and to determine whether the comparison value is equal to the reference value. The wagering game data security controller can also include a notifier unit configured to present a notification if the comparison value is not equal to the reference value.

Abstract: Methods and apparatuses for variable contribution multiple progressive jackpot games are disclosed. A variable contribution rate is determined as a function of a wager level. A contribution amount is determined by multiplying each wager by its corresponding contribution rate. The contribution amount is then added to at least two jackpot meters.

Abstract: Provided is a gaming machine capable of enhancing entertainment characteristics of the gaming machine. On the gaming machine 1, a game outcome is that after undergoing a process in which trigger symbols whose number is one short of a number of a combination of symbols which triggers a bonus game are rearranged, the plurality of symbols are finally rearranged, an operation of cancelling predictive presentation effects is deactivated until the predictive presentation effects have been finished.

Abstract: A main or base game has an associated bingo-type matching bonus game or event. The main or base game may have a winning outcome with an associated base award. Upon the occurrence of certain events, such as matches of symbols used in the main game, one or more bonus indicia, such as bingo balls, are generated. These bonus indicia are compared to a player's bonus indicia, such as bingo numbers on a player's bingo card, for matching. If one or more designated matches, such as matching patterns, are achieved, the player may be awarded a bonus event award.

Abstract: A gaming machine includes an input device and a processor coupled to the input device. The input device is configured to receive a game play event from a player. The processor is programmed to determine whether a jackpot trigger condition is satisfied based at least in part on the game play event. The jackpot trigger condition includes a target quantity of games played, a target set of game tokens, a target pattern of game symbols, and/or a target pattern of game play outcomes. The processor is further programmed to award a jackpot credit to one or more players when the jackpot trigger condition is satisfied.

Abstract: A computer-implemented method for enhancing game components in a gaming system, the method comprising: displaying at least one of a row and a column of the game components along a plane on a display device in accordance with a set of game rules for a given game, each one of the game components having an original symbol associated thereto; selecting at least one of the game components for enhancement; expanding selected ones of the game components outside of the plane and associating at least one additional symbol to expanded selected ones of the game components; and integrating the at least one additional symbol into the given game.

Abstract: An apparatus for producing an electrosensory sensation to a body member (120). The apparatus comprises one or more conducting electrodes (106), each of which is provided with an insulator (108). When the body member (120) is proximate to the conducting electrode, the insulator prevents flow of direct current from the conducting electrode to the body member. A capacitive coupling over the insulator (108) is formed between the conducting electrode (106) and the body member (120). The conducting electrodes are driven by an electrical input which comprises a low-frequency component (114) in a frequency range between 10 Hz and 500 Hz. The capacitive coupling and electrical input are dimensioned to produce an electrosensory sensation. The apparatus is capable of producing the electrosensory sensation independently of any mechanical vibration of the one or more conducting electrodes (106) or insulators (108).

Abstract: A system is provided that transforms haptic signals. The system receives a first haptic signal including a first haptic effect that can be generated by a first haptic output device. The system transforms the first haptic signal into a second haptic signal including a second haptic effect that can be generated by a second haptic output device. The system then sends the second haptic signal to the second haptic output device to generate the second haptic effect.

Abstract: A method for detecting occupancy of a building is described. In one embodiment, the method includes using a microphone to monitor for sounds at a building, detecting a sound via the microphone, and determining whether the sound is made by a human or made by an animal. In some cases, the microphone is a glass break sensor microphone.

Abstract: A device for the detection of an open and unattended closure of an enclosure to prevent theft comprises a detector adapted to detect if the closure is open and a detector adapted to detect if the closure is unattended, the detectors being operably connected to an effector adapted to alert a user to the open and unattended condition of the closure.

Abstract: In an approach to tracking at least one target subject in a camera network, a search is started to find a target subject on a camera within a camera network. Features are extracted from the target subject and search queries are initiated in other nearby cameras within the camera network. Search queries attempt to detect target subjects and present the finds in a ranked order. Application of aggregate searches in multiple cameras and prior search results are used to improve matching results in the camera network; propagate a search of the target subject to discover the full pathway in the camera network; and project future occurrences of the target subject in subsequent cameras in the camera network.

