Abstract: The present invention relates to a wireless item locator doorbell system comprising a doorbell unit and a moveable item locator unit in communication with said doorbell unit wherein said doorbell unit further comprises a motion sensor configured to actuate a message device, wherein said message device is configured to provide a message upon activation of said motion sensor, an actuating mechanism in communication with said motion sensor and/or message device, a transmitter configured to deliver a wireless signal upon actuation of said actuating mechanism, wherein said moveable item locator unit further comprises a receiver configured to receive signals from said transmitter of said doorbell unit, and a second message device configured to provide a message upon activation by said receiver.

Abstract: A security system (52) using cellular wireless half duplex communication call (62) is provided. The security system (52) comprises a set of monitored resources (10), group of owners (48) and group of helpers (50) connected using said cellular wireless half duplex call (52). The monitored resource (10) is configured to generate an alarm and is coupled with said cellular wireless half duplex call (62). Said owners (48) and helpers (50) are also coupled with said cellular wireless half duplex call (62). In an event of emergency said monitored resource (10) generates an alarm and initiates said cellular wireless half duplex call (62) to connect to said owners (48) and said helpers (50) in shortest possible time without significantly contributing to cellular network load. Said security system (52) provides most scalable, efficient and viable security solution using cellular wireless networks.

Abstract: A fire alarm pull station includes a cover which must be opened to reach a fire alarm actuating handle, and an audio pull station alarm triggered by opening the cover. Once triggered, the pull station alarm remains on until reset, which reset requires using a tool in a first embodiment or a key in a second (or key lock) embodiment. The tool or key preferably allows the pull station to be opened to reset the pull station alarm. The cover may further be blocked from closing after being opened, and may only be closed after opening the pull station to reset a blocking mechanism. The pull station alarm is preferably an audio alarm residing in the pull station and the pull station may be hard wired to the fire alarm or wireless. The presence of the pull station alarm serves to deter false alarm setting.

Abstract: A car-used lock with alerting function comprises a lock installed with a sensor, a buzzer and a transmitter; a receiving control device for receiving signals from the transmitter; the receiving control device being installed with a receiver, a decoder, a microprocessor, an indicator, leaning keys, a dialing control wire and a power source; a car-used handset connected to the receiving control device and having a battery. The receiver serves to transfer the high frequency signals emitted from the transmitter into digital signals. The decoder serves to transfer the digital signals into codes. The microprocessor serves to compare the codes with the built-in data. The lock has the affect of immediate alert and communication with legal frequency bands and power. The power source is from the car used handset. Furthermore, two sets of quick dialing numbers are used so that the line busy of the car owner can be avoided.

Abstract: A device in one example comprises a standalone universal serial bus keyboard emulator and an ultrasonic sensor component. The standalone universal serial bus keyboard emulator is coupled with a computer through a universal serial bus port. The ultrasonic sensor component is coupled with the standalone universal serial bus keyboard emulator. The ultrasonic sensor component communicates one or more signals to the standalone universal serial bus keyboard emulator that serve to allow the standalone universal serial bus keyboard emulator to make a determination of entry to or exit from a predetermined proximity of the computer by a user. The determination of entry to or exit from the predetermined proximity of the computer by the user causes the standalone universal serial bus keyboard emulator to send a corresponding entrance or exit user configurable keystroke sequence to the computer through the universal serial bus port.

Abstract: The present invention comprises systems and methods for addressing exceptions (i.e., alarms) associated with a guard tour according to a predefined hierarchy. The exception is generated automatically based on data associated with the guard tour, as typically collected by an ETTS. The present invention receives tour data, and based upon predefined customer preferences and current conditions, generates a procedure to be followed to optimally resolve the exception. An exemplary exception is one based on the time interval between checkpoints. If, for example, the time interval is outside of a predetermined range, then an exception may be generated.

