Abstract: Invention is provided for navigation and orientation for all types of passengers traveling in public transportation. Segmentation methods for digital advertising based on location and number of passengers. Method for delivering audio and visual advertisements in real time into public transportation vehicles. Method for delivering public transportation positioning information, including arrival times, remaining times, past and future stops, stop numbers, current position, street and neighborhood names, waypoints, connections with other public transportation means, and news headlines. Method for embedding advertisements in any form, including banners, skins, pop-ups, video, audio, text and animation, in information screens inside public transportation.

Abstract: Security systems typically communicate with alarm monitoring centers using a telephone connection. Security systems will check in with the alarm monitoring center with a diagnostic signal at a predetermined interval—typically once per day. When a security system is connected to a Voice-over-IP service (using Broadband Internet), rather than a standard telephone line, the opportunity exists to poll in real-time the status of the connection, and alert the owner (or alert the alarm monitoring center) that the customer's connection has been broken. The present invention offers a system and technique for monitoring a security system connected using a Voice-over-IP connection, in real time, and alerting the owner of the security system, or the alarm-monitoring center, when the connection is broken. This alert can be used, for example, to issue a telephone call to the police, informing them of the breach of line integrity and possible compromise of the premise.

Abstract: An integrated apparatus for a medical alarm system includes modules and functions of both area alarm units and master alarm units. An input/output module is provided to specify functions of the area alarm units and master alarm units when the two functions are separately executed. In addition, functions of both area alarm units and the master alarm units can also be operated in an integrated apparatus. The execution programs of the integrated apparatus can be updated and modified by connecting the integrated apparatus to an external memory card. Therefore, the integrated apparatus saves not only disassembling and assembling time, but also costs of update operation.

Abstract: In one embodiment, a repeater relays an RF signal between an RFID (radio frequency identification) transponder having a transponder antenna, and an RFID reader having a reader antenna. The repeater includes a first antenna configured to be coupled with the reader antenna; a second antenna configured to be coupled with the transponder antenna; and a first coaxial cable which is coupled to the first and second antennas.

Abstract: A method and system for managing one or more devices includes identifying at least one condition related to one of one or more devices to initiate an instant message communication between one of the one or more devices and one of one or more computing systems. An instant message service is invoked based on the identified condition and an instant message is generated based on the identified condition. The generated instant message is provided at the one of the computing systems in which the instant message communication has been initiated.

Abstract: Methods for responding to a potential incident are provided in which data about the potential incident is received from a first remote sensing unit. Additional remote sensing units are identified that may have additional data about the potential incident, and additional data about the potential incident is received from at least some of these additional remote sensing units. The totality of the received data is then analyzed, and at least one remote entity is automatically notified regarding the occurrence of the potential incident.

Abstract: A method, system, and apparatus are disclosed wherein an RFID transponder response signal is coupled with a data file as an identifier. The RFID transponder response signal is used in its raw, or a digitized version of its raw, state.

Abstract: In one embodiment, a system for dynamically tasking one or more surveillance resources includes a core module identifying one or more surveillance resources each including one or more sensors. The system also includes one or more target definitions defining one or more targets for surveillance according to geography without reference to target type.

Abstract: In a remote monitoring system, a supervision terminal (37) monitors the status of the communication link (32, 34, 36) between the supervision terminal and each of a plurality of remote terminals (33) connected to the supervision terminal via a data network (35). The remote terminals may be used to emulate a line interface for monitor devices such as fire alarms (31), while providing continual assurance of the integrity of the link between the supervision terminal and the alarm.

Abstract: This invention reduces communication insecurity caused by the air interface during a typical RFID transaction sequence. The RFID industry wide problems of skimming and eavesdropping are eliminated by providing a hermetically sealed container for the purposes of securely interrogating electro magnetic signals which are transmitted between an RFID transponder and an RFID interrogator. According to this invention chose in action are embedded with a silicon based system on a chip. When presented by the owner of the chose in action to an authorized body, the chose in action is ingested into a hermetically sealed container and then initiated through atmospheric pressure change. The transponder and interrogator communicate with a central database through a prompt and response, split algorithm. According to this invention the RFID transponder has minimal data and security is shifted from the RFID transponder to the computer host of the system.

