Abstract: A system and method for remote activation of a device includes, in one embodiment, transmitting a command message according to a first modulation, and transmitting a signal representing the command message for the device according to a second modulation. The signal representing the command message transmitted according to the second modulation may be transmitted within the command message transmitted according to the first modulation.

Abstract: A method for training a trainable transmitter in a vehicle that includes receiving a request to enter a training mode of the trainable transmitter from a user, beginning a training mode of the trainable transmitter, receiving a control signal from an original transmitter associated with a remote control system, detecting a frequency and control data of the control signal. The method further includes determining if the control signal is a fixed code signal or a rolling code signal. If the control signal is a fixed code signal, storing the detected frequency and control data. If the control signal is a rolling code signal, comparing the detected control signal frequency to a plurality of predetermined frequencies and based on the comparison, shifting the detected frequency to match one of the predetermined frequencies.

Abstract: A programmable remote control automatically learns characteristics necessary to generate an appliance activation signal. A sensor is positioned proximate to the appliance. A sequence of different activation signals is transmitted. A determination as to which signal activated the appliance is made based on a received sensor signal. Data representing the determined activation scheme is associated with an activation input.

Abstract: A water treatment apparatus programmable pass key comprising a data carrier programmed with one or more predetermined codes, each code relating to an operation in or of the water treatment apparatus.

Abstract: A method of controlling access to an area accessible by persons, particularly to a space closed by a door, includes providing a first mobile communications unit on which at least one access code is filed, at least one second mobile communications unit and a receiver unit for receiving the access code. The access code is transmitted by the first communications unit to the second communications unit. The access code is transmitted to the receiver unit by this second communications unit. After a successful checking of the access code by the receiver unit the door access is freed.

Abstract: Medium-range and global network information and control for a vehicle is achieved with a portable wireless key fob, a user-provided nomadic device, and a vehicle-installed telematics unit including a medium-range RF transceiver and a wireless network transceiver. The fob includes a medium-range RF transceiver for bi-directional communication with the telematics unit, and a short-range wireless transceiver for bi-directional communication with the nomadic device. The fob communicates with the telematics unit in a conventional manner, and also relays information between the telematics unit and the nomadic device. If a communication initiated via the fob cannot be completed because the fob is out of range, the communication is sent to the nomadic device for network transmission to the telematics unit. If a communication initiated via the nomadic device cannot be completed due to inadequate signal reception, the communication is sent to the fob for RF transmission to the telematics unit.

Abstract: A system and method of providing security for a vehicle starting system. The method including a first step of storing secure information identifying an authorized user of a vehicle. A next step includes detecting an attempt to start a vehicle without an authorized coded starting device. A next step includes placing a telephone call using a vehicle communication device to a service operator requesting service. A next step includes calling the vehicle by the service operator. A next step includes confirming the particular user of the vehicle using the stored information. A next step includes authorizing the starting of the vehicle. Unauthorized coded starting devices can include a non-programmable key, an unprogrammed programmable key, and a code scanning device.

Abstract: The invention concerns a method of verifying the proper working of a transponder mounted on a rotating mobile element of a vehicle, characterized in that it includes the steps of: a) measuring a temperature value by means of a temperature sensor connected to the transponder; b) detecting breach of a overheat threshold; c) a monitoring operation carried out by a reader arranged in the vehicle and provided for communicating with the transponder, consisting in executing a command on one of the temperature sensitive elements of the transponder; d) the reader determining the state of the transponder as a function of the response or absence of any response to the command to be executed: (i) if the response is correct, the transponder is operational; (ii) if the response is incorrect, or in the absence of any response, the transponder is not operational.

Abstract: Vehicle-based programmable appliance control systems and methods include a user control module and a transmitter module which are remotely located from one another. A wired connection, such as a vehicle wiring harness, directly interconnects the modules. The wired connection has two ends and is assigned solely to the modules as the user control module is connected to one end of the wired connection and the transmitter module is connected to the other end of the wired connection. The user control module includes a user control and the transmitter module includes a radio frequency transmitter. The user control module transmits a user activation signal based on assertion of the user control to the transmitter module for receipt by the transmitter via the wired connection. The transmitter transmits a radio frequency appliance activation signal based on the received user activation signal in order to activate an appliance.

