Including Specified Sensor Patents (Class 340/426.24)
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Patent number: 11952822Abstract: Provided is a vehicle including: an image acquisition unit; a cap provided on a body of the vehicle and configured to open and close a replenishing port for replenishing an energy source; a driving unit allowing the cap to be separated or connected from/to the body; and a controller configured to determine an intention of a user to replenish the energy source on the basis of an image acquired by the image acquisition unit, and control the driving unit such that the cap is automatically separated from the body in response to determining that the intention of the user to replenish the energy source exists.Type: GrantFiled: October 17, 2019Date of Patent: April 9, 2024Assignees: HYUNDAI MOTOR COMPANY, KIA MOTORS CORPORATIONInventors: JongChan Jun, Dea Ki Cheong, Deok Hwan Seo, Kwon Hyoung Choi, Jinhyung Lee
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Patent number: 11682284Abstract: For various political, commercial and humanitarian reasons there is a desire to detect intrusion of stowaways into lorries and other freight vehicles. Many traditional intrusion detectors operate on the bases of detecting an increase in carbon dioxide within a space as indicator of presence of a human. A problem arises when the freight vehicle is carrying perishable goods such as fruits and vegetables which give off CO2 as they perish which makes it difficult to reliably attribute the cause of an elevation in CO2 concentration. An embodiment of the invention overcomes this problem by detecting a sudden decrease in CO2 concentration within the freight vehicle from a concentration that is much elevated from a background atmospheric concentration of around 400 ppm. This sudden decrease can be attributed to opening of a door of a trailer allowing the escape of CO2 that has built up as the freight perishes.Type: GrantFiled: February 8, 2021Date of Patent: June 20, 2023Assignee: Contained Technologies UK LimitedInventors: Alex Szymborski, Josh Lopez, Henk Jan Oldenbandringh
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Patent number: 11597535Abstract: A maintenance notification for a UAV may be sent to a service provider. The service provider may identify the UAV, such as to access a profile associated with the UAV that includes at least hardware and software configurations for the UAV. The service provider may generate a customized maintenance decision tree to organize tasks to be performed for the specific UAV to determine a maintenance action to remedy a fault or problem associated with the maintenance notification. The decision tree may be formed using history of the UAV and information about other UAVs to construct the decision tree tailored to the specific UAV under analysis. At least some operations included in the decision tree may be automated. Traversal of the decision tree may lead to updates of the UAV of hardware, software, or both.Type: GrantFiled: June 28, 2019Date of Patent: March 7, 2023Assignee: Amazon Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Jon T. Hanlon, Mark Daniel Sibon
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Patent number: 11267441Abstract: There is provided an information processing apparatus installed in a mobile object, the information processing apparatus including: a hardware processor that detects entry/exit of a user into/from the mobile object; and controls a security level in the mobile object, in accordance with entry/exit of a user into/from the mobile object.Type: GrantFiled: June 10, 2020Date of Patent: March 8, 2022Assignee: KONICA MINOLTA, INC.Inventors: Takehisa Yamaguchi, Takeshi Morikawa
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Patent number: 11271431Abstract: A system for managing wireless inductive charging of mobile electronic devices within the interior of a vehicle having engine stop-start capability and a mat for use in the system are provided. The system includes a wireless inductive charger including a power transmitter coil configured to transmit power by inductive coupling and having a charging area for charging a mobile electronic device located in the charging area. A detection circuit includes an inductive proximity sensor to detect foreign objects that disturb power transmission in the charging area and to provide a signal indicating detection of a foreign object in the charging area. A vehicle controller includes control logic to command electrical power shut off to the charger based on the signal and to allow the charger to continue to charge the device during a period of time when the engine is temporarily turned off.Type: GrantFiled: March 6, 2020Date of Patent: March 8, 2022Assignee: JVIS-USA, LLCInventors: Shawn P. Murray, Darius J. Preisler
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Patent number: 11249107Abstract: According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a device and technique for impact detection includes a housing enclosing a mass member where the housing is configured to enable movement of the mass member from a first position to a second position within the housing in response to receipt by the housing of an acceleration event. The impact indicator also includes switch circuitry and a passive radio-frequency identification (RFID) module coupled to the switch circuitry. Responsive to movement of the mass member from the first position to the second position, the mass member causes a change in the switch circuitry where the change in the switch circuitry causes a change in a value output by the RFID module when activated.Type: GrantFiled: June 22, 2018Date of Patent: February 15, 2022Assignee: ShockWatch, Inc.Inventors: Anthony N. Fonk, Aldric Lee