Abstract: An alarm system for sending alarm e-mails flexibly defines various alarm conditions and alarm procedures according to a predetermined reference. The alarm system obtains monitoring data from a monitor system, and determines if the monitoring data meets any of the alarm conditions. The alarm system correspondingly selects an alarm procedure, generates alarm e-mails, and sends the alarm e-mails according to the alarm procedure.

Abstract: A portable security alarm system including a movement detecting and signal transmitting member for mounting on or proximate to the object whose movement is to be detected, a signal receiving and alarm generating member for receiving a signal from the movement detecting and signal transmitting member and producing a security response, a remote control for actuating and deactuating the signal receiving and alarm generating member, an environmental monitoring member for sensing an environmental condition and providing a signal to the signal receiving and alarm generating member, a visual information gathering member for gathering visual information and providing a signal to the signal receiving and alarm generating member, an audio output member for receiving a signal from the signal receiving and alarm generating member and generating an audio output, and components for delivering a security notification to remote recipients. A security network that includes the alarm system is also disclosed.

Abstract: A room occupancy monitoring system monitors the occupancy status of a plurality of rooms and collects and displays the room occupancy information in real time. The room occupancy monitoring system includes a plurality of room occupancy sensor devices and a server. Each of the room occupancy sensor devices is located in a corresponding one of a plurality of rooms, detects whether the corresponding one of the plurality of rooms is occupied, and generates a first signal indicating whether the corresponding one of the plurality of the rooms is occupied and a second signal indicative of the identity of the corresponding one of the rooms. The server receives the first signal and the second signal from the room occupancy sensor devices through a data communication network and displays room occupancy information of the plurality of the rooms based on the first signal and the second signal on a display device.

Abstract: In some embodiments, a method for the distribution of emergency alert information over an IP home network is presented. In this regard, an alert agent is introduced to receive an emergency alert, to discover remote user interface (RUI) clients on a home network, to construct custom alerts for the discovered RUI clients and to push the custom alerts to the discovered RUI clients. Other embodiments are also disclosed and claimed.

Abstract: One aspect relates to detecting raw indicator data at least partially from an indicator; and converting the raw indicator data to indicator-representative information at least partially based on an indication by the indicator at least partially in response to the detecting the raw indicator data. Another aspect relates to detecting raw actuator data at least partially from an actuator, and converting the raw actuator data to actuator-representative information at least partially in response to the detecting the raw actuator data.

Abstract: A thermostat for controlling a heating, ventilating and air conditioning (HVAC) system based an audible warning signal is provided. The thermostat comprises a microphone and an electronic circuit. The microphone senses the audible warning signal and generates an electrical signal corresponding to the audible warning signal. The electronic circuit is operably coupled to the microphone. The electronic circuit instructs the HVAC system according to the electrical signal. As such, the HVAC system is controlled based upon the audible warning signal.

Abstract: An alarm generation system within an industrial automation environment comprises a packaging component that packages contextual data together with an alarm. A provision component relays the packaged contextual data and the alarm to an appropriate device. Thus, customized alarms can be provided for certain recipients given particular situations.

Abstract: A surveillance system having surveillance terminals and a surveillance center is configured to perform effective hazard alert signaling, depending on the hazard type. The surveillance system comprises a plurality of surveillance terminals, which are connected to the surveillance center by a network, carries out hazard and alert signaling. One surveillance terminal detects a hazard and sends a hazard information signal reporting what hazard has just been detected to the surveillance center. The surveillance center receives the hazard information signal, identifies what type of hazard source and the surveillance terminal that sent the hazard information signal, selects surveillance terminals to be alerted to the hazard from among the plurality of surveillance terminals, depending on the identified type of the hazard source and its locality, and sends a hazard alert signal to the selected surveillance terminals.

