Abstract: One or more embodiments include systems and methods for regulating control of a vehicle infotainment system. In one embodiment, a vehicle computing system includes a user interface which has one or more output components and one or more input components. Software executing in memory of the vehicle computing system may be programmed with rules to reduce driver distraction such as preventing inputs or outputs during vehicle operation. Inputs may be intercepted from the one or more input components of the user interface. Additionally or alternatively, outputs may be intercepted to the output components of the user interface. The intercepted inputs or intercepted outputs may be evaluated for one or more violations based on the rules. If the one or more violations are detected, the inputs or outputs may be prevented during vehicle operation.

Abstract: A wearable computing device for identifying gestures indicating patient prescription adherence is provided. The wearable computing device includes a processor, a memory, and a motion sensor. The processor is configured to receive a set of prescription plan data defining a prescription for a pharmaceutical associated with a user of the wearable computing device. The processor is also configured to receive a gesture pattern of movement of the wearable computing device. The gesture pattern indicates that a patient is adhering to the prescription. The processor is further configured to detect, with the motion sensor, a first motion pattern associated with the wearable computing device. The processor is also configured to analyze the first motion pattern to determine if the gesture pattern has been performed. Upon determining that the gesture pattern has been performed, the processor is configured to update a prescription usage record.

Abstract: An apparatus has a patient care apparatus, a sensor disposed at the patient care apparatus, and an indicator device mountable to the patient care apparatus. The indicator device has an input device that inputs a patient type to the indicator device and an indicator that outputs a status to a user. The indicator outputs the status to the user based on the patient type and a configuration of the patient care apparatus sensed by the sensor. The patient care apparatus is selected from the group consisting of: a bed, a patient lift or hoist, a patient trolley and a patient standing aid.

Abstract: A timer device comprising a first timer in communication with control means, the control means being in communication with an external component and the first timer sending an order to the control means after a first preset time period is counted by the first timer, the timer device also comprising a second timer in communication with the control means, the second timer counting a second preset time period that is a portion of the first preset time period. The timer device permits an accurate operation, even with changes of temperature and voltage, and with a reduced cost.

Abstract: Automatic generation of a narration of what is happening in a signal segment (live or recorded). The signal segment that is to be narrated is accessed from a physical graph. In the physical graph, the signal segment evidences state of physical entities, and thus has a semantic understanding of what is depicted in the signal segment. The system then automatically determines how the physical entities are acting within the signal segment based on that semantic understanding, and builds a narration of the activities based on the determined actions. The system may determine what is interesting for narration based on a wide variety of criteria. The system could use machine learning to determine what will be interesting to narrate.

Abstract: An emergency lighting system for a building includes at least one LED-based light. An emergency detector is operable to detect an emergency. The emergency detector produces an emergency signal in response to the emergency. A controller is operable to control the at least one LED-based light in response to the emergency signal.

Abstract: A light fixture includes a housing having a first portion and a second portion. The light fixture further includes a first light emitting element supported within the first portion of the housing, and a second light emitting element supported within the second portion of the housing. The second light emitting element is controlled such that the second light emitting element provides a different color than the first light emitting element.

Abstract: The disclosed inventions include and apparatus and method for providing a universal Automatic Meter Reading (AMR) system configured with fly-by functionality. Such system may be configured to work in a plurality of modes including a walk-bay, drive-by, fixed network, and fly-by mode without hardware modifications. The system is configured to automatically calibrate so that the water meter transmitter operates at a minimum transmitted signal power level. Additional features include automatic hardware self-healing features where the system continues to function after certain hardware failures occur.

Abstract: In order to monitor the administration of medicament portions Ta in a reliable and simple manner, the invention provides a display device for a dispenser for medicament portions Ta, it being necessary to administer the medicament portions at regularly recurring reference administration times, and the display device comprising a display 1 and an electronic actuation means for the display, characterized in that the display comprises a first visualization means 30, 40 for displaying a first period of time between a first reference administration time and the current time, and the first reference administration time being distinguished in that the medicament portion has not been taken by the first reference administration time.