Abstract: A method of using an electronic locking system to access one of a plurality of lockers includes programming the electronic locking system by recording at least one biometric characteristic of a user when the user is located at the plurality of lockers, and associating the recorded at least one biometric characteristic of the user with the one of a plurality of lockers so that the user is authorized to access the one of a plurality of lockers. The method includes re-recording the at least one biometric characteristic of the user and comparing the re-recorded at least one biometric characteristic of the user with the recorded at least one biometric characteristic of the user, and unlocking the one of a plurality of lockers if the re-recorded at least one biometric characteristic of the user matches the recorded at least one biometric characteristic of the user.

Abstract: An electronic lock utilizes two microprocessors remote from each other for enhanced security. The first microprocessor is disposed close to an input device such as a keypad, and the second microprocessor is disposed close to the lock mechanism and well protected from external access. The first microprocessor transmits a communication code to the second microprocessor when it receives via the input device an access code that matches a preset access code. The second microprocessor opens the lock if the transmitted communication code matches a preset communication code. The dual-microprocessor arrangement is advantageously used in a voice controlled access control system and in a motorcycle ignition control system. The present invention further provides an electronic access control system which has a master electronic key having a preset number of access, and an electronic alarm system for a bicycle that has a remote control mounted in the helmet of the rider.

Abstract: A remote control system for moving an access door includes an indicator, at least one uniquely coded remote transmitter, and a controller that is switchable to a learning mode for learning a unique code of a remote transmitter to define a learned remote transmitter. The controller is switchable to a door moving mode based upon receiving a signal from the learned remote transmitter. The controller cooperates with the indicator for indicating whether a new uniquely coded remote transmitter has been learned based upon the controller being switched to the door moving mode to thereby alert a user of a potentially unauthorized learned remote transmitter. Alternately, a remote switch may be used to activate the indicator.

Abstract: Operating parameters as were previously learned by a first movable barrier operator (18) are transferred to a second movable barrier operator (10) such as, for example, to a replacement movable barrier operator. Pursuant to a preferred approach, such information transfer occurs via a receiver interface (13) that ordinarily serves to couple the movable barrier operator (10) to one or more remote user interfaces (11). Pursuant to one approach this transfer occurs during a learning mode of operation.

Abstract: A vehicle is disclosed which includes a controller having at least one of a vehicle security module and a playback module. The vehicle security module may operate in a secure once mode of operation or in a secure all mode of operation. The playback module records ride information associated with the vehicle. The ride information may be provided to an external device.

Abstract: An electronic lock utilizes two microprocessors remote from each other for enhanced security. The first microprocessor is disposed close to an input device such as a keypad, and the second microprocessor is disposed close to the lock mechanism and well protected from external access. The first microprocessor transmits a communication code to the second microprocessor when it receives via the input device an access code that matches a preset access code. The second microprocessor opens the lock if the transmitted communication code matches a preset communication code. The dual-microprocessor arrangement is advantageously used in a voice controlled access control system and in a motorcycle ignition control system. The present invention further provides an electronic access control system which has a master electronic key having a preset number of access, and an electronic alarm system for a bicycle that has a remote control mounted in the helmet of the rider.

Abstract: A remote control system for operating a controllable unit includes a remote control device and a remotely-controlled device. A method for operating the remote control system includes the steps of transmitting a signal from the remote control device to the remotely-controlled device, transmitting a command signal from the remote control device to the remotely-controlled device, selectively transmitting an authorization request signal from the remotely-controlled device, transmitting a response signal from the remote control device to the remotely-controlled device, and verifying the response signal of the remote control device by the remotely-controlled device such that a controllable unit can be driven by the remotely-controlled device.