Abstract: A simulation system includes a two-dimensional electrical grid installed in a floor or floor mat. Signals from boot mounted transmitters can be sensed via the grid to track boot locations in real-time during training exercises.

Abstract: A security apparatus using a telecommunication device is disclosed. A telephone microprocessor is used for sending a predefined security message to a security telephone number preprogrammed in the telecommunication device. A sensing device associated with the telecommunication device is used for detecting an undesired activity around or in association with the telecommunication device. The sensing device directs the telephone microprocessor to send the predefined security message to alert the undesired activity.

Abstract: A method of diagnosing a distributed operational system having a field device, a field processing module coupled to the field device, a bitbus, a fieldbus, and an auxiliary processing module communicating with the bitbus and the fieldbus. The method includes generating a field operating characteristic at the field device, processing the field operating characteristic at the field processing module, and generating field operating data including a field diagnostic parameter as a function of the field operating characteristic. The method also includes communicating the field operating data including the field diagnostic parameter over the bitbus from the field processing module to the auxiliary processing module. The method further includes generating at the auxiliary processing module auxiliary field data as a function of the received field operating data and communicating the auxiliary field data over the fieldbus.

Abstract: A system and method for equipment status data over a network. Equipment adapted for reporting status data indicative of the status of the equipment is connected to a first network A status file connected to the first network receives the status data from the equipment over the first network. A second network is connected to the status file and to a processor. The processor comprises instructions for accessing the status file over the second network, acquiring the status data from the status file, and processing the status data. Based on the processed status data, the processor may take action to control a device or issue an alert. The action taken by the processor is determined by instructions selected by a user of the processor or the equipment.

Abstract: The invention relates to a device for communicating with a system (1, 17). Said device has mobile communication means (12, 27) for a cabled or wireless data exchange with the system (1, 17) and an emergency-stop button (4, 20) integrated into an emergency-stop part (11, 26), with said emergency-stop part (11, 26) being hard-wired to the system and forming, permanently coupled to the mobile communication means via a mechanical coupling link, a portable functional unit serving to perform mobile operator control and monitoring functions.

Abstract: A power and environmental monitoring system includes a power distribution unit, a power monitoring system including an internal sensor for monitoring power consumption characteristics of power supplied to equipment coupled with the power distribution unit, an environmental monitoring system including an internal sensor for monitoring environmental characteristics in a physical environment occupied by the power and environmental monitoring system, and a network connection. The power monitoring system and the environmental monitoring system share a common interface accessible via the network connection. The power distribution unit includes an I/O port for connecting an external sensor, and the environmental monitoring system is configured for receiving environmental characteristics sensed by the external sensor. The common interface comprises a series of Web pages for displaying characteristics sensed by the power monitoring system and the environmental monitoring system.

Abstract: A remote monitoring system for telecommunication enclosures includes a low profile or flush mounted sealed transceiver or antenna unit, an electronic module inside of the enclosure electrically connected to the transceiver and a communication device to send signals to the electronic module through the transceiver. The sealed housing generally comprises a portion extending through the exterior surface of the enclosure. In some embodiments, the transceiver may include a radio frequency antenna, a photoelectric cell, a light sensor or an infrared sensor, and the communication device may be a handheld device, a transponder, or a networked computer.

Abstract: Security system communication with a user device via electronic means, including via e-mail transmitted over the internet are provided. A security system interface receives a signal indicating an occurrence of an event, such as a fault or alarm condition, in a zone of the security system; a memory stores a user e-mail address associated with the security system and the address of a server for providing internet service, such as an ISP server; and an e-mail generator transmits to the server an e-mail message based on the event. The communication node in such a system may be integrated with the control panel of the security system. The e-mail generator can transmit the e-mail using SMTP or other TCP/IP. An attachment of the e-mail, such as a picture or an audio or video file relevant to the event or the zone may be transmitted.

Abstract: Disclosed are a sensor for detecting when an infrastructure interface is physically coupled to network infrastructure, and infrastructure connection detection circuitry coupled to the sensor. The infrastructure connection detection circuitry provides a power management control signal as a function of a signal from the sensor.

