Varying Authorization Patents (Class 340/5.21)
  • Patent number: 8902042
    Abstract: A method of controlling access to a real estate property includes installing a dynamic electronically-controlled lockset on an exterior door of a real estate property, maintaining, at a remote location, a reference device adapted to present a value of a second dynamic access code to one or more users located in the real estate office, receiving, at the real estate agent location, a request from a user for a current value of the second dynamic access code, examining the reference device to determine the current value of the second dynamic access code, and providing the current value of the second dynamic access code to the user for input into the electronically-controlled lockset. The lockset is adapted to unlock upon receiving a value corresponding to a first dynamic access code programmed therein. The second dynamic access code is time-synchronized with the first dynamic access code programmed in the electronically-controlled lockset.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2014
    Assignee: LPD, L.L.C.
    Inventors: Lynne Parker Davis, Barrett Davis
  • Patent number: 8902040
    Abstract: An electronic lock, system and method for dynamic controlled access, without the lock communicating with or connected to a code server, are provided. The lock includes a locking mechanism, a clock, a microprocessor, and a memory storing a hash function and programmed instructions for the microprocessor to perform certain operations. The microprocessor and memory may be comprised in a microcontroller. When an access code is entered into the lock, the lock microcontroller hashes currently valid access start date/duration combinations with lock identifying data to return valid access codes. If the entered access code equals any of the valid access codes, the locking mechanism is opened. The lock identifying data may include data stored by a lock manufacturer and/or data created by a lock owner. Static access codes may also be programmed into the lock if desired. Caching of valid access codes may be used to reduce processing time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2014
    Assignee: Greisen Enterprises LLC
    Inventors: David J. Greisen, Daniel H. Greisen
  • Patent number: 8896435
    Abstract: A monitoring service is described that allows flexible response through operators taken from a group of chosen individuals. When an alarm state is triggered the chosen individuals may act collaboratively as operators to manage alarm conditions for a particular user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2014
    Inventors: Thomas Philip, Geoffrey Vanderkooy
  • Patent number: 8847770
    Abstract: In at least one embodiment, an apparatus for performing an alcohol monitor in a vehicle based on a driver being one of a primary driver and a secondary driver is provided. The apparatus comprises an electronic device that is positioned within the vehicle. The electronic device is configured to receive a driver status signal indicating that the driver of the vehicle is the secondary driver. The electronic device is further configured to receive an alcohol content measurement from an alcohol monitoring device (AMD) indicative of blood alcohol content for the secondary driver. The electronic device is further configured to compare the alcohol content measurement to a predetermined alcohol content.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2014
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Thomas Lee Miller, Brian Bennie, Steven Yellin Schondorf
  • Publication number: 20140266715
    Abstract: A method and apparatus incorporating the method where the method includes the steps of providing an access controller that controls locking devices on entry and egress portals of a secured area, registering the controller with an external website or information source that provides information about public threats existing outside the secured area and modifying an access level for entry into the secured area in response to notice of a public threat received from the external website or information source.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Applicant: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventor: Honeywell International Inc.
  • Patent number: 8836471
    Abstract: The invention relates to a portable handheld work apparatus such as a cutoff machine, motor-driven chain saw, brushcutter, blower apparatus or the like. The apparatus includes a drive motor (2) for driving a work tool (6) and is provided with a security circuit (20). The security circuit (20) switches the drive motor (2) of the work apparatus into an operational-ready state or into an out-of-service state in dependence upon received signals of a receiver unit (18). The receiver unit is configured to receive at least one operating code. The receiver unit (18) is configured for receiving a service code (27) and, with the receipt of a service code, switches the drive motor into only a temporary service state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2014
    Assignee: Andreas Stihl AG & Co. KG
    Inventors: Andreas Neubauer, Robert Böker
  • Patent number: 8779889
    Abstract: A system for regulating access to a resource by a plurality of users is provided. The system comprises: a plurality of portable access keys, each being provided to one of the users and having an associated variable access parameter; an access barrier, having an open state allowing passage through and a closed state denying access to the resource, and defining an access queue; a sensor that determines an access queue characteristic related to a number of users in the access queue; a controller, which sets an access criterion based on the determined access queue characteristic; and a detector, located at the access barrier and which determines the variable access parameter of a portable access key when it is brought into the vicinity of the detector. The controller sets the access barrier in its open state if the variable access parameter determined by the detector meets the access criterion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2014
    Assignee: LO-Q PLC.