Abstract: There is provided an inexpensive and easy-to-use security system whose setting can be changed freely by a user using a target to be managed by the security system and whose presence is not easily perceived by an intruder. The security system comprises security targets and a management system which manages the security targets. The security target comprises a plurality of activation switches which generate activation signals and a plurality of partial signal generating sections that generate partial signals which can constitute a predetermined sequence signal upon receipt of activation signals generated from the activation switches, in accordance with predetermined relationships with these activation switches. The management system compares partial signals generated from the partial signal generating sections with predetermined sequence information and gives an alarm when they do not match each other.

Abstract: A process for tracking an object within an inventory control space is provided. The space is illustratively a medical care delivery setting. An active radiofrequency (RFID) tag is encoded with a single-use code and associated with an inventory item. After a trigger event, the RFID tag transmits a modified broadcast. The single-use code that is a new number with at least one sparse digit or a new secondary number with a retained primary digit. An RFID tag configured to retain such a code scheme is provided. A hospital inventory item labeled with such an RFID tag is also provided.

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.

Abstract: Methods are described for securing access to an electronic annotation provided on an object. The methods include the steps of providing the object with a plurality of memory tags, providing an electronic annotation on at least one of the memory tags, and defining a sequence in which the memory tags must be accessed in order to access the annotation. A corresponding object is also described.

Abstract: Actuating a security system includes providing a first set of access codes to a wireless device and causing the wireless device to transmit the first set of access codes to a first controller that actuates the security system. The first set of access codes provided to the wireless device may expire. Actuating a security system may also include providing expiration dates for each of the first set of access codes provided to the wireless device. Actuating a security system may also include examining each of the expiration dates and, in response to a particular expiration date being prior to a current date, erasing from the wireless device a particular one of the first set of access codes that corresponds to the particular expiration date.

Abstract: An electronic security system. The system includes a plurality of electronic security devices. Each of these devices includes an input/output module that receives and decodes electronic signals and governs the functionality of the electronic security device. The system also includes a power supply module. The power supply module sends electrical power and modulated commands to the plurality of electronic security devices over power lines.

Abstract: An electronic device includes: a memory storing a first lock release code; a comparing portion comparing the first lock release code with a second lock release code that is input with an input device; a controlling portion releasing a lock if the comparing portion finds that the first lock release code matches the second lock release code, and permitting the electronic device to operate normally; and a lock release portion releasing the lock, even if the comparing portion finds that the first lock release code does not match the second lock release code, or no code input is made, when a first predetermined time elapses from a predetermined time point.

Abstract: A system, method, and apparatus for controlling consumer electronic (CE) devices are provided. A remote control unit controls one or more CE devices by obtaining control information necessary to control each CE device from a Consumer Electronic Device Control Database (CEDB). A CEDB provides control information, such as command codes and metadata, for various CE devices as well as providing a mapping between CE device types, CE brands, and particular CE devices. A remote control unit accesses the records provided by a CEDB to provide automatic and programistic control of CE devices.

Abstract: A method and system of teaching identification codes for a tire pressure monitoring system includes the steps of transmitting a prompt signal that includes a location identifier. This prompt signal instructs the tire pressure monitoring sensor to transmit an initialization signal. The initialization signal includes the location identifier. A factory receiver is set up to recognize transmissions that include a corresponding location identifier. The receiver disregards all other transmissions that do not include the corresponding desired location identifier.

Abstract: A check-in method for airlines allows passengers to use Short Message Service (SMS) to check-in themselves and baggage. A passenger requests to check-in via SMS from practically anywhere and not limited to the airport. After receipt of the request, a confirmation message is sent back to the passenger's registered mobile phone number by SMS. The system will ask the passenger for, and receive from the passenger, the number of bags they intend to check-in for the flight. The passengers can in some embodiments drop the baggage off without any required further action. The system issues an SMS-based cryptographically secure code, such as a bar-code boarding pass to the passenger once the baggage (if any) is successfully transferred and registered to existing baggage management systems through the process above. This code, when scanned, recognized and authenticated provides identification and security clearance for the passenger to board the aircraft.

Abstract: A system for updating remote control devices includes a portable programmable medium having a data storage device for storing data. The control devices include a processor or a computer having a data storage device for storing data. The system further includes a network for transferring data between a local reader and one or more remote control devices communicating via the network.

