Abstract: A selectable mode field transmitter is configurable to operate in one of a plurality of operating modes having different combinations of function, performance, and power consumption. The selectable mode field transmitter includes a housing, a sensor located within the housing, and transmitter circuitry for transmitting data provided by the sensor to a receiver external to the housing. The transmitter circuitry includes a controller that electrically configures the transmitter circuitry to one of a plurality of operational modes in response to mode selection data received from a source external to the housing. Therefore, the selectable mode field transmitter can be configured based on the needs or requirements of a particular application.

Abstract: A power over data cable system has a power controller. The power controller receives alarm signals from alarm systems such as fire alarms and security alarms. The power controller is connected to power over Ethernet switches or injectors (PoE). The PoE Ethernet switches or injectors are coupled network devices, such as door locks, security cameras, etc. When an alarm occurs, the power controller can turn off the power to the network devices by sending a disable signal to an associated PoE Ethernet switch or injector. A user interface, allows a user to easily define which PoE Ethernet switches or injectors are to be opened for a given alarm. Using this system the user can easily setup a system to selectively disable power to certain devices and not others whenever an alarm is activated.

Abstract: An apparatus for converting a low voltage alternating current (AC) wiring circuit to a high speed data communications link, comprising a primary coupling circuit and a secondary coupling circuit. The apparatus provides low voltage AC power to a data device and couples data signals between the data device and the AC power line via the converted low voltage AC wiring circuit. An example is provided for retrofitting a door chime system to a high speed data link such as a video camera system.

Abstract: In one embodiment, a system for coupling communications signals onto a medium-voltage power line includes a metal oxide varistor, a disconnect device and a capacitor. The metal oxide varistor is electrically coupled to the medium voltage power line. The disconnect device includes a resistor in parallel with an air gap and is electrically coupled in series between the metal oxide varistor and a communications device. The capacitor is electrically coupled to the metal oxide varistor and the communications device in parallel with the disconnect device.

Abstract: A system for detecting chemical/biological substances and a detection method. The system comprises a plurality of sensing units or nodes and a radiofrequency link. Each unit has several sensors with different sensing curves. Each sensor is able to transmit information related to the sensed substance on a specific frequency. The sensors preferably comprise AlGaN/GaN high electron mobility transistors.

Abstract: A single prong, multiple signal conducting plug and plug detection circuitry is provided. The plug may be electrically coupled to a stereo headset including a microphone. The plug may include four signal conducting regions arranged in a predetermined order along the length of the prong. Detection circuitry may be operative to determine whether a microphone type of plug (e.g., a four region plug including a microphone region and two audio regions, or a three region plug including microphone region and only one audio region) or a non-microphone type of plug (e.g., stereo plug) is inserted into the jack of an electronic device (e.g., mobile phone). Detection circuitry may also detect user activated functions performed in response to user activation of one or more switches included with the headset. For example, the headset may include a single switch for performing a function with respect to a microphone (e.g., end-call function).

Abstract: A condition monitoring device for monitoring conditions related to a user. A monitor main unit includes a connection structure for detachably attachment to a first sensor unit. The first sensor unit includes a first connector mated with the connection structure of the monitor main unit and a second connector detachably attachable to a second sensor unit. Data associated with the monitored condition detected by the first sensor unit is provided to the monitor main unit via the first connector and the connection structure. Data associated with a monitored condition detected by the second sensor unit is provided to the monitor main unit via the second connector, the first sensor unit, the first connector, and the connection structure.

Abstract: A sensing device is provided. The sensing device includes two or more sensors for sensing one or more physical properties. A first sensor draws a first electrical signal, and similarly, a second sensor draws a second electrical signal. The first and second electrical signals correspond to values of the physical properties sensed by the respective first and second sensors. The sensing device further includes an electrical circuit connected to the first and second sensors. The electrical circuit draws a third electrical signal. The electrical circuit is configured such that the total electrical signal drawn by the sensing device is proportional to either the first or the second electrical signal, whichever has a higher value.

