Specific Condition Patents (Class 340/540)
  • Patent number: 9323967
    Abstract: There are provided a method and a system of pallet packing that generate information on an article to be loaded and a loading place of the article on a specific pallet by recognizing a 3D position on which articles are loaded on a pallet, and a method for providing loading information of the article on the pallet by using loading information of the article generated by the method. More particularly, there are provided a method and a system of pallet packing that generate information on a 3D loading position of each article by using identification information of the pallet and each article and depth information for a whole area of the pallet acquired through a depth measurement sensor and a method for providing information on a loading shape of all articles or a state in which a specific article is loaded by using loading information of the article generated through the method.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: DAEGU GYEONGBUK INSTITUTE OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
    Inventors: Jae Sung Choi, Rock Hyun Choi, Hee kuk Kang, Byung Rak Son, Dong Ha Lee
  • Patent number: 9323766
    Abstract: The storage allocation system reduces the amount of storage needed to store data, and also to store the most interesting dynamic data samples (e.g., waveforms). Dynamic data is relevant if it has changed from a previous sample. Changes need to be detected for different machinery conditions. The storage allocation approach normalizes static data to a percentage of danger alarm value that indicates how much the data is changing. The difference of successive percent of danger alarm values provides an instantaneous change value indicating how interesting the data is. To manage how much data is collected; the system maintains an interestingness threshold and stores data samples having an interestingness value above the threshold. The threshold is automatically adjusted if too much/little data is being saved. This approach optimizes the amount and value of data stored and data storage requirements for improved data storage efficiency.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: Metrix Instrument Co., LP
    Inventor: Jonathan Fox
  • Patent number: 9294872
    Abstract: Devices, methods, and systems are provided that allow for acquiring and/or communicating data associated with a location. Embodiments of the present invention allow a mobile communication device to detect a sensor associated with a particular location, and information about that location is provided to the mobile communication device. Other embodiments allow data to be detected and processed in order to characterize a location and objects contained therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2016
    Inventor: Michael Callahan
  • Patent number: 9292705
    Abstract: A method to provide negotiation control to data such that a person or entity can negotiate the use of data gathered beyond what is needed for a particular use by a third party transaction. The method also provides negotiation for the control and operation of autonomous vehicles such as drones operating in non-public space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2016
    Assignee: LENS VENTURES, LLC
    Inventors: Tara Lemmey, Stanislav Vonog
  • Patent number: 9288514
    Abstract: A system that incorporates teachings of the present disclosure may include, for example, receiving, by a first line card coupled to minimally twisted or non-twisted pair cables, a very high digital subscriber line signal, modifying the very high digital subscriber line signal for transmission over the minimally twisted or non-twisted pair cables to generate an updated very high digital subscriber line signal that overcomes a transmission deficiency, and transmitting from the first line card the updated very high digital subscriber line signal to a second line card to cause the second line card to receive the adapted very high digital subscriber line signal at a desired signal quality and convert the updated very high digital subscriber line signal to a very high digital subscriber line signal for presentation of interactive television services at the customer premise equipment. Other embodiments are disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2016
    Assignee: AT&T INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY I, LP
    Inventors: Kevin Reese, Alfonso Jones, Steven McDonald
  • Patent number: 9272370
    Abstract: Laser etching antenna structures (AS) for RFID antenna modules (AM). Combining laser etching and chemical etching. Limiting the thickness of the contact pads (CP) to less than the skin depth (18 m) of the conductive material (copper) used for the contact pads (CP). Multiple antenna structures (AS1, AS2) in an antenna module (AM). Incorporating LEDs into the antenna module (AM) or smartcard (SC).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2016
    Assignee: FĂ©inics AmaTech Teoranta
    Inventors: David Finn, Mustafa Lotya
  • Patent number: 9273505
    Abstract: An automated door closure system regulate the release and closure of a door in a door assembly that includes a primary door, a secondary door, and a door frame. The system includes a door closer, a control unit, and an automatic input sensor. The door closer, which is connected between the secondary door and the door frame and includes a cylinder and an operating rod, biases the secondary door toward a closed position. The control unit includes a motive device and a rod catch element. The rod catch element, which may be moved by the motor, is positioned in proximity to the operating rod to adjustably prevent the secondary door from being closed. The automatic input sensor detects a door assembly use condition. The control unit controls the motive device based on the detected condition to move the rod catch element, allowing the door closer to close the secondary door.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2016
    Inventor: Edward C. Knittel
  • Patent number: 9270935
    Abstract: A wireless entertainment hub may receive an indication of user relocation. The wireless entertainment hub may analyze a profile with a history of program content requested by and presented to the user. The wireless entertainment hub may cause, based on the indication and the analysis, presentation of the program content from a registered source device to a plurality of sink devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2016
    Assignee: Rateze Remote Mgmt LLC
    Inventors: Patrick T. Igoe, Edward A. Ehrlacher
  • Patent number: 9269244
    Abstract: Video data from sources, such as cameras, is analyzed to create metadata descriptive of the events and objects occurring in the video. This metadata, which consists of data about the video, is then analyzed on a transaction basis to determine if a suspicious activity, such as a fraudulent Point of Sale (POS) return event, has occurred in relation to a transaction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2016
    Assignee: VERINT SYSTEMS INC.