Abstract: A communication device that may be removably coupled to a USB port, the device having a processor and non-volatile memory and configured to execute code, including code for receiving a wireless transmission including an alert signal from a second device, where the second device is a wireless doorbell, code for sounding an alarm via an audio or visual indicator on the communication device in response to the alert signal, code for receiving input from a user and transmitting a response signal to the second device, and code for allowing two-way audio communication between the communication device and the wireless doorbell.

Abstract: Disclosed is a computerized method and system for identifying a medicinal substance from a plurality of different machine-readable codes that are each compliant with a different coding standard. A code reader reads a machine-readable code and transmits a signal indicative of the machine-readable code in response. A recognition identifies the coding standard with which the machine-readable code complies. Based on the identification by the recognition unit, computer-executable instructions specific to decoding information according the identified standard are selected and executed to decode the information encoded pursuant to the identified coding standard.

Abstract: A portable door alarm including a front component connected to a rear component by a connecting component, the connecting component configured to be positioned at an edge of a door such as between a floor and a bottom edge of a door to which the alarm is associated so that the front component is positioned on a first side of the door and the rear component is positioned on an opposite side of the door, the rear component including an optical motion sensor configured to detect movement of the door. In one aspect the alarm is configured to fit upon a bottom edge of the door and to slide with the door as the door is opened or closed. In other aspects the front component includes an indicator and the rear component may include a variety of electrical components for various operational features. Various methods of operation are also provided.

Abstract: A gauge assembly having a pointer and gauge surface area with a scale representing operating parameters. The pointer has a first half and second half that are illuminated by light sources. The second half selectively changes color according to the portion of the scale that the pointer is indicating. This is accomplished by light isolation between the first and second halves as well as a prism to direct light from the midpoint of the pointer to the tip of the second half of the pointer. As the pointer moves about an axis, the prism for second half illumination aligns with respective chambers formed in a reflector to direct illumination from the different color lights. The second half color changes whenever the light source color under the prism is different. When the pointer is within predetermined ranges on the scale, the second half illumination changes color to represent that respective range.

Abstract: The disclosed inventions include an apparatus and method for providing a universal Automatic Meter Reading (AMR) system. Such system may be configured to work in a plurality of modes including a walk-by, drive-by and fixed network mode without hardware modifications. The apparatus tracks warranty data and provides for secure remote software configuration updates.

Abstract: Disclosed are a safety communication system and a method thereof that provide a risk occurrence position and a notification function, and more particularly, disclosed is communication technology including a sensor based lighting for rapidly responding to a risk situation. The safety communication system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention includes: a device sensing a risk situation; a lighting crime prevention system analyzing risk situation data received from the device and including a position ID to generate situation data; and a lighting control system controlling an operation of a lighting depending on the situation data.

Abstract: A medical device of the type used for assisting a user in manually delivering repetitive therapy to a patient (e.g., chest compressions or ventilations in cardiac resuscitation), the device comprising a feedback device configured to generate feedback cues to assist the user in timing the delivery of the repetitive therapy, at least one sensor or circuit element configured to detect actual delivery times, at which the user actually delivers the repetitive therapy, and a processor, memory, and associated circuitry configured to compare the actual delivery times to information representative of desired delivery times to determine cue times at which the feedback cues are generated by the feedback device.

Abstract: The system includes a computer-readable memory having a data structure configured to store information about a time-based event for a patient having reduced cognitive abilities, and optionally also electronic data reflecting the patient's cognitive ability. A networked computer system coupled to the computer-readable memory provides an information communicating interface to the patient. The computer system is programmed to monitor context information relevant to the patient and to dynamically adjust the presentation of the stored information based on the context, and optionally also based upon the patient's cognitive ability.