Abstract: This present invention simplifies the installation work, the initialization, the operation confirmation, and the test run work of a monitor terminal in a field site that monitors a monitor object. Communication information and management information, such as a telephone number used to communicate with a communication terminal in a field site at test run time, are integrated. For example, the common values (default values) are set in the communication terminal, which will communicate with a monitoring apparatus, as communication information (IP address, user ID, password) to allow the monitoring apparatus to communicate with the communication terminal by setting only the telephone number of the communication terminal in the monitoring apparatus. During a test run, the monitoring apparatus performs operation to change the communication information and the management information in the communication terminal to the information suitable for a production run.

Abstract: A system for monitoring the operation of one or more devices is provided. The system includes a microphone acoustically coupled to one the monitored device. An analog-to-digital-converter samples the microphone and a processor examines the resultant digital signal for the occurrence of an abnormal event.

Abstract: The present disclosure is directed to a system and method of communicating emergency alerts. In a particular embodiment, the method includes receiving a multicast emergency alert message at a set-top box device via a multicast-enabled network, where the multicast emergency alert message includes data related to a location code and data related to a set-top box action. The method also includes executing the set-top box action when the location code matches location information stored at the set-top box device.

Abstract: Tamper-resistant circuitry for use with an electronic device is provided, where the electronic device comprises a plurality of connections for coupling the tamper-resistant circuitry to functional circuitry for performing functionality in connection with the electronic device. The tamper-resistant circuitry comprises an interface for coupling to the plurality of connections and a power source for coupling to at least one connection in the plurality of connections. The tamper-resistant circuitry further comprises circuitry operable to evaluate a measure of an operational parameter related to the power source and in response to a signal at at least one connection in the plurality of connections, to provide an acceptable range for the operational parameter, and to inhibit standard operation of the functional circuitry in response to detecting an anomaly in the functional circuitry by detecting that the measure is outside the acceptable range.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a method and system for location determination of low power wireless devices, over a wide area, utilizing a multitude of communication devices operating on a WAN (Wide Area Network) which can detect signals transmitted by said nearby low power wireless devices, and report this detection to a control station over the WAN. Said station can further locate the reporting communication device by present art methods such as “network based” or “handset based”, and consequently locate the nearby wireless device. Due to the short range nature of the wireless device transmissions, and dynamic mobility of these devices, it is crucial to establish a swift ad-hoc connection between a wireless device and a nearby communication device, still, in order to save battery power and avoid inefficient and interfering transmissions, communications between a wireless device and a communication device are not initiated unitl a sensor comprised in the wireless device detects and a communication device.

Abstract: In one general aspect, a request to determine a status of a first of a plurality of advertising devices is received. The advertising devices are spatially separated. Operating conditions of the first advertising device are identified. The status of the first advertising device is determined based, at least in part, on the operating conditions. A presentation including information indicating the status of the first advertising device is transmitted.

Abstract: A security system, comprises: a registry for registering items for which security is to be monitored, each item is identified in the registry with a unique identifier. A reporting arrangement enables a party to report an event in connection with the security of an item in the registry; and an outgoing communication arrangement is responsive to the reporting arrangement for communicating the reported event to a party associated with the item in the registry; who may then contact the system to obtain information about the reported event.

Abstract: An RFID security network using system component diversity and system spatial diversity is disclosed. The security network includes a plurality of network base units, each communicating with a plurality of transponders, or security transmitters. Through appropriate distributive placement of the plurality of base units, along with appropriate placement of the transponders, the redundancy and reliability of the RF communication links between one or more base units and one or more transponders is increased. Moreover, because each of the base units is capable of being a communications gateway with an external network, including a telecommunications network, the security network's access to an outside telecommunications network is redundant and highly reliable. Accordingly, even if an intruder attempts to disable the security system communications to an external network, the inventive security network has redundant and alternative communication links to an external network.

