Abstract: An embodiment vehicle includes a communication device configured to communicate with a device outside the vehicle, an external user interface configured to be activated based on a shipment pickup request received through the communication device, a temperature adjustment device configured to adjust an indoor temperature based on receipt of a shipment targeted for the shipment pickup request, and a controller configured to activate the external user interface in response to the shipment pickup request, open a door of the vehicle based on information entered through the external user interface being a password, and control the temperature adjustment device based on information about the shipment.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an intelligent transport system and more specifically, to an intelligent transport system for enabling, in domestic or international transport, people participating in a transport system to monitor an overall transport state such as that of temperature, humidity, and location of goods being transported. One embodiment of the present invention provides a transport monitoring system comprising a temperature monitoring unit, a humidity monitoring unit, a position monitoring unit, a state monitoring unit, an information monitoring unit, and a monitoring control unit for controlling a transport process of the goods on the basis of information obtained by the temperature monitoring unit, the humidity monitoring unit, the position monitoring unit, the state monitoring unit, and the information monitoring unit.

Abstract: Systems and methods relating to monitoring cargo are provided. Various embodiments provide features relating to: (1) monitoring characteristics of cargo using a single device that may be disposable; (2) generating alerts based on a variety of temperature conditions, such as multiple temperature thresholds; (3) providing multiple levels of alerts and escalating alerts to different users; (4) providing an indication of an end of trip based on location data and data from sensor(s); (5) reducing power of transmissions between devices; (6) using frequency diversity features to communicate between devices; (7) providing configurable reporting and/or sensor monitoring parameters, and changing reporting and/or sensor measurement periods; (8) allowing for communication with devices across multiple frequency bands; (9) utilizing secondary communication circuits to communicate with different devices, such as across different frequency channels and/or bands; and (10) using a movement detection device (e.g.

Abstract: An apparatus and assembly for redirecting the central illumination axis of an illumination assembly towards the central field of view (FOV) axis of an imaging assembly using an optical element that provides an optical magnification of less than 1.5×, where the central illumination axis at the point of the illumination assembly is non-parallel to the central FOV axis.

Abstract: A medication container encoding, verification and identification method is provided that includes receiving data characterizing a medication, generating an identifier encapsulating the data and applying an identifier to a medication container such that it is automatically readable by a medication device. Related apparatus, systems, methods and articles are also described.

Abstract: Provided is a rim exchange apparatus of a tire testing machine having a simple and space-saving configuration and capable of rotating a turntable having a plurality of rim placing parts with no interference and appropriately identifying a plurality of rim assemblies set on the turntable. A turntable is installed to be rotated about a rotary shaft with respect to the support part, a plurality of rim placing parts on which a rim assembly is placed are provided to the turntable about the rotary shaft, and reading parts are attached to the support part at a lower side of the turntable. Then, the reading parts read rim identification information of the rim assembly placed on the rim placing parts through the turntable at a predetermined reading position. Accordingly, the identification information of the rim assembly can be appropriately read with no interference with rotation of the turntable.

Abstract: Locking devices, electronic locks, and detection assemblies are provided. One locking device includes an antenna and a conductive body having a cavity disposed around the antenna and formed in an interior portion of the conductive body. The conductive body further includes a slot extending from the cavity to an outer surface of the conductive body.

Abstract: Systems and methods for data reading, which in one example configuration is directed to an automated optical code data reader in the form of a tunnel or portal scanner having an open architecture configured with front and rear inverted U-shaped arches, a plurality of cameras (some or most of which have multiple fields of view) in each of the arches for reading the top live sides of an item being passed by a conveyor through a read region formed by the arches, and a bottom reader including one or more cameras under the conveyor for reading a bottom side of the item through a gap in the conveyors as the item is passed over the gap. Also disclosed are specific imaging schemes for providing effective views of the items with a minimum number of cameras.

