Abstract: According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a diagnosis system for detecting a state of emergency during assembly of a fuselage (101) of an airplane is provided, which is adapted for detecting an emergency event and outputting information relating to the actual position of the emergency event. This may provide for a fast error identification during airplane assembly.

Abstract: An apparatus for at least one of playing and generating audio content for an audience includes circuitry. The circuitry is configured to receive sensor data from one or more sensors monitoring the audience. The circuitry is configured to analyze said sensor data to identify characteristic movement patterns of one or more members of the audience. The circuitry is configured to select music and generate verbal communication other than music to address the audience, based on the identified characteristic movement patterns. The circuitry is further configured to output said selected music and said verbal communication. A corresponding method for at least one of playing and generating audio content for an audience is also provided.

Abstract: A method for establishing a connection between a first electronic computing device and a second electronic computing device includes moving the second electronic computing device so that it is proximal to the first electronic computing device. When the first electronic computing device detects the proximity of the first electronic computing device relative to the second electronic computing device, a radio on the first electronic device is set to a connectable and discoverable state. A wireless connection is automatically established between the first electronic computing device and the second electronic computing device. Data is transmitted between the first electronic computing device and the second electronic computing device.

Abstract: A device, system, and associated methods for the management of firearms for locating, tracking, monitoring, indentifying discharge, and related management tasks are disclosed. In one embodiment, a firearm is disclosed having a processor adapted for storing information and receiving and acting upon command and a location monitor adapted to provide specific geographic location information. The processor and location monitor can be integrally formed in a single electronic device. The firearm also includes a connectivity port and a connectivity cable. The system can also include a monitoring station and a configuration computer. In at least one embodiment, a firearm utilizes a processor and a GPS monitor for locating, tracking, monitoring, indentifying discharge, and related management tasks.

Abstract: A multi-mode RFID tag includes a power generating and signal detection module, a baseband processing module, a transmit section, a configurable coupling circuit, and an antenna section. In near field mode, the configurable coupling circuit is operable to couple the transmit section to a coil or inductor in the configurable coupling circuit to transmit an outbound transmit signal using electromagnetic or inductive coupling to an RFID reader. In far field mode, the configurable coupling circuit is operable to couple the transmit section to the antenna section, and the multi-mode RFID tag then utilizes a back-scattering RF technology to transmit the outbound transmit signal to RFID readers.

Abstract: A vehicle system for determining that at least one mobile electronic device is generally stationary and is potentially forgotten is provided. The system includes a vehicle data bus and a control module. The vehicle data bus transmits a signal indicating at least one trigger event. The trigger event indicates a vehicle exit condition. The control module is in communication with the mobile electronic device and the vehicle bus. The control module is in communication with the mobile device through a data connection to receive information. The control module includes control logic for receiving the trigger signal from the vehicle data bus. The control module includes control logic for determining if the mobile electronic device has moved based on information received from the data connection. The control module includes control logic for determining if the mobile electronic device is generally stationary if the trigger signal is received.

Abstract: A radio frequency detection device that includes a housing, a power supply port, a radio frequency circuit board, and a microprocessor is disclosed. The radio frequency detection device is configured to detect signals between approximately 20 Mhz and 6020 Mhz. The microprocessor is configured to report the frequency and decibel level of a detected signal to a computer for display on a user interface. A user may set an alert frequency range and an decibel sensitivity threshold to filter out certain devices. The microprocessor is configured to initiate an alert when any signal is detected, or when a signal within either or both the alert frequency range or the decibel sensitivity threshold is detected. The alert may include pulsing of LED lights on the housing, a message on the user interface, and/or broadcast of an audio alert from a speaker associated with the microprocessor.

Abstract: A non-transitory computer readable medium containing computer program instructions for monitoring whether persons in a group are each away from an associated vehicle. In one embodiment, the computer system receives an association between each of multiple persons in the group with one of multiple vehicles and automatically receives digital information, derived from measured rf signal strength, indicating whether any one of multiple persons in the group has moved from a first relatively close position with respect to an associated vehicle and farther away from the associated vehicle than the first position. A notification is sent from the computer system to at least one device associated with a person in the group based on received information that a first of said multiple persons is farther away from the associated vehicle than the first relatively close position is from the associated vehicle.