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Patent number: 11146930Abstract: The disclosure presents a set of novel methods and apparatus designed to add a communication ability to an external surface of a vehicle, using an animated visible light electronic message device, by selectively displaying pre-defined digital symbols. The addition of the display to a vehicle allows the vehicle to communicate with other vehicles, persons, or devices without requiring any functionality change to the other party. The new methods and apparatus also enable two vehicles that are both installed with the message devices to communicate with each other. These message devices can be installed on surfaces which include, but are not limited to, windshields of the vehicle, the top of the vehicle, the front and back bumper of the vehicle or other windows of the vehicle. The digital symbols displayed are pre-defined by the device manufacturer and not modifiable or creatable by the vehicle user.Type: GrantFiled: March 19, 2020Date of Patent: October 12, 2021Inventor: Weining Tan
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Patent number: 10997841Abstract: An information processing apparatus including: a communicator; and a processor configured to receive help request information that is information for requesting help and positional information of a user terminal of a user in a vehicle from the user terminal via the communicator, based on the positional information of the user terminal, identify a first advertisement display apparatus that is located within a predetermined distance range from the user terminal and satisfies a predetermined condition, and transmit an instruction to display a help request message corresponding to the help request information, to the first advertisement display apparatus via the communicator is provided.Type: GrantFiled: September 30, 2019Date of Patent: May 4, 2021Assignee: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHAInventors: Kosuke Yoshida, Shugen Yamamura, Hiroto Inoue, Masatoshi Hayashi, Yoshino Yamamori
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Patent number: 10593632Abstract: An apparatus is disclosed that comprises a first security arrangement that overlaps a plurality of electronic components arranged within one or more layers. The first security arrangement comprises a first conductive layer patterned as a first array of a plurality of first conductive elements, and a second conductive layer separated from the first conductive layer by a dielectric layer. The second conductive layer patterned as a second array of a plurality of second conductive elements, and the first array and the second array collectively form a plurality of capacitive elements. The apparatus further comprises monitoring circuitry coupled with the first security arrangement and configured to detect a change in a capacitance of a first capacitive element of the plurality of capacitive elements, and determine, based on a location of the first capacitive element within the first array, whether to perform a predefined security action.Type: GrantFiled: March 7, 2017Date of Patent: March 17, 2020Assignee: International Business Machines CorporationInventors: Matthew S. Doyle, Jeffrey N. Judd, Scott D. Strand
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Patent number: 10202106Abstract: Method and apparatus are disclosed for vehicle trailer detection. An example vehicle includes an accelerometer and an electronic stability control unit. The electronic stability control unit (a) detects, with the accelerometer, signals indicative of axles traversing a bump (b) when at least three axle signals are detected, generates an axle profile based on a speed of the vehicle and timing of the signals, (c) based on the axle profile, determines whether a trailer is connected to the vehicle, and (d) when the trailer is connected, controls the vehicle stability based on the trailer being connected.Type: GrantFiled: August 8, 2017Date of Patent: February 12, 2019Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLCInventor: Thomas G. Leone
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Patent number: 10077046Abstract: A method and apparatus for preventing a collision with a gate of a vehicle are provided. The method includes: determining whether a hitch in a vehicle bed will be coupling with a trailer; determining whether a gate of the vehicle bed is in a closed position; and performing at least one from among displaying a warning of a potential collision and opening the gate of the vehicle bed, if it is determined that the hitch in the vehicle bed will be coupling with the trailer and the gate of the vehicle bed is in the closed position.Type: GrantFiled: January 24, 2017Date of Patent: September 18, 2018Assignee: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLCInventors: Allan Lewis, Caroline Chung, Michael Chaney, Jr., Mohammad Naserian
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Patent number: 9982474Abstract: A method for operating a closure panel of a vehicle, comprising: using a processor, determining whether a first proximity sensor and a second proximity sensor located on a periphery of the vehicle have been sequentially activated to indicate an object moving across the first proximity sensor and the second proximity sensor; and, controlling the closure panel to open or close when the first proximity sensor and the second proximity sensor have been sequentially activated.Type: GrantFiled: December 18, 2017Date of Patent: May 29, 2018Assignee: MAGNA CLOSURES INC.Inventors: Timothy Dezorzi, Erik Schattenmann, Spiridon-sorin S. Tudora, Stephen James Caron, Mirko Pribisic