Abstract: An automated system for reading optical codes includes a conveyor system to automatically transport objects and an object measurement system positioned along the conveyor system to measure the transported objects. In one configuration, the object measurement system generates model data representing three-dimensional models of the objects; multiple image capture devices positioned along the conveyor system capture images as the objects are transported to enable an optical code reading system to read optical codes that are captured in the images. An exception identification system associates optical codes with the three-dimensional models to determine whether an exception has occurred.

Abstract: Systems and methods for data reading, which in one example configuration is directed to an automated optical code data reader in the form of a tunnel or portal scanner having an open architecture configured with front and rear inverted U-shaped arches, a plurality of cameras (some or most of which have multiple fields of view) in each of the arches for reading the top five sides of an item being passed by a conveyor through a read region formed by the arches, and a bottom reader including one or more cameras under the conveyor for reading a bottom side of the item through a gap in the conveyors as the item is passed over the gap. Also disclosed are specific imaging schemes for providing effective views of the items with a minimum number of cameras.

Abstract: An anti-effraction and antitheft system (1) of an electromechanical type for photovoltaic panels (8) and components of electrical plants and systems in general, which has the purpose of rendering unserviceable and/or unlikely to be re-usable, in the case of theft or tampering, of the photovoltaic panels (8). The system (1) is based upon the combination of functions of connection and electrical and electronic functions; namely, it is based upon at least one electromechanical element or connector (24), an electronic unit or management card (21) and a central system (39) with georeferencing, communication, and signalling functions.

Abstract: A unit of a media depository is described. The unit comprises: a body adapted to be supported by at least one support member of the depository in a working position and further adapted to be slidably moveable on the at least one supporting member between the working position and a pivot position; a first hinge member adapted to be movably mounted on the at least one support member; and, a second hinge member attached to or integral with the body. When the body is moved from the working position to the pivot position, the first and second hinge members engage such that the first hinge member is forced by the second hinge member to move with the body to the pivot position at which the first and second hinge members form a pivoting mechanism by which the body is pivotally attached to the at least one support member.

Abstract: A data acquisition device includes a wireless communication unit for performing wireless communication of data with a data accumulation device in which data is accumulated, a type registration unit wherein data types of necessary data are registered beforehand, a type comparison unit for comparing the data type of data received via the wireless communication unit with data types registered in the type registration unit, a data extracting unit for extracting only data of which the data type matches, and a data holding unit for holding the extracted data.

Abstract: A radio frequency identifying device minimizes a null point area within a radiation pattern by horizontally or vertically vibrating an antenna plate radiating a radio frequency beam by using at least one vibration motor.

Abstract: The present invention refers to a method and to an apparatus for obtaining a random code useable in a device for unique identification of a product wherein the apparatus comprises a sliding path of a continuous strip arranged along which is at least one drilling station for obtaining a plurality of holes on the strip, the plurality of holes forming the random code and it is wherein the drilling station is of the random type generating a plurality of holes according to a random and deterministically irreproducible process.

Abstract: A hand-operated document processor has a base for receiving a document containing magnetic ink character data to be read and recognized. A manually operated moving magnetic ink character recognition (MICR) subsystem includes a MICR read head and is attached to the base. Movement of the subsystem causes the MICR read head to pass over the magnetic ink character data on the document. MICR reading and recognition logic receives the signal from the MICR read head. A spring/cylinder mechanism includes a spring providing the force necessary to drive the moving MICR subsystem, and includes a dashpot composed of a piston and cylinder arranged such that the spring moves the MICR subsystem across the document being processed and drives the piston in the cylinder, thereby damping the motion of the MICR subsystem.

Abstract: A scanner flipper integrity checking method, computer-readable medium, and apparatus is provided. In one embodiment, the method powers a motor for a predetermined amount of time. After the predetermined time has expired a wave is received indicative of the frequency of the oscillation of the flipper. Thereafter, the method uses the wave signal to determine whether there are two consecutive transitions indicative of movement by said flipper. In another embodiment, an apparatus is also provided which performs the similar features recited by the above method.

Abstract: A contactless reader including a crystal oscillator configured to generate a first signal having a first frequency, a phase-locked loop configured to generate a crystal-accurate second frequency derived from the first frequency of the first signal, and a signal generator configured to generate a carrier signal having the crystal-accurate second frequency.