Abstract: A system capable of monitoring an area and detecting a disturbance with the area. The system has a plurality of ultra-wide band radio frequency tags, each of the tags including a digital signal processing module configured to monitor changes in radio frequency multipath properties of received packets transmitted by at least one other of the tags. Changes in the radio frequency multipath properties may be caused by a disturbance indicative of an object in the vicinity of the tags. A corresponding method is also disclosed.

Abstract: Radioactive integrated circuit (IC) devices with radioactive material embedded in the substrate of the IC itself, and including logic for “fingerprinting” (that is, determining characteristics that identify the source of the radioactive source material). Radioactive IC devices with embedded detector hardware that determine aspects of radioactivity such as total dose and/or ambient radiation. Radioactive IC devices that can determine an elapsed time based on radioactive decay rates. Radioactive smoke detector using man-made, relatively short half-life radioactive source material.

Abstract: A doze alert includes a head cover having a plurality of EEG sensors mounted thereon for measuring brainwave activity. The sensors are in communication with a wireless transceiver that transmits the measurements to a monitoring station. If a majority of the measurements are below an acceptable threshold, the monitoring station generates a brightly colored message on a display screen and engages an audible alarm.

Abstract: Systems, apparatuses and methods for detecting internal cell faults using online and real-time sensing techniques, and providing an accurate and reliable early warning for the incoming failure of battery cells hours or days prior to failure. A system is configured to perform real-time and direct measurement of battery cell parameters of temperature, voltage, and AC impedance through online sensing. These parameters may be simultaneously processed using advanced probabilistic and/or fuzzy logic-based algorithms to provide an early warning for the incoming failure of battery cells in a battery pack. This technology may safeguard the LIB battery packs while allowing them to operate at or near 100% capacity in both transportation and stationary applications.

Abstract: In a plurality of described embodiments, various modules of an application for a client device may operate to enhance personal security for an individual user, as well as public safety in general. A Blue-Phone-in-Pocket (bPip) module operates comparable to, but more effectively than, the traditional college campus blue light phone. When the user of the module toggles a button on the GUI of his/her smartphone, the App may instantly record and transmit key information to a command center, which operates to provide assistance to the student, at their current location, without requiring the student to relocate to one of the tradition blue light phone fixtures. A tracking module permits the student or other user to be tracked by his/her device until safely reaching a travel destination. The person may trigger an alarm if endangered during the trip, which may prompt a respond from local law enforcement, and other assigned individuals.

Abstract: Some embodiments are directed to a lockdown apparatus for facilitating initiation of lockdown procedures at a facility. The lockdown apparatus can include a manually operated actuator disposed at the facility and configured to transmit a lockdown initiation signal upon being manually actuated. The actuator can be configured to be recognizably distinguishable from a fire alarm actuator. The lockdown apparatus can also include a lockdown communicator configured to produce a lockdown communication for communicating initiation of lockdown procedures to the facility occupants and individuals not disposed proximate the facility upon transmission of the lockdown initiation signal, the lockdown communication being recognizably distinguishable from the fire alarm communication.

Abstract: Some embodiments are directed to a lockdown apparatus for facilitating initiation of lockdown procedures at a facility. The lockdown apparatus can include a manually operated actuator disposed at the facility and configured to transmit a lockdown initiation signal upon being manually actuated. The actuator can be configured to be recognizably distinguishable from a fire alarm actuator. The lockdown apparatus can also include a lockdown communicator configured to produce a lockdown communication for communicating initiation of lockdown procedures to the facility occupants and individuals not disposed proximate the facility upon transmission of the lockdown initiation signal, the lockdown communication being recognizably distinguishable from the fire alarm communication.

Abstract: A device for monitoring a sound generator includes at least one coupler module, a signal evaluation element, and an output element. The device is coupled by at least one coupler module with the sound generator for purposes of monitoring the latter.

Abstract: Systems and methods for self-administering a sound test to verify operation of a speaker and/or alarm within a hazard detection system are described herein. The sound test can verify that the audible sources such as the alarm and speaker operate at the requisite loudness and frequencies. In addition, the sound test can be self-administered in that it does not require the presence of a person to initiate or verify that the audible sources are functioning properly.