Abstract: A touchless transmitter is described. The transmitter includes a sensor configured to detect a presence of an object. The transmitter further includes a sensor adjustment mechanism configured to adjust a level of sensitivity of the sensor. The transmitter also includes an antenna configured to wirelessly transmit a signal to a receiver upon detecting the presence of the object, and the transmitter includes an indicator configured to provide an output upon detecting the presence of the object.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a method for sensing a connection port and a connection port sensing apparatus thereof. The method includes the steps of: providing a sensing device nearing a connection port; providing a lighting device nearing the connection port; lighting the lighting device by a connection port sensing apparatus when the sensing device detects that an object is nearing the connection port, concurrently, displaying a message through the operating system to notify the user of the corresponding information about the connection port.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention are directed to systems, apparatuses and methods for using a mobile device with an accelerometer to gain access into a secured or restricted area. A first device and a second device interact by making physical contact with each other thereby generating interaction data that is representative of the physical interaction between the first and second device. The first and second device may be mobile phones. The second device may be a point of sale terminal, access point device, or any other stationary (i.e., in a fixed position) device positioned at a line, door, gate, or entrance. A server computer determines, based on interaction data, that the first device and the second device made physical contact. After determining that the first device and the second device made contact, communications may be initiated between the devices.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates generally to locating systems, and more particularly, to handheld locator systems for locating personnel or other objects in buildings or other environments. In one illustrative embodiment, a tag is attached to an object to be located (e.g. firefighter). The tag may be configured to emit a first signal and a second signal, where the first signal and the second signal having disparate propagation characteristics in the environment. In some cases, the first signal may be an acoustic signal and the second signal may be an RF signal, but this is not required in all embodiments. By using a first signal or set of signals, and then automatically switching to another signal or set of signal(s) when the first signal or set of signals are not received clearly, the tag/receiver system may help mitigate the failure modes/weaknesses of any single technology, and may provide advantages over use of any of the technologies used singly.

Abstract: A method of operating a communication device to interface with a machine system comprises projecting a human-machine interface (HMI) system for the machine system on a surface, wherein the HMI system comprises a plurality of commands associated with the machine system, detecting an input from a user, wherein the input comprises a fluid motion in air performed by the user corresponding to a selection of a command of the plurality of commands associated with the machine system, and transferring the selected command for delivery to the machine system.

Abstract: An emergency exit sign having a beacon module for indoor positioning and an indoor positioning system using the same are provided. The emergency exit sign includes a power supply unit, an AC/DC converter, an indoor positioning beacon module, an LED lamp, and a charger. The power supply unit receives an input of a power source and supplies the power source. The AC/DC converter converts the power source supplied and supplies a driving power source. The indoor positioning beacon module periodically wireless transmits a beacon signal including a beacon ID through a built-in antenna. The LED lamp is installed within the housing such that the lamp is positioned in rear of the display. When a power source is not supplied from the power supply unit, the charger supplies a driving power source.

Abstract: A security and tracking apparatus includes at least a first signaling unit and a second signaling unit, wherein the apparatus is adapted for transmitting the location of each signaling unit when the first and second signaling units are separated by more than a preselected distance. A method to locate a person, animal, or object, includes providing in contact with or at least in close proximity to the person, the animal, or the object, at least a first signaling unit and a second signaling unit, wherein each respective signaling unit is adapted for identifying the location of the signaling units and for transmitting the location of the signaling units when the first and second signaling units are separated more than a preselected distance; and activating the signaling units to transmit the location of the signaling units.