Abstract: A tablet holder with an alert system for reminding individuals to take their medications featuring a base with seven compartments. Each compartment has a separate lid, and a base lid covers all the compartment lids. Compartment LEDs are disposed in each compartment lid. A touch screen display, a speaker, a vibrating component, and a microprocessor are each disposed in the base. The microprocessor is connected to a time keeping system that keeps the date and time. The microprocessor can be programmed to be activated at various dates and times. When the microprocessor is activated, the microprocessor activates the LEDs, the speaker, and the vibrating component to alert the user to take his/her medicine.

Abstract: According to one aspect, a vehicle control system. The control system includes a steering control coupled to at least one steerable wheel, the steering control having a first position, a second position and a plurality of positions therebetween. The control system also includes a steering sensor coupled to the steering control and configured to generate steering sensor signals based upon the position of the steering control. The control system also includes a control module coupled to the steering sensor, the control module configured to (i) record a first steering sensor signal value when the steering control is in the first position; (ii) record a second steering sensor signal value when the steering control is in the second position; and (iii) determine a current position of the steering control by comparing the first and second steering sensor signal values with a current steering sensor signal value.

Abstract: Intelligent alarm clock arrangement adapted into an electric device and utilizing the microphone, loudspeaker or other alarming device, memory unit, processor and timer feature thereof. The apparatus is located near a sleeping subject so as to sample and analyze the statistical properties of sound signals produced by the movements of the sleeping subject and to classify the sleep states according to the analyzed signals into a peaceful calm deep sleep, a light sleep with arousals and awake periods associated with the movements. An alarm wakes up the subject during a pre-programmed time window, if there are arousals, awake state and movements present at that time to induce the awakening at a biologically advantageous instant. Instead of the local alarm function, the device may perform a remote alarm using a call or sending a message to a pre-programmed phone number when the awakening of the sleeping subject is detected.

Abstract: An RNSS based street light controller pluggable into a standard electrical interface of a street light for drawing power and controlling a lamp of the street light eliminates the need for photosensors, wiring terminals and related components and yields a street light controller with modest installation and configuration requirements and robust performance and failure recovery characteristics. In some embodiments, the RNSS based street light controller comprises an RNSS receiver, a first electrical interface and a lamp controller, wherein the first electrical interface is adapted to couple with a second electrical interface of a street light and the lamp controller is adapted to regulate a supply of power to a lamp of the street light via the first electrical interface based at least in part on information received by the RNSS receiver.

Abstract: A user interface for use with an HVAC system, a method of providing service reminders on a single screen of a user interface of an HVAC system and an HVAC system incorporating the user interface or the method. In one embodiment, the user interface includes: (1) a display configured to provide information to a user, (2) a touchpad configured to accept input from the user and (3) a processor and memory coupled to the display and the touchpad and configured to drive the display, the display further configured to display a screen with a layout containing multiple service reminders pertaining to the HVAC system.

Abstract: A display device includes a dial, an alarm setting member, and a warning unit. The alarm setting member includes an A/D converter, a recognition module, a storage module, and an analysis module. With rotation of the dial, a variation voltage is generated. The A/D converter converts variable voltage from analog to digital form. In contrast, the alarm time is decreased. The storage module stores the adjusted alarm time. The analysis module compares the current time with the preset alarm time and outputs a driving signal to the warning unit in the event of a match.

Abstract: A reminder device includes a controller, a switch, and an annunciator. When a user closes the switch, the controller turns on the annunciator for a fixed period of time. The annunciator may be a light source such as a flashing LED or an audio indicator. The signal from the annunciator communicates to a user that a particular task, such as taking a pill or locking a car door, has been completed and need not be further verified.

Abstract: A wireless interface circuit can include an electrical relay circuit that is configured for coupling to a separate wired thermostat circuit that is separately housed apart from the wireless interface circuit, where an input to the electrical relay circuit is configured for coupling to an electrical conductor provided between the separate wired thermostat circuit and the electrical relay circuit. A processor circuit is electrically coupled to the electrical relay circuit and is configured to control a state of the electrical relay circuit based on messages received via a wireless interface from a local system located at a location of a customer of an electrical service provider.

