Abstract: In an embodiment, a system includes a plurality of ports and a proximity detection circuit to detect the presence of a connector relative to at least one port of the plurality of ports, prior to engagement of the connector with the port. Alternatives include a position sensor to determine the general distance of the connector from the port, and an orientation sensor to determine the orientation of the connector relative to the port. The system further includes a signal generator to provide at least one user-detectable signal representative of one or more of the proximity, position and orientation of the connector relative to the port to assist a user in engaging the connector with the port.

Abstract: An apparatus and methods for implementing a garage door monitoring system coupled to a garage door opener. The door monitoring system allow a user to actuate the door under control via a network connection. In at least one embodiment, the door monitoring system is controlled by a cell phone or networked appliance capable of transmitting information and data via a cellular telephone network. The door monitoring system provides the added advantage of allowing a remote user to view the areas or regions near to the door under control prior to actuating the door. At least one embodiment comprises a method to validate reception of the pictures or video clips of the areas or regions near to the door prior to enabling the system to actuate the door. In another embodiment a pass code is embedded into the pictures or video provided to the remote user.

Abstract: A system for manipulating data is provided. Such a system comprises a host system, a discrete portable data acquisition device for collecting the data, at least one of a wireless wide area network (WWAN) data radio, a wireless local area network (WLAN) data radio, and a wireless personal area network (WPAN) data radio operably engaged with the portable data acquisition device and configured to at least one of transmit the data to the host system, communicate with a peripheral device, and receive data, and a memory operably engaged with the portable data acquisition device for storing the data, the memory comprising a FLASH memory module, a DRAM memory module, and an NVDRAM memory module. Associated systems, devices, and methods are also provided.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an alarm engineering aiding system for aiding engineering of an alarm generated in a plant. There are provided an alarm generating scenario file in which types of pseudo alarms and generation timings are defined, a plant instrumentation information DB for storing instrumentation information of the plant, and a pseudo alarm generating section for generating the pseudo alarm based on the alarm generating scenario file, and adding instrumentation information of the plant while referring to the plant instrumentation information DB when the pseudo alarm is generated.

Abstract: A method for automatic registration of a patient-bound medical device with a remote data processing system, physician identification data being transmitted to the patient-bound medical device, the physician identification data being combined together with device identification data to form a registration message, the registration message being transmitted from the patient-bound medical device to the data processing system, and the data processing system checking the data contained in the registration message and, in case of success, performing the registration, as well as apparatuses for this purpose.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for context awareness by detecting intentions of a user in the ubiquitous environment using context information which is created by analyzing real world data collected from sensors are provided. The apparatus is configured of a sensor platform, a context-aware agent and a service provider. The sensor platform collects data of real world and transmits the collected data to the context-aware agent. The context-aware agent integrates the data of real world from the sensor platform, and stores and manages context information according to the integrated data. The service provider automatically controls objects to perform necessary operations to provide a predetermined intelligent services according to the context information received from the context-aware agent.

Abstract: A location-based and preference-based system and method for matching information such as the attributes, interests and/or characteristics profiles of persons with the expressed preferences of mobile users to alert and direct such users to any persons having information matching the user's express preferences. In particular, the system comprises a mobile device such as a GPS-capable PDA that stores the user's preferences and communicates with a server that contains or accesses the profiles of the persons to compare the profiles and preferences. Comparison of the user's preferences with the various profiles allows the user only to be informed of those persons that it is likely to be interested in. The system and method thus provides for a mobile real-time point of interest exchange network.

Abstract: Packet formats and associated metering infrastructure for filtering meter reading data that is being transmitted by utility meters are disclosed. In one embodiment, a method suitable for being implemented in a metering environment is provided that filters meter reading data being received by multiple collectors. Specifically, the method includes ranking the relative ability of the plurality of collectors to capture transmissions from the same utility meter. Based on the relative ranking, at least one collector from the plurality of collectors is identified that will be configured to disregard transmissions that originate from the utility meter. Then, the method provides the collector with a read list for differentiating between transmissions containing meter reading data that will be forwarded to a utility service provider from transmissions that originate from the utility meter.