Abstract: A processing section (250) of a recording/reproducing device (200) acquires content data of a content set by a user, and acquires program-linked data which links with content-main-data, from the content data. The processing section (250) acquires set keyword data stored in a memory (240), and determines whether or not the program-linked data includes a BML file having a character string related to a keyword set by the user. If it is determined that a BML file having the related character string is included, the processing section (250) specifies and acquires content-main-data with which the BML file links, from the content-main-data acquired.

Abstract: A method and system for monitoring, managing, or transporting goods allows for monitoring the state of being of goods when in transit or unattached to wired power sources or communication means. The system also preferably includes the ability to adjust the conditions of the goods while they are in transit.

Abstract: A system determines athletic performance. A pressure sensor senses change in elevation. A microprocessor processes signals from the pressure sensor to determine speed corresponding to the change in elevation. A display reports the speed to a user.

Abstract: A card reader for reading magnetic stripe cards which are manually inserted, and withdrawn, by a user. The card is constrained to follow a path which displaces the card laterally while the card is outside the reader, and before the magnetic stripe reaches a magnetic sensor within the reader. The lateral displacement prevents an illicit magnetic sensor, positioned externally to the reader by a hacker, from reading the magnetic stripe, since the stripe is moving in an incorrect direction while the card is external to the reader.

Abstract: A handle for receiving a portable data collection terminal includes a trigger mechanism activatable to provide a trigger signal to the portable data collection terminal. A trigger functionality selector has at least first and second states representing different functions of the portable data collection terminal that are to be activated by the trigger signal.

Abstract: A card reader may comprise a power supply part for the card reader, a peripheral device including at least an inlet part for connecting a power cable to the power supply part from outside, a card reader part, a lower case for housing the power supply part and the peripheral device which is disposed in a linear manner, an upper case for housing the card reader part, and a recessed part for allowing the power cable to be inserted into the inlet part for connection. The inlet part and the recessed part for allowing the power cable to insert into the inlet part may be arranged in a linear manner and parallel to the power supply part.

Abstract: A card adapter is disclosed to include a connector electrically connected to a circuit board, a locating frame fixedly fastened to the circuit board, and a sliding cardholder, which has a holder base pivotally coupled to the locating frame through a sliding joint and defining two vertically spaced accommodating chambers for receiving different electronic cards, and terminals mounted in a partition board between the accommodating chambers, and the terminals each having a front contact portion respectively suspending in the first or second accommodating chamber for the contact of the inserted electronic cards and a rear connecting portion positioned in a respective terminal groove at a plug plate at the rear side of the partition board for insertion with the plug plate into the connector to contact a respective terminal in the connector.

Abstract: An image scanner apparatus is composed of a housing, an optical unit positioned in the housing, a drive mechanism driving the optical unit. The drive mechanism includes first and second wires connected to the optical unit, and a drive motor driving the first and second wires. One end of the first wire is connected to a first fixture, and one end of the second wire is connected to a second fixture. The first fixture is secured to a first wire-retaining member positioned outside the housing at a first securing position, and the first wire-retaining member retains the first fixture so that the first securing position is adjustable.

Abstract: According to the invention, a system for identifying an individual and reading biometric information pertaining to the individual from an optical card is disclosed. The system includes an optical card drive and a biometric scanner that are both coupled to a data processor. The optical card includes biometric data of the individual. The biometric scanner reads the biometric information from the individual.

Abstract: A tag has an intelligent function such that when radiation of a burst signal synchronized with a power source frequency from a transmission antenna (20) is detected, it transmits a response burst signal after completion of reception. Then, when a predetermined number of burst signals have been detected, the tag outputs an alarm. Also, an alarm device main body outputs an alarm when a predetermined number of response burst signals have been received. To provide article monitoring apparatus and article monitoring system which determine whether or not an unpaid article is taken out with reliability. According to the present invention, it is possible to provide article monitoring apparatus and article monitoring system which determine whether or not an unpaid article is taken out with reliability.

