Abstract: In a device for a motor vehicle for providing data relating to an accident, the data relating to an accident includes both position data of the motor vehicle and data relating to the vehicle, which in turn includes recovery-related specification data. Furthermore, a conversion device is for converting an emergency call which is received by such a device, the recovery-related specification data being converted automatically into a reproduction form which is understandable for persons involved in the recovery, and output.

Abstract: Methods of managing a location of a mobile terminal include obtaining a position of the mobile terminal, estimating a distance from the mobile terminal to a destination point, generating an estimated time for the mobile terminal to reach the destination point, and generating an alert if the estimated time for the mobile terminal to reach the destination point reaches a threshold time. Related mobile terminals are also disclosed.

Abstract: Using wireless features, a public service agency is enabled to provide alert information to first responders. An automatic call back from the first responder triggers a voice call launching a location fix on the current location of the first responder. Preferably delivery confirmation that the responder has received the message is received. Once the location fix has been completed, then driving directions with map images are sent to the first responder based on their current location and desired destination for response.

Abstract: The present invention related to a management system with real-time interaction for environmental monitoring and a method thereof. The management system for environmental monitoring includes a server system, which includes a data processing apparatus and a first management apparatus. The data processing apparatus executes collecting and evaluating monitored data, and importing and exporting monitoring management criteria as well as analyzing and comparing the monitored data and the automatically adjusting the monitoring management criteria. The management system for environmental monitoring also includes a monitoring apparatus, which receives data of monitoring operations transmitted by the first management apparatus via a network, and transmits the monitored data produced in environmental monitoring to the first management apparatus.

Abstract: Apparatus and systems, as well as methods and articles, may operate to receive status from an operating system (OS)-independent module capable of providing OS-independent geolocation information associated with a device to a network at some time before executing an operating system.

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 system and method for controlling one or more medical devices by a remote console. The remote console communicates wirelessly with a central control unit that connects to one or more of the medical devices. To conserve battery power and simplify operation, the remote console is configured to automatically power on and initiate a wireless connection in response to being brought into proximity of the central control unit. According to another embodiment, the remote console automatically powers on and terminates any previously established wireless connections when brought into proximity of the central control unit.

Abstract: The present invention relates to detection and alarm systems for predicting and detecting the location of spills, leaks, emissions, and/or pollution sources, i.e., unwanted fluid (liquid/gas) flow/escape, at refineries, e.g., oil and gas refineries, and plants, e.g., petrochemical, chemical, pharmaceutical, and food processing plants, and avoiding said unwanted flow/escape. According to one embodiment, said system comprises at least one detector, at least one battery powered radio frequency transmitter, preferably, according to one embodiment, a 900 megahertz spread spectrum transmitter, and a central processing location which, according to one embodiment, is preferably capable of handling up to 3000 points in a single cell site.

Abstract: A package delivery notification system and method notifies package recipients of a package's arrival. The method-enabling system comprises a package, a package recipient, a package carrier, first and second wireless communications devices, and a recipient setting. The package carrier brings the package and the first wireless communications device to within a delivery distance relative to the recipient setting. The first wireless communications device and the delivery distance enable data transmission to the second wireless communications device located at the recipient setting. The package carrier transmits a package-delivery message to the second communications device, which device receives and displays the package-delivery message for notifying the package recipient of the package's arrival.

Abstract: An alarm monitor includes memory that stores an actuator schedule. An input circuit receives a sensor signal that indicates an alarm condition, the sensor signal originating from a sensor that is remote from the alarm monitor. A processor generates digital data based on the sensor signal and generates a first control signal to control an actuator based on the actuator schedule. An interface wirelessly transmits a report signal to a remote master unit based on the digital data and transmits the first control signal to the actuator.

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: A sensor package comprising a micro-electromechanical (MEMS) motion sensor, an analog-to-digital converter coupled to the MEMS motion sensor, and a wireless transceiver coupled to the analog-to-digital converter, wherein the sensor package can wirelessly communicate with one or more wireless receivers and, if present, with one or more other sensor packages. A process comprising attaching one or more sensor packages to one or more vehicles or devices (mobile or stationary), each sensor package comprising a micro-electromechanical (MEMS) motion sensor, an analog-to-digital converter coupled to the MEMS motion sensor, and a wireless transceiver coupled to the MEMS motion sensor; sensing the motion of the one or more vehicles or devices to which each sensor package is attached; and transmitting motion data from the sensor package to a wireless receiver or to another sensor package.

