Abstract: A method for tracking objects in a way that conserves power resources. The method can establish a designed range defining a safe area based upon the broadcast signal of an anchor beacon. When the tracking device is within the designed range, the tracking device can be placed in a mode of low power consumption. Should the tracking device move outside of the designated range, then the tracking device can be placed in mode for active tracking. The level of power consumption can be achieved by only enabling a WAN transceiver in the active tracking mode.

Abstract: Various embodiments are disclosed relating to wireless systems, and also relating to battery life improvement for wireless devices through activity report combining. According to an example embodiment, a method is provided. The method may include determining a reporting period, detecting user activity at each of a plurality of detection points within the reporting period, and transmitting a message for the reporting period over a wireless link to report the detected user activity for the plurality of detection points.

Abstract: An energy constrained device (100) includes a motion sensor (150) operative to detect motion of the device (100); a device position determinator (130); and a controller (110) operatively coupled at the motion sensor (150) and to the device position determinator (130) and operative to receive a device location request for the energy constrained device (100), to determine whether the energy constrained device (100) has moved based on the motion sensor (150), and to determine whether to request position information from the device position determinator (130) based on device movement. A method for saving power for a device position determinator (130) in a energy constrained device (100) includes determining whether position information has been requested from the device position determinator (130); and if not so, automatically switching the device position determinator (130) to a low power consumption mode.

Abstract: A wireless key includes a receiver circuit that operates with a built-in battery, and receives a polling radio wave for wireless key search and authentication from a vehicle, and a transmitter circuit that transmits a lock operation radio wave to a door based on the manipulation on a manipulation device. The wireless key is capable of changing over operation mode between a power saving mode that permits the operation of transmitting the lock operation radio wave by the transmitter circuit and stops the operation of receiving the polling radio wave by the receiving circuit, and a full power mode that permits the operation of transmitting the lock operation radio wave by the transmitter circuit and continues the reception by the receiver circuit.

Abstract: A system for monitoring and reporting of alarm events occurring in a monitored system includes a power supply, a switch module, an alarm interface, an event message module and a system controller wherein the switch module provides active power to the event message module, the wireless communication module and the system controller only when an alarm event is detected.

Abstract: Exemplary embodiments are directed to wireless power transfer including generating an electromagnetic field at a resonant frequency of a transmit antenna to create a coupling-mode region within a near field of the transmit antenna. A receive antenna placed within the coupling-mode region resonates at or near the resonant frequency. The receive antenna extracts energy from a coupling between the two antennas. A load sensing circuit coupled to an amplifier driving the transmit antenna can detect a change in power consumed by the amplifier in response to the energy extracted by the receive antenna. The transmit antenna adjusts to a high-power charging mode when one or more receivers are present in the coupling-mode region and adjusts to a low-power beacon mode when there are no receivers in the coupling-mode region.

Abstract: An RFID performance monitoring system may include systems, methods, or computer program products for collecting information related to the performance of an RFID system. One source of performance-related information can be the RFID readers, both during an active (reading) period and an inactive (listening) period. In various embodiments described herein, a performance monitoring system may collect performance-related information from RFID readers during both during their active and inactive periods.

Abstract: A power saving device for a GPS device is to utilize acceleration of gravity sensor to continue detecting the acceleration variation of the GPS device; if an acceleration value is larger than a threshold value, a GPS signal receiver is then started; if the acceleration value is smaller than the threshold value, the GPS signal receiver is then shut. This allows the GPS device to be power saving and not need to facilitate an extra oscillation switch therein to save the production cost.

Abstract: A wireless communication apparatus according to the present invention includes a wireless communication transmitting circuit and a wireless communication receiving circuit that perform communication with another apparatus connected through a wireless communication network; a power situation acquiring unit that acquires a power situation of the wireless communication apparatus; and a wireless power transmitting circuit that wirelessly supplies power to another apparatus in accordance with a power supply request from another apparatus connected through the wireless communication network, when the power situation of the wireless communication apparatus satisfies a predetermined condition.