Abstract: The present invention comprises systems and methods for addressing exceptions (i.e., alarms) associated with a guard tour according to a predefined hierarchy. The exception is generated automatically based on data associated with the guard tour, as typicdally collected by an ETTS. The present invention receives tour data, and based upon predefined customer preferences and current conditions, generates a procedure to be followed to optimally resolve the exception, typically based on to various parameters, including customer, exception type, day, date, and time of day. In response to an exception, a contact list is generated, the contact list being associated with one or more of the parameters. Based on the nature of the exception, the present invention has the ability to prevent an operator from clearing the exception until it has been resolved in a predefined manner.

Abstract: A switch temporarily disconnects an alarm system from an external power source when a person activates an actuator in a false alarm situation. After a predetermined length of time, the switch is automatically changed to a position that allows power to resume flowing to the alarm system. The alarm system is formed of an alarm unit or a series of two or more alarm units electrically connected together.

Abstract: Navigation method and navigation system for motor vehicles for navigating from a present location to a destination. In response to an emergency user request, an emergency destination closest to the present location is selected from a database, set as the destination, and a route calculated from the present location to the emergency destination. The navigation system includes a memory having a database for emergency destinations and a device for selecting, from the database, an emergency destination closest to the present location.

Abstract: A junction box assembly for weather-resistant installations is disclosed including a junction box (100) and an extension ring (116, 216) adapted to attach with an component such as an alarm signaling unit (118, 218). The junction box assembly enables a relatively uniform compressive force about the periphery of the alarm signaling unit, such that a good, weather resistant seal is produced between a sealing surface (159, 259) on the alarm signaling unit and a mounting surface (161). In an embodiment of the assembly the extension ring (216) includes a flange (244) that attaches to the junction box, an large aperture (247) providing access to the interior of the junction box, and a mounting plate (266) including a threaded aperture (254) that is centrally located to align with a mounting aperture (242) in the alarm signaling unit. A gasket (219) may be provided between the signaling unit and the sealing surface.

Abstract: The present invention provides an application which is used to program building systems such as fire safety systems. It is an object of the invention to provide a method for creating one or more configuration files for the control panel of a fire safety system to allow the control panel to more efficiently control the fire safety system. The present provides a method for creating one or more system configurations. The configuration file may be comprised of one or more user created views.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for activating a fire-alarm pull station. The pull stations includes a non-contact switch located within a housing, a movable actuation device linked to the non-contact switch wherein the device moves between an activation and non-activation position and an actuator protector linked to the non-contact switch to aid in preventing improper activation of the non-contact switch.

Abstract: A fire alarm system may comprise a control center, a wired communication pathway connected to the control center, and a relay station having a receiver and a signal evaluation circuit connected to the communication pathway. First decentralized alarm boxes may be wired to the communication pathway, and second decentralized alarm boxes may communicate with the receiver of the relay station via a wireless channel, wherein the first and second alarm boxes, in case of fire, produce an alarm signal which is transmitted to the control center via the communication pathway. A set of separate coupling modules may be disposed in the relay station and may be disconnectably connected to the signal evaluation circuit and the communication pathway via appropriate connecting elements, the coupling modules being designed for different communication modes.

Abstract: A manually operated pull-station for activating an alarm system is provided having a housing which contains a manually actuated lever. The lever is moveable between armed and activated positions. In addition, the manually operated pull-station has a camera mounted in the housing.

Abstract: An emergency alarm system is provided having a manually operated pull-station that activates the system. The emergency alarm system has a camera that provides image data of the area surrounding the pull-station. The emergency alarm system also has a control panel having an image memory that is operable to provide storage for the image data from the camera.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for activating a fire-alarm pull station. The pull stations includes a non-contact switch located within a housing, a movable actuation device linked to the non-contact switch wherein the device moves between an activation and non-activation position and an actuator protector linked to the non-contact switch to aid in preventing improper activation of the non-contact switch.

Abstract: A signage system for a traffic area, the traffic area comprising visually-identifiable boundary markers, the signage system having sign means at the boundary markers, the sign means visually viewable by an occupant of a vehicle adjacent the boundary markers. The signage system further having interaction apparatus at the parking lot for providing communication between a vehicle occupant and an entity remote from the traffic area. The signage system wherein the sign means has at least one electronic display apparatus for presenting information to a person at the traffic area.

