Using Gps (i.e., Location) Patents (Class 340/426.19)
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Patent number: 8604932Abstract: Method and system for monitoring a vehicle driver includes an optical imaging system that obtains images of the driver, and a processor coupled to the optical imaging system and arranged to analyze the images obtained by the optical imaging system to locate a head of the driver in the images and monitor the driver's head or a part thereof over time. The processor also determines, based on the monitoring of the driver's head or part thereof, whether the driver has lost the ability to operate the vehicle. A reactive component is affected by the processor's determination that the driver has lost the ability to operate the vehicle, and requires action by the driver to indicate regaining of the ability to operate the vehicle or exerting control over the vehicle to slow the vehicle and bring it to a stop.Type: GrantFiled: December 22, 2008Date of Patent: December 10, 2013Assignee: American Vehicular Sciences, LLCInventors: David S Breed, Wendell C Johnson, Wilbur E DuVall
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Patent number: 8581712Abstract: Establishing geo-fence Boundaries. At least some embodiments involve detecting a vehicle has been in a collision, establishing a geo-fence boundary for the vehicle responsive to the detecting, monitoring a movement of the vehicle with respect to the geo-fence boundary, and issuing an alert if movement of the vehicle outside the geo-fence boundary is indicative of improperly departing a scene of the collision.Type: GrantFiled: June 7, 2012Date of Patent: November 12, 2013Assignee: Gordon * Howard Associates, Inc .Inventors: Gerald A. Morgan, Stanley G. Schwarz, Jeffrey H. Frank, Christopher M. Macheca, Michael Glancy
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Patent number: 8583079Abstract: A method and system for determining and sharing rich presence status of a user is presented. Multiple types of presence status options are associated with user's status based on location, activity, availability, transit status, and user's text updates, which the user can selectively share on their mobile device with different groups of users, and make one or more aspects of their presence status broadly available to everyone. Also a system to determine status based on auto-updates and manual updates is presented.Type: GrantFiled: March 22, 2011Date of Patent: November 12, 2013Assignee: mPanion, Inc.Inventor: Neeraj Chawla
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Patent number: 8583167Abstract: A warning system for wireless mobile telephones that notifies designated users and broadcast an audible sound when suddenly de-acceleration. The telephone is coupled to a wireless telephone transmitter configured to operate with a nearby compatible wireless telephone network. The telephone includes a display, a speaker, an internal accelerometer and a programmable, impact-activated software program loaded into its working memory. The software program when executed continuously monitors for triggering signals from the internal accelerometer. When a triggering signal is produced, the software program is activated into an alarm state which then performs the notifications tasks designated by the user during the setup steps. The software program is configured to presents various input menus on the display that enables the user to turn the system ON and OFF, selective an alarm mode to be used, select a pre-alarm time period, an alarm duration period, and adjust the sensitivity of the accelerometer.Type: GrantFiled: April 9, 2012Date of Patent: November 12, 2013Inventor: James Chun
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Patent number: 8581713Abstract: A geo-fence is defined and established automatically based on a current location of an asset along with some range or distance, avoiding the need for a user to manually specify a location by drawing a perimeter, specifying a point location, or by any other means. Once established, the geo-fence can be activated so as to notify the owner of the asset and/or some other entity of movement of the asset beyond the boundary specified by the geo-fence. In one embodiment, the geo-fence can be automatically activated upon certain conditions, or can be manually activated, or any combination thereof.Type: GrantFiled: June 14, 2013Date of Patent: November 12, 2013Assignee: Gordon*Howard Associates, Inc.Inventors: Gerald A. Morgan, Stanley G. Schwarz
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Publication number: 20130278403Abstract: A geo-fence is defined and established automatically based on a current location of an asset along with some range or distance, avoiding the need for a user to manually specify a location by drawing a perimeter, specifying a point location, or by any other means. Once established, the geo-fence can be activated so as to notify the owner of the asset and/or some other entity of movement of the asset beyond the boundary specified by the geo-fence. In one embodiment, the geo-fence can be automatically activated upon certain conditions, or can be manually activated, or any combination thereof.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 14, 2013Publication date: October 24, 2013Inventors: Gerald A. MORGAN, Stanley G. SCHWARZ