Abstract: A personal alarm system can help a user to wake up in a preset time. A sensor can sense operations of the personal alarm system and output sense signals. A control unit can calculate a sum of the sense signals to obtain a number of operations of the personal alarm system, and stop an alarm from sounding in response to the sum of the sense signals meeting the condition to stop the alarm from sounding.

Abstract: Apparatus and method for managing utilization of rooms in a clinic, for example, include a visible display, for example, colored lights at an examining room, indicating one or more of several available room status values for the room. An input device including, e.g., push buttons, is coupled to the display and adapted for selecting the room status value. A timer coupled to the input device and display automatically changes the status value of a room when a predetermined time period has elapsed after the status value is first selected, except when a third room status value is selected. This feature notifies personnel if, for example, a patient has been left alone in a room too long. A central control provides a database to accumulate minute-by-minute utilization data of the clinic rooms and also programs to access and compute from the data the overall utilization by variable periods. This utilization data are useful for planning, reallocation and investment in new space.

Abstract: A device and method for facilitating compliance with a medication regimen may incorporate an icon set that illustrates concepts relating to the medication regimen in a pictographic form that is easily recognized and comprehended. The device is programmed with medication instructions, and generates medication reminders for the medication instructions by displaying icons from the icon set. The device may additionally display text, play audio, vibrate, send text messages to other devices, etc. The device may accept input from the individual and/or caregiver regarding the medication instructions or the medication events. The device may also contain the medication, control access and dosing of the medication, and administer the medication to the individual. The device may also communicate information regarding the medication regimen to the caregiver, such as prescription renewal requests.

Abstract: A prescription compliance device which aids patients in complying with instructions given by a physician for taking prescription medication. The device reminds a patient when the next dose of medication is to be taken and indicates whether a specified dose has been taken. The device includes a microcontroller, a display, a program memory for storing pre-programmed medication-taking regimens for single and multiple medications, a real time clock, a selector for selecting one of the regimens and for programming the device as to the time and day on which a first dose of medication is to be taken, a display which alternately displays the current time and a time at which a next dose of medication is to be taken and an alarm which alerts the patient at times when a dose of medication is to be taken.

Abstract: A timer device includes a timer housing. An electronic countdown circuit is disposed within the timer housing. The electronic countdown circuit is programmed to include at least one mode of operation. A display device is attached to the timer housing and in electronic communication with the electronic countdown circuit. The display device includes an LCD display and at least one flashable LED light. A power source is in electrical communication with the electronic circuit. At least one switch is in electrical communication with the electronic countdown circuit. The switch is adapted to select the mode of countdown operation.

Abstract: An alarm that uses a floor situated apparatus so that when the alarm goes off, the user must place their feet on the apparatus for a predetermined period of time to deactivate the alarm. The alarm sequence optionally provides that the apparatus cover may be translucent and/or transparent with a plurality of illuminable elements thereunder providing an alarm visual display. Also provided is a remote control for actuating a projected display of time onto the wall. The apparatus is also a scale for displaying the user's weight. The weight requirement for deactivating the alarm can extend from placing the feet on the apparatus while still in bed or require the user to stand on the apparatus for said period of time. Further provided for is the removal of the alarm clock portion from the floor apparatus.

Abstract: A system for indicating an end of a life cycle time period for a device which may include a sensor device or detector for measuring an environmental condition. A control device communicates with the device and includes a programmable timing mechanism for measuring a life cycle time period. The control device initiates an end of life cycle indicator such as a fault message after the life cycle time period has elapsed. The life cycle time period may be measured from a date of manufacture of the device. The life cycle time period may also be measured from a date of installation of the device when the date of manufacture of the sensor device is unknown. In the case of sensor devices or detectors an environmental condition for measuring by the detector may include carbon monoxide levels in an enclosed area where the device is a respective carbon monoxide detector.