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Patent number: 9491546Abstract: An audio-data transmission method for an electronic device is provided. The method includes determining whether or not a plurality of external data sounds and a plurality of external identification sounds are received. The external data sound and the external identification sound are respectively on a data frequency range and an identification frequency range that is different from the data frequency range. The external identification sound includes N sounds of predetermined frequencies wherein N is a positive integer larger than one. When not receiving the external data sound and the external identification sound simultaneously transmitted by at least one external electronic device, the electronic device transmits a plurality of data sounds and a plurality of identification sounds. The data sound and the identification sound are respectively within the data frequency range and the identification frequency range. The identification sound includes the sounds of predetermined frequencies.Type: GrantFiled: November 26, 2014Date of Patent: November 8, 2016Assignee: ACER INCORPORATEDInventor: Shih-Hao Lin
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Patent number: 9457521Abstract: A part is manufactured by introducing magnetic particles into a matrix material, and orienting the particles by coupling them with an electromagnetic field. The matrix material is solidified in patterned layers while the particles remain oriented by the field.Type: GrantFiled: September 1, 2011Date of Patent: October 4, 2016Assignee: THE BOEING COMPANYInventors: Scott Robert Johnston, Jonathan Blake Vance, James William Fonda, Brett Ian Lyons
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Patent number: 9392036Abstract: A terminal device is connected to another terminal device through a network. The terminal device includes an imaging control unit, a receiving unit, a voice synthesis unit, a display control unit, and a voice output control unit. The imaging control unit controls an image captured with an imaging unit included in the other terminal device. The receiving unit receives the image captured with the imaging unit of the other terminal device, and a plurality of pieces of voice respectively input to a plurality of voice input units included in the other terminal device. The voice synthesis unit synthesizes the pieces of voice to generate synthesized voice. The display control unit displays the image on a display unit. The voice output control unit causes a voice output unit to output the synthesized voice.Type: GrantFiled: February 18, 2015Date of Patent: July 12, 2016Assignee: RICOH COMPANY, LTD.Inventor: Kazuki Kitazawa
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Patent number: 9365212Abstract: A method for controlling a hybrid vehicle having an internal combustion engine and an electric machine includes the following steps: (a) sending data indicative of a current location of the hybrid vehicle to a command center after the hybrid vehicle experiences the loss of propulsion; (b) sending data indicative of a desired destination to the command center; (c) receiving a remedial action command from the command center, wherein the remedial action command is based, at least in part, on vehicle operating parameters, the current location of the hybrid vehicle, and the desired destination; and (d) commanding the hybrid vehicle to perform a remedial action corresponding to the remedial action command, wherein the remedial action allows the hybrid vehicle to travel from the current location to a predetermined location after the hybrid vehicle has experienced the loss of propulsion.Type: GrantFiled: August 20, 2014Date of Patent: June 14, 2016Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLCInventor: Keith D. Buford
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Patent number: 9000901Abstract: A method of controlling the operation of a door of a vehicle relative to a door frame of the vehicle is provided. The position of the door is sensed and a door open command or a door close command is received. Opening or closing of the door at preselected speeds is initiated based on the command received. The length of time that the open command or close command is continuously received is then determined. The door is moved at a relatively slow speed for a predetermined initial time period and after the predetermined initial time period has ended the door is moved at a relatively faster speed.Type: GrantFiled: January 24, 2013Date of Patent: April 7, 2015Assignee: Control Solutions LLCInventors: Michael McKee, Nick Scholtes, John Hayden
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Patent number: 8988244Abstract: An article transfer system that allows the operator to easily notice that abnormality occurs in an abnormality detecting sensor for detecting abnormality and perform remedial work is provided. The article transfer system is adapted to display information indicating that the abnormality occurs on a display device as abnormality occurrence information, receive input of a result of determination by the operator on whether or not the abnormality indicated by the abnormality occurrence information occurs, and display information indicating that the detecting information received from the abnormality detecting sensor is incorrect on the display device when the operator inputs the result of determination that the abnormality indicated by the abnormality occurrence information does not occur with the abnormality detecting sensor detecting the abnormality.Type: GrantFiled: August 14, 2012Date of Patent: March 24, 2015Assignee: Daifuku Co., Ltd.Inventor: Kenji Yagawa