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Patent number: 8532576Abstract: A portable device for preventing communication errors caused by disturbance such as noise. The portable device receives a first request signal from a communication controller and transmits a first response signal corresponding to the first request signal. A transmitter transmits the first response signal with a selected one of a plurality of frequencies. A transmission control unit transmits the first response signal from the transmitter with the one of the plurality of frequencies. The portable device further receives a second request signal from the communication control unit, which receives the first response signal. When the second request signal cannot be received, the portable device retransmits the first response signal from the transmitter with a frequency that differs from the one of the plurality of frequencies.Type: GrantFiled: April 2, 2008Date of Patent: September 10, 2013Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Tokai Rika Denki SeisakushoInventors: Daisuke Kawamura, Yoshiyuki Mizuno, Hidenobu Hanaki, Hiroaki Iwashita
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Publication number: 20130214917Abstract: A vehicle theft prevention service method and system is capable of estimating theft of a vehicle even in the case where such a two-wheeled vehicle can be moved without start-up to be stolen and a vehicle theft prevention service method and system where a user is informed of location of a vehicle at the time of estimating theft of the vehicle, so that it is possible to accurately determine the theft based on the location of the vehicle at the time of estimating the theft of the vehicle. The vehicle theft prevention service system includes an electronic key and a theft monitoring device. The theft monitoring device is installed in a vehicle and determines that the vehicle is in a theft-estimated state and transmits an alarm message if a sensed acceleration value obtained by sensing a movement of the vehicle is a predetermined value or more. The electronic key outputs an alarm if the alarm message is received. Herein, the external apparatus may be a user terminal or a server.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 31, 2011Publication date: August 22, 2013Applicant: GANGNEUNG-WONJU NATIONAL UNIVERSITY INDUSTRIAL ACADEMY COOPERATION GROUPInventors: Tae Yun Chung, Pan Jong Park, Chang Yeong Choi
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Patent number: 8514912Abstract: A search frequency correction method includes: obtaining correlation values by correlating between a received signal that is modulated by direct sequence spread spectrum modulation and a replica code of a spread code with respect to I and Q components at a predetermined search frequency, obtaining accumulated correlation values by accumulating the correlation values of each polarity inversion interval with respect to the I and Q components, calculating a plurality of combinations of the accumulated correlation values in both signs, selecting one of the combinations based on the calculation results of the respective combinations, and correcting the search frequency based on a time variation of an IQ phase represented by the accumulated correlation values of the one of the combinations.Type: GrantFiled: June 4, 2009Date of Patent: August 20, 2013Assignee: Seiko Epson CorporationInventor: Tsubasa Shirai
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Patent number: 8508349Abstract: A geo-fence is defined and established automatically based on a current location of an asset along with some range or distance, avoiding the need for a user to manually specify a location by drawing a perimeter, specifying a point location, or by any other means. Once established, the geo-fence can be activated so as to notify the owner of the asset and/or some other entity of movement of the asset beyond the boundary specified by the geo-fence. In one embodiment, the geo-fence can be automatically activated upon certain conditions, or can be manually activated, or any combination thereof.Type: GrantFiled: November 30, 2012Date of Patent: August 13, 2013Assignee: Gordon*Howard Associates, Inc.Inventors: Gerald A. Morgan, Stanley G. Schwarz
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Patent number: 8493175Abstract: A vehicle authentication control device has a first, second, and third determination units, and a registration unit. When identification information unique to a vehicle is registered in both a portable device and an authentication device on the vehicle, the first determination unit matches first identification information returned from the portable device in response to a request from the authentication device and second identification information registered in the authentication device to determine whether a combination of the portable device and the authentication device is legitimate.Type: GrantFiled: November 5, 2009Date of Patent: July 23, 2013Assignee: OMRON CorporationInventors: Takahiro Sakuma, Tomoko Onoda
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Patent number: 8477020Abstract: Disclosed is a key-less ignition system for a vehicle. The system allows a user to automatically start the engine of a vehicle via a push button and a remote passive transponder. The system finds particular application in conjunction with smaller vehicles such as motorcycles. In one specific embodiment of the invention, the system is used in connection with an anti-theft device, such as a wheel lock. In yet another embodiment of the invention, the key-less ignition system is used in connection with a records management system, whereby service technicians can remotely retrieve maintenance records relating to the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: July 22, 2011Date of Patent: July 2, 2013Assignee: Heistproof, LLCInventors: Nick Ramirez, Reed W. Mapes