Abstract: The present invention provides a device, system, and method for identifying interconnect cables used in a network and the locations in the network where the interconnect cables are deployed. The identification information may be used to audit, for example, patch panel connections in a computer or communications network. The preferred embodiments include RFID transponders incorporated at the cable ends. An RFID scanner is used to interrogate the transponders, and the retrieved information is stored and acted on as appropriate. In a first embodiment, secondary contacts are used on the network components for mating with primary contacts on the cable ends in order to generate information as to the location where the cable ends are connected. In a second embodiment, memory modules are incorporated in the components for providing information reflective of connection locations.

Abstract: A locking digital pen system includes memory means which is available for storing user passwords for a plurality of users. When a user wishes to activate the digital pen, the user is enabled to use the digital pen to enter a password. After verification of the password, the pen is unlocked and the system associates the user with a matching digital signature certificate. When the user wishes to lock the pen, the user is enabled to actuate a button on the pen or provide an entry to a coupled computer to initiate a locking sequence. The system then disassociates the user from the digital signature certificates so the pen can no longer be used to digitally sign documents and the pen enters a locked state. In another embodiment, an authorized user may disable the unlocking function of the pen whereby the pen may not be unlocked by entry of a password but rather only when a special code is entered into the system.

Abstract: The invention relates to a system for detecting the presence of a user, in particular in relation to a motor vehicle door. The inventive system comprises: a handle (1) which is mounted on the door, and a presence sensing device comprising a control module, a sending electrode (7) and a reference electrode (6), each of said electrodes being connected to the control module and being disposed, at least in part, at the handle. The inventive system can be used to connect the aforementioned electrodes electromagnetically to one another in order to define a user presence detection zone. The detection of the user in said zone enables at least one given vehicle function to be controlled. According to the invention, the system also comprises means of creating at least one user presence non-detection zoned (10) through the local modification of the presence detection zone.

Abstract: An operating system for a motorized barrier includes an operator for controlling movement of the barrier between various positions. The operator may receive wireless signals from a wireless or wired wall station transmitter, a wireless keyless entry device and/or a portable remote transmitter device. The system also includes a device such as a light kit or switch that controls a load, wherein the device is capable of also receiving wireless signals to control the kit or the load. And the transmitters are capable of generating wireless signals receivable by the operator and the device for independent operation of each.

Abstract: A sensor panel having a matrix of independently decoded sensors, arranged in a two-dimensional pattern allows a consumer identification unit (CIDU) to detect a user-specific gesture made with a gesturing instrument such as an RF ID device. The CIDU monitors on a timed basis which of the sensors in the panel are receiving a signal from an RF ID device which has entered the proximity of one or more of the sensors. The user moves the sensor in a two-dimensional pattern to perform a “gesture signature” in free space near the panel, and the CIDU records the sequence of receiving sensors. This sequence can then be quickly and efficiently handled as a number to be looked up to identify and authenticate the user. Preferably, the user is allowed to define multiple signature gestures, each having the possibility of being associated with a transaction or authorization level.

Abstract: In one embodiment, at least one information control device manages the content displayed on multiple separate portable, content adjustable personal identification devices. The information control device automatically selects at least one content specification for transmission to any portable, content adjustable personal identification devices moving either into or out of a particular area delimited by a boundary secured by the information control device. The information control device then transmits the selected content specification for detection by portable, content adjustable personal identification devices, wherein the content specification directs display of identification content on each of the portable, content adjustable personal identification devices.

Abstract: A vehicle antitheft device includes a first electric device signal detection circuit for detecting a first signal generated by the operational state of a first electric device and a second electric device signal detection circuit for detecting a second signal generated by the operational state of a second electric device. The first and second signals are combined to provide an input code. When the input code matches with a predetermined first ID authentication code, start-up of an engine of the vehicle is permitted. Accordingly, the vehicle antitheft device provides an increased number of codes for enabling or disabling an immobilizer function of the vehicle antitheft device, thereby effectively preventing theft of the vehicle.