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Patent number: 8963699Abstract: A catalytic converter theft protection arrangement includes a metal cage rigidly attached to an underside of a vehicle such that the cage surrounds a catalytic converter of the vehicle. An electronic tamper-detecting device is disposed within the cage and transmits an alarm signal in response to detecting motion around the catalytic converter and/or vibration of the cage. A remote controller selectively activates and deactivates the electronic tamper-detecting device in response to actuation of the remote controller by a user.Type: GrantFiled: May 8, 2013Date of Patent: February 24, 2015Inventor: David P. Potter
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Patent number: 8938337Abstract: A laser sensor is located close to a rotation axis of a vehicle door and configured to emit a laser beam to a surface of the vehicle door and accept reflected light reflected from an obstacle for scanning a scanning plane shifted in a door-opening direction, in which the vehicle door is openable. A determination section determines whether an obstacle, which is possible to make contact with the vehicle door, exists in the door-opening direction of the vehicle door, based on a result of emission and acceptance of the laser beam of the laser sensor. An opening regulating section regulates an opening of the vehicle door in response to determination of the determination section that the obstacle exists.Type: GrantFiled: September 23, 2009Date of Patent: January 20, 2015Assignees: Denso Corporation, Nippon Soken, Inc.Inventors: Yohei Nakakura, Toshiyuki Konishi, Hideki Hioki, Yoshihisa Okada, Mitsuyasu Matsuura, Toshiki Isogai
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Patent number: 8907807Abstract: Methods, systems, and apparatus, including computer programs encoded on computer storage media, for power management. One of the methods includes determining that there is a loss in electricity to a security system management device; entering low power state; receiving a wireless sensor alert while in the low power state; in response to the alert: returning to normal power state to transmit an alarm to a service provider system, and returning to low power state after transmitting the alarm; and returning to normal power state when electricity is restored.Type: GrantFiled: March 15, 2013Date of Patent: December 9, 2014Assignee: Oplink Communications, Inc.Inventors: Longgang Huang, Keqin Gu, Qiang Xie, Kuochun Lee
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Patent number: 8890687Abstract: A method of detecting an abnormal environmental operating condition of an element embedded in an apparatus. The element is able to communicate with a telecommunications network. The method includes cyclically measuring at least one environmental operating parameter of the element, detecting that the element is operating for an excessive duration in at least one reference operating span and transmitting an alert message to the telecommunications network if the element has operated for an excessive duration in the reference operating span.Type: GrantFiled: April 22, 2011Date of Patent: November 18, 2014Assignee: Gemalto SAInventor: Frédéric Faure
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Patent number: 8854183Abstract: A working machine is provided with a plurality of exchangeable components, and each component is provided with a wireless tag. A component ID is stored in advance in the wireless tag. When, on the side of the working machine, a component exchange timing or an engine starting timing is detected, the component ID stored in the wireless tag is acquired, and is transmitted to a working machine management device. The working machine management device checks the component ID which has been received from the working machine and a component ID which is stored in a component ID storage means against one another. And, if these two component IDs do not match one another, an abnormal state detection means outputs a warning signal.Type: GrantFiled: December 21, 2012Date of Patent: October 7, 2014Assignee: Komatsu Ltd.Inventors: Atsutomo Komine, Yukihiro Tsuda, Hidenori Koizumi
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Patent number: 8836491Abstract: A system and method for detecting an occupant in a vehicle capture successive images from an infrared camera that are analyzed to detect thermal characteristics of an occupant as well as movement. If an operator of the vehicle has exited the vehicle, the vehicle is deactivated, an occupant is detected, and a temperature in the cabin of the vehicle is higher or lower than desired, a report is made to the operator via a mobile phone or key fob.Type: GrantFiled: April 29, 2010Date of Patent: September 16, 2014Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLCInventors: Manoharprasad K. Rao, Mark A. Cuddihy, Tai Luu
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Patent number: 8836489Abstract: A system and method for detecting unauthorized vehicle movement that includes measuring a resting angle of a vehicle using a vehicle sensor; thereafter, detecting a change in the measured resting angle of the vehicle; determining that the detected change is not authorized; and sending an alert message based on the determination via a vehicle telematics unit.Type: GrantFiled: May 26, 2010Date of Patent: September 16, 2014Assignee: General Motors LLCInventors: Jeffrey P. Christensen, Daryl L. Carr, Michael D. Solomon, Christopher L. Oesterling