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Patent number: 8452680Abstract: Tokenless biometric authorization of transaction between a consumer and a merchant uses an identicator and an access device. A consumer registers with the identicator a biometric sample taken from the consumer. The consumer and merchant establish communications via the access device. The merchant proposes a transaction to the consumer via the access device. The access device communicates to the merchant associated with the access device. After the consumer and merchant have agreed on the transaction, the consumer and the identicator use the access device to establish communications. The access device communicates to the identicator the code associated with the access device. The identicator compares biometric sample from the consumer with registered biometric sample. Upon successful identification, the identicator forwards information regarding the consumer to the merchant.Type: GrantFiled: October 28, 2011Date of Patent: May 28, 2013Assignee: Open Invention Network, LLCInventors: Philip D. Lapsley, Philip J. Gioia, Michael Kleeman
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Patent number: 8451106Abstract: A method for identifying the position of a stolen vehicle is provided that includes the steps of detecting the start of an engine of the vehicle, retrieving vehicle identification information, establishing a connection to an external database of stolen vehicles, transmitting the retrieved vehicle identification information via a wireless communication system to the database and verifying whether the identified vehicle is in the database of stolen vehicles. If the identified vehicle is in the list of stolen vehicles, the position of the vehicle is then determined.Type: GrantFiled: July 11, 2007Date of Patent: May 28, 2013Assignee: Harman Becker Automotive Systems GmbHInventor: Thomas Krippgans
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Patent number: 8446262Abstract: A remote control system includes a receiver equipped in a device and a remote controller. The receiver includes a positioning unit to acquire current position information of the receiver. The controller includes a positioning unit to acquire current position information of the remote controller. The current position information of the remote controller and a control signal is transmitted to the receiver. The receiver further includes a processor to control the device to execute an operation corresponding to the control signal based on the current position information of the remote controller and the receiver.Type: GrantFiled: August 31, 2011Date of Patent: May 21, 2013Assignees: Fu Tai Hua Industry (Shenzhen) Co., Ltd., Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.Inventor: Chong-Qing Dai
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Publication number: 20130106592Abstract: A geo-fence is defined and established automatically based on a current location of an asset along with some range or distance, avoiding the need for a user to manually specify a location by drawing a perimeter, specifying a point location, or by any other means. Once established, the geo-fence can be activated so as to notify the owner of the asset and/or some other entity of movement of the asset beyond the boundary specified by the geo-fence. In one embodiment, the geo-fence can be automatically activated upon certain conditions, or can be manually activated, or any combination thereof.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 30, 2012Publication date: May 2, 2013Applicant: Gordon*Howard Associates, Inc.Inventor: Gordon*Howard Associates, Inc.
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Patent number: 8432270Abstract: A mobile terminal and a method of controlling the operation of the same are provided. In the method, position information of a different bicycle user or bicycle riding course information is displayed. Riding information of the different bicycle user is displayed or the bicycle riding course information is changed according to weather or the like. The method provides a navigation screen for bicycle riding and supports prevention of bicycle theft and accident.Type: GrantFiled: May 7, 2010Date of Patent: April 30, 2013Assignee: LG Electronics Inc.Inventors: Li Na Lee, I Su Byun, Woo Jin Suh, Sang Hyuck Lee, Jee In Lee
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Patent number: 8421616Abstract: The present invention provides a method of monitoring the position of a vehicle, vessel, rail car, barge, tanker truck that is loaded with bulk or hazardous material. A G.P.S unit is set to send a signal to a radio transmitter if the unit moves beyond a maximum permissible distance (for example, 50 feet or more). An oxygen sensor can be used to send a signal to a radio transmitter if oxygen levels fall below a selected minimum concentration. The radio transmitter can send the message to a tugboat crew, police department, fire department, company headquarters, civil defense office or other personnel if either of the unit has moved beyond the selected maximum travel distance or if oxygen levels fall below a minimum concentration. In addition to the radio transmission of oxygen concentration data and/or G.P.S position data, visible or audible alarms can be used such as strobe light, horn or the like.Type: GrantFiled: May 24, 2011Date of Patent: April 16, 2013Inventor: Daniel J. Herbold
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Patent number: 8417415Abstract: A driver authentication and safety system and method for monitoring and controlling vehicle usage by high-risk drivers. A centralized database comprising a software application can be accessed by an authorized user via a data communications network utilizing a remote computer in order to configure a desired operating profile that matches requirements of the high-risk driver. The operating profile can be loaded to a driver identification and data logging device in conjunction with the remote computer. A master control unit receives a unique identification code from the data logging device to authenticate the high-risk driver and to operate the vehicle within the desired operating profile. A slave control unit receives commands from the master control unit and generates a real time alarm signal if the driver violates the preprogrammed operating profile unique to the driver.Type: GrantFiled: July 1, 2009Date of Patent: April 9, 2013Inventor: Michael Phelan