Abstract: A line-powered module that is selectively operable in one of a plurality of modes of operation based upon the value of a selection signal. The line-powered module includes a control unit that selectively operates the module in one of the plurality of modes of operation based upon the value of a selection signal received by the control unit. The line-powered module includes a selection input that is coupled to the control unit such that the selection signal can be received at the selection input. Preferably, the selection input receives a selection wire that can be moved between different points of connection to define the plurality of states of the selection signal. Based upon the connection of the selection wire, the control unit operates the line-powered module in one of the plurality of modes of operation.

Abstract: A multi-function relay module for use with a series of hazardous condition detectors that are interconnected by an interconnect line. The relay module is positioned between the interconnected hazardous condition detectors and one or more auxiliary devices such that the relay module can selectively activate each of the auxiliary devices. The relay module receives the interconnect signal and determines whether the interconnect signal is indicating a first sensed condition or a second sensed condition. A selection signal having multiple states is received by the control unit. The control unit is programmed to respond to the type of sensed condition indicated by the interconnect signal based upon the state of the selection signal. Thus, the relay module can selectively respond to either the first sensed condition, the second sensed condition or either of the first or second sensed conditions.

Abstract: Airborne particles are impacted on a collection surface, analyzed, and then the collection surface is regenerated. Thus, the same collection surface can be used in numerous cycles. The analysis can be focused on one or more properties of interest, such as the concentration of airborne biologicals. Sensors based on regenerative collection surfaces may be incorporated in many networks for applications such as building automation.

Abstract: A system and method displays a safe route from a location to a destination that avoids one or more hazards detected, such as a fire or a gas leak.

Abstract: A sensor unit for use in a surveillance system is provided. The sensor unit interfaces with a sensor device to receive sensor data from the sensor device. The sensor unit is configured to generate an event record based upon received sensor data. The event record is of a predetermined format and is output to a data unit.

Abstract: A rapid-mounting security monitoring and controlling system is disclosed. Co-axial cable is used to transmit power supply, images, sound, and to control detected signals so as to rapidly installation of wirings for the security monitoring and controlling system. The complexity of wiring installation is improved and the installation cost and the material cost are greatly reduced.

Abstract: A security and surveillance system for aircraft on the ground incorporates a plurality of strategically spaced sensors including video imaging generators, audio sensors, motion detectors, and fire and smoke detectors for monitoring critical components and critical areas of both the interior and the exterior of the a commercial transport such as an aircraft. The system is a comprehensive multi-media safety, tracking and/or surveillance system, which provides both visual and/or audio information as well as critical data such as location, direction, intrusion, fire and/or smoke detection and/or status of environmental conditions and/or asset systems status. The collected information is analyzed and prioritized according to type of event, location and nature of required response for automatically dispatching the proper response.

Abstract: An apparatus for leaving a message on a refrigerator is disclosed. The apparatus can be mounted on the refrigerator so as to broadcast a voice upon opening a door of the refrigerator. A control unit for processing and controlling the voice is mounted on the main body of the present invention, wherein the control unit is a signal processing control center. A sensor is mounted on the inner side of the door of the refrigerator and is connected to the control unit of the main body. When the door of the refrigerator is open, the sensor is triggered to transmit a sensor signal to the control unit to broadcast the voice. A timer is also connected to the control unit to active the apparatus at a predetermined time. In other words, a predetermined voice content is broadcasted. Thus, the reminding, warning, and encouraging effects are accomplished so as to act an interactive communication medium for family members.

Abstract: A personal and/or institutional health and wellness communications system, which may be used for a variety of emergency and non-emergency situations using two-way communication devices and a bi-directional communication network. In one application two-way pagers are adapted for use in the system. In one application cellular devices are adapted for use in the system. In one application an assisted living response center is established using various embodiments of the present personal and/or institutional communications system. The system provides multiple levels of prioritization, authentication of person (task, step, process or order), and confirmation via interrogation of person, device, or related monitor. One embodiment provides a method for receiving, evaluating and responding to calls received from a subscriber, patient, related party, or health care provider or health care system.