Abstract: Method and apparatus for simulating an operating television for the purpose of deterring potential intruders by providing the appearance that one or more occupants are at home. Realistic simulation of a television is accomplished via perceived random combinations, amplitudes, colors, and durations of television program scene modes, these scene modes comprised of fades, swells, flicks, static periods, and low frequency noise. Color shifts, both subtle and dramatic, effectively emulate true television output. Efficient, reliable, and inexpensive super-bright LEDs serve as light sources.

Abstract: Methods of controlling activation of electrical appliances can include reducing overlapping activation time of different electrical appliances located at a single customer location of an electrical service provider during at least one time interval during a day. Related systems, circuits, and computer program products are disclosed.

Abstract: A time-based controller provides control for a controlled system including a plant having an integration response. The time-based controller includes a comparator that detects a polarity change in a comparison of a sensed signal from the plant and a reference signal while a control signal is in a first state, time calculation logic that, responsive to detection of the change in the comparison, determines a time at which to change a state of a control signal supplied to the plant, and a modulator that, at the determined time, changes the state of the control signal supplied to the plant from the first state to a second state.

Abstract: The present invention is a warning system for alerting a driver and others to ensure an examination is made of a school or day care bus or van is thoroughly examined for remaining occupants following a transportation run.

Abstract: A prescription compliance device which aids patients in complying with instructions given by a physician for taking prescription medication. The device reminds a patient when the next dose of medication is to be taken and indicates whether a specified dose has been taken. The device includes a microcontroller, a display, a program memory for storing pre-programmed medication-taking regimens for single and multiple medications, a real time clock, a selector for selecting one of the regimens and for programming the device as to the time and day on which a first dose of medication is to be taken, a display which alternately displays the current time and a time at which a next dose of medication is to be taken and an alarm which alerts the patient at times when a dose of medication is to be taken.

Abstract: A wireless timer system (10) is shown including a master unit (12) and multiple remote modules (13). The master unit communicates with the slave units through a RF signal. The master unit includes a control circuit for controlling the activation of the remote modules during at least one designated activation time period having a commencement time and a termination time. The designated activation time period including a plurality of on/off cycles. The control circuit changes the selection of which remote module to activate first upon each occurrence of reaching the designated activation time period. The control circuit may also include a variable time range associated with the activation time period. The control circuit may change the commencement time each day to a time within the variable time range from the commencement time.

Abstract: A display system for use in displaying data in respect of usage of a device, the display system including: a detection system capable of detecting events that are indicative of usage of the device; and a display arranged to display data, the display system being arranged to invoke a selected display mode on the display, and being adapted, in response to detection of a given said event, to invoke a selected display mode, the display mode being selectable by the display system from a set of a plurality of different display modes in dependence on an elapsed time between a previous said event and said given event, each of the different display modes identifying a different stage of elapsed time.

Abstract: A method of receiving a plurality of instructions. The method generally comprises the steps of (A) storing a first of the instructions in response to receiving the first instruction at an initial time, and (B) rejecting a second of the instructions that depends from the first instruction in response to receiving the second instruction greater than a maximum delay after the initial time.

Abstract: Disclosed is an anonymous block trade matching system which allows users that wish to cross large blocks of stock to submit orders, or indications of interest, with the option of utilizing market peg benchmarks or future price cross benchmarks. Orders submitted may be subject to minimum thresholds, including a threshold requiring that the order represent ‘X’ % of average daily volume. After submission of a firm order in the system, an alert is generated to provide the order data to other users with potential to cross the order. Visibility of order data by other users may be restricted based upon a data interaction group to which the ordering user or the other user belongs. The system may provide users viewing order data with a capability of negotiating with the submitting user via a restricted two-way messaging interface. Flat rate and rebate/fee cost models may be utilized as a means for charging a user for access to the system.