Abstract: A disaster alert system and disaster alert devices for use in the system. Each disaster alert device includes a radio receiver, and a processor programmed to monitor radio transmissions from one or more central stations for disaster alerts directed to the location of the disaster alert device. Each alert device also includes an audio unit to alert personnel located at the site of the device to the precise nature of the disaster. The disaster alert devices are pre-programmed with information identifying the precise use location of the warning device. This use location information includes latitude and longitude of the use location and may also include other location information such as street address and zip code.

Abstract: A wireless dynamic operating condition system is described that includes one or more wireless monitors located at a monitoring point in an instrumented machine system. The wireless monitors may be configured as a modular base with modular power supplies that can be attached to the base. The base may include integrated sensors or additional sensors may be tethered to the base. The resulting modular system allows for points to be monitored on the machine system for dynamic operating conditions that are difficult to access or are less critical than wired monitoring points. Calculations may be carried out based upon the sensed data either within the monitoring modules themselves or within specific modules that are so equipped.

Abstract: A security system control module with a portable housing including a wireless receiver, control circuitry, nonvolatile memory, and a data connector. The receiver receives data transmissions from at least one wireless security device that monitors a condition of a premises in which the wireless security device is installed. The data connector exchanges data between the control circuitry and an external host device, and it also accepts from the external host device primary operating power for operating the wireless receiver, the control circuitry, and the nonvolatile memory. The control circuitry is adapted to process signals in accordance with a preprogrammed configuration file stored in the nonvolatile memory, the signals received via the wireless receiver from a wireless security device, and to communicate with an external computer located remotely from the external host device via the data connector using a first communications protocol.

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: According to one example embodiment, an integrated security arrangement detects unwanted intruders in a facility. The arrangement includes an intrusion sensor to sense an intrusion at a target area of a facility, a second sensor to sense movement, an image-capture device, and a base unit. The image-capture device captures images in response to an intrusion indication from the intrusion sensor and in response to a movement indication from the second sensor. The base unit integrates a direction of view of the second sensor and of the image-capture device, thereby directing the second sensor to sense in the target area in which the images are captured by the image-capture device.

Abstract: Security systems and methods are implemented using a variety of devices and methods. According to one such implementation, a security system uses a controller to communicate with security-monitoring devices and has an integrated image-capture device comprising a circuit board structure having an angle-setting support article, a circuit board with a nonadjustable surface, and data-communicating electrical conductors. A camera is secured to the nonadjustable surface and is directed at a first angle relative to the nonadjustable surface. A motion detector is secured to the nonadjustable surface and is directed at a second angle relative to the nonadjustable surface of the circuit board. The support article sets the first angle relative to the second angle for capturing both images and motion in a target area. A data-communication circuit communicates data from the camera and the motion detector via the data-communicating electrical conductors and wirelessly communicates the data to the controller.

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: A robust, wireless sensor system providing a low cost method of tracking people such as sex offenders, child molesters, etc., after their release from prison or other confinement, which protects society from such individuals and lessens their ability to repeat such offenses. The system and method of the invention can also be used to locate kidnapped persons, people buried in snow avalanches, missing or dead soldiers, etc. The system utilizes RFID tags placed on people or in specified locations and RFID transmitters that can resonate with the tagged people or objects. Such a trigger recognition arrangement combined with communication of information from the triggering can be used to obtain a signal alerting the transmitter carrier that the tagged object or person is nearby.

Abstract: A security system and method of operation includes a wireless transmitter, a wireless receiver in wireless communication with the wireless transmitter, and a control panel. The transmitter transmits a wireless message, including a unique transmitter identification number, a status portion with a plurality of status bits, and a sequence count which it increments only when any one of the status bits changes. The receiver receives the wireless message, converts the wireless message to a digital message which is sent to the control panel. The control panel processes the digital message by extracting the sequence count and transmitter identification number. A previous sequence count associated with the transmitter identification number is retrieved from memory, and the sequence count from the message is compared with the previous sequence count. If the sequence count is not less than the previous sequence count, then the control panel processes the message.

Abstract: A emergency response system including a remote module and a command module in communication with each other via a wireless communication link. The remote module includes a wireless communication circuit for receiving and transmitting wireless signals to the command module. The remote module includes a plurality of speakers for transmitting the received signal from the command module. The command module includes a wireless communication circuit for receiving information from the remote module and transmitting messages to the remote module. The wireless communication link between the remote module and the command module is a full-duplex circuit.