Abstract: A safety station for rapid response to a safety incident. The safety station comprises an alarm unit and optionally also a response instructional unit located proximate thereto. The alarm unit comprises a support post to which are attached a visual and an audible alarm. The alarms are activated by means of an electrical switch and powered alternatively by an AC power supply provided by a utility company or a DC power supply provided by a battery. The alarm unit further comprises a base that may be variably adapted for mounting the alarm unit to a variety of surfaces and in a variety of substrates, including in dirt or gravel such as might be found at a construction site.

Abstract: A pull station for an alarm includes a housing with a handle mounted for sliding movement within the housing. The housing includes a window for a user to access the handle for forcibly sliding the handle in a vertical direction. A latch is rotatably mounted to the handle and spring biased to rotate to a locked position upon sliding movement of the handle. The latch has a portion which moves to bear against a stationary element of the housing to establish the locked position. The housing can be opened to reset the handle without changing the state of the alarm. Closing of the housing automatically resets the alarm. An attached terminal block includes a plurality of U-shaped terminal elements each having a screw terminal, a solder lug and a press pin.

Abstract: A combination smoke detector and severe weather warning device is housed in a common housing, such as a housing resembling that for a conventional smoke detector. The combination device includes a smoke detector and alarm for sensing smoke and/or fire in the immediate area and transmitting an audible alarm, and also includes a VHF FM radio for receiving severe weather broadcasts and alerts from the National Oceanic And Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), from a remotely located transmitter. Preferably different audible alarms are provided for the smoke detector and for severe weather warnings from the radio, in order that persons may distinguish the type of alarm issued by the device. The combination device is preferably powered by an electrical power supply installed within the building structure within which the device is installed, but may be powered by self contained electrical batteries.

Abstract: An electrical junction box assembly for mounting a fire alarm signaling unit or the like. The box includes a substantially square rear panel, four generally rectangular sidewall panels extending forwardly therefrom, and an open forward end adapted to receive at least a portion of a signaling unit or the like. Each side of the substantially square rear panel is approximately five inches in length, and the sidewall panels extend forwardly from the rear panel approximately two and seven-eighths inches, whereby the box will fit within the three and one-half inch stud space between a wall and a bar hanger typically provided, and yet accommodate the speaker or chime portion of an alarm signaling unit as well as electrical conductors for powering the unit and other devices down the line. An adaptor is provided as an interface connection between the junction box and a fire alarm signaling unit or the like.

Abstract: In a fire control and indicating equipment, a printed circuit board is so formed as to be larger in plane than an operation panel, engagement holes are defined in the printed circuit board, and engagement portions corresponding to the engagement holes are disposed on the back surface side of the operation panel. The engagement of the engagement holes with the engagement portion allows the printed circuit board and the operation panel to be integrated together in a state where the operation panel is mounted on the printed circuit board to form a unit body. The printed circuit board of the unit body is fixed onto a printed-board fixing section.

Abstract: A call box apparatus includes a controller unit, a radio frequency audio transceiver unit controlled by the controller unit, and a sensor assembly connected to the controller unit for controlling operation of the controller unit. A power supply assembly, an audio storage assembly, an output speaker unit, and an input microphone unit are connected to the controller unit. A housing assembly houses the controller unit, the radio frequency audio transceiver unit, the sensor assembly, the power supply assembly, the audio storage assembly, the output speaker unit, and the input microphone unit. The housing assembly includes a hinged door. The housing assembly includes a first housing portion which supports the door, and a second housing portion which supports the first housing portion. The door includes a door lock assembly. The sensor assembly includes an open-door sensor and a key-operated switch assembly. The power supply assembly includes a rechargeable battery.

Abstract: An alarm security system is provided that interfaces a standard communications system with the monitoring of variety of remote sensors resulting in a flexible portable silent alarm. The sensor alarm conditions are communicated, with prerecorded voice information, directly over pre-programmed standard radio communications channels to on-duty security personnel. The equipment responds to commands sent, along with a correct identification code, over the same standard communications channels. Remote arming, disarming, status, activation of listening devices, and other remote functions are therefore possible. The alarm security system includes a remote wireless security electronics unit that is powered by battery, solar panel, or AC. The remote electronics unit includes monitoring of sensors in a plurality of separate zones. Each zone having a separate prerecorded message, appropriate for that zone, that can be transmitted directly to on-duty security personnel.