    Inventors: Christopher Bayne, Christopher Butler, Leonard Sim
  • Patent number: 8742887
    Abstract: A system for biometric exclusion of certain individuals from entering a facility. A biometric exclusion system may use biometric acquisition and matching and a database to screen a large population of subjects by looking for individuals enrolled in a database. A screening approach may be used to match biometrics having sufficient quality of any individuals attempting to enter the facility, relative to biometrics of individuals stored in the database. A biometric, such as that of a face or an iris, of an individual may be obtained with the individual's knowledge or cooperation. The database may have biographical information pertinent to an individual having a biometric in the database. There may be an associated system which may be used to enroll individuals by entering their biometrics in the database.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2014
    Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventors: Rand Whillock, Isaac Cohen, Daniel Blitz, Vince Jacobson
  • Publication number: 20140132391
    Abstract: The disclosed invention relates to a passive keyless entry receiver system having an application controller that is activated upon receipt of an entire payload of a data packet to determine if peak RSSI levels for a plurality of RSSI steps within the payload match an expected sequence of peak RSSI levels (i.e., if a fingerprint is genuine). The receiver system has a receiver that receives a wireless signal having a data packet with a plurality of power levels within a plurality of RSSI steps of the payload. The receiver system writes a plurality of peak RSSI levels to a plurality of RSSI peak payload registers that store the peak RSSI levels for RSSI steps of the payload. Once an entire payload of a data packet has been received an application controller determines if the peak payloads correspond to an expected sequence of power levels.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 14, 2012
    Publication date: May 15, 2014
    Applicant: Infineon Technologies AG
    Inventor: Manfred Eder
  • Patent number: 8714449
    Abstract: Security systems and methods are implemented using a variety of devices and methods. According to one such implementation, a controller arms or disarms a security system responsive to a contactless card reader. The contactless card reader includes a circuit for wirelessly interfacing with the controller, a battery circuit, and a sensor for detecting a contactless card. The card reader further includes a power-control circuit, responsive to the sensor, to control use of the battery circuit, and a coil for energizing the contactless card in response to the contactless card being detected by the sensor. The contactless card transmits data to the contactless card reader when the contactless card is energized. Responsive to the data transmitted by the contactless card, the contactless card reader wirelessly interfaces with the controller, which arms or disarms the security system based on the data transmitted by the card.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2014
    Assignee: RSI Video Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Keith A. Jentoft
  • Patent number: 8710980
    Abstract: The present invention provides a method for changing a usability status of an asset in a location tracking system. Establishment of a direct device-to-device wireless communication connection between a user tag and an asset tag of the location tracking system triggers a process to change a usability status of the asset associated with the asset tag. In the process, identifiers of the asset tag and the user tag obtained when pairing the asset tag and the user tag are used in order to link the user tag with the asset tag in the process for changing the usability status of the asset.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2014
    Assignee: 9Solutions Oy
    Inventor: Sami Herrala
  • Patent number: 8680968
    Abstract: An access control system (10) comprises a server (12) suitable for controlling access; a biometric signal sensor (11); and an interface device (13) suitable for hooking up with the server and with the sensor, access being authorized to a person associated with a reference signal. The server and the interface device manage a common parameter that takes different values over time, and, respectively a first and a second non-invertible transformation function, these functions being parameterized as a function of the common parameter. The sensor senses a biometric signal and provides it to the interface device. At the interface device level, a transformed biometric signal is obtained by applying the first function to an element from the group comprising a characteristic emanating from the sensed signal and the sensed signal, then transmitted (14) to the server.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2014
    Assignee: Morpho
    Inventor: Hervé Chabanne
  • Patent number: 8659431