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Patent number: 8416075Abstract: A system and method for generating an alert signal for an asset. Proper truck/trailer matching is based on a proximity analysis between position reports for a truck and position reports for a trailer. In one embodiment, this proximity analysis is triggered by a detection of movement in a trailer. In the proximity analysis, unexpected deviations in proximity between a truck and a trailer would lead to a generation of an alert signal that is sent to the appropriate management system for investigation.Type: GrantFiled: July 14, 2011Date of Patent: April 9, 2013Assignee: SkyBitz, Inc.Inventor: John McKethan
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Patent number: 8413039Abstract: A system for conducting inspections and generating reports comprising: a device equipped with a global positioning system, a camera and broadband wireless Internet access and on which is installed a client application that comprises an inspection form; a Web services layer; a server; and a browser for accessing a Web application. A field worker enters data into the inspection form, the client application creates one or more records based on the data entered by the field worker, and the Web services layer transmits the record(s) to the server in real time if Internet access is available. The Web application enables a user to view records in real time and create reports based on the records transmitted to the server. A method for conducting inspections and generating reports utilizing the system described above.Type: GrantFiled: February 23, 2011Date of Patent: April 2, 2013Assignee: IO Services, Inc.Inventor: Martin D. Casey
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Publication number: 20130057396Abstract: An enhanced vehicle security system comprising a camera mounted within a cabin of a vehicle, where upon activation the camera begins recording; a GPS tracker equipped within the vehicle, where upon activation the GPS tracker monitors a global positioning of the vehicle; an alarm within the vehicle, where the alarm is triggered when the vehicle is tampered with, and where when the alarm is triggered the camera and the GPS tracker are activated; a signal sent from the alarm when the alarm is triggered; and a handheld device transported with a user, where the handheld device receives the signal from the alarm.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 7, 2011Publication date: March 7, 2013Inventor: Randall Winslow
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Patent number: 8378795Abstract: A haptic signal distribution system capable of distributing haptic synchronous signals includes a master haptic device and groups of slave haptic devices. In one embodiment, the master haptic device is configured to distribute haptic synchronous signals to slave haptic devices. The haptic synchronous signals, for instance, may include information relating to a tempo for a piece of music. A haptic signal distribution system, for example, allows a master wearable haptic device to selectively distribute haptic synchronous signals to one or more groups of slave wearable haptic devices via a wireless communications network. Upon receipt of the haptic synchronous signals, each slave wearable haptic device generates a series of haptic feedback having a rhythm of beats in response to the haptic synchronous signals.Type: GrantFiled: December 13, 2011Date of Patent: February 19, 2013Assignee: Immersion CorporationInventors: Ryan Steger, Barbara Kruse
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Patent number: 8369838Abstract: An exemplary method provides for a wireless mobile unit an alert representing a warning that legally imposed restrictions on the use of wireless mobile units by drivers of moving vehicles in predetermined zones. The method includes determining by a communication system if a first mobile unit is being used for wireless communications, and acquiring by the communication system the location of the first mobile unit. The communication system compares the location of the first mobile unit to locations of the predetermined zones having restrictions on the use of wireless mobile units by drivers of moving vehicles. Upon the first mobile unit entering a warning zone that is adjacent the predetermined zone and the first mobile unit being used for wireless communications, the transmission of an alert is initiated to the first mobile unit.Type: GrantFiled: March 18, 2011Date of Patent: February 5, 2013Assignee: Alcatel LucentInventors: Rekha Mallavarapu, Eric A. Duesing
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Patent number: 8362887Abstract: A geo-fence is defined and established automatically based on a current location of an asset along with some range or distance, avoiding the need for a user to manually specify a location by drawing a perimeter, specifying a point location, or by any other means. Once established, the geo-fence can be activated so as to notify the owner of the asset and/or some other entity of movement of the asset beyond the boundary specified by the geo-fence. In one embodiment, the geo-fence can be automatically activated upon certain conditions, or can be manually activated, or any combination thereof.Type: GrantFiled: May 31, 2012Date of Patent: January 29, 2013Assignee: Gordon*Howard Associates, Inc.Inventors: Gerald A. Morgan, Stanley G. Schwarz