Abstract: A method and system for controlling lighting in a space reduces energy consumption of the light sources by changing at least one of the color rendering index (CRI) and the correlated color temperature (CCT) while maintaining illumination levels. Preferably, the method and system sense movement of people in the space relative to light sources that light the space, and automatically and individually adjust plural solid state lighting devices that form each of the respective light sources to a first lighting condition when people are in a first position, wherein the lamps respectively emit light of a first illumination level and a first CRI at a first electrical power level, and to a second lighting condition when people are in a second position, wherein the light sources respectively emit light of the first illumination level and a smaller CRI than the first CRI and at a lower electrical power level than the first electrical power level.

Abstract: The system contains a motion sensor. In one embodiment a clock is in communication with the motion sensor. A processor is in communication with the motion sensor and the clock. The processor records a volume of motion sensed by the motion sensor as a function of time received in communications from the clock. An output device has a plurality of output signals. A plurality of threshold values stored in a memory is correlated with the output signals. A comparator is in communication with the output device, the memory, and the processor. The comparator compares the processor recordings to the threshold values stored in memory and initiates one of the plurality of output signals when the processor recordings exceed at least one of the threshold values.

Abstract: A battery operated controller for a door operator includes a keypad backlit by a light emitting diode operably connected to a microcontroller which also controls operation of the controller. The microcontroller periodically measures ambient light as sensed by the light emitting diode and when a voltage level related to a predetermined light intensity decreases below a predetermined level the light emitting diode is energized to provide backlighting for the controller keypad. The intensity of backlighting may be varied in accordance with the amount of ambient light illuminating the keypad and above a certain intensity of ambient light the light emitting diode is de-energized to conserve battery power.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for deactivating an identification device or RFID tag, such as an e-passport or an ID card that has been revoked, has expired, or is invalid. A programmable memory circuit is coupled to a controlling circuit that is coupled to a shorting circuit that may activate or deactivate the operation of the identification device.

Abstract: An operation control method to be implemented by each of a plurality of communication devices two-dimensionally arranged on a two dimensional diffusive signal-transmission board, each of the plurality of communication devices being configured to communicate by transmitting a transmission signal carrying data to another of the plurality of the communication devices using a two dimensional diffusive signal-transmission technology, the method includes judging whether a communication device being operated in a normal mode satisfies a predetermined condition, and setting the communication device into one of a low electrical power consumption mode in which at least one function is decreased, and a power off mode in which electrical power supply to the communication device is shut off, when the communication device being operated in the normal mode satisfies the predetermined condition.

Abstract: A system and method for implementing a low-power local-area wireless network for use with a mobile terminal satellite modem. This low-power local-area wireless network enables sensors on an asset to wirelessly transmit sensor data to a mobile terminal affixed on the asset. The mobile terminal reports the sensor data along with asset position information to a centralized facility via a communications satellite.

Abstract: Generally, the present invention provides a method for detecting poor RF conditions, and entering different sleep mode levels or phases in accordance with the RF conditions to save battery power. Mobile device battery life can be conserved when the mobile device detects poor RF conditions and enters a deep sleep mode of operation. In this deep sleep mode of operation the mobile device periodically samples the RF conditions and gradually increases the period between samples when the RF conditions do not improve. Because mobility can change the RF condition for wireless devices even in areas of good RF coverage, the mobile device operating in the deep sleep mode can detect this mobility and thus enhance the probability of entering an idle state, or alternatively, entering a longer power save mode. When the RF condition improves, the mobile device exits from the deep sleep mode and returns to the idle state.