Abstract: The invention includes a method, system, and device for communicating a data signal on an electric power system. The inventive method includes communicating the data signal to the electric power system, and modifying the characteristics of the electric power system to reduce the data signal communicated to an electrical component located on the electric power system without substantially reducing a voltage signal. The method further includes communicating the data signal to a customer premise. The electrical component may include, for example, an electrical transformer.

Abstract: A single communication apparatus for alarm system control boxes that include the combination of a digital communicator and a remote communicating device. The communicating apparatus transmits status reports and events to a remote location. Remote login is permitted to access the control box through a external port or through the remote communication device.

Abstract: An RFID sensor system and method is disclosed. An RFID sensor system includes a conducting path having first and second conductors, and one or more RFID sensing transceivers spatially-distributed along the conducting path and capactively-coupled to the first and second conductors. The system further includes a controller that provides an AC signal on the conducting path, and receives signals from the one or more RFID sensing transceivers. The conducting path and RFID sensing transceivers can formed in a flexible substrate and mated together.

Abstract: A dimmer control system has a communication control loop that connects a master unit in series with a plurality of remote units, and it is superimposed in series on the dimmer load line so as to allow two-way communication between the master unit and remote units without affecting the operation of the load. Communications from the master to the remote units are encoded in loop current fluctuations, whereas communications from any remote to the master unit are encoded in loop voltage fluctuations. The master unit has a switched power supply, for use during normal LOAD ON operation, in tandem with a capacitive power supply, for use during LOAD OFF operation of the control units so as to minimize hum. The master unit power supply circuit provides an output rail voltage comprised of a reference voltage for the load superimposed with a control loop voltage for the voltage drop across the series-connected remote units.

Abstract: Normal hard-wired domestic burglar alarms have cables with six conductors extending between the alarm controller and each remote input/output device (such as an entry keypad). The present alarm system has an alarm controller, a remote input/output device, a cable extending from the alarm controller to the remote input/output device, the cable comprising two conductors only, providing power to the remote input/output device. A signal processor at the controller monitors and processes voltage and current in the conductors to affect functions of the alarm system. A mixer at the remote input/output device processes voltage and current in the conductors to affect functions of the alarm system.

Abstract: A dimmer control system has a communication control loop that connects a master unit in series with a plurality of remote units, and it is superimposed in series on the dimmer load line so as to allow two-way communication between the master unit and remote units without affecting the operation of the load. Communications from the master to the remote units are encoded in loop current fluctuations, whereas communications from any remote to the master unit are encoded in loop voltage fluctuations. The master unit has a switched power supply, for use during normal LOAD ON operation, in tandem with a capacitive power supply, for use during LOAD OFF operation of the control units so as to minimize hum. The master unit power supply circuit provides an output rail voltage comprised of a reference voltage for the load superimposed with a control loop voltage for the voltage drop across the series-connected remote units.

Abstract: The apparatus for providing notices to a user interface concerning status of at least one item in a container involves a loading opening and a collection opening, a first sensor connected to the loading opening for generating a first signal when an item is inserted in the container, a second sensor connected to the collection opening for generating a second signal when the item is removed from the container, an intelligent device connected to the first and second sensors for receiving the signals and generating intelligent device signals, a communication system in contact with the intelligent device for receiving the intelligent device signals, a software interface in contact with the communication system that processes the intelligent device signals, and a user interface in contact with the software interface that receives the intelligent device signals processed from the software interface.

Abstract: A system is described for detecting at least one event of interest. The system comprises a detector, a programmable controller, and a network. Upon detection of an event of interest, the detector communicates that information to the programmable controller through the network. The programmable controller allows a user, who may be in diverse geographic locations, to control the detector.

Abstract: A security seal for a freight car, freight container or other enclosure. The seal has an electronic timepiece which displays the time and date and is preset at an established reference time. A cut-resistant strap is secured at one end to the seal and has a latch at the other end. When the latch is passed through a lock and is engaged in a receiver in the seal, the strap is locked in place and the power to the timepiece is interrupted providing an indication of the time and date on which the lock was sealed. Other information may be applied to the seal at the time of sealing such as the identification of the individual responsible for the sealing.