    Inventors: Kurt Heier, Josh O'dell, Jon Legendre, Derek Shoaf
  • Patent number: 9261488
    Abstract: An apparatus includes a cantilevered element including a coating material having an affinity for at least one compound. The apparatus further includes a first capacitive plate and a second capacitive plate that are each spaced from and capacitively coupled to the cantilevered element. The first capacitive plate is configured to induce a vibration in the cantilevered element at a frequency related to a mass of the cantilevered element. A frequency detector is coupled to the second capacitive plate to detect a change in vibrational frequency of the cantilevered element as a result of at least one particle of the at least one compound coupling to the coating material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2016
    Assignee: AT&T INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY I, L.P.
    Inventor: Robert Raymond Miller, II
  • Patent number: 9264817
    Abstract: A content processing apparatus using sound includes a sound processor configured to generate acoustic sound for a locality check when an event in which locality check is to be executed is generated, a speaker configured to output the acoustic sound, a microphone configured to receive response sound output from an external apparatus which receives the acoustic sound, and a controller configured to determine the external apparatus which outputs the response sound as a peripheral apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2016
    Assignee: SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Seung-seop Shim, Kyong-ha Park, Hyun-su Hong
  • Patent number: 9263910
    Abstract: A wireless charging system provides charging to a multi-display device. A docking station in the system includes at least two transmission sources positioned so that a charger on the device is in range of at least one of the transmission sources when docked. In some embodiments, the docking station receives the device in a non-planar configuration and the charger receives charge on whichever side of the docking station it is docked on. In some embodiments, the system determines which side of the docking station is activated to provide charging. The multi-display device can be activated in a mode of operation associated with the side of the docking station determined to be providing charge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2016
    Assignee: LENOVO (SINGAPORE) PTE. LTD.
    Inventors: Masayuki Amano, Yasumichi Tsukamoto, Yoshio Nakamura, Osamu Yamamoto
  • Patent number: 9261974
    Abstract: A method and apparatus is capable of processing a sensory effect of image data. The apparatus includes an image analyzer that analyzes depth information and texture information about at least one object included in an image. A motion analyzer analyzes a motion of a user. An image matching processor matches the motion of the user to the image. An image output unit outputs the image to which the motion of the user is matched, and a sensory effect output unit outputs a texture of an object touched by the body of the user to the body of the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2016
    Assignee: SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Jung-Hoon Park, Kwang-Cheol Choi, Je-Han Yoon
  • Patent number: 9254819
    Abstract: An alarm unit (1) for a vehicle comprises four magnet housings (4), each having a vehicle-engaging surface and four magnets (5) received within respective magnet housings (4) and arranged for movement relative to the vehicle-engaging surface of the housing. A spring material (11) biases the magnets (5) into a position in which they are spaced from the vehicle-engaging surface of the housing (4). An electrical sensor (10) detects movement of the magnets (5) relative to the vehicle-engaging surface of the magnet housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2016
    Inventor: Barry James Schofield
  • Patent number: 9251472
    Abstract: A computerized method and system for monitoring a building, including: accepting data regarding building operation data, generating a statistical model based on the data, comparing current building performance to the statistical model, determining whether the current building performance is normal or abnormal, and displaying information indicating abnormal and/or normal operating conditions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 2, 2016
    Assignee: 31NORTH, INC.
