Abstract: A method for the start-up of a lighting system having lamps and a central control system, wherein each lamp has an identification code independently of its position and a position code assigned by a control device, has the following steps: a) Separating the lamps into two groups by putting one group in a first state and the other group in a second state, b) selecting one of the lamps and entering its state into the operating device selecting the group of lamps that has the same state as the selected lamp for further steps, while the other group is no longer considered, d) when the selected group does not only have the selected lamp, the steps a)-d) are carried out again e) assigning the position code to the remaining lamp, to bring the code directly into relation with the identification code, f) carrying out the steps a)-e) for further lamps.

Abstract: A method includes receiving wireless signals from a device at a wireless access point associated with a wireless network. The method also includes estimating a location of the device and determining whether the estimated location is within a specified area. In addition, the method includes allowing the device to communicate over the wireless network in response to determining that the estimated location is within the specified area. Estimating the device's location could include estimating a direction of the device with respect to the wireless access point and/or estimating a distance of the device from the wireless access point. Estimating the direction of the device could include using a direction of arrival of at least one wireless message received at the wireless access point from the device. Estimating the distance of the device could include transmitting multiple messages to the device at different power levels and receiving one or more responses from the device.

Abstract: A registering and counting system operated in response to information included on data bearing records is used for maintaining inventory records related to narcotics items. Data corresponding to users is read through record reading devices (448, 452). Authorized users are allowed access to a narcotics vault (402). Narcotics holding containers (422) are removable from storage locations in drawers (416). Wireless transmitters on the containers operate in conjunction with wireless readers in the storage locations to enable a computer (458) to track the use of the narcotics items and operating parameters of the system.

Abstract: Method for assuring that the operator of a vehicle is an authorized driver, the method including utilizing an onboard, multi-mode driver identification system to ascertain whether an operator is an authorized driver. A first driver identification procedure is performed on a present operator of the vehicle and determining whether the present operator is an authorized or unauthorized driver of the vehicle. A second driver identification procedure is performed on the present operator of the vehicle and determining whether the present operator is an authorized or unauthorized driver of the vehicle, wherein the first and second driver identification procedures are performed with a time interval therebetween, the time interval being dependent upon the nature of the work being performed by the operator.

Abstract: The present invention provides apparatus and methods for safety compliance in hazardous situations. The apparatus may include sensing means for detecting a first protective apparatus, means for detecting a subject, monitoring means for monitoring engagement of the protective apparatus with the subject; and a controller for controlling operability of a second apparatus according to the monitoring means. Embodiments of the invention include the protective apparatus being eyewear or attenuating sound or radiation. The apparatus may include a power source. The communication between the elements of the apparatus may be by any suitable means, whether fixed line, radio frequency, optical transmission, acoustical, or the like.

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.

Abstract: An alarm device is provided. The alarm device comprises a processor, an alerting component, a communication interface, and an alarm application. The communication interface receives messages encapsulating an alarm control message from a third party. The alarm application, when executed by the processor, receives the message from the communication interface, validates the message based on a code embedded in the message, parses a body of the message to extract the encapsulated alarm control message, schedules an alarm event based on the body of the message, and activates the alerting component when the alarm event occurs.

Abstract: A supply cabinet is fitted with an outer sensor and an inner sensor. The outer and inner sensor wirelessly sense inventory items tagged with radio frequency tags and in proximity of the sensors. A method of tracking inventory items stored in a supply cabinet includes determining, based on time sequencing of sensing by the outer and the inner sensor, if an inventory item was removed from the cabinet or stored into the cabinet, and updating an inventory database accordingly. An alarm is optionally triggered if an inventory item is removed by an unauthorized user.

Abstract: A body-mounted electronic audio device playing prerecorded audio statements automatically issued as directed by wirelessly connected stationary computer decision-making using input from wearers and devices within the workplace environment to support to improve operational efficiency and effectiveness especially those in fast food stores.

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.