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Patent number: 8830031Abstract: A working machine is provided with a plurality of exchangeable components, and each component is provided with a wireless tag. A component ID is stored in advance in the wireless tag. When, on the side of the working machine, a component exchange timing or an engine starting timing is detected, the component ID stored in the wireless tag is acquired, and is transmitted to a working machine management device. The working machine management device checks the component ID which has been received from the working machine and a component ID which is stored in a component ID storage means against one another. And, if these two component IDs do not match one another, an abnormal state detection means outputs a warning signal.Type: GrantFiled: April 25, 2012Date of Patent: September 9, 2014Assignee: Komatsu Ltd.Inventors: Yukihiro Tsuda, Hidenori Koizumi, Michiko Komine, Keisuke Komine, Chihiro Saito
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Publication number: 20140232536Abstract: In an intrusion detection device of the embodiment, a determining unit allows a transmission unit to stop transmitting ultrasonic waves until a level of a Doppler signal exceeds a predetermined threshold (threshold for detecting destruction of a window glass), and allows the transmission unit to transmit the ultrasonic waves when the level of the Doppler signal exceeds said threshold. Therefore, if the destruction of the window glass is not detected, it is possible to reduce power consumption through allowing the transmission unit to stop the transmission. Further, because processing for detecting intrusion is performed after the destruction of the window glass has been detected, it is possible to reduce erroneous detection of an intruder resulting from a movement of an object (e.g., falling of papers, a sunshade, or the like that is leaned against the interior wall) other than a human.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 2, 2012Publication date: August 21, 2014Applicants: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA, PANASONIC CORPORATIONInventors: Ryuzo Uda, Toyohiro Tani, Kazushi Goto, Tomoyuki Funayama, Takeo Endo, Masahiro Tanaka
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Patent number: 8810364Abstract: A working machine is provided with a plurality of exchangeable components, and each component is provided with a wireless tag. A component ID is stored in advance in the wireless tag. When, on the side of the working machine, a component exchange timing or an engine starting timing is detected, the component ID stored in the wireless tag is acquired, and is transmitted to a working machine management device. The working machine management device checks the component ID which has been received from the working machine and a component ID which is stored in a component ID storage means against one another. And, if these two component IDs do not match one another, an abnormal state detection means outputs a warning signal.Type: GrantFiled: July 6, 2007Date of Patent: August 19, 2014Assignee: Komatsu Ltd.Inventors: Yukihiro Tsuda, Hidenori Koizumi, Michiko Komine, Keisuke Komine, Chihiro Saito
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Patent number: 8803696Abstract: A carbon monoxide detector safety system comprising: a carbon-monoxide sensing and transmitting device; at least one door-opener receiver; and an onboard receiver connected to a wiring assembly of a vehicle; wherein said carbon monoxide detector safety system is useful to help prevent poisoning caused by carbon-monoxide accumulating within an enclosed space such as a garage. The carbon monoxide detector safety system acting in the capacity of an active carbon monoxide alarm system.Type: GrantFiled: February 27, 2012Date of Patent: August 12, 2014Inventor: Joseph W. Dunyan
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Publication number: 20140176320Abstract: A catalytic converter protection system that includes a controller, a catalytic converter having a housing, and a shorting element that has two terminals and is coupled to the housing. The system also includes a connector having an internal resistor. The connector is electrically coupled to the controller and the two terminals. The controller monitors resistance of the internal resistor to determine continuity between the connector and the shorting element. The controller may activate an alarm element with a loss in continuity between the terminals and the shorting element.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 24, 2012Publication date: June 26, 2014Applicant: FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLCInventors: Eric L. Reed, Don D. Price, John R. Van Wiemeersch
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Patent number: 8686842Abstract: A door locking system is provided for a motor vehicle. The door locking system includes, but is not limited to a mechanical door opening safety catch and a warning unit configured to generate a first warning signal that is exclusively suppressed by a manual activation of the mechanical door opening safety catch. A motor vehicle is provided that includes, but is not limited to a vehicle body, a rear vehicle door that is linked on the vehicle body and facing away from a vehicle travel direction, the rear vehicle door configured to pivot, a door opening safety catch configured to be mechanically activate upon the pivot of the rear vehicle door, and a warning unit configured to generate a first warning signal that is exclusively suppressed by the mechanical activation of the door opening safety catch.Type: GrantFiled: May 4, 2011Date of Patent: April 1, 2014Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLCInventors: Peter Eduard Schuessler, Andreas Heberer, Mario Tassotto, Oliver Roettel, Joachim Schuberth