Abstract: A system includes a slave device associated with a unique identifier and a master device in communication with the slave device. In response to receiving from the slave device a status signal indicating an emergency event associated with the slave device, the master device is configured to determine a status of the slave device, receive, from a personnel database, personnel information associated with the personnel identifier, generate an alarm signal containing the personnel information, and transmit the alarm signal with the personnel information to a medical facility computing system. The alarm signal is based at least in part on the status of the slave device. The slave device includes a processor configured to access the personnel identifier from a memory device, generate a status signal that includes the personnel identifier, and transmit the status signal to the master device.

Abstract: The invention relates to a proximity detection system. The invention provides a proximity detection system comprising a generator that generates a magnetic field that establishes a boundary, where the generator is capable of receiving radio frequency signals. Also provided is a radio frequency device that sends radio frequency signals, the radio frequency device being capable of sensing the magnetic field and generating a radio frequency response. In the proximity detection system, the generator generates the magnetic field for a first predefined time period, and thereafter senses for a radio frequency response signal from the radio frequency device within a second predefined time period. The invention also provides for shaping proximity detection zones by overlaying magnetic field boundaries to produce a different boundary. The invention also provides for varying the strength of magnetic fields by adjusting a width of a timed pulse.

Abstract: A portable vehicle alarm system alerts a vehicle operator of the presence of a child/pet left in the vehicle. The system includes at least one first portable wireless alarm unit in communication with a second portable wireless unit. The first and second portable wireless alarm units include a microprocessor in communication with a transmitter and receiver, having a power supply. The first portable unit is located on a key chain. The second wireless unit has attachment means for attachment to a seat belt associated with a child's car seat or a pet's collar. An activation sensor detects a disengagement action related to the vehicle, including powering-off of the vehicle ignition or unbuckling of the driver's seat belt. A distance sensor has a selected range. If the range is exceeded, an audible alarm is actuated from the first unit.

Abstract: An item loss prevention system for protecting from the loss of items from a user, and more specifically to an electronic device utilizing a wireless connection between a remote unit attached to an item, such as a set of one or more keys, and a host or belt unit attached to the user, to prevent the loss of the item. The system includes magnetic sensors between the item and the belt, which are Hall type magnetic sensors. An alarm activates when the item attached to the remote unit, such as a key is separated from the host unit. A multiple of additional host units and the remote units pairs can operate properly in proximity to each other, and are tuned to respond to rolling average signal strength monitoring, to indicate a separation distance requiring an alarm to the user.

Abstract: According to another general aspect, a method of managing a first user's use of an apparatus may include automatically detecting, via at least one sensor operably coupled with the apparatus a presence of the first user within a detection area, wherein the first user is authorized to use the apparatus. In various embodiments, the method may also include automatically detecting, via the at least one sensor, a change in the first user's status in relation to the apparatus. In some embodiments, the method may further include automatically adjusting, based upon the first user's status change, at least one authorization level of the first user, wherein the authorization level dictates, at least in part, how the first user may use the apparatus.

Abstract: A request for an acknowledgement using a private key may be generated and transmitting to a customer device. The acknowledgement may be received from the customer device and verified using a public key associated with a customer operating the customer device. A request for a current location of the customer device may be transmitted and the current location may be received. A determination that the current location is proximate to a meter may be made, and, in response to determining that the current location is proximate to the meter, the meter may be manipulated.

Abstract: A reader device for radio frequency identification transponders, which implements enhanced radio frequency identification transponder functionality. The reader device is capable of serving as a radio frequency identification transponder. Such a reader device includes a reader logic unit, a radio/high frequency (RF/HF) interface and an antenna, and is adapted to communicate at least with radio frequency identification transponders in a reader operation mode. The reader device also includes a transponder logic unit that is connected to the reader device and in particular to the radio/high frequency (RF/HF) interface such that the reader device acts as a radio frequency identification transponder in a transponder operation mode. In particular, the transponder logic unit is adapted to communicate with other reader devices for radio frequency identification transponders.