    Abstract: A method and apparatus of monitoring security personnel in a building facility is disclosed. One example method may include storing a plurality of information records associated with each of the security personnel in a database. The method may also include compiling, via a processor, a list of the information records that may be in violation of predetermined criteria used to determine whether the security personnel are in compliance with security procedures, and automatically notifying a security supervisor of the building facility of the security personnel that may be in violation of the security procedures. Such measures may reduce security violations and increase compliance with security measures and other safety concerns.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2014
    Inventor: Leola Brown
  • Patent number: 8633800
    Abstract: A method of controlling access to a movable container, the method comprising controllably locking the container using an electronically actuated locking mechanism; storing in a memory a desired geographical location; determining the geographical location of the container; and enabling the locking mechanism to unlock the container if the determined geographical location matches the desired geographical location. Apparatus, including secure cargo transportation systems are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2014
    Assignee: Round Rock Research, LLC
    Inventor: Benjamin G. Bates
  • Patent number: 8613049
    Abstract: The invention provides a network system which can prevent an illegal access to a network or the like set in a specific area and improve security of the network. The network system permits the entering of the user into a security area in accordance with security information (user ID) read out of a contactless IC in a carrying ID card by an entering/leaving room managing apparatus and registers an MAC address of a notebook computer carried by the user when he enters the security area to a managing server as ID information corresponding to the user ID. When a leaving request of the user is received through the entering/leaving room managing apparatus, the network system deletes the registered ID information and restricts connection between the notebook computer and the network on the basis of a registration situation of the ID information to the managing server.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2013
    Assignee: Canon Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Masataka Yasuda
  • Patent number: 8593249
    Abstract: A method is presented for unlocking a lock by a lock device enabled for short-range wireless data communication in compliance with a communication standard. In one embodiment, the method includes: a) detecting a key device within operative range of the lock device; b) determining a wireless communication address of the key device; c) evaluating the determined key device address by reference to a data storage with a number of wireless communication addresses stored therein; d) generating an evaluation result from said evaluating step c), wherein a match between the determined key device address and any of the wireless communication addresses stored in the data storage is a requisite for a positive evaluation result; and e) unlocking said lock if a positive evaluation result is generated in step d).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2013
    Assignee: Phoniro AB
    Inventors: Olle Bliding, Johan Hörberg
  • Patent number: 8564451
    Abstract: A sensor pad (105) is adapted to be worn and operated by a user (100) to control a separate wireless communication terminal (103) carried by the user. The sensor pad includes a plurality of discrete sensors each operable to produce an indication signal indicating proximity of a user's finger to the sensor and a controller, responsive to receipt of indication signals from a plurality of the sensors, to produce a control signal for delivery to the wireless communication terminal to produce selection of a functional operation of the wireless communication terminal. Also described is a terminal for use with the sensor pad and also equipment and a method of operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2013
    Assignee: Motorola Solutions, Inc.
    Inventor: Yaroslav Novak
  • Patent number: 8558659
    Abstract: A medical supply station is disclosed. The medical supply station includes a securable compartment configured to hold medical supplies, and a controller. The controller is responsive to access information and is configured to selectively permit access to the securable compartment when the access information indicates the securable compartment is authorized for access, and restrict access to the securable compartment when the access information indicates the securable compartment is not authorized for access. The medical supply station also includes a critical access module configured to, upon actuation, bypass the access information required by the controller and permit substantially immediate access to the securable compartment. The medical supply station further includes an image capturing device, coupled to the critical access module, configured to capture at least one image of an area proximal to the medical supply station in response to actuation of the critical access module.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2013
    Assignee: CareFusion 303, Inc.