Abstract: A low-power shock sensing system includes at least one shock sensor physically coupled to a chemical storage tank to be monitored for impacts, and an RF transmitter which is in a low-power idle state in the absence of a triggering signal. The system includes interface circuitry including or activated by the shock sensor, wherein an output of the interface circuitry is coupled to an input of the RF transmitter. The interface circuitry triggers the RF transmitter with the triggering signal to transmit an alarm message to at least one remote location when the sensor senses a shock greater than a predetermined threshold. In one embodiment the shock sensor is a shock switch which provides an open and a closed state, the open state being a low power idle state.

Abstract: An on-vehicle controller performs smart control for transmitting a transmission request signal to a predetermined area and for unlocking a door of a vehicle based on a return signal transmitted by a portable device receiving the transmission request signal, security control for providing a warning if improper conduct to the vehicle is detected, remote keyless entry control for locking or unlocking the door according to a manual operation signal, which is transmitted from the portable device according to button manipulation thereof, and immobilizer control for permitting an engine start if an identification code transmitted from a transponder of the portable device coincides with an identification code stored in the vehicle. If a mode switch is switched to an off position, the controller is switched to a power-saving mode for performing only the immobilizer control.

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

Abstract: A wireless sensor for a wireless sensor network includes a sensor unit performing sensing to sense environment and/or circumstance, first routing to send first sensing information to a server according to routing information, and second routing to send second sensing information from another wireless sensor to the server according to the routing information, when being supplied with power from a power source, a timer including a capacitor to be charged by the power and performs a time limit operation due to self-discharge thereof, a first control switch controlling power supplying to the timer to make the timer perform the time limit operation at a set time, a rectifier converting a radio signal from the another wireless sensor into power, and a second control switch starting power supplying to the sensor unit, upon receiving the control signal of the rectifier during the time limit operation.

Abstract: A rescue and safety device for swimming-pools and amusement parks, consisting of a wristband containing a cardiac-arrest detector, a panic button, a location device and, optionally, a water detector, triggered by immersion syncope, cardiac arrest or an accident; a rescue device, especially if an inflatable grid has been installed on the bottom of the pool, that can uplift any person in difficulties from the bottom of the pool.

Abstract: Provided is a wireless sensor network operating method considering energy efficiency. The method for operating a wireless sensor network including clusters of sensor nodes includes: selecting a cluster head based on residual energy amounts of the sensor nodes by increasing a probability that a sensor node with a greater amount of residual energy than the others is selected as a cluster head; transmitting an advertisement message from the selected cluster head to the sensor nodes to form a cluster; and transmitting sensing data acquired in each sensor node to the cluster head. Accordingly, this method can extend lifespan of sensor nodes by not transmitting/receiving data on residual energy amounts and positions between sensor nodes, and increase the entire lifespan of a wireless sensor network by reducing a probability that a sensor node having a relatively small residual energy amount is selected as a cluster head consuming much energy.

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 field device for use in monitoring or controlling an industrial process includes two wire process control loop electrical connections. Digital communications monitoring circuitry coupled to the electrical connections and is configured to control power to the field device electrical circuitry in response to a digital signal on the two wire process control loop.

Abstract: A system for communicating information between a detection device and a wireless device is provided. The system generally includes a detection device adapted to monitor a condition related to a power system. A radio interface unit is in communication with the detection device via a communication member. A wireless device is further provided which is in radio communication with the radio interface unit such that the detection device communicates information to the wireless device through a radio interface unit. The system's components are further adapted to endure harsh conditions (e.g., prolonged exposure to water).

Abstract: An identification (ID) tag, in one exemplary embodiment of the invention, includes a motion sensor that generates a trigger signal upon sensing motion. The trigger signal is used to place the ID tag in either an active mode or a sleep mode.

Abstract: Disclosed is an energy-conserving device for an illumination system. The energy-conserving device is connected between a power supply of and a lighting assembly of the illumination system. The energy-conserving assembly provides a first switch, a ballast, and a compensating capacitor. The ballast is connected between the power supply and the lighting assembly, and connected between the first terminal and the second terminal of the first switch. The compensating capacitor is connected between the power supply and a third terminal of the switch. The energy-conserving device may further include a resistor and a second switch which are connected in parallel with the ballast. The energy-conserving device can be coupled to a conventional illumination system and is of energy-conserving, a low cost and a long lifetime.