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Patent number: 8352172Abstract: Provided are systems and methods for tracking resources at a site and initiating audio and video communication with tracked resources using multiple input and output modalities. The systems include a location tracking system, including a positioning engine and a presentation engine, an environmental tracking system, location and environmental sensors, either permanently installed or temporarily deployed, and portable devices such as mobile phones or personal digital assistants carried by the tracked resources and users. The methods include tracking such resources at a site, displaying their locations on a portable device using a visual map display, and providing the ability to initiate bidirectional audio and video communications with one of more of the tracked resources.Type: GrantFiled: November 22, 2010Date of Patent: January 8, 2013Assignee: SAP AGInventors: Robert Pei, Tim Kaldewey, Samir Raiyani
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Patent number: 8325026Abstract: Disclosed is a key-less ignition system for a vehicle. The system allows a user to automatically start the engine of a vehicle via a push button and a remote passive transponder. The system finds particular application in conjunction with smaller vehicles such as motorcycles. In one specific embodiment of the invention, the system is used in connection with an anti-theft device, such as a wheel lock. In yet another embodiment of the invention, the key-less ignition system is used in connection with a records management system, whereby service technicians can remotely retrieve maintenance records relating to the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: November 15, 2010Date of Patent: December 4, 2012Assignee: Heistproof, LLCInventors: Nick Ramirez, Reed W. Mapes
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Patent number: 8325025Abstract: A geo-fence is defined and established automatically based on a current location of an asset along with some range or distance, avoiding the need for a user to manually specify a location by drawing a perimeter, specifying a point location, or by any other means. Once established, the geo-fence can be activated so as to notify the owner of the asset and/or some other entity of movement of the asset beyond the boundary specified by the geo-fence. In one embodiment, the geo-fence can be automatically activated upon certain conditions, or can be manually activated, or any combination thereof.Type: GrantFiled: February 2, 2012Date of Patent: December 4, 2012Assignee: Gordon*Howard Associates, Inc.Inventors: Gerald A. Morgan, Stanley G. Schwarz
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Patent number: 8319615Abstract: Location determination signals are received and a location of interest is determined from the location determination signals. A communication service with a known, valid base station via a first communication channel is established and synchronized. A first rate of rise of a signal strength indicator associated with the first communication channel is monitored and a second rate of rise of a signal quality indicator associated with the first communication channel is also monitored. When at least one of the first rate rises at a rate greater than a first predetermined threshold rate and the second rate rises at a rate greater than a second predetermined threshold rate, a warning message is transmitted to the known, valid base station before synchronization of the communication service is lost with the known, valid base station.Type: GrantFiled: December 21, 2009Date of Patent: November 27, 2012Assignee: Continental Automotive Systems, Inc.Inventors: James Snider, Michael Cruz, Robert F. D'Avello
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Patent number: 8320877Abstract: Within a local region, information may be communicated between two or more wireless multimode communication devices (WMCD) comprising 60 GHz band and lower frequency band wireless interfaces. Spatial relationships between devices may vary. The 60 GHz interface may handle location determination operations and data transfers. The lower frequency band may support WPAN, WLAN and may handle coordination of communications and data transfers. The WMCDs may be coupled with a network. Antennas may be directional. Moreover, the spatial orientation of the antennas may be dynamically modified or swept across a specified angle. Furthermore, intelligent and/or adaptive antenna systems may be utilized. The WMCDs may utilize a position and/or time reference system to aid in location determination operations.Type: GrantFiled: February 24, 2012Date of Patent: November 27, 2012Assignee: Broadcom CorporationInventors: Christopher J. Hansen, Jeyhan Karaoguz
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Patent number: 8315775Abstract: Embodiments include methods and apparatus for performing cruise control in a motor vehicle. Signals are received (e.g., by a positioning system interface) from at least one external infrastructure component, and a geographical location of the motor vehicle is determined (e.g., by a processing and control subsystem) based on the signals. A determination is made whether a difference between a target speed and an actual vehicle speed exceeds a threshold and, when the difference exceeds the threshold, a cruise control procedure is performed to maintain a target speed of the motor vehicle. Performing the cruise control procedure includes determining, based on the geographical location, whether the motor vehicle should adjust its speed toward the target speed.Type: GrantFiled: February 6, 2009Date of Patent: November 20, 2012Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLCInventors: William A. Biondo, David T. Proefke, Clark E. McCall