Abstract: A patient monitoring system having a motion detection unit with a sensor and a control unit having control circuitry and at least one light. Wiring extends between the two units and couples a motion sensor with the control circuitry. A door sensor is coupled with the control circuitry. The light is illuminated to provide a silent alarm when motion is detected and the door is closed. Also disclosed is a method of installation that includes attaching a motion detector unit and the control unit to wall surfaces on opposite sides of the door and extending wiring through the doorway to operably couple the two units. The motion sensor may be installed to define a detection zone having a lower boundary which is at least about 18 inches above a patient support surface.

Abstract: Disclosed are methods and apparatus for controlling a lighting system by proximity sensing of a spotlight control device, particularly to controlling a spotlight generated by a lighting system such as a large LED lighting array by means of a spotlight control device. A device is provided for controlling a lighting system by proximity sensing of a spotlight control device, wherein a predefined area around the spotlight control device is illuminated if a proximity sensor signals presence of the spotlight control device within the predefined area.

Abstract: A computer, media player, remote control or other device is configured to determine its relative location within a home, office or other given environment based upon the reception and/or sensing of wireless network signals and/or other electromagnetic signals emitted by other devices present at any time in the environment. The device receives wireless signals from one or more wireless signal sources, and determines a parameter (e.g., signal strength) for the signals received from each source. The location of the portable device within the environment is determined based on the determined parameters. The location may be used for any purpose, such as adjusting a setting on the portable device, identifying another device to be controlled by a portable remote control, or the like.

Abstract: An approach for providing notifications to caregivers based on the detected presence of a child in a car seat is described. Physical presence of an object within a car seat is detected. A determination is made that a proximity threshold between a mobile device and the car seat is satisfied based on the presence information, range information associated with the mobile device, or a combination thereof. A notification message is generated in response to the detected physical presence of the object to indicate the presence of the object in the car seat based on the determination. Initiation of the transmission of the notification message to a mobile device within a predetermined proximity of the car seat is performed.

Abstract: Various proximity detection zones for work sites that require personnel to be in close proximity to various hazardous elements, such as machines, mobile equipment, remotely controlled machines, and operated vehicles can be shaped to fit specific equipment or work area configurations and may include one or more silent zones within the proximity warning zone in which an alarm is not sounded. The zones are determined by overlapping magnetic fields that expand and collapse at a selected operating frequency. Devices sense and measure the strength of the magnetic fields in which they are located and use the information to determine if they are in a silent or warning zone. Thus, it is possible to produce silent zones having desired shapes.

Abstract: An electronic device may operate a fingerprint reader in a stationary finger mode in which the fingerprint reader captures a fingerprint from a user's finger while the user's finger is in a stationary position and may operate the fingerprint reader in a moving finger mode in which the fingerprint reader captures a fingerprint from the user's finger while the user is swiping the finger across the fingerprint reader. The electronic device may use the moving finger mode when performing sensitive operations such as operations related to financial transactions. The electronic device may include near field communications circuitry. When activity is detected using the near field communications circuitry, the fingerprint reader may be operated in the moving finger mode. The fingerprint sensor may be activated when a proximity sensor detects the presence of a finger. Different actions may be taken by the device in response to detection of different fingerprints.

Abstract: A healthcare system includes an event notification system, a real-time location system and a proximity notification function. The event notification system operates to receive event messages from an event generation device, the real-time location system operates to receive tag identity and location information from a tag detector and the proximity notification system operates to receive the tag identity and location information and determine which of a plurality of tags are closest to the source of an event and to send an event alert message to an individual associated with this tag.

Abstract: A method and system for selecting an external user interface using spatial information is described. In one configuration the floor space of a mailroom is mapped using a two dimensional grid. At least one machine is located on the mapped grid and an associated control zone is defined for that particular machine. The machine includes a wireless transceiver for providing user interface access. An external portable processor with a wireless transceiver is provided with user interface logic for the machine. A user then moves the external portable processor into the control zone of the machine. An indoor positioning system is utilized to provide relative or absolute position information relating to the machine and the external processor. The system determines that the external processor is in the machine control zone and allows the external processor to function as a user interface for the machine.