Abstract: A telemetry system coupled to a vehicle can communicate with a remote site using the overhead control channels of a wireless network, such as a cellular mobile radiotelephone network. The telemetry system can monitor or control aspects of the vehicle's operations based on remote user input. The telemetry system can receive a command from a data processing center and, based on the command, perform an action at the vehicle such that a user can remotely interact with the vehicle.

Abstract: A medical device is capable of utilizing a pervasive wireless communications network, such as a digital wireless telephone network, personal communication services network or pager network, to directly communicate with a host computer without the need for a repeater device. The device includes a sensor capable of measuring a body characteristic, such as temperature or electrical cardiac activity, and generates clinical data describing the measurement. The device also includes a wireless transmitter/receiver unit capable of establishing a communications link with a host computer over the long-range wireless network. The wireless transmitter/receiver unit is capable of delivering the measured clinical data to the host computer over the wireless network. The wireless transmitter/receiver unit can also periodically deliver status information regarding the operation of the implantable device to the host computer.

Abstract: A temperature measuring device includes a local terminal and a measuring element installed at a predetermined distance from the local terminal. The local terminal includes a first measuring unit for measuring a first human body temperature, a signal processing unit for receiving and converting the first human body temperature, a display unit coupled to the signal processing unit for displaying the converted first human body temperature, and a first interface unit coupled to the signal processing unit.

Abstract: A communications system is provided for emergency services personnel that includes a plurality of portable devices and a base station. The portable devices are configured to be carried by emergency services personnel while at an emergency site. The portable devices each have a first transceiver configured to communicate over a first network and a second transceiver configured to communicate over a second network, where the first and second networks operate independent of one another. For example, they may have at least one of different first and second carrier frequencies, protocol, channels and the like. The base station has at least one transceiver for communicating with the portable devices over at least one of the first and second networks. Optionally, the first and second networks may have different transmission characteristics, such as different transmit ranges, power levels and the like.

Abstract: A shipping container that facilitates communications between wireless communication devices within the shipping container and an external network container includes a keyhole communication device that is adapted for wireless communications with the external network and that includes first and second housing components. The first and second housing components together form an integrated housing structure that extends through a small opening in a wall of the shipping container, with the first housing component being disposed exterior to the shipping container and the second housing component being disposed interior to the shipping container. A first antenna is disposed within the first housing component for communications via a first communications protocol, such as a Bluetooth protocol. A second antenna also may be disposed within the first housing component for communications via a second communications protocol, such as a cellular communications protocol.

Abstract: A wireless fire alarm door unlocking system includes a remote alarm panel interface to receive information from a central alarm panel interface over an RF channel. The central alarm panel interface monitors an output from an alarm control panel and, when an alarm condition is asserted, initiates an unlock signal that is sent to the remote alarm panel interface. It in turn causes the door with which it is associated to unconditionally release to allow unimpeded entrance and exit. The system also monitors the status of the remove alarm panel interface and raises an alert in the event of a malfunction. The interface may be implemented as a hardware and software modification to an access control system or as separate components that coexist with an access control system on a non-interfering basis.

Abstract: A safety indicator monitors environment conditions detrimental to humans e.g., hazardous gases, air pollutants, low oxygen, radiation levels of EMF or RF and microwave, temperature, humidity and air pressure retaining a three month history to upload to a PC via infra red data interface or phone link. Contaminants are analyzed and compared to stored profiles to determine its classification and notify user of an adversity by stored voice messages from, via alarm tones and associated flashing LED, via vibrator for silent operation or via LCD. Environmental radiation sources are monitored and auto-scaled. Instantaneous radiation exposure level and exposure duration data are stored for later readout as a detector and dosimeter. Scans for EMF allow detection with auto scaling of radiation levels and exposure durations are stored for subsequent readout. Electronic bugs can be found with a high sensitivity EMF range setting.

Abstract: A personal multimedia communication system and network for emergency services personnel includes a plurality of personal communication systems linked together and to a base station in a network. Each personal communication system includes a PDA device mounted on a PASS control console, a video camera mounted on the PDA device, a GPS unit, a microphone, and other electronic devices. The various electronic devices are all communicatively connected to the PDA device. Data from the various devices may be collected in the PDA device and wirelessly transmitted to any other node or device in the network, including other personal communication devices. Each personal communication device may serve as a repeater, thus providing a wireless communications link between a device located out of range of the base station.