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Patent number: 8666664Abstract: An electronic seal of the present invention includes a bolt. The bolt is used to mount on a door latch of a cargo and inserts into a shell. The shell is provided with a control circuit to actively send a warning signal as the bolt is moved. As such, the user of the electronic seal can be properly informed to prevent theft.Type: GrantFiled: November 27, 2009Date of Patent: March 4, 2014Assignee: Syris Technology Corp.Inventors: Chien-Sheng Chiu, Chin-Cheng Chen, Kuo-Liang Liao
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Patent number: 8639209Abstract: Communications are established with a first base station and the communications include first validation information associated with the first base station. Second validation information is obtained and the second validation information is stored in a data structure. The second validation information is associated with a second and valid base station. The first validation information is compared to the second validation information stored in the data structure and it is determined whether the first base station is valid based upon the comparison. When the comparing indicates that the first base station is not valid, a warning is initiated to a user.Type: GrantFiled: December 21, 2009Date of Patent: January 28, 2014Assignee: Continental Automotive Systems, Inc.Inventors: James Walby, Robert F. D'Avello, Harsha Dabholkar, James Snider
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Publication number: 20130342332Abstract: An apparatus, system, and method for controlling functions of a vehicular alarm. The method includes receiving one or more signals including location information, determining a location of the vehicle using the location information, setting one or more functions based on the location information, determining whether an alarm function is activated, and activating the one or more functions according to the setting upon determining that an alarm has been activated. The method may further include using GPS data or signals transmitted from one or more base stations (e.g., from cellular telephone base stations, computer networks, proprietary transmitters, etc.) to determine the position of the apparatus (e.g., installed in the vehicle). The apparatus may also inform a user of regulations relating to an area dependent upon its location.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 26, 2013Publication date: December 26, 2013Inventor: Victor A. Grossman
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Patent number: 8615347Abstract: An anti-theft security device for a vehicle coupling, in particular a fifth wheel coupling (1), includes a security apparatus (2) and a control apparatus (3) which are electrically connected to each other. The control device (3) is connected to at least one vehicle-side system (10a, b, c) having an emergency function. Upon the triggering of at least one emergency function of the vehicle-side system, the control apparatus (3) deactivates the control apparatus (2) directly or indirectly.Type: GrantFiled: February 25, 2009Date of Patent: December 24, 2013Assignee: Jost-Werke GmbHInventors: José Manuel Algüera Gallego, Swen Saupe
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Patent number: 8611847Abstract: Location determination signals are received and a location of interest is determined from the location determination signals. A communication service is established and synchronized with a known, valid base station via a first communication channel. A value of a signal strength indicator associated with the first communication channel is monitored. When the value of the signal strength indicator falls below a threshold level, 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: December 17, 2013Assignee: Continental Automotive Systems, Inc.Inventors: James Snider, Robert F. D'Avello
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Patent number: 8581745Abstract: A device for detecting a vehicle passing by a vehicle in the dark. A camera detects a light cone that is moving at a lateral offset relative to the vehicle. An analyzer device assigns the relatively moving light cone to the passing vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: December 17, 2008Date of Patent: November 12, 2013Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbHInventor: Petko Faber
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Patent number: 8570147Abstract: A debounce strategy is disclosed for use with a switch detection circuit to validate whether the switch is properly actuated or whether interferences, switch bounce, or other interruptions are presenting indications of switch activation. The debounce strategy may be implemented in a multi-stage process so that systems relying on debounce validation can begin processing, or other so that other time depending operations begin processing, prior to completing debounce validation.Type: GrantFiled: May 26, 2010Date of Patent: October 29, 2013Assignee: Lear CorporationInventors: Hilton W. Girard, III, Keith A. Christenson