    Inventors: Steve Linowes, David Wei Hsu
  • Patent number: 9251699
    Abstract: In some embodiments an apparatus includes a wireless sensor configured to be operatively coupled to a network gateway device that is configured to receive one of a first data packet or a second packet from the wireless sensor. The wireless sensor is configured to send the first data packet at a first time on a first frequency, the first data packet including a payload associated with a value of a measurement that was measured by the wireless sensor. The wireless sensor is configured to send the second data packet at a second time on a second frequency, the second data packet includes a payload associated with the value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 2, 2016
    Assignee: Powercast Corporation
    Inventors: Charles E. Greene, Daniel W. Harrist
  • Patent number: 9241451
    Abstract: A wireless system is provided for monitoring environmental, soil, or climate conditions and/or controlling irrigation or climate control systems at an agricultural or landscape site. In some embodiments, the wireless system includes at least one wireless nodes for monitoring environmental, soil, or climate conditions and/or for controlling one or more irrigation or climate control systems at the site. The wireless system also includes a server computer system located remotely from the site. The server computer system is coupled to the node/s over a communications network for receiving data from and controlling operation of the node/s. The server computer system is also coupled to a device operated by an end-user over a communications network for transmitting the data to and receiving remote control commands or queries from the end-user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2016
    Assignee: Rain Bird Corporation
    Inventors: Bulut F. Ersavas, Semih Pekol, Atakan Bodur
  • Patent number: 9239997
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to systems and processes for environmental and condition monitoring of containerized assets. One illustrative system includes containers that are configured to enclose assets that are potentially hazardous and/or potentially sensitive to electromagnetic (EM)/radio frequency (RF) radiation or emissions. The assets may also be sensitive to various environmental conditions such as temperature, humidity, shock and vibration. An exemplary system uses sensors to measure and track these environmental conditions inside a container for up to multiple years. An illustrative system may also use sensors to measure attributes of the asset. An illustrative system is configured to archive and report on the collected data. An illustrative system includes the ability to issue a warning when an asset may have been compromised. Additionally, the collected data may be used in predictive life analyses.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 19, 2016
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Navy
    Inventors: Jerry Lee Bobo, Regina Lee Powell, Patricia Louise Johnson
  • Patent number: 9233846
    Abstract: Disclosed herein are compositions, methods, and devices related to bilayer and monolayer membranes, their encapsulation in a hydrogel, and their formation. Methods of using the disclosed compositions and devices are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 12, 2016
    Assignee: The Regents of the University of California
    Inventors: Jacob J. Schmidt, Noah Malmstadt, Tae-joon Jeon, Jason Poulos
  • Patent number: 9220156
    Abstract: A lighting control apparatus for controlling one or more light sources, the lighting control apparatus including: at least one sensor for detecting or sensing a parameter of interest; a transmitter for transmitting one or more wireless signals to one or more other lighting control apparatuses; a receiver for receiving one or more wireless signals from one or more other lighting control apparatuses; and a controller having at least one processor and a memory in communication with the processor to store configuration data representing one or more processes to be executed by the processor; wherein the stored configuration data represents one or more processes that, when executed by the processor, causes the processor to: receive, via the receiver, configuration update data representing one or more further processes to be executed by the processor; and modify the stored configuration data to represent the one or more further processes to be executed by the processor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 22, 2015
    Assignee: ORGANIC RESPONSE INVESTORS PTY LTD.
    Inventors: Daniel John Bishop, Christopher Robert Duffield
  • Patent number: 9213900
    Abstract: A system and method of monitoring a customer space including obtaining visual data comprising image frames of the customer space over a period of time, defining a region of interest within the customer space, the region of interest corresponding to a portion of the customer space in which customers relocate objects, monitoring the region of interest for at least one predefined clutter condition, and generating a notification when the at least one predefined clutter condition is detected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2015
    Assignee: XEROX CORPORATION
    Inventors: Edgar A. Bernal, Robert P. Loce, Wencheng Wu
  • Patent number: 9208629
    Abstract: A garage door can be detected as being open by sensing various physical conditions the existence of which indicate the garage door as being open. When a door is determined to be open, a notification message is wirelessly transmitted to a predetermined entity or person notifying them that the door is open. Corrective action can then be taken to close the door to keep the vehicle and contents of the garage secure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2014
    Date of Patent: December 8, 2015
    Assignee: Continental Automotive Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Peter Saladin, Michael Daleki, Thomas Brey
  • Patent number: 9202374
    Abstract: An event warning system is provided. The innovation can provide real time, personalized and meaningful alert warnings to either or both a machine operator/driver and pedestrians who are in harm's way, or are potentially approaching harm's way. Different from generic warnings such as backup alarms and flashing lights, the innovation's personalized alarm and notification functionality minimizes alarm complacency and maximizes their effectiveness.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 2014
    Date of Patent: December 1, 2015
    Assignee: PROXISAFE LTD.