Abstract: A vehicle violation enforcement and noticing system that includes a first server and a second server. The first server contains a vehicle information database that is in communication with the second server. The second server is a mobile data terminal that allows for the identification of vehicles and retrieves the vehicle information pertaining to the identified vehicles from the first server via a communications link. Once the vehicle information has been received, appropriate enforcement tactics are prepared based upon the received vehicle information. The appropriate enforcement tactics may include printing a notice informing a vehicle user of the current and outstanding debt associated with the vehicle for placement directly on the vehicle, writing a notice as per instructions displayed by the second server, for placement directly on the vehicle, booting the vehicle, towing the vehicle and/or informing a second agency of the vehicle location so that the second agency may take appropriate action.

Abstract: A method of monitoring a portable electronic device electronically is provided. The method comprises receiving a first radio signal, the first radio signal emitted by the electronically monitored portable electronic device and determining a first received signal strength of the first radio signal. The method also comprises receiving a second radio signal, the second radio signal emitted by the electronically monitored portable electronic device, the second radio signal received after the first radio signal. The method also comprises determining a second received signal strength of the second radio signal, comparing the second received signal strength to the first received signal strength, and alerting when a result of the comparing exceeds a threshold.

Abstract: The present invention provides A monitoring system comprising a display device, an abnormality detection means for monitoring an object and when detecting an abnormality of the monitored object, outputting an abnormality signal, and a display control means for causing the display device to present an abnormality display, further comprising a latch means for retaining the output state resulting from receipt of an abnormality signal, thereby continuing to output a latch signal until reset, and a reset device for resetting the latch device, wherein the display control device determines in what manner the display device presents an abnormality display, depending on whether an abnormality signal and a latch signal are each transmitted or not.

Abstract: A portable, battery-powered per-patient device automatically detects and logs patient encounters with items, such as medical equipment, drug containers, caregivers, visitors and other patients, in a healthcare facility. A separate per-patient device is assigned to each patient in the facility. The per-patient device is intended to remain with the patient during the patient's stay. The device may be attached to the patient's bed, wheelchair, walker or the like. If the patient is ambulatory, the patient may carry the device. RF-ID or other suitable tags are attached to items that a patient may encounter. Each per-patient device automatically detects and logs RF-ID-tagged items, including the patient, that come within a range of the device. The device also detects and longs when an item is no longer within range of the device, such as because a caregiver leaves the patient's room or a medical device is removed from the patient's room.

Abstract: Both RF communication and contact serial communication can be performed with the use of: communication protocol storage unit for storing a communication protocol for performing communication with an external communication apparatus; a coil terminal section provided with two coil terminals for performing communication with the external communication apparatus with an RF signal; a contact communication terminal section provided with a first communication terminal, a second communication terminal, a power supply voltage terminal and a ground terminal as contact communication terminals for performing contact communication with the external communication apparatus; and connection control unit for causing the power supply voltage terminal and a power supply of an internal switch circuit to be in contact or non-contact with each other depending on the level of voltage applied to the first and second communication terminals.

Abstract: A system provides for remote monitoring using asynchronous code division multiple access (CDMA) communication techniques between a base station and one or more transponders. Each transponder is attached or otherwise associated with an object or an environment to be monitored. Upon receipt of an interrogation signal, a transponder generates and transmits a coded transponder signal containing the monitored data. The coded transponder signal is generated using a spreading code. Each transponder is associated with a unique, mutually exclusive set of spreading codes. Each spreading code is based on a unique transponder address and the monitored data to be sent. A detector asynchronously monitors received signals for any of the available spreading codes. Once the detector detects a particular spreading code, the base station can identify the source transponder and extract the monitored data.

Abstract: An identification system which may be employed in a transport or monitoring system has at least one stationary and at least one mobile transmission unit which are each provided with an antenna, which antennas in turn are coupled inductively or capacitively to each other during the transmission of data. At least one of the antennas is designed such that in response to a mutual displacement of the coupled antennas a direction-dependent modulation of the transmitted signals occurs which is demodulated and evaluated in at least one of the transmission units, for example, by a demodulation unit and a processor, optionally a signal processor, in order to obtain information relating to the relative motion of the two transmission units. In addition to known identification functions, the identification system may perform additional important functions without requiring any significant additional expense.

Abstract: An optical identification element. The optical identification element is associated with an object and includes encoded or stored information associated with the object. The optical identification element includes an optical assembly that generates electrical power in response to incident light from a reader. The generated electrical power is used by the optical identification element to at least retrieve the data and then transmit the data back to the reader optically.

Abstract: A low cost, robust, wireless sensor that provides an extended period of operability without maintenance is described. The wireless sensors are configured to communicate with a base unit or repeater. When the sensor unit detects an anomalous ambient condition (e.g., smoke, fire, water, etc.) the sensor communicates with the base unit and provides data regarding the anomalous condition. The sensor unit receives instructions to change operating parameters and/or control external devices.