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

Abstract: An assembly for monitoring an environment includes a RFID tag and at least one sensor assembly. The sensor assembly is configured to sense information regarding the environment around the assembly and convert a sensed event into power to at least partially power operation of the RFID tag.

Abstract: A security fob periodically transmits wireless access signals that can be received by entities such as computers, buildings and the like to which access is sought. A motion detector is in the fob so that when the fob has been motionless for a threshold period non-essential components are deenergized, putting the fob in a sleep mode to conserve battery power.

Abstract: A sensor node for intermittently sensing data in a short cycle includes a control unit for acquiring information by driving the sensor, a radio communication unit for transmitting the information acquired by the control unit and a battery for supplying the control unit. The control unit includes a clock supply unit (RTC) for supplying the control unit with clocks at a predetermined frequency. A sensor control unit starts the supply of power to the sensor when the measurement period has begun, maintains the power supply to the sensor even if the control unit has shifted to the standby state during the measurement period, and shuts down the power supply to the sensor when the measurement period has been completed. A measurement unit is also provided for acquiring information from the sensor every time the latter has shifted to the operational state.

Abstract: A synchronizing method and system between a Radio Frequency (RF) transmitter and a battery powered receiver wherein the transmitter transmits short duration first periodic sync signals which are used by the receiver to maintain proper synchronization of the receiver with the transmitter during second periodic wake-up windows for transmission of data. The receiver wakes for a short duration at the start of each periodic wake up window to receive a possible transmission of data, and if no transmission is received goes back to sleep, and if a transmission is received stays awake to receive the full transmission of data. The basic principle is that the average current consumed by the battery powered receiver in order to wake periodically to receive the first periodic sync signals and the second periodic data transmissions is less than the average current required to maintain the receiver awake continuously. The duration (e.g. 14 ms) and periodicity of (e.g.

Abstract: Generally, the present invention provides a method for detecting poor RF conditions, and entering different sleep mode levels or phases in accordance with the RF conditions to save battery power. Mobile device battery life can be conserved when the mobile device detects poor RF conditions and enters a deep sleep mode of operation. In this deep sleep mode of operation the mobile device periodically samples the RF conditions and gradually increases the period between samples when the RF conditions do not improve. Because mobility can change the RF condition for wireless devices even in areas of good RF coverage, the mobile device operating in the deep sleep mode can detect this mobility and thus enhance the probability of entering an idle state, or alternatively, entering a longer power save mode. When the RF condition improves, the mobile device exits from the deep sleep mode and returns to the idle state.

Abstract: Various embodiments are disclosed relating to wireless systems, and also relating to battery life improvement for wireless devices through activity report combining. According to an example embodiment, a method is provided. The method may include determining a reporting period, detecting user activity at each of a plurality of detection points within the reporting period, and transmitting a message for the reporting period over a wireless link to report the detected user activity for the plurality of detection points.

Abstract: A secure network outlet for supporting IP device address assigning functionality. A network access request is received from an electronic device communicatively coupled to intelligent hardware. In one embodiment, a device address request is transmitted to a network server. A first device address is received at the intelligent hardware from the network server. The intelligent hardware then assigns a second device address to the electronic device. In another embodiment, the intelligent hardware has a pre-assigned first device address and assigns a second device address to the electronic device, such that the intelligent hardware eliminates the need for a separate device address assigning server. The present invention reduces the consumption of global device addresses within a network, and also provides protection to electronic devices by hiding their device addresses from the external network.