Abstract: A method of task and memory assistance using a mobile communication device can include storing a profile of a user and determining a task to be performed by the user based on the user profile. The method can also include notifying the mobile communication device of the task. The method can further include providing sensory indicators in an increasing order of intervention until an acknowledgement is received from user, or for a predetermined number of notifications.

Abstract: A prescription compliance device includes a microcontroller, a program memory storing data representing a plurality of pre-programmed commonly prescribed medication-taking regimens, a selector selecting the regimen and programming the device in accordance therewith, and a display. The selector includes an event switch which is activated in conjunction with a patient taking a dose of a medication corresponding to their regimen to record the taking of the medication. The event switch causes the microcontroller to effect the display of the time at which the next dose of medication is scheduled to be taken, in accordance with the regimen selected by the selector. The microcontroller recalculates the time the next dose is to be taken based on the last time a dose of medication was taken in conjunction with a time change of the prescription compliance device to ensure a medically acceptable minimum time interval is maintained between doses of medication.

Abstract: A two way remote communication system for a vehicle includes a fob portion and a vehicle portion. The fob portion includes a fob battery, a fob transceiver, at least one button and at least one display. The vehicle portion includes a vehicle battery, a vehicle transceiver, and at least one electrical component. The timers are synchronized to simultaneously activate and deactivate the transceivers to establish periodic time intervals when the fob transceiver is open to transmission, which establishes idle time for the fob transceiver and reduces the amount of power consumed by the fob battery.

Abstract: A handheld computing device includes a notification lamp, a melody circuit coupled to the notification lamp for providing a first type notification, an electronic switch coupled to the notification lamp for providing a second type notification, and a notification controller coupled to the melody circuit and the electronic switch for selecting between the notification types. The power consumption of the second type notification is less than that of the first type notification.

Abstract: An alerting system for use in generating an alert in respect of usage of a device, the alerting system including a detector capable of detecting an event that is indicative of usage of the device, the alerting system being arranged to invoke a selected alert state prior to the activation of a forthcoming said event by a user, the alert state being selectable from a plurality of different alert states, wherein each of the different alert states represents a different stage of elapsed time since a previous said event, and wherein the alerting system is arranged to select an alert state in dependence on the elapsed time.

Abstract: A clock includes a publicly accessible distributed network, a user interface, and a timing device or a personal computer. The timing device is configured to track universal time and harvest user selected media including text, graphics, sound, video and/or multimedia. The timing device plays the selected media in a programmed order with commercial media at a launch time. After harvesting the publicly accessible network, the media is played in a progressive sequence before the personal computer or the timing device interfaces a Site.

Abstract: A control device with a time measuring function measures a turned-off time of an ignition switch with a low consumption current and high accuracy at a level adapted for a demand from the controlling side, as well as a turned-on time of the ignition switch. The control device also measures an accumulative turned-on time of the ignition switch. The control device comprises a battery, a microcomputer for computing a control variable to control a control target, a time measuring unit, a clock source for the microcomputer, a clock source for the time measuring unit, and a unit for changing over operation of the time measuring unit depending on an intended use. The time measuring unit operates regardless of run/stop of the microcomputer.

Abstract: A single use security padlock-style lock for sea containers, bonded warehouses, trailers and other storage areas where security is necessary. The lock has an electronic timepiece which displays the time and date in a tamper-resistant case. A shackle is extended through the hasp or closure of the area to be secured. When the shackle is engaged in the lock body, the timepiece display is interrupted providing an indication of the time the area was secured. Each case carries a unique identification number.

Abstract: A transparent lens for motorist traffic light signals and pedestrian “Don't Walk” signs that displays, in Lcd countdown “real-time”, how much time remains before the traffic signal command will change. The lens is easily shaped to be adapted over any existing traffic control device or magnified over the existing control device and works in conjunction with existing technology for timing and control settings to provide a quick and economical installation. The covering lens is a traffic light signaling device combination manufactured as one assembly and comprised of known colored liquid crystal (LED), plasma or pixel generators or other imaging generating technology which is quickly affixed to existing signaling traffic devices.