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Patent number: 8296571Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention recite a method and system for implementing export control for a Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) receiver. In one embodiment, a GNSS receiver is used to determine the geographic position of an electronic device. It is then determined that the geographic region corresponds to an exclusion zone. In response to determining that the geographic region corresponds to the exclusion zone, accessing data from the electronic device is prevented.Type: GrantFiled: May 18, 2007Date of Patent: October 23, 2012Assignee: Trimble Navigation LimitedInventors: Jeffery A. Hamilton, Stuart Riley
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Publication number: 20120242470Abstract: A geo-fence is defined and established automatically based on a current location of an asset along with some range or distance, avoiding the need for a user to manually specify a location by drawing a perimeter, specifying a point location, or by any other means. Once established, the geo-fence can be activated so as to notify the owner of the asset and/or some other entity of movement of the asset beyond the boundary specified by the geo-fence. In one embodiment, the geo-fence can be automatically activated upon certain conditions, or can be manually activated, or any combination thereof.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 31, 2012Publication date: September 27, 2012Applicant: GORDON*HOWARD ASSOCIATES, INC.Inventors: Gerald A. MORGAN, Stanley G. SCHWARZ
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Patent number: 8217772Abstract: A geo-fence is defined and established automatically based on a current location of an asset along with some range or distance, avoiding the need for a user to manually specify a location by drawing a perimeter, specifying a point location, or by any other means. Once established, the geo-fence can be activated so as to notify the owner of the asset and/or some other entity of movement of the asset beyond the boundary specified by the geo-fence. In one embodiment, the geo-fence can be automatically activated upon certain conditions, or can be manually activated, or any combination thereof.Type: GrantFiled: February 2, 2012Date of Patent: July 10, 2012Assignee: Gordon*Howard Associates, Inc.Inventors: Gerald A. Morgan, Stanley G. Schwarz
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Patent number: 8212658Abstract: A container for a product is used with an external device having long-range communication capability and short-range communication capability and location sensing capability. The container has a storage element for storing an access code for a central facility and a container identification code, a first data acquisition component for detecting that the container has been opened, and a second data acquisition component for sensing an identity of a nearby person, the nearby person being a member of a group registered at a central facility, the container identification code not uniquely associated with a member of the group. The container also has a local communication interface for communicating with the external device using the short-range communication capability of the external device, and a processor for producing information and directing the local communication interface to send the information to the external device.Type: GrantFiled: July 27, 2011Date of Patent: July 3, 2012Assignee: Henry Schein, Inc.Inventor: O. Napoleon Monroe
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Patent number: 8175573Abstract: Jamming is detected as occurring to communications associated with at least one electronic device disposed at a vehicle. Responsive to detecting the jamming, an indication is transmitted from the vehicle to a base station informing the base station that jamming is occurring. Communications are subsequently conducted between the base station and the vehicle on at least one predetermined and prearranged communication channel.Type: GrantFiled: December 21, 2009Date of Patent: May 8, 2012Assignee: Continental Automotive Systems, Inc.Inventors: Robert F. D'Avello, James Snider
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Patent number: 8164431Abstract: A geo-fence is defined and established automatically based on a current location of an asset along with some range or distance, avoiding the need for a user to manually specify a location by drawing a perimeter, specifying a point location, or by any other means. Once established, the geo-fence can be activated so as to notify the owner of the asset and/or some other entity of movement of the asset beyond the boundary specified by the geo-fence. In one embodiment, the geo-fence can be automatically activated upon certain conditions, or can be manually activated, or any combination thereof.Type: GrantFiled: August 23, 2011Date of Patent: April 24, 2012Assignee: Gordon*Howard Associates, Inc.Inventors: Gerald A. Morgan, Stanley G. Schwarz
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Patent number: 8159336Abstract: Communications are maintained between a base station and a stolen vehicle tracking (SVT) module disposed with a vehicle. At the SVT module at the vehicle, it is determined whether jamming is occurring with communications between the SVT module and the base station and a temperature is measured at the SVT module. When jamming is detected, an adjustment is determined for a frequency of an oscillator of the SVT module and the adjustment is based at least in part upon the temperature. The frequency of operation of an oscillator is adjusted according to the adjustment. A message is transmitted to the base station according to the adjusted frequency.Type: GrantFiled: December 21, 2009Date of Patent: April 17, 2012Assignee: Continental Automotive Systems US, Inc.Inventors: James Snider, Robert F. D'Avello