Abstract: Embodiments include an apparatus responsive to an event detected at a glucose monitoring device. The apparatus includes circuitry to select an action to occur remote to the glucose monitoring device in response to the event. Embodiments include a response center responsive to an event at a glucose monitoring device to contact a person in response to the event.

Abstract: Methods and devices detect a near field communication (NFC) from a near field wireless communication device of an external computerized device, using an apparatus near field wireless communication device. Based on detecting the NFC, the methods/devices generate random identification and security codes, transmit the identification code and the security code from the apparatus near field wireless communication device to the device near field wireless communication device, and place the previously inactive apparatus wide-range wireless communication device in an active state. In response, the method receives the security code from a wide-range wireless communication device of the external computerized device using the apparatus wide-range wireless communication device. Then the method establishes a network communication session only between the external computerized device and the apparatus based on receiving the security code.

Abstract: In a method of operating a system for announcing the presence of one or more individuals on or near a pathway to an operator of a vehicle traveling on the pathway, each of a number of data readers positioned along the pathway receives data input by the one or more individuals. In response to each data reader receiving the data input, a unique subset of a number of lamps, also positioned along the pathway, is caused to illuminate. The system includes a computer network that controls the operation of the lamps in response to the input of data.

Abstract: An intrusion detection and tracking system includes a plurality of nodes, a DP and a gateway. The nodes are disposed about an area and form a wireless network to be monitored, the nodes are configured to receive data and transmit data frames with a signal strength indicator and/or a link quality indicator in the frames. The DP is communicatively connected to the network and configured to analyze variations in the signal strength indicator and/or link quality indicator to detect and track disturbances to an electromagnetic field in the area. The gateway is configured to form a data link between the network and the DP.

Abstract: A vehicle control device mounted on a vehicle has a search signal transmission unit that transmits a search signal for searching a position of a portable device, which remotely operates the control device, a determination unit that determines a bright and dark state of outside of the vehicle, and a storage unit that stores a determination result of the determination unit.

Abstract: A warning system in which an audio pulse train is continuously emitted from an item of equipment and wherein a person, exposed to the audio pulse train, carries a detector which, in response to detection of the pulse train, emits audio pulses which are detected at the item of equipment.

Abstract: Disclosed are various embodiments employed to generate location and proximity based reminders. To this end, a device is configured to generate its geographical location using a positioning system. The device detects when it impinges upon at least one geographical trigger based upon its geographical location. A predefined reminder is generated in the device when the device impinges upon the geographical trigger.

Abstract: A system for managing hazards in a construction site is presented. One aspect of the inventive subject matter includes a hazard management system comprising a hazard context database, a sensor interface, and a hazard analysis engine. The sensor interface is configured to acquire a site data feed that is representative of a construction site. The hazard analysis engine is configured to (i) instantiate a hazard object by comparing the site data feed to hazard criteria of the plurality of hazard contexts, (ii) update the hazard object based on the site data feed, (iii) generate hazard notification criteria related to the hazard object, (iv) obtain worker attributes from the site data, and (v) transmit a hazard notification to an output device when the worker attributes cause satisfaction of the hazard notification criteria.

Abstract: A microprocessor controlled security tag and accompanying security system is described. The tag generally includes a housing having external contacts to interface with elongated contacts on a connecting band. The band forms a complex impedance circuit with a patient's limb that allows detection features such as removal and band compromise. A microprocessor and related circuitry as well as a transmitter and receivers are enclosed in the housing. The tag is adapted to communicate inductively with an activator/deactivator unit as well as a tag programmer that updates and changes tag features in the tag firmware. The overall system further includes a hub to receive the data from a plurality of tags in the system. The tag can also communicate with a phased multiple antenna that sends signals to the tag.