Abstract: A transponder unit which can be integrated in a transport unit or a card or the like. The transponder unit includes, in addition to an encapsulated transponder of an integrated circuit, an aerial winding having a resistance RA and a capacitor parallel thereto and having a capacitance CA. A closed coupling circuit of secondary winding is coupled with the aerial winding by a mutual inductance MSA and a substantially larger primary winding in series with the secondary winding and having fewer turns, for example only one turn. To achieve almost optimum energy transfer between a reading device and the transponder and to increase the permissible reading distance, the mutual inductance MSA is adjusted to comply with the relationship MSA=?{square root over ( )}[RA/?) (LP+LS+2MPS)], where ?2=1/(LACA) is true for the receiving frequency ? of the transponder and Lp and LS are the inductances of the primary winding and of the secondary winding and MPS is their mutual inductance.

Abstract: A data collection system for collecting data of an electronic device is provided. The data collection system includes: a processor for detecting and classifying the electronic device, a test device driven by the processor for testing the electronic device, a light coupling set, and a data collector respectively connected with the processor and the test device optically through the light coupling set for optically collecting the data of the electronic device from the processor and the test device and transforming the data into a particular information format. The feature of the data collection system is that, the protocol used for different outside devices is burned in the microprocessor in a format of firmware program so that the need for altering the hardware circuit is prevented.

Abstract: What is disclosed herein is an identification apparatus and method comprising an array of retractable pins in association with a housing attached to a base component through which each pin individually passes. The apparatus is attached to a primary device and in communication therewith. Each retractable pin is in individual physical contact with spring tension means positioned below the pin and located in a containment sleeve within the housing. Each spring continuously exerts pressure on the base of their respective pins so as to push the pin up through the base component. At the base of each spring is a pressure sensitive pad in communication with the primary device.

Abstract: A vehicle refueling system including a controller disposed in a vehicle, a fuel nozzle communicator arranged adjacent a fuel intake conduit, connected to the controller and communicating information from the vehicle to refueling systems outside thereof and a securely attached vehicle identifier assembly including a vehicle identification chip disposed in an identification portion, an output portion defining a connector coupled to the controller and a neck separating the identification portion and the connector, the vehicle identification chip including a data store containing identification data, the data store being connected to a data output in the output portion-via connectors passing through the neck, the neck securely fitting into the vehicle's chassis, the neck having a breaking strain lower than that of the remainder of the system, whereby an attempt to remove the vehicle identification chip from the vehicle by removal of the output portion, causes breakage of the vehicle identifier assembly at th

Abstract: An improved scheme for shipping and handling Smart Cards and Smart Card readers is provided. In accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, a business form is provided including a mounting ply defining a mounting surface and a card reader defining an upper reader panel and a lower reader panel. The upper reader panel is coupled to the lower reader panel via a reader hinge. The reader hinge is arranged to enable the upper reader panel to pivot relative to the lower reader panel from an open reader position to a closed reader position. The open reader position is characterized by separation of the upper reader panel from the lower reader panel by an angle of approximately 180° about a pivotal axis defined by the reader hinge. The card reader is removably secured to the mounting surface of the mounting ply in the open reader position. The card reader is preferably removably secured to the mounting surface with an adhesive.

Abstract: A terminal in the form of an automated teller machine (ATM) comprises a base unit 30 with additional add-on modules. These include a depository/dispenser 31, a statement printer 32 and secondary dispenser unit 33. The base unit has a card reader 40, keypad 42 and display 44 to allow cash to be dispensed. The add-on units are attached to the base unit which base unit provides environmental control as well as a processor control and power sourcing.

Abstract: The present invention is a card transport mechanism for transporting cards (114) along a transport path (108) and method of operation thereof.