    Inventor: Graham Ross
  • Publication number: 20130229258
    Abstract: A method for configuring a transmitter device to transmit a recognized transmission to a receiving device is provided. The method includes transmitting a first transmission and transmitting a second transmission after the first transmission. The method further includes receiving, during the second transmission, a user input signal from an interface for receiving signals from one or more user interface elements. The method further includes storing an attribute associated with the second transmission in a memory device in response to the user input signal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 25, 2013
    Publication date: September 5, 2013
    Inventors: Todd R. WITKOWSKI, Steven L. Geerlings
  • Publication number: 20130207775
    Abstract: A plurality of access models comprise patterns of accesses to resources protected by an Access Control System (ACS). The access models are used to classify the accesses to the resources as either normal or anomalous. The system stores attributes for the individuals for whom the access models are available, receives attributes of an individual not associated with an access model, and compares the attributes of the individual not associated with an access model to the attributes of the individuals for whom access models are available. The system further selects an access model for the individual not associated with an access model based on the comparison, and uses the selected access model for the individual not associated with an access model to classify access to the one or more resources protected by the ACS by the individual not associated with an access model as either normal or anomalous.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 15, 2012
    Publication date: August 15, 2013
    Applicant: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventors: Valerie Guralnik, Vit Libal
  • Patent number: 8502647
    Abstract: The invention relates to a machine tool 101 comprising a plurality of operation functions and a selection device 113a-113d for selecting one or more operation functions by a user. The machine tool 101 receives data from a mobile data carrier 311 via a reception device 112, on the basis of which it may be determined which operation functions may be performed by the user. In this process, an access control device 130 grants the user access to only those selected operation functions he or she is authorized to perform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2013
    Assignee: Deckel Maho Pfronten GmbH
    Inventors: Reinhold Seitz, Rudolf Hahn, Armin Bornemann
  • Patent number: 8502642
    Abstract: A system for controlling the use of electronic devices within an automobile includes a control module integrated into the operation of the automobile, wherein the control module is linked to the electrical system of the automobile and is controlled, monitored and updated via a graphical user interface of the automobiles. The control module includes a mechanism for identifying use of electronic devices within the automobile, determining whether the usage is permitted and preventing usage of the electronic device if it is determined the usage is not permitted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2013
    Assignee: Voxx International Corporation
    Inventor: Christopher J. Vitito
  • Patent number: 8487740
    Abstract: A vehicle function restriction system for installation in a vehicle. The vehicle includes a master key allowed to activate any function of the vehicle. The system includes a valet key mounted in the vehicle and configured to dismountable from the vehicle to be lent to a person to whom the vehicle is lent. A restriction setting unit sets the vehicle in a restriction state when the valet key is dismounted from the vehicle. The restriction setting unit sets at least one restricted vehicle functions which is not activated by the valet key, in accordance with the person to whom the vehicle is lent.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2013
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Tokai Rika Denki Seisakusho
    Inventors: Hiroshi Tsuruta, Kenji Suzuki
  • Patent number: 8482379
    Abstract: A method of using an electronic key for access to one or more mechatronic locks when the key moves from place to place, including the key periodically transmitting its geographical location to an access management server so as to allow said server to identify location coordinates for the key, and receiving an access profile from the server where the access profile includes a set of one or more cylinders accessible to the key and is based at least in part on the key's location. If the key's new location causes a change in access profile information associated with the key, the key's previous access profile is preferably replaced with the key's new access profile in an irreversible manner. The key preferably self-supervises its communications with the server by deactivating its access profile if it no longer receives information from the server for a predetermined period of time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2013
    Assignee: Videx, Inc.
    Inventors: Stephane Conreux, Arnaud Flecchia, Roland de la Chapelle
  • Publication number: 20130141211
    Abstract: The invention relates to a cleaning appliance, wherein in order to access same, an access authorization stored on an authorization carrier is required, the appliance including two or more authorization carriers with access authorizations stored thereon which are linked to different authorization profiles, and a detection unit for detecting the access authorization of an authorization carrier, wherein a range of functions dependent on the authorization profile linked to the access authorization can be provided to an operator by the cleaning appliance. In order to provide such a cleaning appliance which is more user-friendly in operation, it is proposed that each authorization carrier comprises an identification device for providing an identifier which is associated with the particular authorization profile of the authorization carrier and which is perceivable by the operator using a sensory organ, wherein identifiers associated with different authorization profiles are different from one another.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 24, 2013
    Publication date: June 6, 2013
    Applicant: Alfred Kärcher GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Alfred Kärcher GmbH & Co. KG
  • Patent number: 8451099
    Abstract: A method for duplicating electronic keys with mutual authentication includes: applying temporarily, to an original electronic key, an inductive reader for signals exchanged between the key transponder and the vehicle immobilizer control unit; activating the vehicle instrument panel at least twice with the original key to cause the inductive reader to acquire the RDN1, RDN2, SIG1 and SIG2 codes transmitted by the control unit; connecting the inductive reader to a transponder reader/writer to transfer all acquired data; determining the non-readable SK code of the immobilizer control unit via the reader/writer by using a function inverse to that creating the SIG code from the ID, RND, SK codes and the acquired data; reading from the original key, via the reader/writer, using the non-readable SK code, any other data memorized therein, reading the ID code from the original key, via the reader/writer; and memorizing in a new key all the read data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2013
    Assignee: SILCA S.p.A.