Abstract: An improved alarm activation station protector for use with a depressible alarm activating member and which is capable of being accessed by individuals with varying degrees of hand and arm disability. A wall mounted frame member is formed in a generally "U" shape with first, second and third interconnecting sides and a centrally open area for receiving the depressible alarm activating member. A transparent protective cover includes first, second and third sides which slidably engage the frame member and an arcuate shaped body which permits the cover to be arranged over the alarm. Slidably interlocking means established between the frame member and protective cover permit the cover to be pushed upwardly with the use of a stubbed hand or arm portion and without the need of fingers to grasp the cover. The cover is elevated to a desired height, at which point the individual can activate the alarm by depressing the exposed alarm member inwardly.

Abstract: A fire alarm radio transmitter and receiver set is provided with a radio transmitter and a radio receiver. The radio transmitter has a plurality of temperature sensors, a first memory keeping data including an address of a building, a first controller for generating transmission data by combining the data and an identification code and for allowing an alarm to emit an alarm signal, a frequency generator for generating a frequency radio signal and for mixing the frequency radio signal with the transmission data and a transmitter for transmitting the transmission data.

Abstract: The system includes a sensor for each junction box in the building to be guarded, e.g., the residence, and a display panel showing the temperature of any junction box that is heated above the danger point. Another display panel shows the name of the resident and address of the residence, and the location of the heated junction box by room number and junction box number and the shape of the junction box. A plurality of residences are connected with a central station, such as a fire station, by a single telephone line to each residence. A single processing unit is located in each residence, and a single such unit is located in the central display station. A display panel is located in the central station identical with each display in a residence.

Abstract: A frame for supporting a sheet of glass over a fire alarm signal switch mounted on a wall. The frame is of the type which holds the glass over the switch so that the alarm signal can only be operated by breaking the glass. The frame has a cover member with an open bottom so that when the glass is broken to operate the alarm the resulting shards of glass fall through the open bottom of the cover member so that they do not injure the operator.

Abstract: A pull box for an emergency alarm system is disclosed having a modular construction that accommodates one or more optional modules in order to provide a wide variety of possible configurations. Also, the basic design of the pull station provides for its resetting without requiring a cover of the pull station to be open. As part of the optional modules, the pull station may be configured to provide both local and general alarm signals, with the general alarm signal capable of being activated only by authorized personnel.

Abstract: The system includes a sensor for each junction box in the building to be guarded, i.e., the residence, and a display panel showing the temperature of any junction box that is heated above the danger point. Another display panel shows the name of the resident and address of the residence, and the location of the heated junction box by room number and junction box number and the shape of the junction box. A plurality of residences are connected with a central station, such as a fire station, by single telephone line to each residence. A single processing unit is located in each residence, and a single such unit in the central display station. A display panel is located in the central station identical with each display in a residence.

Abstract: A variable distance marker system includes a display mounted in a housing and attached to electronics circuits having a light detector for receiving externally generated light signals. A rechargeable battery and a solar cell array are interconnected for supplying power to the display and circuits. An antenna is mounted in the housing for receiving RF signals and a remote RF transmitter is controllable to transmit an actuating signal to the antenna for altering the display. A remote hand-held light generator is controllable to generate a beam of light onto the light detector for controlling the digits displayed.

Abstract: A call box (201) provides vandal-resistant operation by using a concealed magnetic switch and magnet (179) and specially locked compartments (101 and 103) in a heavy duty structure. The concealed magnetic switch determines the position of a handset (119) within the call box (201). When the handset (119) is removed from its resting position, a radio (129) within the call box (201) responds when a pushbutton (127) within the call box (201) is pressed. When the pushbutton (127) is pressed, telephone service is provided via a radio (129) to a preprogrammed phone number, such as the highway patrol for a call box (201) located on a highway, to handle situations such as a malfunctioning vehicle.