Abstract: The present invention is directed towards a method for collecting information pertaining to an audio notification system comprising a plurality of audio devices and a database, wherein each of the plurality of audio devices comprises a loudspeaker and a microphone, the method comprising: sequentially for each of the plurality of audio devices: emitting, by means of the loudspeaker of a currently emitting audio device, an audible test sound; monitoring, by means of microphones of the audio devices in the system, for the audible test sound; and for each monitoring audio device, if the audible test sound is detected by the monitoring audio device, storing, in the database, information pertaining to the currently emitting audio device and information pertaining to the monitoring audio device detecting the audible test sound.

Abstract: Various methods, systems, and devices for identifying a low battery charge of a smoke detector are presented. For example, a device may include a smoke detection sensor that detect smokes and, in response to detecting smoke, generate a smoke detection signal. The device may include battery test circuitry that tests a charge level of a battery installed in the smoke detector device. The device may include an audio output device that outputs a low battery chirp in response to the battery test circuitry determining the charge level of the battery installed in the smoke detector device is low. Also, the device may include a proximity detector that monitors for a wave movement of an object within a distance of the smoke detector device and generates a proximity detection signal when the proximity detector detects the wave movement performed by an object within the distance of the smoke detector device.

Abstract: A medical technical apparatus includes an optical viewing unit including a receiver unit and a wireless footswitch device. The wireless footswitch device includes at least one switch configured to generate a control command corresponding to a performance of a function of the optical viewing unit, a transmitter unit configured to wirelessly, unidirectionally transmit data signals corresponding to the control command from the wireless footswitch device to the optical viewing unit using radio technology, a control processor, and a switching device. The switching device is configured to switch the control processor from an operating mode to a standby mode upon completion of a data transfer of the data signals from the wireless footswitch to the optical viewing unit and is also configured to switch the control processor from the standby mode to the operating mode in response to an actuation of the at least one switch for generating the control command.

Abstract: An RV wireless remote control system comprising an HMI including a GUI coupled to an HMI RF transceiver and an HMI dock connector. The HMI RF transceiver receives RV device status signals over an RF fieldbus and the HMI dock connector receives RV device status signals over an RV localbus. The HMI generates control signals in response to the status signals and/or operator input signals. The HMI transmits the control signals to the RV devices over the RF fieldbus via the HMI RF transceiver or over the RV localbus via the HMI dock connector when the HMI dock connector is connected to the RV localbus. The HMI is configured for real time distributive control of the RV devices such that the RV localbus and the RF fieldbus operate in both directions enabling closed-loop control between the HMI and the RV devices.

Abstract: The present specification relates to a portable device, a smart watch, which is used in a manner of being synchronized with the portable device, and a method of controlling therefor. According to one embodiment, the processor configured to detect a first external device including a second ID, if the second ID of the first external device is identical to the first ID of the portable device, the processor configured to include the first ID of the portable device in ID information, if the second ID of the first external device is different from the first ID of the portable device, the processor configured to include the second ID of the first external device in the ID information, the processor configured to transmit the data including the ID information to a second external device.

Abstract: A system and method used to configure a smart device to command functional operations of a target appliance. The smart device retrieves from a controllable appliance, such as a settop box, data indicative of a codeset identity of the target appliance wherein the codeset identity was determined during a process used to configure a conventional universal remote control to command functional operations of the target appliance and wherein the process used to configure the conventional universal remote control is performed in cooperation with the controllable appliance. A remote control application resident on the smart device then uses the data indicative of the codeset identity retrieved from the controllable appliance to also configure the smart device to command functional operations of the target appliance.

Abstract: A radio wave receiver includes a receiver controller that performs a signal capturing action in regular or irregular intervals to capture data transmitted on radio waves from a remote terminal in synchronization with the signal capturing action. The receiver controller includes a correctness determination unit and a capturing frequency setting unit. The correctness determination unit calculates an error rate or a correctness rate of the data captured by the receiver controller to determine the correctness of the captured data. The capturing frequency setting unit sets a capturing frequency indicating the number of times the signal capturing action is performed during a certain period in accordance with the correctness of the captured data.