    Inventor: Michele Donadini
  • Patent number: 8441342
    Abstract: An electric circuit for a transponder (110) for communication with a base station (120), the electric circuit comprising a memory unit (111) adapted for storing communication related information, and a processor unit (112) adapted for altering an authentification code necessary for the base station (120) to get access to the memory (111) in accordance with a pseudo-random authentification code altering scheme.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2013
    Assignee: NXP B.V.
    Inventor: Franz Amtmann
  • Publication number: 20130088324
    Abstract: A system and method for training users of an access control system. In particular, the system and method allow for the imposition of “penalties” for improper behavior so as to balance the training of the user with the burden placed on the operators of the system reacting to violations, while allowing the users to accomplish their tasks. The system can also track the location of users or items, determine if a request to pass through a control point is proper based on various factors, and if appropriate, administer a “penalty” based on several contributing factors.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 11, 2011
    Publication date: April 11, 2013
    Inventor: Michael Morley
  • Patent number: 8406480
    Abstract: A solution for visual credential verification. The solution includes an apparatus, system, and method embodiment. The apparatus for visual credential verification includes an input module, a comparison module, and a response module. The input module receives from a security official an image of an unverified credential, such as a badge, that an individual has presented to the security official. The comparison module determines whether or not the unverified credential is valid or invalid. The determination includes comparing the image of the unverified credential with known good images of valid credentials. The comparison module may also compare authentication information such as a photo of the individual, a name, or a badge number, with known good authentication information. Based on the comparison module's determination, the response module notifies the security official that the unverified credential is either valid or invalid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2013
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Tavis M. Grigsby, Mark E. Peters
  • Patent number: 8378813
    Abstract: Disclosed is a tracking and Geofencing system. Zones are classified into three types: safe, hazardous and travel, with the travel zone being defined in the preferred embodiment as any territory not in a safe or hazardous zone. The system monitors an asset by determining whether the asset is within a safe zone, logging data as to when the asset arrives in or leaves the safe zone and at what time it did so, while in transit from the safe zone to a hazardous zone logging the route of travel which may vary from day to day and notifying the owner if the asset goes motionless while in route for a user defined period of time, logging data as to when the asset arrives and leaves a hazardous zone such as time and duration and alerting the owner if the asset has exceeded a predetermined time within a hazardous zone.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Inventor: Kenneth R. Bannard
  • Patent number: 8350677
    Abstract: A system includes an ordering module, an asset tagging module, a database, and a manufacturer server. The ordering module is configured to receive an order for a component from a web browser. The asset tagging module is configured to receive information for an asset tag from the web browser, and to receive a selection of a location on the component to place the asset tag. The database is configured to store the order for the component, the information for the asset tag, and the location of the asset tag on the component. The manufacturer server is configured to retrieve the order for the component, the information for the asset tag, and the location of the asset tag on the component, and to direct printing of the information on the asset tag and placement of the asset tag at the location on the component prior to placing the component in packaging for the component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2013
    Assignee: Dell Products, LP
    Inventors: John Mullin, David J. Trotter, John Herrick, Reza Koohrangpour, Stuart Ross Hobbie
  • Patent number: 8341695
    Abstract: An access control system, having at least one access control unit for securing a physical area and controlling entry into and egress out of the physical area, and an Ethernet routing device, is disclosed. The Ethernet routing device includes an access controller for determining access privileges to the physical area; an Ethernet switching unit for directing network communications between multiple network devices; at least one Ethernet connector for connecting the at least one access control unit to the Ethernet routing device; and an access control message interpreter for reading messages received, by way of the Ethernet connector, from the at least one access control unit and providing access control information contained in the messages to the access controller for access privilege determination.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2012
    Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventors: Beth A. B. Thomas, Steven L. Whitsitt
  • Patent number: 8339239