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Patent number: 8564424Abstract: A system is provided for the detection of user hand position on a steering wheel, the system having: a sensor array disposed on the circumference of the wheel configured to detect contact of first and second user hands with the sensor array; a processor whereby data from the sensor array is received and processed generating user hand size, location and movement data; at least one feedback device whereby a user is alerted to an unsafe hand position.Type: GrantFiled: December 7, 2010Date of Patent: October 22, 2013Assignee: Inventioneers Etc., LLCInventors: Tristan J. Evarts, Paige E. Balcom, Jaiden R. Evarts, Emily A. Balcom, Kathryn J. Balcom, Bryeton A. Evarts
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Publication number: 20130271273Abstract: A method of providing a notification following a passive, keyless start of a vehicle when a keyfob for the vehicle is not within a passenger compartment of the vehicle. Where a motor is started using a passive keyless start (PKS) system having a keyfob transceiver within the keyfob and a vehicle transceiver (VT) within the vehicle, the absence of the keyfob may be determined by the failure to receive an accurate response signal from the keyfob transceiver following the transmission of a vehicle challenge signal from the vehicle transceiver. Upon this determination, a notification may be provided directly or indirectly to the vehicle user via a wireless carrier system.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 12, 2012Publication date: October 17, 2013Applicant: GM Global Technology Operations LLCInventor: Christopher L. Oesterling
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Patent number: 8547238Abstract: A system for confirming the detection of a fire using a plurality of radiation or flame sensors each equipped with a radiation detector and an optical filter having a spectral transmission characteristic in which at least one optical filter is redundant to at least one other optical filter. The result is a system having operationally redundant sensors. In use, if a fire is detected by one of the redundant sensors without including the other redundant radiation sensor in the fire detection calculation, then a fire detection algorithm can switch to the other operationally redundant sensor to check for confirmation of a fire. Due to the spatial separation and if the object is small and close, a different result will be obtained with the redundant detector being used in the calculation compared to the primary detector that is associated with the redundant detector.Type: GrantFiled: June 30, 2010Date of Patent: October 1, 2013Assignee: KnowFlame, Inc.Inventor: John Harchanko
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Publication number: 20130249682Abstract: A vehicular charging system is provided that includes a battery and a charger region. The system also includes a wireless charger for generating an electric charging signal in the charger region to charge the battery, and a plurality of sensors located to sense foreign objects and living beings in proximity to the charger region. The system further includes a controller for controlling the charger to at least reduce the charging signal when a foreign object or a living being is in proximity to the charger region. The controller may be configured to terminate the charging signal and/or activate an alarm element when a foreign object or a living being is in proximity to the charger region.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 15, 2013Publication date: September 26, 2013Applicant: Ford Global Technologies, LLCInventors: John Robert Van Wiemeersch, Richard William Kautz, Stuart C. Salter, Cornel Lewis Gardner, Don David Price
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Patent number: 8525654Abstract: A vehicle-in-blind-spot detecting apparatus detects a vehicle positioned in a blind spot by mounting the apparatus on an operator's vehicle. The vehicle-in-blind-spot includes a presenting unit which presents information; at least one microphone which detects a sound; a vehicle sound extracting unit which extracts a vehicle sound from the sound detected by the microphone; and a sound source direction detecting unit which detects a sound source direction of the vehicle sound extracted by the vehicle sound extracting unit. A vehicle-in-blind-spot determining unit causes the presenting unit to present the information indicating that a vehicle is found in a blind spot in the case where the sound source direction of the vehicle sound detected by the sound source direction detecting unit is a first direction representing above the vehicle-in-blind-spot detecting apparatus with respect to a ground.Type: GrantFiled: May 5, 2010Date of Patent: September 3, 2013Assignee: Panasonic CorporationInventors: Shinichi Yoshizawa, Yoshihisa Nakatoh
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Patent number: 8525653Abstract: A system for protecting vehicle wheels featuring a lug nut component for threading into a wheel; a keyhole disposed in the first end of the lug nut and a threaded second hole disposed in the second end; a sliding component disposed in the first hole biased in an up position and movable to a down position when a key is inserted; a sensor configured to detect the sliding component moving to the down position; a microprocessor operatively connected to the sensor; a transmitter operatively connected to the microprocessor; a receiver operatively connected to a car alarm system, wherein when the sensor detects the sliding component moving to the down position the transmitter sends an alarm signal to the receiver to activate the alarm system.Type: GrantFiled: April 29, 2010Date of Patent: September 3, 2013Inventors: Wayne A. Bing, Candi R. Bing