Abstract: Of the various technological features disclosed in the present specification, a structure according to the one technological feature is as follows. A lighting apparatus changeable between an illuminating state and a non-illuminating state comprising: a non-contact motion sensor arranged to sense a movement of a hand near the lighting apparatus; and a controller arranged to control the lighting apparatus in the non-illuminating state to change from the non-illuminating state to the illuminating state in response to the movement of hand sensed by the non-contact motion sensor, and to control the lighting apparatus in the illuminating state to cause a change in illumination with the illuminating state kept in response to the same movement of hand sensed by the non-contact motion sensor.

Abstract: A system is provided for remote control of at least one operating condition of a site. The system includes a proximity detection module at a residential site, which is configured to receive a communication regarding a location of a location reporting device or a mobile device. The proximity detection module is configured to alter or adjust a current temperature setting for the site based on a distance or location of the location reporting device or mobile device relative to the site.

Abstract: A method is provided for warning mobile users of traffic conditions. One or more sensor messages are monitored from a plurality of mobile devices transported by a plurality of vehicles. A traffic condition is determined based on the one or more sensor messages. Location of the traffic condition is also determined based on position information of one or more of the plurality of mobile devices. The mobile devices that are within a predetermined proximity to the location of the traffic condition are selected. An alert message is generated in response to the traffic condition. The selected mobile devices are notified with the alert message.

Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for device-free motion detection and presence detection within an area of interest. A plurality of nodes, configured to be arranged around the area of interest, form a wireless network. The plurality of nodes transmit wireless signals as radio waves and receive transmitted wireless signals. The received signal strength (RSS) of the transmitted wireless signals between the plurality of nodes are measured and a value is reported. A computing device receives the reported values for the measured RSS and tracks the reported values over time. The computing device processes the reported values using an aggregate disturbance calculation to detect motion and presence within the area of interest. The computing device may notify notification device of a detected disturbance within the area of interest.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus to provide haptic feedback are disclosed. One example method includes receiving a goal condition at a mobile device, requesting information from a host device using a first close-proximity communication, receiving the information at a mobile device using a second close-proximity communication, determining a level of haptic feedback based on the received information and the goal condition, and causing a haptic effect on the mobile device based on the level of haptic feedback. Other implementations are possible.

Abstract: Embodiments described herein relate to an apparatus for attaching elements of a magnetic field safety system to headwear worn by a worker. In various embodiments, the headwear includes a combination of a sounder device, light assembly, personal alarm device and power source.

Abstract: A plurality of modules interact to form an adaptive network in which each module transmits and receives data signals indicative of the proximity of objects. A central computer accumulates the data produced or received and relayed by each module. One of the modules is operable as a leaf node having a sleep mode to conserve energy and an interactive mode. The central computer can send a message to the leaf node commanding it to stay awake in order to receive subsequent communications.

Abstract: A satellite aided location tracking and data services with user interface. A graphical user interface is provided that enables users to monitor the status of movable assets. Detailed information in a position history enables the user to obtain status information (e.g., starts and stops) at each position report. This status information promotes visibility into the journey of each movable asset.

Abstract: The patient identification system of the preferred embodiments includes a transponder that is affixed to a patient and functions to communicate information that identifies the patient to a device or series of devices. The series of devices includes at least a first device that collects data from the patient and communicates with the transponder. The patient identification system is preferably designed to identify a patient, and more specifically to identify a patient to be associated with the data collected by the device. The patient identification system, however, may be alternatively used in any suitable environment and for any suitable reason.

Abstract: A system, device and method for a proximity sensor network are disclosed. The proximity detection device includes a short range wireless receiver, a wireless network transceiver; and a controller connected to the receiver and transceiver. The device receives a short-range radio signal from a user's mobile communications device, and locates the user and takes various actions based on the identity of the user.

Abstract: The present invention provides one or more powered wireless transceivers and/or one or more passive wireless transceivers, a reader and interrogator with variable power, one or more antennas connected to a human or robotic hand and/or foot, a method for making same and the method of using these devices for process automation and verification involving one or more items in addition to locating, tracking and identifying these items in a supply chain. In one embodiment, a proximity sensing wireless system is provided which can be used to step the handler or operator through the step of a process and verify that each step in the process has been completed.