Abstract: A monitoring systems includes at least one fixed location monitoring station, a remote central station and a communications link interconnecting the monitoring station with the remote central station. The monitoring station includes a processor coupled to an input device for retrieving subject identification definition data and subject location definition data. The processor also retrieves physiological parameter sampling data from the subject and determines whether the physiological parameter sampling data lies within boundary limits of the identification definition data and also determines whether the location of the monitoring station lies within boundary limits of the location definition data. In the event the sampling data and the fixed location are within boundary limits, the processor may actuate an access control to permit the subject to enter or exit a controlled premises.

Abstract: A shipping container that facilitates communications between wireless communication devices within the shipping container and an external network includes a keyhole communication device that is adapted for wireless communications with the external network and that includes first and second housing components. The first and second housing components together form an integrated housing structure that extends through a small opening in a wall of the shipping container, with the first housing component being disposed exterior to the shipping container and the second housing component being disposed interior to the shipping container. A first antenna is disposed within the first housing component for communications via a first communications protocol, such as a Bluetooth protocol. A second antenna also may be disposed within the first housing component for communications via a second communications protocol, such as a cellular communications protocol.

Abstract: A shipping container that facilitates communications between wireless communication devices within the shipping container and an external network includes a keyhole communication device that is adapted for wireless communications with the external network and that includes first and second housing components. The first and second housing components together form an integrated housing structure that extends through a small opening in a wall of the shipping container, with the first housing component being disposed exterior to the shipping container and the second housing component being disposed interior to the shipping container. A first antenna is disposed within the first housing component for communications via a first communications protocol, such as a Bluetooth protocol. A second antenna also may be disposed within the first housing component for communications via a second communications protocol, such as a cellular communications protocol.

Abstract: A shipping container that facilitates communications between wireless communication devices within the shipping container and an external network includes a keyhole communication device that is adapted for wireless communications with the external network and that includes first and second housing components. The first and second housing components together form an integrated housing structure that extends through a small opening in a wall of the shipping container, with the first housing component being disposed exterior to the shipping container and the second housing component being disposed interior to the shipping container. A first antenna is disposed within the first housing component for communications via a first communications protocol, such as a Bluetooth protocol. A second antenna also may be disposed within the first housing component for communications via a second communications protocol, such as a cellular communications protocol.

Abstract: A conveyance tracking system provides two-phase transaction commit processing for synchronizing seal state information between a seal device attached to a conveyance and a host for tracking conveyances. The system uses a reader device for synchronization and communication between the seal device and host system regarding various operations, such as a lock operation, an unlock operation, and a clear tamper operation. In the first phase of the two-phase commit, the seal device prepares for the operation and the host executes the operation. In the second phase, the seal device fulfills the irreversible operation, ensuring that the seal state of the seal device and host are in sync.

Abstract: Apparatus and systems, as well as methods and articles, may operate to receive status from an operating system (OS)-independent module capable of providing OS-independent geolocation information associated with a device to a network at some time before executing an operating system.

Abstract: A wide-area emergency information management system includes a broadcasting entity (10) and delivers content to authorized receiver clients (20), such as PC's, laptops, wireless devices, etc. The specific content (26), which can include voice, text, video or any other information content related to a planned response to a given crisis or emergency such as enemy attack or natural disaster, is prepared in advance (28), tailored to the class of recipient receiver client and/or user (44), securely downloaded (32,36) and stored locally in a secure cache (21). In response to a small control file from a centralized emergency management authority, the receiver client system accesses the cache (21), decrypts the content (26), and delivers it to the end user.

Abstract: A method and system used by a central monitoring station to monitor and control a local installed security system. The method includes programming into a receiver an identifier for a local security system to be captured and controlled. Programming a control instruction for the local installed system into a receiver. Transmitting the control instruction to a local security system. The method and apparatus allows a central monitoring station to obtain control of an installed security system even in the case where ownership of the security system has changed hands and the identification number has changed. The apparatus includes a plurality of receivers and transmitters for transmitting information between the central monitoring station and a plurality of installed security systems, an automation computer for processing received messages from the installed security systems, and a configuration computer that configures and controls the installed local security systems.

Abstract: A central test radio frequency system for emergency lighting comprising a set of emergency light units or emergency lamps (L1-L13) and a remote control unit (CU) that manages the system's functionality, wherein each of said emergency lamps (L1-L13) has a radio transmitter-receiver (MR), which is able to communicate to each of said emergency lamps and to the remote control unit (CU) via radio signals.