Abstract: Slaves are respectively provided corresponding to electric devices, measure, in real time, power usage states and disposed positions of the electric devices to transmit to a master. The master detects operational states of electric devices on operation based on power usage states received from the slaves, and detects a positional relation between electric devices on operation based on disposed positions of the electric devices. Then, the master estimates the number of residents in the house by determining achievability of operational states of electric devices based on the detected operational states and positional relation of electric devices.

Abstract: A RFID cabinet comprises a cabinet structure and one or more drawers or shelves. Chambers are formed within the cabinet to house the one or more drawers or shelves. An RFID scanner is configured to scan items tagged with RFID tags in the chambers via one or more antennas. The antennas can include transmit and receive antennas or antennas configured to perform both transmit and receive functions. The drawers can have a access cover, or lid that can be controlled so as to control access to the drawer. The scanner can be configured to perform inventory control for the tagged items.

Abstract: To improve communication between tags by causing a mobile object having a RFID tag attached to transmit an interrogating wave only when moving in a communication range to reduce power consumption and prevent occurrence of tag confusion. By acquiring two Doppler signals from 2-frequency transmission waves (CW) with different frequencies and respective reflected waves and detecting phase difference from the Doppler signals, a cargo (21A) is detected to be moving in the communication range (A). Only when the movement is detected, a reader-writer (1A) transmits the interrogating wave (RW).

Abstract: A keyless access system is provided for a truck including a tractor area and a cargo area provided with at least an access door. This system includes a main control unit located in the tractor area and adapted to interact with a customer identification device to selectively operate a control access arrangement which allows or prevents access to a driver cabin of the truck, a secondary control unit located in or near the cargo area and adapted to interact with the same customer identification device and to selectively operate an actuator which locks or unlocks the access door, and a bidirectional telecommunication arrangement between the main and secondary units.

Abstract: A secure keyless entry system integrates into an existing motorized garage door opening system to replace the one button transmitters typically placed in a vehicle. The one button transmitters are replaced with remote modules having alpha numeric key pads. The remote modules accept a string of input and compare the last four to eight entries to a previously set designated PIN. In order to obfuscate the designated PIN from on lookers, a user of the system may first enter a random string of decoy characters before finally entering the designated PIN. The disclosed system may also be used to replace the metal keys typically used to secure entry doors to a dwelling.

Abstract: A vehicle activation device may serve as a transmitter and may have at least two function buttons that remotely activate two corresponding functions in an associated vehicle. A cover may be pivoted to a body and may be movable between at least two positions to make the function buttons accessible or inaccessible.

Abstract: The present invention relates to methods and apparatus for allocating sensors. Data from an unallocated sensor is received and a unique sensor link identifier is received where the unique sensor link identifier relates to the unallocated sensor from a user device. It is determined which unallocated sensor corresponds to the unique sensor link identifier such that the user device can access the data received from the unallocated sensor.

Abstract: A composite lock includes a lock control unit and a Bluetooth unit. The Bluetooth unit is connected to the lock control unit, and the Bluetooth unit controls the lock control unit according to a result of pairing and authentication with a handheld unit, so as to enable the composite lock to be in a locking state or an unlocking state.

Abstract: A data processing system for providing a service to a service requester is provided. The data processing system includes a filtering module to receive a request for a service from the service requester, and a ticket module to create a ticket. The ticket includes a risk profile level which is one of a predefined number of levels. The system further includes at least a first and second rule. The first rule specifies a control and the risk profile level response to a result obtained from the service requester. The second rule specifies a maximum acceptable risk profile level required to serve the service. An interface includes an output module to output the control to an agent and an input module to allow input of the service requester's response to the control. A modifier modifies the risk profile level according to the first rule and the service requester's response. The modifier compares the risk profile level with the maximum acceptable risk profile level.