Abstract: An apparatus has a communications device associated therewith. In another aspect of the present invention, a pallet is made from thermoformed polymeric sheets with an attached communications device. A further aspect of the present invention provides a radio frequency identification device attached to an apparatus. In still another aspect of the present invention, a communications device is incorporated into one or more sheets of a pallet or other container prior to forming. Methods of making and using a thermoformed pallet and container, having a communications device, are also provided.

Abstract: An apparatus and method of recognizing a surrounding state are provided. The apparatus for recognizing a surrounding state includes: a unique information obtaining unit which obtains, from a peripheral device, unique information of the peripheral device; and a surrounding state determining unit which determines a surrounding state, based on the unique information.

Abstract: A smart connector system includes a machine connector disposed on a face of a surgical machine, an illumination ring located on the face of the surgical machine and disposed around a periphery of the machine connector, an RFID reader antenna located in close proximity to the machine connector and the face of the surgical machine, and an accessory connector adapted to couple with the machine connector. The accessory connector has an RFID tag antenna and is capable of attaching a tool to the surgical machine. When the accessory connector is brought within close proximity to the machine connector, a communications connection is established between the RFID tag antenna and the RFID reader antenna.

Abstract: Systems and methods for providing registration at a remote site that may include, for example, a monitoring module that may communicate with a remote site. A registration protocol may be used by the monitoring module and the remote site in generating the messages communicated during the registration process. The monitoring module may gather and generate various identification information to be included in the registration protocol messages. The registration information provided by the monitoring module may be stored at the remote site in a database server having a database. A confirmation message may be communicated from the remote site to the monitoring module that may either acknowledge successful registration or report that an error occurred during the registration process.

Abstract: An apparatus has a communications device associated therewith. In another aspect of the present invention, a pallet is made from thermoformed polymeric sheets with an attached communications device. A further aspect of the present invention provides a radio frequency identification device attached to an apparatus. In still another aspect of the present invention, a communications device is incorporated into one or more sheets of a pallet or other container prior to forming. Methods of making and using a thermoformed pallet and container, having a communications device, are also provided.

Abstract: There is provided a radio communication system including a first transceiver equipped with an antenna circuit and a transmitting-receiving unit and for transmitting a data signal by an electromagnetic wave, and a second transceiver equipped with an antenna circuit, a transmitting-receiving unit, a memory unit for storing the data signal, a display unit having display memory property, and a power source unit for obtaining an operation voltage for each unit from the electromagnetic wave. The first transceiver relatively varies the transmission output of the data signal to a high level or a low level, and the second transceiver receives the data signal and stores the data signal in the memory unit when the level of the transmission output of the data signal is low, and sends the data signal from the memory unit to the display unit when the level of the transmission output of the data signal is high.

Abstract: An interrogator that is to be incorporated in a communication system in which each of at least one transponder is operable, upon reception of a main carrier wave transmitted from the interrogator, to respond to the interrogator with a reflected wave that is generated by modulating the main carrier wave.

Abstract: A mobile information apparatus 10 acquires the display information which is stored in the display area 72, which is secured for using at the time of displaying on the display section by the mobile information apparatus 10, in the storage section 34 of the contactless communication device 30. In this case, in the display area 72, display information which can improve convenience for a user is stored. The display information which is stored includes information such as a result of editing a content of communication performed by the contactless communication, a function performed by the contactless communication by the contactless communication device 30, and an issuer of such function. Then, based on the display information which is acquired, the information of the contactless communication device 30 is displayed on the display section.

Abstract: To realize state estimation that corresponds with an actual situation by dynamically changing an abstract state calculation method. Upon receiving an abstract state monitoring request, an abstract state generation section 10 extracts a constituent element of an abstract state from the request, selects a rule for calculating an abstract state from the presence of the element, and generates a presence servicing client 20 that has a watcher for observing the element via a presence servicing section 40 and a presentity for issuing the presence of the abstract state to the presence service. Further, the rule for calculating an abstract state is changed in accordance with presence.

Abstract: The claimed subject matter provides a system and/or a method that facilitates verifying data within a radio frequency identification (RFID) business process. A radio frequency identification (RFID) business process can include at least one component that can receive an event from a logical source. A strong typing module can employ strong typing of the component to define at least one of an event type for the component, an input event type for the component, or an output event type for the component.