Abstract: A delivery system, comprising the steps of: assigning field personnel to provide a delivery or service at a designated location; traveling to the designated location to provide an on-site delivery or service; remotely actuating an opening mechanism to open an emergency exit door; entering the designated location through the door opening; providing a delivery or service at the designated location; and closing the emergency exit door after the delivery or service has been substantially completed.

Abstract: A lock includes two independently operating locking mechanism, one locking mechanism operating electronically and one locking mechanism operating mechanically. The lock may include a device for receiving and decoding an electronic unlock signal and a memory source for storing multiple unique unlock signals. The electronic signal may be generated from a remote source or on the lock itself. The lock also may include a button that allows unique unlock signals to be added or deleted from the lock memory.

Abstract: A method for training a trainable transmitter in a vehicle that includes receiving a request to enter a training mode of the trainable transmitter from a user, beginning a training mode of the trainable transmitter, receiving a control signal from an original transmitter associated with a remote control system, detecting a frequency and control data of the control signal. The method further includes determining if the control signal is a fixed code signal or a rolling code signal. If the control signal is a fixed code signal, storing the detected frequency and control data. If the control signal is a rolling code signal, comparing the detected control signal frequency to a plurality of predetermined frequencies and based on the comparison, shifting the detected frequency to match one of the predetermined frequencies.

Abstract: A system commands a movable barrier operator to control movement of a movable barrier and perform additional movable barrier functions. An identification transmitter wirelessly transmits an identification signal, where the identification signal comprises a code. A primary transmitter stores at least one vehicle identification code corresponding to a specific vehicle and receives a request to transmit a wireless control signal to the movable barrier operator to command the movable barrier operator to perform the at least one of the additional movable barrier functions. The primary transmitter also transmits the wireless control signal in response to receiving the request, detecting the identification signal, and determining that the code of the identification signal matches the at least one vehicle identification code.

Abstract: A security system having security devices with hierarchical levels of access provided to coded keys which may be hand held transmitter units, is disclosed. The levels of access are master which is restricted to the manufacturer, seller and installer, supervisor which can be allocated to a site, and user which is usually specific to one security device only. The security devices can be programmed to be responsive to all of the supervisor coded keys and/or user coded keys, or a user coded key only. The security system can be used in a method of securing all vehicles at a car sales, where all of the vehicles can have their security devices programmed to be responsive to supervisor coded keys specific to the car sales site. When a vehicle is sold, its security device can be reprogrammed to be responsive to specific user coded keys only.

Abstract: A security system to create and maintain a secure communication link between a remote secure storage site and a law enforcement office using a continuous prearranged encrypted signal on the communication link. The authenticity of the encrypted signal is validated at the law enforcement office. Interruption of the encrypted signal is treated as an alarm that must be investigated. Sensors at the remote secure storage site detect intrusions and trigger the transmission of an alarm signal from the site to the law enforcement office on the communication link. The law enforcement office may enable video cameras or containment devices in the event of an intrusion.

Abstract: Methods, systems and computer program products provide time-restricted passcode access to a restricted access area by: (a) electronically generating a time-limited visitor access passcode that is operational for a security system for a limited time duration; then (b) electronically accepting the visitor access passcode in a security entry control access device in communication with the security system to allow a user with the visitor access passcode a time-limited entry to a restricted area; then (c) automatically electronically preventing user access to the restricted area using the visitor access passcode with the security entry control access device after a certain time or expiration of a certain time period. Embodiments of the invention may be particularly useful for allowing visiting meeting participants physical access to a restricted area in a building to attend a scheduled meeting.

Abstract: A device has (1) an electronic key that transmits a wireless coded signal and (2) at least one tool that can receive that signal. The coded signal is compared to a coded signal stored in said tool. If the coded signal matches the stored signal, a switch is closed for a predetermined amount of time. An on/off switch then enables the user of the tool to turn the tool on and off during the predetermined amount of time. After the predetermined amount of time, the switch is opened so that the tool can no longer be used. Opening the switch may be delayed if the tool is in use. The tool may also contain a unique identification code that can be read by various electronic means to identify the tool.