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Patent number: 8502656Abstract: A displacement diagnosis sensor of a brake pedal having a stop lamp switch function is provided. According to the present invention, one sensor performs both a function of a stop lamp switch and a function of diagnosing a rotational displacement of the brake pedal simultaneously to thereby save a manufacturing cost and reduce a weight.Type: GrantFiled: August 10, 2011Date of Patent: August 6, 2013Assignee: Donghee Industrial Co., Ltd.Inventors: Kwanghyuck Lee, Byungju Kim
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Patent number: 8461989Abstract: An in-container monitoring sensor system is based on an UWB radar intrusion detector positioned in a container and having a range gate set to the farthest wall of the container from the detector. Multipath reflections within the container make every point on or in the container appear to be at the range gate, allowing intrusion detection anywhere in the container. The system also includes other sensors to provide false alarm discrimination, and may include other sensors to monitor other parameters, e.g. radiation. The sensor system also includes a control subsystem for controlling system operation. Communications and information extraction capability may also be included. A method of detecting intrusion into a container uses UWB radar, and may also include false alarm discrimination. A secure container has an UWB based monitoring system.Type: GrantFiled: October 16, 2009Date of Patent: June 11, 2013Assignee: Lawrence Livermore National Security, LLC.Inventors: Carlos E. Romero, Peter C. Haugen, James M. Zumstein, Richard R. Leach, Jr., Mark L. Vigars
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Patent number: 8441366Abstract: An arrangement of a sensor device with at least one sensor for a contactless activation of at least one moving part of a vehicle, especially a vehicle hatch, the sensor being arranged on at least one support element on the vehicle, in order to permit a detection of an object in at least one detection range adjacent to the vehicle, so that activation of the hatch can be activated via the detection, where the sensor is arranged in shape-mated and/or force-fit fashion on support element.Type: GrantFiled: July 19, 2010Date of Patent: May 14, 2013Assignee: Huf Hulsbeck & Furst GmbH & Co. KGInventor: Wolfgang Buss
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Patent number: 8421596Abstract: Provided is a door lock device which is installed on a door, to enable people to facilitate to find out location of the door at dark or night and enable the door to be illuminated with a certain brightness so as to be easily viewed at indoor and outdoor sides when indoor and/or outdoor illumination is low, that is, at dark. As a result, the door lock device enables people to easily find out an entrance gate under the fire and other emergency situations. As well, people do not need to find out a particular position or particular article gropingly even in a dark indoor or outdoor. Accordingly, people may not be easily hurt. In addition, since indoor and outdoor places can be illuminated at a certain brightness, the door lock device can indicate that people exist in a warehouse or on a roof of a building even in the case that a warehouse door lock device or a roof entrance door lock device has been automatically locked.Type: GrantFiled: October 28, 2009Date of Patent: April 16, 2013Inventors: Seung Kuk Choi, Myung Wha Nam
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Patent number: 8373550Abstract: A controller for a door system and an associated method of operation for actuating a door. The controller may be electrically coupled with a motor, an outer door switch and an inner door switch. The controller, activates a motor assist and may maintain a desirable current supply to the motor assist. Determining a relative position of the door and determining whether movement of the door is obstructed is performed. The controller actuates the door to an appropriate position and determines whether door operation exceeds a maximum time threshold. The controller may be configured to deactivate the motor assist once the door reaches an appropriate position or the door operation exceeds the maximum time threshold.Type: GrantFiled: August 20, 2008Date of Patent: February 12, 2013Assignee: Control Solutions LLCInventors: Michael McKee, Nick Scholtes, John Hayden
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Patent number: 8370030Abstract: The present invention relates to a system for automatically adjusting a vehicle feature of a vehicle, where the system includes a first sensor, an onboard computer, a camera, a mirror, a controller; an actuator; and an algorithm. The algorithm instructs the onboard computer in steps for adjusting one or more vehicle features. The first sensor and the controller are in electronic communication with the onboard computer and the controller is in electronic communication with one or more actuators that connect to and adjust the various vehicle features. The onboard computer includes or accesses a database that correlates users, features, and vehicle feature settings. Such vehicle features include seat position and camera viewing angle.Type: GrantFiled: September 7, 2010Date of Patent: February 5, 2013Inventor: Michael H Gurin