Abstract: A wireless interface device services communications between a wirelessly enabled host and at least one user input device. The wireless interface device includes a wireless interface unit, a processing unit, an input/output unit, and may include a power management unit. The wireless interface unit wirelessly interfaces with the wirelessly enabled host. The processing unit and the wireless interface unit interact to determine when the wireless interface unit has established a link with the wirelessly enabled host. When the wireless interface unit has established a link with the wirelessly enabled host, the processing unit interacts with the input/output unit to direct the input/output unit to output a link established indication. When the wireless interface unit enters a sniff mode or a park mode, a second link established indication may be provided. When the link is taken down or lost, a link non-established indication may be provided.

Abstract: Visual and audio communication interface for a perishable integrity indicator system which includes a RFID transponder and perishable integrity sensor. A perishable integrity indicator system includes a RFID transponder and a perishable integrity sensor. The RFID transponder includes a RF integrated circuit coupled with an antenna. The sensor monitors the time and temperature of the perishable. A freshness determining module receives time- and temperature-dependent measurement data from the perishable integrity sensor and determines a current freshness status. A communications interface to the RFID transponder permits a RFID reader to retrieve current freshness status data corresponding to the freshness status determined by the freshness determining module. The system further includes a power management module.

Abstract: A method for confirming entry and/or exit state of a mobile object relative to all entrance of an underground passageway by utilizing Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology. At least one RFID tag is physically attached to the mobile object. At least a first RFID reader and a second RFID reader, each having a monitoring range and being in communication with the RFID tag, are disposed at the entrance and a relatively inner position of the passageway respectively.

Abstract: An interrogator, methods of discerning the presence of an object, and interrogation systems employing the same. In one embodiment, the interrogation systems include multiple interrogators that communicate with a base command unit to track a location of an object. In another embodiment wherein the object is an RFID object (e.g., an object with an RFID tag), the interrogators employ signal processing techniques such as precharging the RFID object, and correlating a reference code with a reply code from the RFID object using selected techniques to increase a sensitivity of the interrogator, especially for adverse environments. In other embodiments, the interrogation systems include variations of metal instruments and sponges employed therewith. In yet another embodiment, the interrogation system includes metal interrogators capable of discerning the presence of a metal object, especially in a presence of another metal object.

Abstract: An industrial platform, specifically, a pallet or a container, for storing and transporting articles with attached RFID tags includes an electronic communications device having components that are tracked to identify the location and status of the platform. The device also includes components to communicate with the RFID tags attached to the articles, as well as RF tags located within the distribution environment. A microprocessor with memory manages and stores the information obtained from the multiple tags and components. A portable wireless device transmits data within distributed wireless networks. A power supply provides for mobility and autonomous operation. The device is part of a condition responsive indicating system that tracks the platform and monitors its contents in real time.

Abstract: A group of technologies related to RFID reader and tag are described, including: redundant networked multimedia RFID reader, auto-ranging RFID reader, auto-planning RFID reader, smart active antenna RFID reader and novel RFID tags. These enabling technologies bring RFID reader operations into a new level of automation, capability and ease of implementation.

Abstract: A system for conserving battery life in a battery operated device such as a tire tag where there are several modes of operation. The typical mode is the deep sleep mode where the tag is generally inactive (no clock is running; however, an RC watchdog timer is running, which uses very little power). The tag spends most of its time in this low power mode. The tag periodically partially awakens to a lucid sleep mode (when the watchdog timer times out), initiates a low-speed clock, determines if it is time to enter a search mode by examining a search mode counter and, if it is not time, adjusts the search mode counter (e.g., decrements the counter by one), and returns to the deep sleep mode. The tag sleeps in the deep sleep mode most of its life in an effort to conserve battery power. During the deep sleep mode, because the clock oscillators are OFF, a deep sleep counter is adjusted (incremented or decremented) periodically (e.g., about every 18 ms) by an internal R/C oscillator.

Abstract: Articles constructed of a plurality of scuffed sheets have improved sheet-to-sheet bond strength and surfaces with high coefficients of friction. Articles constructed out of three scuffed sheets include exterior intumescent polymeric surfaces resisting the spread of combustion flames and insulating the interior surfaces from the high temperature of fire. Articles include electronic apparatus sending an emergency 911 call to a remote monitoring station. Articles are advantageously reinforced with optional rigidifying structures without article modification. Members are joined with snap together features providing an assembled article. Articles include handles for ergonomic manipulation by workers. Articles include elements amenably receiving unitization accessories. The article improvements are demonstrated in the form of industrial platforms, particularly material handling pallets.