    Inventors: Derek K. Gauger, Christopher R. Coldwell, Thomas D. Heath
  • Patent number: 9191764
    Abstract: Applications for detecting binaural sounds and customizing binaural sounds for users. A system for detecting binaural sounds according to an embodiment includes: an input system for obtaining a left side audio signal and a right side audio signal within an environment; a binaural sound detector for evaluating the left side audio signal and the right side audio signal to determine whether a binaural sound is present; and an alarm system for generating an alert when the binaural sound is detected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 17, 2015
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Aaron K. Baughman, Christian Eggenberger-Wang, Peter K. Malkin
  • Patent number: 9174114
    Abstract: A system includes a gaming table, at least one light sensor, an electronic system, and a central computer. The gaming table includes a tabletop covered by a fabric. The at least one light sensor is positioned in proximity to a player position at the gaming table. In addition, the at least one light sensor is positioned beneath the fabric to detect light intensity through the fabric. The electronic system is communicably coupled to the at least one light sensor. Furthermore, the electronic system is operable to detect changes in light intensity at the at least one light sensor. The central computer is communicably coupled to the electronic system. Additionally, the central computer is operable to rate a plurality of dealers at a table game in a casino based on a status of the at least one light sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2014
    Date of Patent: November 3, 2015
    Assignee: Genesis Gaming Solutions, Inc.
    Inventors: Randy L. Knust, Eric Schoppe
  • Patent number: 9154325
    Abstract: An apparatus and a method for transferring data and energy over network units of a defined network. The apparatus has at least two units, a bus coupling the units with a receive line and a transmit line and a bus control device coupled with the bus, the bus control device having first means for controlling the transfer of data defined by the defined network as data voltage signals over the transmit line and over the receive line, second means for charging the data voltage signals on the transmit line with first supply voltage signals adapted for voltage supply of units of a first plane system, and third means for charging the data voltage signals on the receive line with second supply voltage signals adapted for voltage supply of units of a second plane system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 6, 2015
    Assignee: Airbus Operations GmbH
    Inventors: Sven-Olaf Berkhahn, Christian Riedel
  • Patent number: 9137730
    Abstract: A system, apparatus and method for configuring a wireless sound reinforcement system detects a controller and two or more wireless adapters using a router. The controller has a plurality of input channels and output channels. Each wireless adapter is associated with an entertainment device. Channel information about each input channel and output channel is obtained from the controller. Device information is obtained from each entertainment device via the wireless adapter. A network address is assigned to each input channel, output channel and wireless adapter. Each entertainment device is mapped to at least one of the input channels and/or output channels. The device information and channel mappings for the entertainment devices are provided to the controller. Data packets are received from the wireless adapters and the controller. A destination network address of each received data packet is identified and each received data packet is sent to the identified destination network address.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2015
    Inventor: Zach Bair
  • Patent number: 9128494
    Abstract: An apparatus for assessing at least one property of a target soil responsive to a first a first microwave signal, constituted of: a detector; a probe arranged to be embedded in the target soil; and a coupler arranged to couple a first portion of the first microwave signal to the first end of the probe, and to couple a second portion of the generated first microwave signal as a microwave reference signal to a reference input of the detector; the detector arranged to square each of the microwave signal exiting the probe and the microwave reference signal and to output a phase difference signal indicative of the phase difference between the squared probe output microwave signal and the squared microwave reference signal; and a control circuitry coupled to the output of the detector and arranged to output an irrigation control signal responsive to the phase difference signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 8, 2015
    Assignee: Microsemi Corporation
    Inventors: Joseph Andrew Viera, Heyward Sturges Williams
  • Patent number: 9082208
    Abstract: A system and method for locating and displaying aircraft information, such as three-dimensional models and various information about an aircraft component. The system may include a portable display, a remote processor, and one or more location and/or orientation-determining components. The models and other various information displayed on the portable display may correspond with a location and orientation of the portable display relative to the aircraft component. The location and/or orientation-determining components may include one or more infrared cameras for communicating with the remote processor and a plurality of infrared targets or infrared markers. The remote processor may be configured to filter the information provided to the portable display based on the portable display's location and orientation relative to the aircraft component, geographic location, user input, or other various parameters.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 14, 2015
    Assignee: Spirit AeroSystems, Inc.