Abstract: A data card terminal, such as a credit card transaction terminal, is disclosed. The terminal includes a transaction terminal comprising an embossed character reader and magnetic stripe reader, with a separate signature capture printer. The transaction terminal is operative for detecting the physical presence of a data card during a card transaction. The embossed character reader employs a tactile imager and pattern recognition for detecting the embossed characters on the data card. A signature capturing printer prints a paper receipt, which is signed by a cardholder at a signature capturing window on the printer. A signature capturing system digitizes and compresses signals corresponding to the signature of the card holder. Transaction data including compressed signature signals and signals indicative of the presence of the card are transmitted to the host computer system of a transaction processor, who guarantees the transaction as chargeback-protected under certain circumstances.

Abstract: Apparatus for processing a menu device comprising a card; bubbles on the card having positions corresponding to selectable data; each bubble having a first position projecting upwardly from the plane of the card, and a second position into which it is displaced relative to the plane of the card, by finger pressure, to indicate selection of data corresponding to bubble position on the card, the apparatus comprising first structure for detecting which of the bubbles are so displaced, and; second structure to engage displaced bubbles and to urge them back toward the first positions after the first structure detects which of the bubbles are displaced to second positions.

Abstract: Electronic circuit apparatus in the form of a transaction terminal and including a removable circuit component in the form of a portable memory cartridge. The terminal has a housing with a wall defining an opening for inserting the removable circuit component. A switch is mounted within the housing means substantially in the vicinity of the opening and is connected between a source of electric power and the removable circuit component to control application of power to the removable circuit component. A carrier arrangement carries the removable circuit component between a connected position within the housing and a disconnected position for removal from the housing through the opening. The carrier including a switch actuator and a cooperative interlock means. The switch actuator operates the switch to be ON and simultaneously locks the carrier within the housing. The switch actuator also functions to turn the switch OFF and simultaneously unlock the carrier for removal from the housing.

Abstract: In an apparatus for processing embossed characters on an embossed card, a sensing head has sensing wires extending generally parallel with each other in a first direction, the tips of the sensing wires disposed at different positions along a second direction orthogonal to the first direction. The sensing wires are repeatedly actuated toward their tips. Advancement of each sensing wire exceeding a predetermined distance is detected and electrical signals indicating the results of detection are produced. The embossed card is moved relative to the sensing head in a third direction orthogonal to the first and second directions, with the surface of the embossed card held parallel with the second and third directions, and close to the tips of the sensing wires.

Abstract: A card reader for electronic memory cards of the type which include a integrated circuit and integral electrical contact pads. The card reader includes a slot for introduction of the card. Within the slot are a series of contact elements for supplying power and information signals to the contact pads on the memory card. A card position detector, e.g. a microswitch, detects when the card is in the correct position, i.e. when the contact elements are contacting the electric contact pads of the memory card. When the card is so positioned, electric power and information signals are applied to the contact elements and then to the integrated circuit of the memory card via the electric contact pads.

Abstract: A cash replacement system including an encoded plastic card and a card acceptor mechanism is provided by punching a number of specially shaped apertures with predetermined orientations into the card. The acceptor mechanism which receives the card has a sensor pin aligned with each of the punched apertures of the plastic card. The sensor pins have a probe section at one end which is shaped to substantially conform to the shape of the punched apertures of the plastic card so that when they are in alignment with the apertures the probe sections will fit in the apertures as the sensor pins are depressed toward the card. The sensor pin also has a surface area adjacent the probe section which engages the card so that when the probe section extends through the aperture it insures that the aperture is of the correct shape and orientation. The sensor pins are lowered toward the card by a drive mechanism which is linked to a handle or other control device.

Abstract: The present invention is a repertory telephone dialler in which the telephone numbers are stored on cards. Each card is assembled from individual pieces each representing one digit of the telephone number. Each card can be disassembled to rearrange or replace the pieces, to represent a new telephone number. Each card is equipped with a handle and a surface for recording the name of the party whose telephone number it represents. Dialling is performed by inserting the card into a console. The console is equipped with receptacles for holding a plurality of cards ready for use. The console includes electronic means for sending dialling signals to the telephone exchange, for muting dialling pulses, and for disconnecting the power source when dialling is complete.