Abstract: Systems and methods for verifying the eligibility of players attempting to participate in gaming events are disclosed. Communication objects having RFID tags and closed electrical circuits are individually assigned to and worn by players within a gaming player verification system, which can be administered by a casino desk, hotel concierge, or other operating entity. These RFID tags are adapted to communicate with associated player tracking units attached to gaming machines and other devices via radio frequency waves, and each communication object is adapted to alter its communication pattern in response to any break of its closed electrical circuit. Bracelets, wristwatches or collars can be used as communication objects, such that the removal of such an object from a player cannot be accomplished without breaking the closed electrical circuit contained therein, thereby disabling or de-authenticating the device. A communications object may emit a signal which can be tied to one of two or more player accounts.

Abstract: A system and method for securing premises by distinguishing between authorized and unauthorized removal of articles from the premises via an approach within the premises to an exit door (38). Each article is secured by a passive security device (50) which in an article-securing state will be detected upon the article entering the approach and in a non-securing state will not be wirelessly detected upon the article entering the approach. A detector (40), having a detection transmitter and a receiver, wirelessly detects attempted unauthorized removal of a secured article. A register (36) registers authorized removal of a secured article. An unsecuring transmitter (52) is controlled by the register to wirelessly transmit to a passive security device of a secured article whose authorized removal has been registered in the register, an unsecuring signal which unsecures the secured article by changing the passive security device from the article-securing state to the non-securing state.

Abstract: A system and method for managing a loading dock and access to a facility or group of facilities by providing a web-based application accessible via the Internet having vendors associated with the web-based application based upon specific needs of the facility. Vendors are provided access to a facility by a user of the web-based application by employing specific methods of identification and authorization, and the user is provided with status information regarding the vendor access. Furthermore, vendor access to a facility can be limited by the user based on various parameters. Those parameters can be used to administrate, manage and secure a facility in terms of understanding which vendors are permitted access to the facility or group of facilities. The web-based application is designed to suit the specific needs of a facility.

Abstract: Disclosed are systems and methods for preventing unauthorized persons from using an electronic device within a facility. In such an embodiment, the system may include a RFID tag having unique identification information associated with a wearer of the RFID tag. The RFID tag may be comprised in a non-removable item worn by the wearer, such as a bracelet. This system may also include an RFID reader associated with the electronic device and having an RFID coverage zone for detecting RFID tags within the coverage zone. A device management system may be connected to the reader and configured to determine whether a wearer in the coverage zone is authorized to use the electronic device based at least in part on detected RFID tag's unique identification information. In such an embodiment, the device management system is configured to activate the electronic device if it determines the authorized wearer is detected in the coverage zone.

Abstract: Provided is a method and apparatus for managing a product distribution. The product distribution management method may include: reading a security key of a product from a security tag attached to the product; transferring the read security key to a security server; receiving, from the security server, first authentication information that is encrypted using the security key; receiving, from the security tag, second authentication information that is encrypted using the security key; and determining whether the security tag is duplicated, based on the first authentication information and the second authentication information.

Abstract: The disclosure provides a method and a device for implementing screen locking. In the method, a pre-selected picture is selected; when a screen locking condition is met, the pre-selected picture is taken as a screen locking picture, function restriction processing is performed on the screen locking picture to obtain the screen locking interface and the screen is locked. According to the method, the pre-selected picture can be taken as the screen locking interface. Compared with the prior art, the screen locking function is enhanced.

Abstract: A system and methods are provided for triggering an operating device. In one embodiment, a triggering device includes a receiving unit configured to receive one or more wireless control signals. The receiving unit may include a switch and a processor, wherein the processor is configured to control the switch for activation of an operating device coupled to a signaling line based, at least in part, on the one or more wireless control signals. According to another embodiment, the triggering device may include a connector configured to electrically couple the receiving unit to the signaling line, the connector having one or more contacts and a housing configured to clasp the signaling line and couple the one or more contacts to the signaling line. Additionally, the signaling line may relate to existing wiring of the operating device.