Abstract: An apparatus for logging and reporting network parameters within a portable communication device that includes a processor and a wireless module that may communicate with a wireless network such as a wireless telephone network, for example, via a wireless connection. The wireless module may determine characteristic information associated with the wireless connection and may provide the characteristic information to the processor. The processor may format the characteristic information for transmission and then transmit the formatted characteristic information to the wireless network. In addition, the processor may store the characteristic information within the portable communication device for future aggregation and transmission.

Abstract: A system and method for providing geographical information to a driver of a vehicle using radio frequency identification (RFID). Also provided is a traffic information supply system using RFID. The geographical information supply system includes a reader provided near a road which outputs a first signal and receives a second signal generated in response to the first signal; a tag that senses the first signal, converts information on a destination into the second signal in response to the first signal, and outputs the second signal. Also included is a first control unit which extracts and outputs the destination information from the second signal, receives geographical information to the destination, and supplies the geographical information to a driver. A server generates the geographical information corresponding to the destination information and outputs the generated geographical information to the first control unit.

Abstract: Security systems, such as in a home or other building, periodically transmit status data to a remote facility so that the remote facility is continuously informed of the security systems' status. A user interface device at one security system, or a web browser at a personal computer, can obtain information regarding, or provide commands to, one or more other security systems at remote locations by communicating with the remote facility. The remote facility also reports specified events, such as alarms, that occur at a security system to one or more other security systems. Other information, such as video and audio data from a security system, can also be provided to the remote facility for sharing with other security systems. An intercom feature can also be established via the remote facility.

Abstract: A disaster alert system and disaster alert devices for use in the system. Each disaster alert device includes a radio receiver, and a processor programmed to monitor radio transmissions from one or more central stations for disaster alerts directed to the location of the disaster alert device. Each alert device also includes an audio unit to alert personnel located at the site of the device to the precise nature of the disaster. The disaster alert devices are pre-programmed with information identifying the precise use location of the warning device. This use location information includes latitude and longitude of the use location and may also include other location information such as street address and zip code.

Abstract: A system employing a telematics unit and a telematics call center. The telematics unit includes a first module and a first set of at least one pre-scripted text message, and the telematics call center includes a second module and a second set of at least one pre-scripted text message. The modules operate to selectively establish a communication between telematics unit and telematics call center involving at least one of the first set of at least one pre-scripted text message and the second set of at least one pre-scripted text message.

Abstract: A system and method using low-bandwidth to deliver key data from preexisting emergency response data programs to remote computer facilities using a variety of communications capabilities is provided. Key displays are re-created with enhanced information content and for distribution to a broad user audience via the Internet. Displays are updated every few seconds to remain synchronized with the on-site emergency response data program computer's current status.

Abstract: A method and apparatus to collect user location data over time, correlating user location data with outbreak data. The method and apparatus further comprising an alert mechanism to indicate to a user if there was a potential exposure.

Abstract: A mobile communications device comprising a location sensing system, producing a location output; a memory, storing a set of locations and associated events; a telecommunications device, communicating event and location information between a remote system and said memory; and a processor, processing said location output in conjunction with said stored locations and associated events in said memory, to determine a priority thereof.

Abstract: A mobile communications device comprising a location sensing system, producing a location output; a memory, storing a set of locations and associated events: a telecommunications device, communicating event and location information between a remote system and said memory; and a processor, processing said location output in conjunction with said stored locations and associated events in memory, to determine a priority thereof.

Abstract: A personal multimedia communication system and network for emergency services personnel includes a plurality of personal communication systems linked together and to a base station in a network. Each personal communication system includes a PDA device mounted on a PASS control console, a video camera mounted on the PDA device, a GPS unit, a microphone, and other electronic devices. The various electronic devices are all communicatively connected to the PDA device. Data from the various devices may be collected in the PDA device and wirelessly transmitted to any other node or device in the network, including other personal communication devices. Each personal communication device may serve as a repeater, thus providing a wireless communications link between a device located out of range of the base station.

Abstract: A monitored alarm system that has an alarm unit and a remote monitoring station. The alarm unit is arranged to contact the monitoring station via a telephone call when an alarm event or other circumstances occur. The monitoring station is arranged to leave said telephone call unanswered whilst logging the telephone number of the alarm unit which has telephoned so that the alarm unit can be identified.