Abstract: An electronic lock utilizes two microprocessors remote from each other for enhanced security. The first microprocessor is disposed close to an input device such as a keypad, and the second microprocessor is disposed close to the lock mechanism and well protected from external access. The first microprocessor transmits a communication code to the second microprocessor when it receives via the input device an access code that matches a preset access code. The second microprocessor opens the lock if the transmitted communication code matches a preset communication code. The dual-microprocessor arrangement is advantageously used in a voice controlled access control system and in a motorcycle ignition control system. The present invention further provides an electronic access control system which has a master electronic key having a preset number of access, and an electronic alarm system for a bicycle that has a remote control mounted in the helmet of the rider.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for activating an optical media device with a conditional access mechanism is presented. The optical media device is configured with a conditional access system such as an optical shutter assembly and the apparatus is configured to receive such an optical media device and establish communication with the optical media device. The apparatus may include one or more electrodes that are positioned such that they come into physical or near physical contact with a corresponding electrode on the optical media device and thereby establish electrical communication. The apparatus may also be configured to send and receive acoustical signals to establish an acoustical communication path with the optical media device. A data communication path may also be established between the optical media device and the apparatus. Upon establishing communication with the optical media device, the apparatus may send an activation signal to the optical media device to activate the conditional access system.

Abstract: A method and related system for enabling receipt and storage of data by an operator from at least two types of transmitters, is disclosed. The method includes designating a number of records in a memory array; sub-dividing the memory array into at least two groups, wherein each group is associated with a specific type of transmitter. The method concludes by determining whether one of the number of records is available for writing of data to a specific one of the transmitters.

Abstract: A vehicle-based control system and method for use with a barrier operating system that includes a motor, a receiver in communication with the motor, and a remote transmitter for transmitting an activation signal to the receiver. The activation signal includes a radio frequency carrier signal modulated with a codeword for use in activating the motor to open and close the barrier. A vehicle-mounted transceiver receives multiple radio frequency carrier signals, and transmits an activation signal for receipt by the barrier operating system receiver. A vehicle-mounted controller stores the received radio frequency carrier signals, and receives user input identifying an activation scheme having a variable codeword format.

Abstract: Exemplary embodiments of the present invention include a method for creating a user metric pattern. Such embodiments typically include receiving, within the network, a plurality of disparate user metrics, determining that the plurality of disparate user metrics received within the network do not match a predetermined metric pattern, and saving the plurality of disparate user metrics as a new metric pattern. In many embodiments, determining that the plurality of disparate user metrics received within the network do not match a predetermined metric pattern includes comparing the plurality of disparate user metrics with a plurality of metrics associated with the predetermined metric pattern.

Abstract: A system and method for wireless activation of a target. A communication device transmits an ID associated with the target to a network operations center. The network operations center provides an activation signal to the communication device. The communication device wirelessly transmits an acoustic activation signal to a nearby activation device. The activation device is positioned proximate the target and causes a change in at least one physical property of the target. The target may be an optical media containing an electrochromic material with optical properties that change on application of an electric signal.

Abstract: An electronic lock module consisting of a series of electronic buttons used for entering a lock combination; LEDs for monitoring the status; a piezo-buzzer to provide audio feedback; a microcontroller circuit to process the input; a locking mechanism in the form of a combination cam and latching solenoid to actuate the mechanical interface which actually unlocks the lock; other components such as battery power and miscellaneous hardware round up the main parts. By pressing the buttons in a certain sequence, a code is sent to the microcontroller circuit which interprets it as valid or not in order to trigger or not the unlocking process. The mechanical interface is designed to be compatible with the ILCO mechanical locks so as to replace their current mechanical locking means. Of course, this present invention can be combined with newly created mechanical components so that this present invention can be used both as a retrofit or as a complete standalone lock.

Abstract: A wireless control system for a vehicle includes a controller provided in a vehicle for controlling a vehicle component in response to a first signal transmitted from a first transmitter and a transceiver provided in the vehicle for receiving a second signal from a second transmitter. The second signal differs from the first signal. The transceiver is configured to transmit a third signal to the controller in response to the second signal, the third signal emulating at least a portion of the first signal.