Abstract: A method and systems for collecting data from a huge number of pre-filled forms are disclosed. According to the method and systems of the invention, the pre-filled forms comprise RFID tags, check boxes, and electrical connection between the RFID tags and the check boxes so that responses are modified according to checked boxes. In a preferred embodiment, each check box comprises at least two electrical terminals electrically connected to the RFID tag through a register. Using a pencil with conductive ink for checking the check boxes establishes an electrical contact between the terminals that modify the value of the register that in turn, modifies the response of the RFID tag. When the check boxes identifiers of a form have been collected, the identifier of the form is stored within the RFID reader to avoid further reading of the RFID tag, or the identifier of the RFID tag is erased.

Abstract: A method for monitoring a tire fitted to a vehicle includes detecting data from the tire, sending the data to a central processing unit using a predetermined telecommunications protocol, causing automatic processing of the data by the central processing unit to obtain at least one value for an index characterizing the tire during use of the tire, and sending the at least one value to a receiving unit. The data from the tire includes a code identifying the tire and at least one item of data regarding a state of the tire. A system for monitoring a tire includes a device for detecting data from the tire and a central processing unit. The central processing unit causes automatic processing of the detected data and generates at least one value for an index characterizing the tire during use of the tire.

Abstract: A system, apparatus and method for monitoring structures is provided. The system includes a measurement acquisition unit having a first connection point for receiving a sensor unit and a second connection point that is electrically isolated from the first connection point when invoking the sensor unit. A measurement sensor for detecting moisture includes a pair of spaced apart conductors; and an impedance circuit in parallel with the conductors and having a finite impedance such that an impedance of the measurement sensor greater than the finite impedance indicates an impaired connection. A termination module includes a base attachable to a measurement sensor, and the impedance circuit. A moisture content measurement sensor includes: a pair of conductors in electrically insulating material; and electrically conductive probe supports attached to the conductors for receiving probes and forming electrical connections between conductors and probes. Eyelet rivets may be used as probe supports.

Abstract: In one embodiment, a system comprises an enclosure, at least one item enclosed within the enclosure, and at least one optical medium disposed between the enclosure and the at least one item. The at least one optical medium is arranged in a pattern such that the at least one optical medium substantially encloses the at least one item. The system further comprises a generator communicatively coupled to a first portion of the optical medium. The generator generates a pseudo-random sequence of bits. The pseudo-random sequence of bits is optically transmitted over the optical medium. The system further comprises a detector communicatively coupled to a second portion of the optical medium. The detector detects any portion of the pseudo-random sequence of bits received at the second portion of the optical medium.

Abstract: A system and method of monitoring a plurality of electrical assets comprise an electricity distribution infrastructure, including a plurality of electrical asset sensors coupled to the electrical assets for monitoring an operating condition of the electrical assets as well as any fault conditions. The sensors may include a current transformer for obtaining a current waveform, a GPS receiver for applying a synchronized time-stamp to the waveform data, and a mesh network radio for transmitting the time-stamped waveform data. Data from the plurality of sensors may be encrypted and transmitted over a mesh network to one or more gateways that are in communication with a central command processor. In response to an abnormal operating condition of any electrical asset, the central command processor may determine a probable fault location, a probable fault type, and a fault response.

Abstract: A mobile terminal circuit for transmitting radio frequency identification (RFID) data to an RFID reader. The mobile terminal circuit comprises an antenna for communication with the RFID reader; a memory portion for storing RFID data together with mobile terminal protocol data; a codec for encoding the RFID data into RFID codec data; a modulator connected to the codec, for modulating the RFID codec data into RFID modulation data; a processor connected to the memory portion, for extracting RFID data stored in the memory portion and delivering the extracted RFID data to the codec; a detector connected to the antenna and the processor, for informing the processor of approach of the RFID reader; a first clock generator connected to the processor and the memory portion, for providing operation timing to the processor and the memory portion; and a second clock generator connected to the first clock generator, the codec and the modulator, for providing operation timing to the codec and the modulator.