Abstract: A system and method for monitoring and safety related systems (SRSs) in a Secure Compartmented Information Facility (SCIF) that addresses concerns for security of electronic emanations from equipment in the SCIF. A fiber optic link connects an optical receiver located within a SCIF and an optical transmitter located outside the SCIF. Alarm signals generated by an SRS located outside the SCIF are detected and sent to the optical receiver over the fiber optic link. The optical receiver converts the optical signals to electrical signals and directs the signals to alarm devices within the SCIF. Additionally, an audio signal generated at the location outside the SCIF is converted to an optical signal and then reconverted to an audio signal by the optical receiver for broadcast over a speaker located within the SCIF. A tone signal generated at the optical transmitter is continuously sent over the optical fiber link to the optical receiver and the SCIF speaker.

Abstract: In transmitting a first pair of differential clock signals UCLK, UXCLK having an extremely small amplitude voltage based on a power-source potential and a second pair of differential clock signals LCLK, LXCLK having an extremely small amplitude voltage based on the power-source potential, an inverting circuit as a signal receiving circuit is composed of a CMOS inverting circuit. A PMOS transistor composing the CMOS inverting circuit has a gate electrode and a source electrode receiving the first pair of differential clock signals. An NMOS transistor composing the CMOS inverting circuit has a gate electrode and a source electrode receiving the second pair of differential clock signals. When the potentials of the differential clock signals change, potentials at the respective gate and source electrodes of the two transistors shift in opposite directions, which surely cuts off the transistors.

Abstract: A device and method for imparting movement to a selected line are disclosed. A device incorporating teachings of the present invention may include a motion arm extending through an opening in the housing of the device. The arm may be coupled to a connection clip that can grip a selected line. The selected line may include, for example, twisted pair, coaxial cable, optical cable, shielded high-gauge wire, etc. In some embodiments, the arm of the device is coupled to a motion generator that imparts movement to the motion arm in at least one direction. In operation, the imparted movement may be conveyed through the motion arm and the connection clip to the selected wire.

Abstract: A switch assembly (1) comprises a push-button section (52) and a push-button body (53) as an operation transmitting member, an LED box (54) and a contact-making contact (56) as a direct functioning member, and a communication-function incorporating contact (communications contact) (55) as an information input/output functioning member, as permitting these components to be connected with each other. Therefore, the switch assembly can respond to an operation given to the push-button body (52) by causing the contact-making contact (56) to provide an output for switching between a conductive state and a non-conductive state and by causing the communications contact (55) to output an information signal to a network.

Abstract: Network-enabled devices are configured to report changes of state to a monitoring system. The monitoring system is configured to filter each change of state to determine whether the change of state constitutes a reportable event, based on a profile associated with the device. If the event is reportable, it is communicated to one or more other network-enabled devices. Each device is also configured to periodically verify its presence to the monitoring system, and the unexplained absence of the device is treated as a change of state of state of the device. In like manner, a change to the profile of a device is also treated as a change of state of the device.

Abstract: A software driven, audible output control module can carry out bi-directional communications with an alarm system using the same common link as is used by ambient condition detectors, such as smoke or gas detectors. The audible control module can store characteristics of a plurality of predetermined outputs. The system control can download an audible output originating command. Alternately, such information from detectors can be directly read off the link by the respective modules.

Abstract: The system for which this patent applies regards the application of an emergency evacuation warning and information system for a generalized computer local area network. Utilizing the existing network for information transfer and the integrated hardware of each computer workstation, namely the input devices as warning trigger methods and visual display unit to provide a personalized individual evacuation plan pertaining to the location of each computer workstation.

Abstract: A method and apparatus are provided for activating smoke detector alarms within a house. The method includes the steps of providing a plurality of smoke detectors dispersed among a plurality of locations within the house, detecting smoke within a first smoke detector of the plurality of smoke detectors, transmitting a radio frequency signal from the first smoke detector to a second smoke detector of the plurality of smoke detectors upon detection of smoke by the first smoke detector and activating an alarm within the second smoke detector upon detection of the radio frequency signal from the first smoke detector.

Abstract: A system is described for detecting at least one event of interest. The system comprises a detector, a programmable controller, and a network. Upon detection of an event of interest, the detector communicates that information to the programmable controller through the network. The programmable controller allows a user, who may be in diverse geographic locations, to control the detector.

