Using Gps (i.e., Location) Patents (Class 340/426.19)
  • Patent number: 8604932
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2013
    Assignee: American Vehicular Sciences, LLC
    Inventors: David S Breed, Wendell C Johnson, Wilbur E DuVall
  • Patent number: 8581712
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2013
    Assignee: Gordon * Howard Associates, Inc .
    Inventors: Gerald A. Morgan, Stanley G. Schwarz, Jeffrey H. Frank, Christopher M. Macheca, Michael Glancy
  • Patent number: 8583079
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2013
    Assignee: mPanion, Inc.
    Inventor: Neeraj Chawla
  • Patent number: 8583167
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2013
    Inventor: James Chun
  • Patent number: 8581713
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2013
    Assignee: Gordon*Howard Associates, Inc.
    Inventors: Gerald A. Morgan, Stanley G. Schwarz
  • Publication number: 20130278403
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: June 14, 2013
    Publication date: October 24, 2013
    Inventors: Gerald A. MORGAN, Stanley G. SCHWARZ
  • Patent number: 8532576
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2013
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Tokai Rika Denki Seisakusho
    Inventors: Daisuke Kawamura, Yoshiyuki Mizuno, Hidenobu Hanaki, Hiroaki Iwashita
  • Publication number: 20130214917
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: August 31, 2011
    Publication date: August 22, 2013
    Applicant: GANGNEUNG-WONJU NATIONAL UNIVERSITY INDUSTRIAL ACADEMY COOPERATION GROUP
    Inventors: Tae Yun Chung, Pan Jong Park, Chang Yeong Choi
  • Patent number: 8514912
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2013
    Assignee: Seiko Epson Corporation
    Inventor: Tsubasa Shirai
  • Patent number: 8508349
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2013
    Assignee: Gordon*Howard Associates, Inc.
    Inventors: Gerald A. Morgan, Stanley G. Schwarz
  • Patent number: 8493175
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2013
    Assignee: OMRON Corporation
    Inventors: Takahiro Sakuma, Tomoko Onoda
  • Patent number: 8477020
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Assignee: Heistproof, LLC
    Inventors: Nick Ramirez, Reed W. Mapes
  • Patent number: 8452680
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2013
    Assignee: Open Invention Network, LLC
    Inventors: Philip D. Lapsley, Philip J. Gioia, Michael Kleeman
  • Patent number: 8451106
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2013
    Assignee: Harman Becker Automotive Systems GmbH
    Inventor: Thomas Krippgans
  • Patent number: 8446262
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2013
    Assignees: Fu Tai Hua Industry (Shenzhen) Co., Ltd., Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Chong-Qing Dai
  • Publication number: 20130106592
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: November 30, 2012
    Publication date: May 2, 2013
    Applicant: Gordon*Howard Associates, Inc.
    Inventor: Gordon*Howard Associates, Inc.
  • Patent number: 8432270
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2013
    Assignee: LG Electronics Inc.
    Inventors: Li Na Lee, I Su Byun, Woo Jin Suh, Sang Hyuck Lee, Jee In Lee
  • Patent number: 8421616
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2013
    Inventor: Daniel J. Herbold
  • Patent number: 8417415
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2013
    Inventor: Michael Phelan
  • Patent number: 8416075
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2013
    Assignee: SkyBitz, Inc.
    Inventor: John McKethan
  • Patent number: 8413039
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2013
    Assignee: IO Services, Inc.
    Inventor: Martin D. Casey
  • Publication number: 20130057396
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: September 7, 2011
    Publication date: March 7, 2013
    Inventor: Randall Winslow
  • Patent number: 8378795
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Assignee: Immersion Corporation
    Inventors: Ryan Steger, Barbara Kruse
  • Patent number: 8369838
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2013
    Assignee: Alcatel Lucent
    Inventors: Rekha Mallavarapu, Eric A. Duesing
  • Patent number: 8362887
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2013
    Assignee: Gordon*Howard Associates, Inc.