Abstract: A method is provided for detecting the broadcasting of a RF message from a remote transmitter to an in-vehicle receiver. The RF message includes an initial preamble having a plurality of pulses. Power is provided to the receiver for a first predetermined period of time. The preamble pulses received are counted. A determination is made whether the number of preamble pulses received is between a first and second predetermined number of preamble pulses. If the number of preamble pulses is greater than the first predetermined number of preamble pulses, then power is provided to the receiver for processing the RF message. If the number of preamble pulses is less than the second predetermined number of preamble pulses, then power is terminated to the receiver. If the number of preamble pulses are between the first and second predetermined number of preamble pulses, then power is extended to the receiver for an extended period of time.

Abstract: To restrain a communicatable distance from being shortened even when a power source voltage is lowered. A heart beat signal transmission control portion controls a resonance starting oscillation portion to output a start signal in synchronism with a heart beat signal detected by a heart beat signal detecting portion and controls a resonance starting portion to output a biometric information signal in response to the start signal. An element switching portion receives a signal representing a voltage supplied from a battery portion from a voltage detecting portion and instructs the resonance starting oscillation portion to set the start signal to a period in correspondence therewith. The resonance starting oscillation portion outputs the start signal by a period in correspondence with instruction of the element switching portion.

Abstract: A remote wake-up assembly is provided including a remote device containing logic adapted to: generate a pre-amble signal comprising a plurality of pre-determined signal pulses sequentially varied throughout a pre-amble period; and generate a main message signal after a wake-up time-period. A receiver system is included containing logic adapted to: poll for the signal pulses, the receiver system polling comprising an on-state having a on-state length sufficient for receiving at least two of the sequentially varied signal pulses; determine the wake-up time-period using said at least two of the signal pulses; place the receiver system into a low-power sleep state during the remaining portion of said wake-up time-period; reactivate the receiver system at the end of the wake-up time-period; and receive the main message.

Abstract: An expendable container of the present invention includes a memory circuit. The memory circuit has a memory, an antenna being capable of establishing non-contact communication with an external receiver transmitter, and a controller controlling the non-contact communication and an access to the memory. The memory circuit has a plurality of modes including ID information confirmation mode and low power consumption mode. The memory circuit is capable of shifting to the low power consumption mode in response to a completion of confirmation of the ID information of the expendable container.

Abstract: In an access control system, a method and system for system management. The RF access control system includes a wireless panel interface module that transmits system component settings to a system management interface and receives configuration information from the interface. The system also includes a system management interface for retrieving component settings from the wireless panel interface module and generating configuration information to adjust the settings. The wireless panel interface module transmits the configuration information to system components. The system further includes a wireless access point module that receives configuration information from the wireless panel interface module via an RF communication link. An access processor adjusts settings of the wireless access point module based on the configuration information. A control processor adjusts settings of the wireless panel interface module based on the configuration information.

Abstract: A multiple heat sensor alarm system for use in a vehicle to indicate that the interior temperature is above a preset limit has a control head with a microprocessor. Heat sensors or thermometers are placed at different points in the vehicle and connected to the microprocessor. The processor averages all sensor inputs and compares the average to the preset alarm temperature limit. When the limit is exceeded the microprocessor issues an alarm command. The system is connected to the vehicle components and the alarm command operates the horn, lights, windows, doors, or engine. The system may correspond with a portable beeper/pager. The microprocessor has a time delay mode on initial start-up. The system also monitors the battery power of the vehicle and indicates a low power situation.

Abstract: In an access control system, a method and system for dynamic channel selection to select a channel for communication between a Wireless Access Point Module (WAPM) and a Wireless Panel Interface Module (WPIM). A number of communication channels are available. The WAPM attempts to communicate over a first channel and selects a second channel if the first channel is unsuccessful. The WPIM scans all the available channels so that communication may be established regardless of the channel chosen by the system. Alternatively, the available channels may be segmented into groups and an individual WAPM may be assigned to a group of channels rather than a single channel.