Abstract: The present invention generally is directed to an alarm device that includes a network interface configured to receive an alarm control signal, an alarm interface for issuing an alarm to a target, and a processing unit which, upon receiving the alarm control signal, executes alarm issuing instructions causing the alarm interface to issue the alarm. The processing unit is configured to execute the alarm issuing instructions only after a presence of the target is detected proximate to the alarm device.

Abstract: A fire alarm system may comprise a control center, a wired communication pathway connected to the control center, and a relay station having a receiver and a signal evaluation circuit connected to the communication pathway. First decentralized alarm boxes may be wired to the communication pathway, and second decentralized alarm boxes may communicate with the receiver of the relay station via a wireless channel, wherein the first and second alarm boxes, in case of fire, produce an alarm signal which is transmitted to the control center via the communication pathway. A set of separate coupling modules may be disposed in the relay station and may be disconnectably connected to the signal evaluation circuit and the communication pathway via appropriate connecting elements, the coupling modules being designed for different communication modes.

Abstract: An outdoor intrusion detection system that includes a portable housing (1), a plurality of adjustable fasteners (21) and (22), an augmented switch (5), and a sensor line (3) for sensing human and/or animal intrusions into a predetermined perimeter or boundary configuration, which can be variable in conformity with terrain and flora. A battery-powered high decibel piezo siren (7) activates when any intrusion occurs. The sensor line is released, retrieved, and stored on a reel that is an integral part of the housing, completing a lightweight alarm system that fits in a coat pocket or backpack pouch of a camper, hiker, or soldier. The system can also be used for protecting gardens and fruit trees, automobile and airplane displays, and comparable things.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an environment monitoring system for monitoring environment for installing community Ethernet switch, which comprises an Ethernet switch installed in a panel room at a community and an environment monitoring device coupled between the Ethernet switch and a central office so that a packet transmission can be effected between the central office and a plurality of end users through the Ethernet switch and the information monitored by the environment monitoring device can be transmitted to the central office enabling the central office to monitor the panel room through the environment monitoring device and perform a real time monitoring on the environment for installing the Ethernet switch at a remote place.

Abstract: In a fire alarm system, a plurality of terminal equipments are connected to a control panel. The terminal equipments include a first terminal equipment provided with a first mode in which the first terminal equipment is controlled by the control panel, and a second mode in which the first terminal equipment controls a second terminal equipment which is other than the first terminal equipment.

Abstract: An alarm system includes a plurality of alarm devices connected to a load sensor. The load sensor senses the electrical load in the alarm system and indicates both the failure of the alarm devices in the system and the likely location of the failed devices.

Abstract: A security and surveillance system for aircraft on the ground incorporates a plurality of strategically spaced sensors including video imaging generators, audio sensors, motion detectors, and fire and smoke detectors for monitoring critical components and critical areas of both the interior and the exterior of the a commercial transport such as an aircraft. The captured data and images are transmitted to a ground based security station for display on a monitor and may be recorded on a “black box” recorder as well as on a ground based recording system. The multiple audio and image signals are multiplexed and sequenced utilizing split screen technology in order to minimize the recording and monitoring hardware required to process the images.

Abstract: A fire alarm system provided with a fire receiver (1) to which a plurality of fire sensors and controlled apparatuses are connected. The fire receiver (1) comprises a LAN interface (11) for connecting with other fire receivers. When a fire sensor issues an alarm, the fire receiver transmits the fire information over the LAN together with a group number set in advance, and displays (12) only the fire information of the same group number when the fire receiver receives fire information transmitted from the other fire receivers via the LAN. Thus, even is a plurality of fire receivers are used in a large building divided into ridge sections, fire information can be shared without causing disorder.

Abstract: A device adapter for an automation system is disclosed. The device adapter includes at least a transmitter, a receiver, and a logic mechanism. The transmitter announces joining and leaving of the non-intelligent power line device to the automation system. The receiver receives commands from the automation system, and acts as a controller to control electricity to the non-intelligent power line device, depending on the commands received from the system. The logic mechanism determines when to instruct the transmitter to announce joining and leaving. The device adapter can also include a sensor. The sensor determines the on/off status of the power line device.