Abstract: In at least one embodiment, a vehicle apparatus for changing status for a key is provided. The vehicle apparatus comprises a controller. The controller is configured to receive a key identification signal from a first key and to transmit a key status signal indicative of whether the first key is one of a master key and a non-master key based on the key identification signal. The controller is further configured to receive a change request signal corresponding to a request to change status for an additional key from a primary key to a secondary key if the first key is master key.

Abstract: An apparatus to provide controlled electrical energy in a substantially public setting includes a power control unit. The unit includes credential entering circuitry which, upon authentication, provides access to a supply of AC-type electrical energy which can be used to recharge batteries of a vehicle. Authentication can be carried out locally, or at a displaced access control system. An access credential can be entered via a card reader or a wires receiver.

Abstract: A presence state inquiry unit refers to a use permission table stored in a data storage unit to extract a user permitted to use a target image forming apparatus, and inquires from an entry control server for a presence state of the extracted user in a particular area where the target image forming apparatus is placed. A mode transition unit transmits a transition command to a lower power consumption mode to the target image forming apparatus when all the users permitted to use the target image forming apparatus exist outside the particular area.

Abstract: An electronic information access system and associated methods. In one exemplary embodiment, the system comprises an antenna adapted to receive electromagnetic energy, the electromagnetic energy encoding first data associated with at least one person; and processing apparatus in signal communication with the antenna. The processing apparatus is configured to: access a first database containing second data relating to the one or more certain persons; analyze at least portions of the first data and the second data to determine if the at least one person is authorized to access the information; and if the at least one person is authorized access, facilitate download of the information to a personal electronic device (PED) of the at least one person.

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.

Abstract: The present invention relates to methods and systems for providing secure access control to a facility. An access control system comprises a scanner located adjacent to a venue entrance. A computer system is coupled to the scanner. The computer system is configured to receive a coded user identification data scanned from an admission ticket from a ticket bearer via the scanner, decode the coded user identification data, and transmit the decoded user identification to a terminal for display to a gate keeper so that the gate keeper can determine whether the ticket bearer is to be admitted. An optional turnstile is coupled to the computer system, wherein the computer system enables the turnstile rotation.

Abstract: A vehicle control device simplifies input work of a password that puts a vehicle in a usable state, on an emergency occasion, in which a portable equipment (smart key) cannot be used. A system display unit flashes on an emergency occasion when a password is input without the use of the smart key. A hazard switch is operated to enter a character of the password corresponding to a number of times that the system display unit flashes.

Abstract: A plant control system includes at least one control apparatus, and an engineering apparatus for changing a security state of the control apparatus. The control apparatus includes: a security management part for accepting a security level change request downloaded from the engineering apparatus and changing a security level of the control apparatus by referring to a password held by the control apparatus; and a change permission part for permitting a change in the security level by the security management part.

Abstract: To provide external access to a specification file stored in at least one memory unit, which is associated with at least one electronic control unit which may be in a vehicle, a computer is connected to a first communication bus in the vehicle. A first module in the computer is adapted to communicate with the at least one electronic control unit over the first communication bus. Provided that a user-unique key is connected to a port of the computer and a software component of this key is set to an active authorization state, the computer is enabled to communicate with the at least one electronic control unit. Thus, the computer may read out the specification file as well as update the specification file.

Abstract: Devices, systems and methods are disclosed which relate to a smart cover for a mobile communications device. The smart cover includes a housing plate, a secure element coupled to the housing plate, a transceiver in communication with the secure element, and an antenna coupled to the transceiver. The transceiver and the antenna are coupled to the housing plate as well. The housing plate couples to the mobile communications device to provide protection for electronics in the mobile communications device, to make the mobile communications device more aesthetically pleasing, etc. A user having a mobile communications device with a smart cover may enter secure areas, pay funds from an account, or anything else requiring positive identification. The user holds the mobile communications device up to a smart cover reader. The smart cover reader communicates with the smart cover to identify the user.