    Abstract: An embodiment of an electronic access control system includes an electronic key, an electronic lock, and an access control administration program. The electronic key can include program code for switching between a lock mode and a computer mode. In some embodiments, the lock mode and computer mode allow for simplified administration and operation of the access control system. Some embodiments of the electronic key include a rechargeable battery. In some embodiments, the access control system includes a hybrid power supply system having a rechargeable battery and a generator. In some embodiments, the electronic lock includes a piezoelectric latch. In some embodiments, the electronic key is configured to act as a storage device for a computer system. Some embodiments provide an electronic access control system with a streamlined user interface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2012
    Inventor: Gregory Paul Kirkjan
  • Patent number: 8294550
    Abstract: An authentication system is provided with a room-security device, and an information processing apparatus installed in a controlled area controlled by the room-security device, in which the room-security device and the information processing apparatus are connected in a network. The room-security device obtains, from a user, identification information, and transmits the identification information to the information processing apparatus, if the user is permitted to enter a room based on the obtained identification information. The information processing apparatus receives the identification information. If it is detected that the user is alone in the controlled area based on the received identification information, the information processing apparatus performs authentication based on the received identification information instead of asking the user to enter authentication information to obtain the authentication information.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2012
    Assignee: Konica Minolta Business Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Haruna Sasakuma
  • Publication number: 20120262270
    Abstract: Methods for configuring one or more access points between adjacent zones of different types at an airport facility are disclosed. One method includes determining an access point type based on a security level of a first zone on a first side of the access point and a second security level of a second zone on a second side of the access point. The method also includes selecting one or more security features for use at the access point. The method further includes applying the one or more security features at the first and second sides of the access point.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 17, 2011
    Publication date: October 18, 2012
    Inventor: Stephen L. McNally
  • Patent number: 8280580
    Abstract: A system and method for controlling the operation of stabilizing the movement of a vehicle between primary and secondary drivers is provided. A primary key is adapted to be associated to the primary driver. A secondary key is adapted to be associated to the secondary driver. A key ignition device is positioned on the primary and secondary keys and is configured to generate driver status signals indicative of whether the driver is a primary or secondary driver. The controller is adapted to determine whether the driver of the vehicle is the primary driver or the secondary driver based on the driver status signals. The controller is further adapted to stabilize the movement of the vehicle. The controller is further adapted to selectively control the operation of stabilizing the movement of the vehicle in response to the driver status signals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2012
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Thomas Lee Miller, Matthew J. Dalebout, Anthony Dwayne Cooprider, Ronald Patrick Brombach, Kevin Thomas Hille, Karl William Wojcik, Terry Thomas Cwik, John Robert Van Wiemeersch
  • Patent number: 8248206
    Abstract: In a key management box for centrally managing keys used to unlock the locks of a plurality of storage cabinets and comprising a key lock means for making impossible to take out the key, and electronic ID storage section performing personal authentication, and a controller for unlocking the key lock means for a key permitted for a personally authenticated user, the key is an electronic key with an IC tag, the IC tag stores the ID data of a user and data for specifying a storage cabinet permitted for the user to unlock out of a plurality of storage cabinets, and the key management box has a means for reading out the ID data of the IC tag, and a means for unlocking a lock means for a key having the ID data of the user when the electronic key ID storage section identifies a specific user. Consequently, the storage cabinets of the plurality of storage cabinets can be opened/close using one same key.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2012
    Assignee: Tokai Riken Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Akihiro Sato, Masami Umemura, Tsutomu Toki, Shigeo Fujiyoshi, Yoshiaki Muto, Nobuhiko Segi
  • Patent number: 8237554
    Abstract: In at least one embodiment, a method for programming keys to a vehicle to establish primary keys and secondary keys to control vehicle functionality is disclosed. The method comprises receiving a key identification signal from a first key. The method further comprises generating a key status signal indicative of whether the first key is one of a primary key and a secondary key in response to the key identification signal. The method further comprises transmitting the key status signal to a vehicle interface display. The method further comprises allowing a user to change a status of at least one of the first key and an additional key with the vehicle interface display in response to determining that the key status signal corresponds to the primary key.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2012