Abstract: A system for reporting the presence of an adverse condition is described. Adverse conditions include smoke, breaking glass and carbon monoxide. The system includes one or more detectors that sense the adverse condition. The system further includes a central controller that stores a plurality of messages that in turn include a plurality of vocal instructions. A subset of messages is selected based on the detector that sends an indication of the adverse condition to the central controller. The subset of messages is then transmitted to a plurality of audio detectors and audio devices that plays the received vocal instructions.

Abstract: An accessory-type GPS (Global Positioning System) receiver comprises a mobile terminal side plug connector, and a cradle/hand-free side receptacle connector disposed substantially opposite thereto. The GPS receiver further comprises a power supply that receives power from a mobile terminal power charge line being operatively coupled between the mobile terminal side plug connector and the cradle/hand-free side receptacle connector. The plug connector is used to pass GPS data directly to a mobile terminal. The receptacle connector is used to pass non-GPS data to the mobile terminal via the plug connector.

Abstract: A combination surveillance and alerting system and method in a restaurant that serves take-out customers. A video camera monitors a parking space for take-out customers, and sends video to an image recognition program, which detects when a vehicle enters the parking space. The detection triggers a controller to start a timer and instruct an on-premises paging transmitter to page an employee responsible for serving takeout customers. The image recognition program detects when the employee enters a greeting zone for greeting customers, and the controller prepares an elapsed greeting time report for management. The image recognition program also detects when the vehicle leaves the parking space, and the controller prepares a total service time report for management.

Abstract: A laser light actuation system for remotely and selectively actuating a function of a known apparatus. The system includes a laser module adapted to produce a known laser light signal, which is preferably sparsely modulated, the signal being suitable for transmission over a long distance. The system also includes a receiver module adapted to receive and detect the known laser light signal. The receiver module is also adapted to selectively produce an actuation signal in response to the known laser light signal to selectively actuate such an apparatus. The receiver module includes a timer operatively associated with the receiver module to selectively limit the time of actuation of such an apparatus in response to the laser light signal. A laser light actuation method for remotely and selectively actuating a function of a known apparatus.

Abstract: An apparatus for determining and/or monitoring a physical or chemical process variable of a medium, having a sensor unit, which produces a measurement signal with a piece of process variable-dependent, basic information, and having an evaluation unit which, from the measurement signal of the sensor unit, determines a measured value for the process variable, and which produces an output signal with information concerning whether the measured value is greater or smaller than a limit value. A first and second modulation range are provided, and the evaluation unit modulates the output signal within the first or second modulation range with the basic information of the measurement signal, with the evaluation unit modulating the output signal within the first modulation range when the process variable is smaller than the limit value, and with the evaluation unit modulating the output signal within the second modulation range when the process variable is greater than the limit value.

Abstract: A system for monitoring aircraft/airport operations includes a controller operatively coupled to a network, a data storage device comprising flight information data that is operatively coupled to the network, a data storage device comprising gate information data that is operatively coupled to the network and at least one user interface wherein a user may access the flight information data and the gate information data. A method of monitoring airport operations includes accessing a single integrated system having access to flight information data and gate information data and monitoring at least one activity relating to airport operations based upon information accessed in the single integrated system.

Abstract: A method for monitoring a process includes receiving a signal from a sensor that is indicative of a physical attribute associated with the process and transmitting data indicative of the received signal over a one-way link. The transmitted data received from the one way link are used in monitoring the process.

Abstract: A system is provided for connecting an alarm system to a monitoring center through a fiber optic network. The alarm signals may be transmitted through the electrical wiring within a house or other facility through a fiber optic network and the PSTN and/or Internet to the monitoring center. The connection may include a reverse polarity in a pair of ring and tip lines between an interface device of the fiber optic network and a junction element of the alarm system or between the junction element and a controller of the alarm system. The reverse polarity may be created by connecting an end of a ring line into a tip adapter and connecting an end of a tip line into a ring adapter.