    Inventors: Bruce E. Gabel, Donald J. Hinson, Adam Cade Wilcox
  • Patent number: 9075906
    Abstract: A medical equipment case is provided for containing and transporting at least one article of medical equipment and a two-way audio-visual system. Such equipment may be used, for example, for telemedicine applications by a patient discharged from a hospital, or other subject in need of remote health care monitoring. The medical equipment case may include features that provide for security and facilitate return of the medical equipment case and medical equipment and audio-visual system contained therein, such as machine-readable indicia encoding information for return of the case from a usage location. The medical equipment case and contained medical equipment and two-way audio visual system together form a medical support system that can be used by a patient discharged from a hospital. Methods of controlling the medical support system are also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 7, 2015
    Assignee: Elwha LLC
    Inventors: Roderick A. Hyde, Jordin T. Kare, Elizabeth A. Sweeney, Lowell L. Wood, Jr.
  • Patent number: 9069981
    Abstract: A method of federating electronic mail (e-mail). A request can be received from a first user to view at least one e-mail of a second user, the request including at least one identifier corresponding to the second user and a criteria indicating a subject matter of the e-mail. The method further can include verifying whether the first user is authorized to access the e-mail of the second user that satisfies the criteria. Responsive to determining that the first user is authorized to view the e-mail of the second user that satisfies the criteria, the first user can be provided access to view the at least one e-mail that satisfies the criteria.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 30, 2015
    Assignee: INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MACHINES CORPORATION
    Inventors: Patrick J. O'Sullivan, Fred Raguillat, Edith H. Stern, Barry E. Willner
  • Patent number: 9065987
    Abstract: Methods can include using a doorbell to wirelessly communicate with a remotely located computing device. Doorbells can include a speaker, a microphone, a camera, and a button to sound a chime. Some embodiments include using a doorbell to close an electrical circuit that has a sound output device in a way that precludes the sound output device from inappropriately emitting a notification sound.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 23, 2015
    Assignee: SkyBell Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Seton Paul Kasmir, Joseph Frank Scalisi, Gregory Saul Harrison, Desiree Mejia, Andrew Paul Thomas
  • Publication number: 20150145677
    Abstract: A computer-implemented method and system for mold prevention is provided. In one embodiment, a computer-implemented method for computer-implemented systems and methods for mold prevention may include at a server having one or more processors and memory storing one or more programs for execution by the one or more processors: receiving mold prevention data from a monitor disposed in a first location; analyzing the mold prevention data and determining if the mold prevention data conforms to an acceptable range of values; generating an alert if the mold prevention data does not conform to the acceptable range of values; and storing the mold prevention data in a database.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 22, 2013
    Publication date: May 28, 2015
    Inventor: GERALD J. SMITH, JR.
  • Patent number: 9041532
    Abstract: Systems and methods for managing patient monitoring devices are disclosed. Patient information is transmitted from a patient sensor operatively coupled to a patient to a patient monitor. The patient sensor and the patient monitor are communicatively coupled over a communications network available in a designated monitoring area. Further, loss of the patient sensor from the designated monitoring area is detected by one or more of the patient sensor, the patient monitor and a user. One or more loss prevention indicators are initiated at the patient sensor upon detecting the loss of the patient sensor. Additionally, the loss prevention indicators are communicated to indicate location of the lost patient sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 26, 2015
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: SM Shajedul Hasan, David Michael Davenport, Steven William Wik
  • Patent number: 9035767
    Abstract: Methods and systems for providing data communication in medical systems are disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 19, 2015
    Assignee: Abbott Diabetes Care Inc.