Abstract: A mobile-controlled electric entrance device includes an electrically powered entrance body and a control unit. The control unit includes a mobile phone number comparison unit, a storage unit, an oscillation timer, a delay and sequential logical decoding unit, a current driver and a relay switch. The mobile phone number comparison unit receives a call from the mobile phone with a phone number and demodulates the number to be compared with a plurality of predetermined phone numbers. If the phone number is not found in the predetermined phone numbers, the mobile phone number comparison unit is back to a stand-by state. If the phone number is found in the predetermined phone numbers, the mobile phone number comparison unit transmits a signal to trigger the oscillation timer to generate a sequential pulse for opening or closing the electrically powered entrance body.

Abstract: A multi-factor biometrics authentication method including the steps of: acquiring a non-spectrometric biometric signature (e.g. fingerprint, iris pattern, etc.) of a biometric signature source (e.g. fingertip, iris, etc.) of a subject to be authenticated (e.g. person); acquiring spectral information (e.g. diffuse reflectance spectrum, reflectance spectrum, etc.) of the biometric signature source; using the non-spectrometric biometric signature to determine the unique identity of the biometric signature source; and using the spectral information to verify that the subject to be authenticated belongs to a predetermined class of objects (e.g. living persons). A biometrics system (e.g. fingerprint authentication device, iris pattern authentication device) is augmented with spectral biometrics capability in a practical manner without introducing much overhead to the base biometrics technology or inconvenience to users.

Abstract: A vehicle navigation aid (nav-aid) system and method are provided to un-lock nav-aid functions in a moving vehicle. Sensors within the vehicle provide vehicle speed S and whether a person other the driver is present. For S greater than predetermined threshold speed Sth?0, the nav-aid system remains in a locked-out state if a passenger is not present. When a passenger is present, then the system may accept some otherwise locked-out nav-aid requests. A warning and disclaimer message requiring positive acknowledgement thereof is desirable. In a preferred embodiment, the passenger should occupy a front seat and have a weight or size or both exceeding a predetermined (e.g., “adult”) threshold. Desirably, navigation aid access is precluded for S>Sth unless the occupied seat belts are latched. In a further embodiment, a user access status display indicates which nav-aid functions can be accessed depending on the vehicle status.

Abstract: A system and method for controlling a body-scanning device with a wireless footswitch is disclosed. The method includes polling a status of a plurality of switches on a wireless footswitch using a microprocessor. A pulsed signal is sent from the microprocessor to a watchdog timer. The pulsed signal is pulsed at a predetermined rate when the microprocessor is operating within selected operating parameters. The microprocessor is reset when the pulsed signal is pulsed at a rate less than the predetermined rate. The status of the plurality of switches on the wireless footswitch is transmitted to a receiver connected to the scanning device to enable the scanning device to be controlled by actuating at least one of the plurality of switches on the wireless footswitch.

Abstract: A system and/or method to control access to medication and/or medical supplies may be implemented by providing secured compartments for the medication spread through a medical facility, such as in or adjacent patient rooms and/or connecting locking mechanisms to the secured compartments. Computers positioned throughout the facility are interfaced to respective locking mechanisms to operate the locking mechanism in response to access codes, which may be transmitted over the network. Additional steps may involve programming an authorization computer for providing access codes in whole or part for use with the computers. One or more access points may be functionally coupled to a computer system and/or to the locking mechanism and accessible to users for entry of requests for access to the secured compartment.

Abstract: A system and/or method to control access to secured compartments in a facility. Computers positioned throughout the facility are interfaced to respective locking mechanisms to operate the locking mechanism in response to access codes, which may be transmitted over the network. Additional steps may involve programming an authorization computer for providing access codes in whole or part for use with the computers. One or more access points may be functionally coupled to a computer system and/or to the locking mechanism and accessible to users for entry of requests for access to the secured compartment.