Abstract: A doorbell having interchangeable chimes and interchangeable decorative covers is displayed for sale to the retail public such that a customer may easily choose a specific chime sound and combine it with a specific decorative cover enabling the customer to buy a doorbell meeting the customer's aesthetic requirement. The interchangeable bases and covers may include complimentary attachment parts that allow any cover to be mounted to any of a plurality of bases of differing size and in different orientations.

Abstract: The present invention is generally directed to a system for monitoring a variety of environmental and/or other conditions within a defined remotely located region. In accordance with one aspect of the invention, a system is configured to monitor utility meters in a defined area. The system is implemented by using a plurality of wireless transmitters, wherein each wireless transmitter is integrated into a sensor adapted to monitor a particular data input. The system also includes a plurality of transceivers that are dispersed throughout the region at defined locations. The system uses a local gateway to translate and transfer information from the transmitters to a dedicated computer on a network. The dedicated computer, collects, compiles, and stores the data for retrieval upon client demand across the network.

Abstract: The software configurations of a personal computer allow it to provide portable home security to poor American families and small business owners. When a security breach is detected, a wave file out of the computer speakers serves as a detection alarm to the intruder, while another wave file serves as a notification to the homeowner. The personal computer program would automatically loop through different telephone numbers, as preset. The homeowner has the responsibilities to stop, reset or dispatch the appropriate authorities base on the nature of the notification.

Abstract: A method allows an H2S alarm system installed at a remote wellsite to be monitored and configured from a distant location. Alert-signals from the alarm system to the distant location and configuration settings from the distant location to the alarm system can be transmitted using the text-messaging feature of a conventional cell phone. The cell phone, for example, can send the H2S alarm system a text message that sets the H2S concentration threshold at which the alarm system triggers an alert. When the H2S concentration reaches the threshold or a fault occurs with the alarm system, the system can send the cell phone a text message that describes the problem, identifies the location of the wellsite, and lists the names and telephone numbers of those that should be notified.

Abstract: Secure, verifiable, computer-enabled, LAN/WAN/Wireless networked, facility emergency notification, rapid alert management, and occupant alarm systems for public, private, and government buildings, and outdoor areas for which there is a need for rapid alerts to occupants or attendees of the occurrence of impending or in-progress dangerous or threatening events. The inventive system is a highly flexible rapid alert initiation, management and archival system comprising computer-enabled and network-linked apparatus, software, and methods enabling rapid dissemination from a central station or decentralized location of alerts of the occurrence of threatening or dangerous events in a series of hierarchical, increasing levels of directed action to be taken by the occupants, and permits monitoring and controlling activity of occupants during the event, archiving event data, including audio or/and video recordings until the situation returns to normal and an all clear signal is given.

Abstract: A system for detecting and suppressing a fire condition in a storage unit. The system comprises a transmitter associated with the storage unit and configured to transmit a first signal upon detection of the fire condition, at least one receiver configured to detect the first signal and configured to provide a second signal indicating detection of the fire condition, and a fire suppression device configured to discharge a fire suppressant material into the storage unit upon detection of the fire condition. There may also be a plurality of storage units, a plurality of transmitters, and a plurality of receivers. An individual transmitter and an individual receiver may be associated with each of the plurality of storage units. Each of the storage units may be located at a predetermined position relative to the individual receiver associated with the storage unit.

Abstract: A drum-style slip-ring module (100) is used in a contact-type communication system. The module utilizes PCB construction to construct a plurality of stacked electrically-conductive rings (102) and a plurality of dielectric layers (104) electrically isolating the conductive rings. Each of the dielectric layers includes a centrally-located aperture (107). The module also includes a cylindrical ground plane (108) positioned in the centrally-located aperture. The module is configured to provide electrical connection to each of the rings at an exterior surface of the module. Each group of feed line vias can be designed as impedance-controlled transmission lines with connections to each ring group. The construction described in this invention can create slip-ring transmission line structures with bandwidth from DC to 5 GHz or higher, allowing the slip-ring to be used to transfer multi-gigabit digital data streams.