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Patent number: 8144810Abstract: An interface between an RF processing section and a baseband processing section supports general purpose message transmission as well as satellite positioning system signal sample transmission between the RF processing section and the baseband processing section. The interface includes a bi-directional message serial interface and a data serial interface. The complexity of the data serial interface may be minimized by using a single data bit signal line in the data serial interface.Type: GrantFiled: February 19, 2003Date of Patent: March 27, 2012Assignee: CSR Technology Inc.Inventors: Steve Gronemeyer, Robert Tso
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Patent number: 8126425Abstract: Within a local region, information may be communicated between two or more wireless multimode communication devices (WMCD) comprising 60 GHz band and lower frequency band wireless interfaces. Spatial relationships between devices may vary. The 60 GHz interface may handle location determination operations and data transfers. The lower frequency band may support WPAN, WLAN and may handle coordination of communications and data transfers. The WMCDs may be coupled with a network. Antennas may be directional. Moreover, the spatial orientation of the antennas may be dynamically modified or swept across a specified angle. Furthermore, intelligent and/or adaptive antenna systems may be utilized. The WMCDs may utilize a position and/or time reference system to aid in location determination operations.Type: GrantFiled: March 21, 2011Date of Patent: February 28, 2012Assignee: Broadcom CorporationInventors: Christopher J. Hansen, Jeyhan Karaoguz
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Patent number: 8093995Abstract: A haptic signal distribution system capable of distributing haptic synchronous signals includes a master haptic device and groups of slave haptic devices. In one embodiment, the master haptic device is configured to distribute haptic synchronous signals to slave haptic devices. The haptic synchronous signals, for instance, may include information relating to a tempo for a piece of music. A haptic signal distribution system, for example, allows a master wearable haptic device to selectively distribute haptic synchronous signals to one or more groups of slave wearable haptic devices via a wireless communications network. Upon receipt of the haptic synchronous signals, each slave wearable haptic device generates a series of haptic feedback having a rhythm of beats in response to the haptic synchronous signals.Type: GrantFiled: November 22, 2010Date of Patent: January 10, 2012Assignee: Immersion CorporationInventors: Ryan Steger, Barbara Kruse
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Patent number: 8086215Abstract: A method of expanding the activation and tracking capability of a limited number of stolen vehicle recovery dedicated radio-frequency networks activated from a control center upon notification of the theft of the vehicle includes supplementarily using more numerous widely geographically provided cellular-telephone frequency band networks to respond to the control center to indicate rough location of the stolen vehicle, while the recovery networks provide fine tracking of the vehicle for recovery.Type: GrantFiled: March 11, 2009Date of Patent: December 27, 2011Assignee: LoJack Operating Company LPInventor: William Duvall
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Patent number: 8073756Abstract: Tokenless biometric authorization of transaction between a consumer and a merchant uses an identicator and an access device. A consumer registers with the identicator a biometric sample taken from the consumer. The consumer and merchant establish communications via the access device. The merchant proposes a transaction to the consumer via the access device. The access device communicates to the merchant associated with the access device. After the consumer and merchant have agreed on the transaction, the consumer and the identicator use the access device to establish communications. The access device communicates to the identicator the code associated with the access device. The identicator compares biometric sample from the consumer with registered biometric sample. Upon successful identification, the identicator forwards information regarding the consumer to the merchant.Type: GrantFiled: May 16, 2011Date of Patent: December 6, 2011Assignee: Open Invention Network, LLCInventors: Philip D. Lapsley, Philip J. Gioia, Michael Kleeman
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Patent number: 8064500Abstract: A coherent integration section synthesizes an IF signal stored in a memory and a C/A code replica generated by a code generation section using a mixer to calculate a correlation value, and integrates the correlation value using an integration section. An integration count monitoring section counts the integration count of the integration section. When a saturation control section has detected saturation of integration of the correlation values, the integration count monitoring section causes the integration section to suspend integration when the integration count is equal to or less than a reference count, and allows the integration section to continue integration when the integration count has exceeded the reference count.Type: GrantFiled: December 20, 2007Date of Patent: November 22, 2011Assignee: Seiko Epson CorporationInventor: Nobuo Muto