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Thomas Lee Miller, Brian Bennie, Scott Alan Watkins, Michael L. Gusta, Eric L. Reed
  • Patent number: 8232866
    Abstract: Systems and methods for remote, long standoff biometric identification using microwave cardiac signals are provided. In one embodiment, the invention relates to a method for remote biometric identification using microwave cardiac signals, the method including generating and directing first microwave energy in a direction of a person, receiving microwave energy reflected from the person, the reflected microwave energy indicative of cardiac characteristics of the person, segmenting a signal indicative of the reflected microwave energy into a waveform including a plurality of heart beats, identifying patterns in the microwave heart beats waveform, and identifying the person based on the identified patterns and a stored microwave heart beats waveform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2012
    Assignee: California Institute of Technology
    Inventors: William R. McGrath, Ashit Talukder
  • Patent number: 8232861
    Abstract: A remote controller for controlling a selected electric appliance includes a code input interface for inputting an control identification code of the selected electric appliance, a instruction input interface for inputting a function instruction for controlling the operation of the electric appliance, a wireless transmission module for outputting wireless signals, and a control module for controlling the wireless transmission module to output a corresponding control identification code signal after the code input interface receives the control identification code of the electric appliance, and the control module also for controlling the wireless transmission module to output a corresponding function instruction signal after the instruction input interface receives the function instruction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2012
    Assignee: Watonga Technology, Inc.
    Inventor: Hsien-Chun Tsou
  • Patent number: 8232865
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for wirelessly performing identification. A wireless communications apparatus comprising a cellular receiver communicatively coupled to the processing unit and a first antenna and configured to perform wireless communications via the antenna using a first protocol. The wireless apparatus further contains a short range wireless communications module coupled to a second antenna and configured to perform wireless communications via the second antenna by modulating a radio frequency field using a second protocol, the second protocol being different than the first protocol. In accordance with the second protocol the short-range wireless communications apparatus uses a random number as an identifier of the short-range wireless communications apparatus. The wireless device employs a location determining unit and a communication port configured to provide a control signal to a second device via a wired connection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2012
    Assignee: Round Rock Research, LLC
    Inventor: Benjamin G. Bates
  • Patent number: 8188840
    Abstract: An authenticating method includes enabling a transponder to receive a read request that contains an authentication code, enabling the transponder to extract the authentication code from the read request, enabling the transponder to generate and wirelessly transmit a reply signal that contains the authentication code, and enabling a reader to authenticate the transponder based on the authentication code contained in the reply signal. An identification system, which includes the transponder and the reader is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2012
    Assignee: Userstar Information System Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yin-Hung Tseng, Sheng-Chun Hsu
  • Patent number: 8179227
    Abstract: The present invention advantageously provides a flexible system and method for a security system having a control panel with control information for performing security operations, and a token having its own control information, such that the panel reads control information from the token and determines if the token is authentic, and, if it is, the panel updates its control information in accordance with the token's control information and performs the security operations based on its updated control information, and the updated control information is copied from the panel to the token.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2012
    Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventor: John A Dziadosz
  • Publication number: 20120075059
    Abstract: A security system may include a plurality of electronic devices, each having a unique identification (ID) associated therewith and configured to generate a temporary security code based upon the unique ID. The system may further include at least one mobile wireless communications device including a first Near-Field Communication (NFC) circuit, and a mobile controller configured to receive the temporary security code from a given electronic device from among the plurality of electronic devices. The system may also include an access control device associated with a personnel access position and including a second NFC sensor and a security controller. The security controller may be configured to receive the temporary security code from the first NFC sensor via NFC communications, selectively grant personnel access based upon the received temporary security code, and determine the unique ID associated with the given electronic device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 23, 2010
    Publication date: March 29, 2012
    Applicant: Research In Motion Limited
    Inventors: Steve Henry Fyke, Jason Tyler Griffin
  • Patent number: 8143995