Abstract: An interface that provides selected information from a remote device to a utilization mechanism over a two-wire connection, wherein all power for the interface and the remote device is received from the utilization mechanism over the same two-wire connection. A switch circuit provides a high impedance between first and second wires of the two-wire connection when open and a low impedance between the wires when closed. Current flow through the switch circuit is sensed by the utilization mechanism as indicative of information from the remote device. The interface comprises a voltage regulator that provides a regulated voltage to components of the interface and the remote device, and a current regulator that regulates current provided to the voltage regulator from the two-wire connection, when the switch circuit is open, to below a predetermined level at which the utilization mechanism interprets the switch circuit as being in the open state.

Abstract: A warning system (20) includes a central control unit (CCU), and a plurality of local units (LU) connected to the central control unit (CCU). Each local unit (LU) includes a plurality of input trips (An), such as smoke detector, an earthquake detector, and gas detector, and a plurality of programmable responses, such as a bypass relay (C), a message delivered by a record/playback unit (D), an emergency light (E), and a strobe light (F). The input trips (An) also include a disconnect trip (A1), which is activated by a detector input signal (DI) sent from the central control unit (CCU), and indicates that the central control unit (CCU) has malfunctioned. The programmable responses include a warning output signal (WO) which is sent from the local unit (LU) to the central control unit (CCU) to indicate the presence of a local emergency at the local unit (LU).

Abstract: A fire alarm apparatus, for checking line disconnection or occurrence of a fire, regardless of the installation place of a terminal endpoint resistor installed for checking disconnection of a line of fire detectors. When a signal representing a present voltage state of the detectors is input through the line, a control section compares the voltage level of the signal with a reference voltage level, and generates either a line disconnection control signal or a fire control signal. A first alarm section provides indication of disconnection of the line in response to the line disconnection control signal and a second alarm section provides indication of the occurrence of fire in response to the fire control signal. The apparatus can thus monitor a state of the detecting line, the common line and the fire detectors, regardless of the installation place of the terminal endpoint resistor.

Abstract: A danger signalling system, including a multiplicity of detectors (M1 to Mn) and other line members, in case of need, which respond to at least one danger criterion and are connected to a two-wire line (line A), a control centre connected to the line (line A), which has a voltage supply and a central processor in which the addresses of the detectors are stored for individually addressing and polling the detectors as well as a program for monitoring the status of the detectors. A testing circuitry is disposed in the control centre for checking the working order of the network formed from the line and the detectors or line members by means of a testing unit wherein the testing circuitry includes a testing processor which, in turn, has an evaluation software, and a switch assembly controlled by the testing processor is provided for selectively connecting the at least one testing unit to the line (line A).

Abstract: A multiple input-type and multiple signal processing-type device may include an input stage for receiving a plurality of different analog signal types, and down and up-converters for respectively downwardly converting first signal types and upwardly converting second signal types to a desired processing frequency range. Furthermore, the device may include an analog-to-digital converter (ADC) for converting analog signals at the desired processing frequency range into digital signals, and time and frequency domain signal processing sections connected to the ADC for processing the digital signals. Furthermore, the device may advantageously include a user selector input for permitting a user to selectively activate one of the down-converter or up-converter and one of the time or frequency domain signal processing sections.

Abstract: A process control instruments includes a sensor for sensing a process variable in a processing environment, and a switch, a gauge, and a transmitter. The sensor, switch, gauge, and transmitter, a controller to which each of the stated and related components are connected, are powered via a two-wire power loop. In particular, the two-wired power loop also comprises the transmitter, such that the controller, upon receiving information indicative of the level of a variable being sensed by the sensor, modulates the amplitude of the current on the two-wire loop to a level corresponding to the level of the processed variables sensed. Each of the switch, gauge, and transmitter are independently scalable. In the preferred embodiment of the invention, a pair of switches in the form of relays are provided, and a logic circuit operates to power the components of the invention, with the exception of the relays, when the process variable being sensed with within a selected range.