Abstract: A battery operated controller for a door operator includes a keypad backlit by a light emitting diode operably connected to a microcontroller which also controls operation of the controller. The microcontroller periodically measures ambient light as sensed by the light emitting diode and when a voltage level related to a predetermined light intensity decreases below a predetermined level the light emitting diode is energized to provide backlighting for the controller keypad. The intensity of backlighting may be varied in accordance with the amount of ambient light illuminating the keypad and above a certain intensity of ambient light the light emitting diode is de-energized to conserve battery power.

Abstract: Portable and wearable chemical detector devices, such as badges, that are analyte-general, rather than analyte-specific, and which provide an optimal way to notify and protect personnel against known and unknown airborne chemical hazards. The devices are advantageously low-cost, have low-power requirements, may be wearable and are designed to detect and alarm to a general chemical threat. A sensor device includes two or more sensor devices, a processing module coupled to each of the sensor devices and configured to process signals received from each of the two or more sensor devices to determine an environmental state; and a communication module that communicates information about the environmental state to a user.

Abstract: There is provided a communication system which is capable of resetting sub-communication ICs without providing special reset signal lines for transmitting a reset signal and also capable of properly transmitting a communication reset signal to the sub-communication ICs to reset the same when the system is in an abnormal state or when the power supply is turned off, an image forming apparatus provided with this communication system, an initialization method, and a storage medium that contains a program for executing the method. A host CPU controls the whole communication system. A communication controller controls a serial communication. A plurality of sub-communication ICs transmit serial data between themselves and the communication controller. A first reset IC resets the host CPU, and a second reset IC rests the communication controller. The first and second ICs reset the host CPU and the communication controller, respectively, according to different setting conditions.

Abstract: An electronic printing apparatus according to the present invention provides, for a print controller, a normal operating mode and a power saving mode for which less power is required. More preferably, when the print controller is set to the power saving mode, an interface circuit for accepting a printing interrupt is maintained in the normal state, and a CPU for controlling the printing sequence enters a power saving state. Then, the print controller, while in the power saving mode, can realize a constant savings in power, and can appropriately accept an interrupt, such as a print interrupt.

Abstract: An apparatus operable in a wet environment for detecting the presence or absence of water in a non-conductive vessel, by measuring changes in dielectric constant and detecting the temperature of water in same vessel. A conductive element coupled to a sensing and switching means, transmits data to the controller, resulting from a change of dielectric constant at the conductive element. A temperature sensor detects and transmits temperature signals to the controller. A controller means receives data, from the dielectric constant sensor means and temperature data from the temperature sensor. Includes a coupling means which transmits data from the controller to an external device. The isolation means electrically isolates the conductive element and temperature sensor means from the water contained in a non-conductive vessel.

Abstract: A method for reducing average current consumption in an RF system adjusts RF stabilization time by measuring the temperature of the operating environment. The RF system includes a RF receiver that has a predetermined base RF receiver stabilization time. A temperature sensor takes at least one temperature measurement of the environment in which the RF receiver operates. The base RF receiver stabilization time is then adjusted based on the temperature measurement.

Abstract: A novel technique and system for improved monitoring of the storage security of firearms (and other objects) and, through a microprocessor radio-controlled transceiver embedded within the firearm, enabling detection of theft or removal, and then radio-tracking of the stolen firearm by police or others with continual identification of that firearm, and also with the further feature of providing automatic warning to schools or other public buildings or locations of the intrusion in their vicinity of a bearer carrying the stolen firearm.

Abstract: A flight information communication system has a plurality of RF direct sequence spread spectrum ground data links that link respective aircraft-resident subsystems, in each of which a copy of its flight performance data is stored, with airport-located subsystems. The airport-located subsystems are coupled by way communication paths, such as land line telephone links, to a remote flight operations control center. At the flight operations control center, flight performance data downlinked from plural aircraft parked at different airports is analyzed. In addition, the flight control center may be employed to direct the uploading of in-flight data files, such as audio, video and navigation files from the airport-located subsystems to the aircraft.