Abstract: A combined alarm, security and rescue system includes room boxes (33a-33j, 35a-35j) in associated rooms, a two way communication system (29a-29C, 30a-30C, 31a-31b, 32a-32j, 34a-34j) between a number of room boxes and a central operator station, and a central operator station. The system can be used in hotels, hospitals, cruise vessels, offshore living quarter platforms, and other places where many people usually are gathered within a definite area. In case of an emergency situation, the system provides essential information at the operator station for rescue crew, and thus acts as a decision tool for the rescue leader. The system also provides personal safety equipment like breathing masks (contained in the room boxes), that can be used by the people in the rooms in order to break through areas filled with smoke. Further, necessary equipment for a person-to-person communication between the central operator and the people present in the actual rooms is provided.

Abstract: Call switch for use by hospital patients and staff members to summon aid in wet areas such as shower and bath areas. An actuating magnet is positioned on the front side of a waterproof panel for controlling the operation of electronic circuitry mounted in a dry area behind the panel. The magnet is carried by a slide for movement between rest and tripped positions, and a pull cord is connected to the slide by a breakaway member which permits the cord to separate from the slide when a patient becomes entangled in the cord or the pull on the cord otherwise exceeds a predetermined limit.

Abstract: A remote signaling box uses no glass or breakable parts. The signal box has an unbreakable door that protects a sliding panel and activator which constrains the internal alarm switch. When the door is closed, a foolproof interlock in the sliding panel prevents functioning of the switch. The sliding panel has an opening so that when it is pulled down a spring-loaded activator is released into the opening which allows the internally contained spring-loaded switch to function. No replacement parts are required after the box has been operated. A two-step operation is required for alarming to prevent inadvertent activation. The first step is to open the door which removes the foolproof interlock from the sliding panel. The second step is to pull down the sliding panel. The device is easily reset by moving the sliding panel to its original position and closing the door.

Abstract: Apparatus for identifying and directing attention to a location, such as an emergency exit, includes a series of sound generators arranged along a path leading from a remote site to the location. The sound generators are energized sequentially and individually, preferably with a tone which rises in frequency as the sound travels from the remote site to the location of interest. If the sound generators are used to direct attention to an emergency exit, the sound generators are activated upon the occurrence of an emergency condition, such as a fire, and the sequence of tones is cycled continuously until the emergency condition ceases.

Abstract: In order to pull a fire alarm door to actuate an alarm, a complimentary door must first be pushed in so as to permit an operator to pull the fire alarm door.

Abstract: An attachment which converts a single station, spring powered, temperature sensitive, fire alarm protection device into a remote signalling heat detector for a central fire alarm system, without affecting the internal apparatus of the alarm device or the environmental protection of such internal apparatus. The attachment includes a pivotally mounted member having a shield arm interposed between a magnet and a reed switch, and a lever arm which interacts with a winding key on the alarm device to move the shield arm from between the magnet and reed switch when the alarm is actuated. This movement of the shield arm permits the magnetic force of the magnet to activate the reed switch. The reed switch is connected by wire or radio link to a central monitor. Actuation of the reed switch, in response to actuation of the alarm device, produces an alarm signal at the central monitor.

Abstract: An alarm pull station is provided having a housing for attachment to a support, a manually movable member mounted within the housing and having a magnet attached thereto, and a Hall effect switching device responsive to movement of the magnet for providing an output signal. The Hall effect switching device can include first and second Hall effect sensors arranged for providing three levels of output signal, a first normal level when the manually movable member is in its original, unoperated position, an alarm level when the manually movable member is operated, and a trouble level when the pull station is subject to tampering.

Abstract: An electrical signalling device for a nurse call electrical communication system comprises a switch box, switch means carried by the switch box for activating a call signal at the nurse station, and a manually operable actuator member carried by the switch box for actuating the switch means. An audible signal means is connected to the switch means for producing an audible signal at the bed location in response to actuation of the switch means and immediately after activation of the call signal. An adjustable biasing means is provided for adjusting the amount of force necessary for applying the actuator member to actuate said switch means.