    Abstract: A control device, method and system for controlling data exchange between entities and item identification devices associated with said control device; said entities having an associated data exchange means for exchanging data with item identification devices; said data exchange means being arranged to provide authentication data indicative of the entity with which they are associated; and said control device comprising means for enabling exchange of data between said item identification devices and the entity with which said data exchange means is associated in accordance with an applicable access policy for that entity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2012
    Assignee: British Telecommunications public limited company
    Inventors: Andrea Soppera, Trevor Burbridge, Vivekanand Korgaonkar
  • Patent number: 8130077
    Abstract: In one aspect, a wireless communications device includes a processing unit; memory communicatively coupled to the processing unit; at least one antenna; a cellular receiver communicatively coupled to the processing unit and the at least one antenna to perform wireless communications using a first protocol; and an identification device communicatively coupled to the processing unit and the at least one antenna to perform wireless communications by modulating a received signal using a second protocol different than the first protocol. The wireless communications device may further include a location-determining system communicatively coupled to the processing unit to determine a current location of the wireless communications device using a global positioning system (GPS), to allow the processing unit to perform a control operation based on the current location of the wireless communications device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2012
    Assignee: Round Rock Research, LLC
    Inventor: Benjamin G. Bates
  • Publication number: 20120050008
    Abstract: Methods and systems for secure pass-set entry are disclosed. In one example, an authenticator device is configured to generate a pass-set menu to output in visual format on the display. An I/O device is configured to output audio corresponding to the pass-set menu to the user. A user input interface is configured to receive user actions to navigate the pass-set menu and receive user menu selections.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 31, 2010
    Publication date: March 1, 2012
    Applicant: PLANTRONICS, INC.
    Inventor: Douglas Rosener
  • Patent number: 8121628
    Abstract: A method for deferring a telematics data upload from a vehicle equipped with wireless telephony and wireless networking communications devices. The method steps include detecting the availability of a connection to one or more wireless networks along with an associated time of day during which the connection is available, determining that one of the one or more wireless networks is periodically available at a particular time of day, receiving a request to upload data from the vehicle to a central facility via a wireless telephony connection, delaying the data upload until the particular time of day, and uploading the data to the central facility via a wireless network connection to the previously determined particular wireless network.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2012
    Assignee: General Motors LLC
    Inventor: Thomas K. Mauti, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20120038454
    Abstract: An access control system includes: a lock control apparatus, an authentication terminal and a terminal to be authenticated; said authentication terminal sends own identity information to the lock control apparatus to be authenticated, and generates a random authorization code after receiving an authentication passing message responded by said lock control apparatus, and sends it to said terminal to be authenticated and lock control apparatus respectively; said lock control apparatus stores the identity information of a legal user, and authenticates the identity information sent by said authentication terminal, and responds said authentication passing message after passing authentication; and the lock control apparatus interworks with said terminal to be authenticated after receiving said random authorization code, and if judging that both of the random authorization codes are consistent, then unlocks; said terminal to be authenticated stores a received random authorization code, and interworks said random aut
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 6, 2010
    Publication date: February 16, 2012
    Applicant: ZTE CORPORATION
    Inventor: Chengliang Cai
  • Patent number: 8093986
    Abstract: A self-powered electronic lock is provided having a housing, a lock element mounted in the housing for movement relative to the housing between a locked position and an unlocked position, a code input device operating with a first set of electronics, and an electric actuator operating with a second set of electronics. The electric actuator is operatively coupled with the lock element to allow movement of the lock element from the locked position to the unlocked position. A first electric power generator is operative by a user to supply electrical power for operating the code input device and the first set of electronics. A second electric power generator is operative to supply electrical power for operating the electric actuator and the second set of electronics. The first and the second set of electronics are electrically isolated and are synchronized to generate a common number for a combination code.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 20, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2012
    Assignee: Lock II, L.L.C.
    Inventor: Michael P. Harvey