Abstract: A security system to identify a true door forced open alarm is provided. The security system includes an electronic entry means configured to allow access through a door. The security system also includes a request to exit device configured to indicate a request to exit the door. The security system also includes a logic unit configured to control access through the door and determine whether an open state of the door is allowed.

Abstract: A method and apparatus that controls access to a secured area using an automated gate controlled secured environment is disclosed. The method may include receiving an indication that an individual attempting to pass through a clearance area has not been authorized to pass through the clearance area, automatically moving one or more gates to create a channel for the non-authorized individual to be directed to a manual screening area, determining if the non-authorized individual has passed one or more sensor; wherein if the non-authorized individual has been determined to have passed the one or more sensor, then moving a gate located behind the non-authorized individual to enable other authorized individuals to pass through the clearance area while maintaining the channel created to the manual screening area, and preventing the non-authorized individual from gaining access to the automated gate controlled secured environment once the non-authorized individual reaches the manual screening area.

Abstract: A drive assembly has a controller for moving an object. A security reset button initiates and terminates security functions for the system. An alarm is provided. A circuit assembly includes a first circuit for moving the object. The circuit assembly includes a second circuit for generating the alarm in response to unauthorized moving of the object.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method and system for room activity communication. In one embodiment, a tray sensing device detects the presence of a tray in a given location and forwards the information to a room controller. The tray can be a conventional tray for supporting food articles or can be supported or integral with a food cart. The system also includes a door lock/tag controller for monitoring door lock and door tag information. Information from the tray sensing device, door lock/tag controller is communicated to a room controller. The room controller of each room can include a wireless network to the tray controller and/or door lock/tag controller. The room controller can also monitor information of the room such as, for example, temperature, humidity and light intensity information, and receive information regarding room activities, such as, for example, room service ordering and status, housekeeping, minibar, phone messages and checkout routine.

Abstract: An aftermarket keyless starter for a vehicle including a smart ignition system and an OEM security system is provided. The OEM security system includes an OEM transponder for user verification and an OEM reader for reading the OEM transponder when the OEM transponder is within a range R of the OEM reader. The OEM transponder stores an OEM identification code. The aftermarket keyless starter includes a secure box which is outside of the range R for isolating the OEM transponder from the OEM security system, an aftermarket reader, an aftermarket microcontroller, and an aftermarket transmitter. The aftermarket microcontroller is operable to receive the keyless start command and respond thereto by having the aftermarket reader read the OEM identification code and retransmitting the OEM identification code to the OEM reader. The engine start command is transmitted to the smart ignition system subsequent to the sending of the keyless start command.

Abstract: An RFID reader controller and methods of controlling an RFID reader by an RFID reader controller are provided to limit or prevent the issuing of confidential information such as encryption keys, passwords, shared secrets, and the like to RFID tags if a reader is not authorized. A controller may determine the authorization status of a reader and limit its communication with the reader or instruct the reader to limit an operational aspect of the reader.

Abstract: Implementation of mobile device communications (MCD) management is provided. A method includes intercepting an input command received on an MCD, the command intercepted in response to detecting a presence of a fixed communications device (FCD), which is embedded in a vehicle within range of the MCD. The method also includes acquiring biometric data from a user of the MCD. The method includes determining an activity status of the vehicle. If the activity status reflects the vehicle is active, the method includes acquiring biometric data for an operator of the vehicle via a biometric scanner of the vehicle and comparing the biometric data from the vehicle with the biometric data for the user of the MCD. If the biometric data from the vehicle matches the biometric data from the MCD, the method includes retrieving an account record for the user and implementing an action specified in the account record. If the activity status reflects the vehicle is inactive, the method includes executing the command.

Abstract: An RFID tag is provided. The RFID tag includes an emitting module, a temperature detecting circuit and a tag chip. The temperature detecting circuit produces a time signal according to a surrounding temperature, wherein the time signal changes with the surrounding temperature. The tag chip is electrically connected to the temperature detecting circuit and the emitting module, wherein the time signal is transmitted via the emitting module.