Abstract: According to the present invention, there is provided a wheel identifying apparatus for a vehicle which includes a transmitter, a signal strength determiner, a variation determiner, and a wheel identifier. The transmitter is located on the body of the vehicle and working to transmit a signal during running of the vehicle. The signal strength determiner is located on a wheel of the vehicle away from the rotational axis of the wheel and works to determine strength of the signal thereat. The variation determiner works to determine a variation in the strength of the signal determined by the signal strength determiner. The wheel identifier is configured to identify the wheel as a spare wheel located on the body of the vehicle when the variation determined by the variation determiner is substantially zero.

Abstract: RFID reader systems, components, software and methods are provided for use premises that have RFID-tagged items. When a person comes onto an enclosure of the premises already carrying a personal tag, the incoming code of that personal tag is read. When later the person exits the enclosure, they could be transporting some of the items that have actionable codes. The actionable codes can be read, but the incoming code can be removed from them, before the actionable codes are acted upon, in Point-of-Sale or Electronic Article Surveillance systems.

Abstract: There is a problem related to radio wave interference, e.g. the shade of radio wave of a radio IC tag, when a plurality of radio IC tags are present in a region of electromagnetic wave. When a plurality of antennas each having a large area are present in the vicinity of the radio IC tag, the radio IC tag easily receives the affect of an antenna conductor. In a plurality of radio IC tags present in a radio wave area, width of the antenna conductor of the radio IC tag is set at 1.0 mm or less. Furthermore, in order to realize an antenna conductor having a small width, an IC tag chip of both side electrode structure having electrodes on the front surface and rear surface of a chip is sandwiched between antennas.

Abstract: A RFID-enabled recommendation system and related method utilizing information from RFID tags of products (e.g., foodstuffs) to generate recommendations regarding said products. In accordance with one aspect, a server generates recommendations based on product-specific information sent from a RFID tag.

Abstract: A system and method for monitoring and characterizing various sources of RF interference within an RFID environment, and for adjusting the operational characteristics of an array of RFID readers within the system based on these interference characterizations. The system examines the received transmissions from readers in the network by controlling a calibration cycle or while they are operating as interrogators to determine interference parameters, and to verify the operation of the readers in the array. The system also examines outside sources of interference, and signal dependent interference. The interference characterization can also be estimated from a combination of calculations and co-monitoring.

Abstract: A radio communication apparatus includes a carriage path through which a radio communication medium is carried, a communication antenna provided in the carriage path, and a detector provided on an upstream side of the antenna in a carrying direction of the moving radio communication medium. The detector detects the passing radio communication medium. A radio main unit detects the radio communication medium by using the detector, and transmits a polling command to the radio communication medium at a proper timing on the basis of a detection signal from the detector. Thereby, it is possible to transmit a polling command from the radio main unit to the radio communication medium at a proper timing when the radio communication medium comes to a communication area of the antenna.

Abstract: A wearable electronic tag for displaying graphics and text images and for communicating with other similar tags. Each tag includes a visible, graphical display adapted to be worn by a user. The tag also includes a short range, substantially unidirectional electronic communication channel, such as an infrared transmitter-receiver, located on the display unit so that, when the display unit is worn, the interface faces in a direction of the desired communication with another person who also is wearing a similar tag. This arrangement makes possible automatic data exchange and comparison of the interchanged data and display of the results of the comparison on the tags worn by the two wearers. The tags also have a longer range wireless communication system to receive and transmit data.

Abstract: Data collection and evaluation systems that, in various embodiments, include an active RFID tag for collecting, time-stamping, and storing vehicle sensor data. Examples of the type of data collected include door data, ignition data, oil pressure data, temperature data, speed data, global positioning data, and diagnostic and trouble code data. The system further includes an external data acquisition device, such as a mainframe computer system or a hand-held data acquisition device like an iPAQ. The external data acquisition device includes an RFID interrogator for communicating with the RFID tag, which enables the RFID tag to transmit the time-stamped data wirelessly to the external data acquisition device. The ability of the system to automatically collect and transfer data allows for the automation of fleet management processes, vehicle maintenance and repair processes, and certain security features.

Abstract: A new and improved method for supervising and monitoring people from a remote location comprising the use of a communication system that builds upon telecommunications connections, computer interfaces, and information management via the internet. Strategically placed web cams, microphones, speakers, and display monitors are operatively linked to computers and information management means, and are used to permit a person in a remote location to view and listen to people in a plurality of active locations to verbally or visually prompt responses to inquiries or directives. The people in the active locations may also interact via these same interconnections to the person at the remote location. Touch screen technology may be included for purposes of automated supervision of tasks performed to accomplish a particular routine by the people in the active locations.