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Patent number: 8054181Abstract: An exclusion zone compliance circuit comprises a terrestrial radio signal reception component for receiving a terrestrial radio signal comprising a unique identification of a transmission source. A non-volatile memory component of the circuit stores an encrypted data set describing boundaries of an exclusion zone. A navigation data deriving component of the circuit accesses a data set and compares the unique identification with a station identification of the transmission source and the geographic position of the transmission source. The navigation data deriving component derives a geographic position of the exclusion zone compliance circuit and determines whether the exclusion zone compliance circuit is located within an exclusion zone. A data blocking component of the circuit accesses the encrypted data set. A data control component of the exclusion zone compliance circuit blocks output of a signal in response to an indication that the circuit is located within an exclusion zone.Type: GrantFiled: October 14, 2010Date of Patent: November 8, 2011Assignee: Trimble Navigation LimitedInventors: Peter Van Wyck Loomis, James M. Janky, Bruce Riter
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Patent number: 8044778Abstract: A container for a product uses a location circuit for determining the location of the container, a storage element for storing a container identification code, a plurality of data acquisition components for acquiring status of at least two characteristics of at least one of the container, the product and a user of the product, and a communication interface for generating and sending a communication signal including (a) the container identification code from the storage element, (b) the location of the container from the location circuit, and (c) the status of the at least two characteristics from the data acquisition components. The container may be an auto-injector for containing a medicament, or a case for containing an item such as an auto-injector. Generally, the location circuit uses the global positioning system (GPS).Type: GrantFiled: January 12, 2009Date of Patent: October 25, 2011Assignee: Henry Schein, Inc.Inventor: O. Napoleon Monroe
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Patent number: 8031069Abstract: A tamper-proof electronic security seal which includes a bolt and a locking element and an electronic seal element. The bolt has a head and a hollow shank extending therefrom having a longitudinal bore formed therein. The shank is dimensioned to pass through a lock hasp and has a free end formed for locking engagement with the locking element. The electronic seal element is formed for mechanical connection to the bolt head, and includes an electrical power source, a control unit, communications means responsive to the control unit and a sensor adapted for insertion into the longitudinal bore of the shank, and connected to the control unit. In response to a severing of the shank and the sensor inserted therein, the control unit is operative to activate the communications means to emit an alarm signal.Type: GrantFiled: January 14, 2008Date of Patent: October 4, 2011Assignees: Oded Yair Cohn, Zvi Ben-ShalomInventors: Oded Yair Cohn, Zvi Ben Shalom
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Patent number: 8018329Abstract: A geo-fence is defined and established automatically based on a current location of an asset along with some range or distance, avoiding the need for a user to manually specify a location by drawing a perimeter, specifying a point location, or by any other means. Once established, the geo-fence can be activated so as to notify the owner of the asset and/or some other entity of movement of the asset beyond the boundary specified by the geo-fence. In one embodiment, the geo-fence can be automatically activated upon certain conditions, or can be manually activated, or any combination thereof.Type: GrantFiled: December 12, 2008Date of Patent: September 13, 2011Assignee: Gordon * Howard Associates, Inc.Inventors: Gerald A. Morgan, Stanley G. Schwarz
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Patent number: 8013735Abstract: An asset location, tracking, and recovery system and method includes a network of VHF towers and a control center receiving signals from and transmitting signals to the VHF towers. Primary locating units each include a transmitter, a receiver, and a transponder activated when a signal is transmitted by the control center via the VHF towers to the receiver. Auxiliary locating units include at least a transmitter emitting a signal received by at least one primary locating unit receiver which relays that signal to the control center via the VHF towers from the primary locating unit transmitter.Type: GrantFiled: February 12, 2009Date of Patent: September 6, 2011Assignee: LoJack Operating Company, LPInventors: Claude Arpin, William R. Duvall, Joseph T. Lipowski, Arvind K. Ramadorai, Thomas A. Wooters
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Patent number: RE44549Abstract: The present invention relates to a method and system for displaying a driving location of a moving object which controls a Red, Green, Blue (RGB) ratio by corresponding to a property of a road where the moving object travels, differently renders a moving object symbol according to the controlled RGB ratio, and thereby may identify a driving status of the moving object more accurately.Type: GrantFiled: September 4, 2012Date of Patent: October 22, 2013Assignee: Thinkware Systems CorporationInventor: Deuk Yeong Seong