    Inventors: Gerald A. Morgan, Stanley G. Schwarz
  • Patent number: 8352172
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2013
    Assignee: SAP AG
    Inventors: Robert Pei, Tim Kaldewey, Samir Raiyani
  • Patent number: 8325026
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2012
    Assignee: Heistproof, LLC
    Inventors: Nick Ramirez, Reed W. Mapes
  • Patent number: 8325025
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2012
    Assignee: Gordon*Howard Associates, Inc.
    Inventors: Gerald A. Morgan, Stanley G. Schwarz
  • Patent number: 8319615
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2012
    Assignee: Continental Automotive Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: James Snider, Michael Cruz, Robert F. D'Avello
  • Patent number: 8320877
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2012
    Assignee: Broadcom Corporation
    Inventors: Christopher J. Hansen, Jeyhan Karaoguz
  • Patent number: 8315775
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2012
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: William A. Biondo, David T. Proefke, Clark E. McCall
  • Patent number: 8296571
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2012
    Assignee: Trimble Navigation Limited
    Inventors: Jeffery A. Hamilton, Stuart Riley
  • Publication number: 20120242470
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: May 31, 2012
    Publication date: September 27, 2012
    Applicant: GORDON*HOWARD ASSOCIATES, INC.
    Inventors: Gerald A. MORGAN, Stanley G. SCHWARZ
  • Patent number: 8217772
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Assignee: Gordon*Howard Associates, Inc.
    Inventors: Gerald A. Morgan, Stanley G. Schwarz
  • Patent number: 8212658
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2012
    Assignee: Henry Schein, Inc.
    Inventor: O. Napoleon Monroe
  • Patent number: 8175573
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2012
    Assignee: Continental Automotive Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert F. D'Avello, James Snider
  • Patent number: 8164431
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2012
    Assignee: Gordon*Howard Associates, Inc.
    Inventors: Gerald A. Morgan, Stanley G. Schwarz
  • Patent number: 8159336
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2012
    Assignee: Continental Automotive Systems US, Inc.
    Inventors: James Snider, Robert F. D'Avello
  • Patent number: 8144810
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2012
    Assignee: CSR Technology Inc.
    Inventors: Steve Gronemeyer, Robert Tso
  • Patent number: 8126425
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2012
    Assignee: Broadcom Corporation
    Inventors: Christopher J. Hansen, Jeyhan Karaoguz
  • Patent number: 8093995
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2012
    Assignee: Immersion Corporation
    Inventors: Ryan Steger, Barbara Kruse
  • Patent number: 8086215
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2011
    Assignee: LoJack Operating Company LP
    Inventor: William Duvall
  • Patent number: 8073756
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2011
    Assignee: Open Invention Network, LLC
    Inventors: Philip D. Lapsley, Philip J. Gioia, Michael Kleeman
  • Patent number: 8064500
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2011
    Assignee: Seiko Epson Corporation
    Inventor: Nobuo Muto
  • Patent number: 8054181
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2011
    Assignee: Trimble Navigation Limited
    Inventors: Peter Van Wyck Loomis, James M. Janky, Bruce Riter
  • Patent number: 8044778
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 25, 2011
    Assignee: Henry Schein, Inc.
    Inventor: O. Napoleon Monroe
  • Patent number: 8031069
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 4, 2011
    Assignees: Oded Yair Cohn, Zvi Ben-Shalom
    Inventors: Oded Yair Cohn, Zvi Ben Shalom
  • Patent number: 8018329
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2011
    Assignee: Gordon * Howard Associates, Inc.
    Inventors: Gerald A. Morgan, Stanley G. Schwarz
  • Patent number: 8013735
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2011
    Assignee: LoJack Operating Company, LP
    Inventors: Claude Arpin, William R. Duvall, Joseph T. Lipowski, Arvind K. Ramadorai, Thomas A. Wooters
  • Patent number: RE44549
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2013
    Assignee: Thinkware Systems Corporation
    Inventor: Deuk Yeong Seong