Abstract: A multi-zone fire protection system in which each protected zone is provided with a detector for producing an alarm signal in response to the presence of combustion products, a source of fire extinguishing agent, and a pull box station manually operable to induce discharge of the extinguishing agent into the protected zone. Each pull station possesses a signal lamp that can be energized to signal an abnormal condition to personnel present in the area. A signal lamp in a given zone is energized via a central control panel in response to an alarm signal from a detector associated with that zone, thereby clearly indicating to personnel at hand the specific zone in which a fire has been detected.

Abstract: A central smoke detector alarm system, for a multiple floor, multiple dwelling apartment building, which utilizes the existing components of the fire alarm system found in such buildings. Individual alarm condition detectors, such as smoke detectors, are located in each dwelling on a floor and interconnected with each other. A relay box connects the individual units to an existing fire alarm box on that floor to activate the fire alarm system throughout the building should an alarm condition be detected. The relay box serves as a central power supply source for the individual units and contains circuitry to detect a fault in any of the lines interconnecting the individual detectors and the relay box. A time delay is included in the relay box to delay activation of the fire alarm bell a predetermined time period after an alarm condition is detected.

Abstract: A solid state code transmitter adapted for use with a conventional local fire alarm system in connection with installations that include a McCulloh loop circuit for the transmission of signals to a central proprietary fire alarm surveillance point. The transmitter circuit generates an electronic data word 17 bits long, the first 14 bits being field programmable by way of miniature DIP switches, each data word representing an equivalent of one round of generated code.

Abstract: A multi-zone fire protection system in which each protected zone is provided with a detector for producing an alarm signal in response to the presence of combustion products, a source of fire extinguishing agent, and a pull box station manually operable to induce discharge of the extinguishing agent into the protected zone. Each pull station possesses a signal lamp that can be energized to signal an abnormal condition to personnel present in the area. A signal lamp in a given zone is energized via a central control panel in response to an alarm signal from a detector associated with that zone, thereby clearly indicating to personnel at hand the specific zone in which a fire has been detected.

Abstract: A plurality of finger operated button switches are employed in conjunction with a logic circuit to control the mechanical activation of a conventional alarm box mechanism. When the finger button switches are pressed to activate the alarm, the user's fingerprints are retained on the switch buttons. Upon actuation of the alarm, the fingerprint bearing button switches are retracted to a position in which they are inaccessible to the alarm user. An electrical "flesh" sensor is provided on at least one finger button to prevent actuation of the alarm by means other than a human finger. In the event of a power failure, the conventional alarm mechanism can be actuated by mechanical pressure on a thumb button switch. In the preferred embodiment, the finger actuated button switches are located within a housing that can be retrofitted to existing alarms such as, fire alarm telegraph boxes.

Abstract: An ultrasonic alarm system comprising a transmitter having an oscillator which produces an ultrasonic carrier frequency signal. An audio signal generator produces a signal which modulates the carrier signal. The modulated signal is applied to a crystal through a tuned circuit. The transmitter is energized by operating a pushbutton which remains latched in operative position and which is unlatched only by the use of special devices. A plurality of receivers are provided and individual receivers are positioned at different locations throughout the premises to be protected. Each receiver includes a demodulator that demodulates the received signal and applies the same to a phase locked loop type phase detector which actuates an alarm when the demodulated signal is present. The alarm indicates the particular receiver that has been activated so that help may be dispatched immediately to the correct location.

Abstract: A third relay is provided in a signalling apparatus for ships, the apparatus primarily being intended for signalling in poor visibility and comprising an electric signalling device connectable to a current source by means of a first relay, a plurality of alternatively selectable and periodically closable make contacts connected in parallel with each other and in series with the first relay to the current source, and a second self-holding relay for coupling the motor to the current source. The third relay is connected to the current source in series with a plurality of parallel-connected switches for manual signalling, has a break contact coupled into the holding current path of the second relay and at least one make contact for connecting the signalling device to the current source.