    Inventors: Martin J. Fennell, Lei He, Mark Kent Sloan
  • Patent number: 9035765
    Abstract: Devices, systems, and methods are provided for adherence monitoring, and devices, systems, and methods are provided for monitoring use of consumable dispensers. In general, the devices, systems, and methods can facilitate an individual's adherence to a schedule for consuming consumables and can facilitate monitoring and tracking of the individual's adherence to the schedule. The devices, systems, and methods can allow data regarding the individual's historical adherence to the schedule to be accessible via a computer system. In one embodiment, an accessory is provided that can be configured to attach to consumable dispensers. The accessory can be configured to be removably and replaceably coupled to the dispenser. The accessory can be configured to provide a notification to a user indicating that a certain event occurred and/or that a certain action needs to be taken. The accessory can be configured to sense attachment thereof to and removal thereof from the dispenser.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 19, 2015
    Assignee: Gecko Health Innovations, Inc.
    Inventors: Yechiel Engelhard, Mark Maalouf
  • Patent number: 9035771
    Abstract: A computer-implemented method is disclosed herein. The method includes the step of receiving, at a processing device of a monitoring server, a theft detection signal from a first augmented reality device worn by a first employee of a retail store. The method also includes the step of linking, with the processing device, the first augmented reality device in communication with an electronic computing device operated by a second employee in response to said step of receiving the theft detection signal. The second employee can assist the first employee in assessing whether a theft is occurring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 19, 2015
    Assignee: WAL-MART STORES, INC.
    Inventors: Stuart Argue, Anthony Emile Marcar
  • Patent number: 9035768
    Abstract: A peer to peer surveillance architecture comprising a plurality of independent nodes for capturing, analyzing, storing, and viewing surveillance information is disclosed. The surveillance architecture has no central controller or single point of failure because of the peer to peer or independent relationship between its nodes. Generally, surveillance information of various types is captured by one or more capture nodes and transmitted to or one or more viewing, content storage, or server nodes for display, analysis, storage, or a combination thereof. Server nodes may provide authentication services to validate user or device credentials prior to granting access to surveillance information. In one or more embodiments, specialized video compression hardware is provided to allow high quality video surveillance information to be transmitted across low bandwidth connections. Compression may also be performed on other types of surveillance information.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 19, 2015
    Assignee: Leverage Information Systems
    Inventor: Raymond G. Leblond
  • Patent number: 9030326
    Abstract: According to one embodiment, an electronic apparatus includes a housing, a display on a surface of the housing, an infrared sensor in a first region of the surface of the housing, the first region facing one side of the display, an indicator in the first region and configured to emit light, a first controller, and a second controller. The first controller turns on and off the display in accordance with a detection output of the infrared sensor. The second controller is configured to blink the indicator in a first blinking pattern in which a ratio of an ON time to a blinking cycle is smaller than that of an OFF time to the blinking cycle, when an event of which a user is notified occurs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2015
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba
    Inventors: Akira Imamura, Ryuhei Yokota
  • Publication number: 20150123798
    Abstract: In one example, a method of monitoring a photovoltaic (PV) system located at a first location includes receiving, by a gateway device at the first location, data concerning a plurality of components of the PV system, determining, by the gateway device, if the received data satisfies at least one alert condition, and transmitting, by the gateway device, an alert notification to a computing device located at a second location when the received data satisfies at least one alert condition.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 5, 2013
    Publication date: May 7, 2015
    Inventors: Andras Boross, Vladimir Bezrukov
  • Patent number: 9024756
    Abstract: Systems and methods thereof for detecting at least one material in an environment prior to the environment reaching levels deemed dangerous by conventional monitors and standards includes at least one sensor adapted to measure a level of the at least one material in the environment surrounding the sensor, at least one notification device adapted to produce a signal, and a memory comprising a preprogrammed level of the at least one material in the environment. The system is programmed with a minimum notification level of the at least one material in the environment that is below the preprogrammed level and is adapted to notify a user with the signal if the level exceeds the minimum notification level. The frequency and/or amplitude of the signal is changed as the level approaches the preprogrammed level.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2015
    Assignee: J And N Enterprises Inc.
    Inventor: John Scott Kleppe
  • Patent number: 9024774
    Abstract: An emergency lighting and evacuation guidance system includes an emergency lighting and evacuation guidance arrangement which is electrically connected to a commercial electricity supply, and a complementary green power assembly which is electrically connected to the emergency lighting and evacuation guidance arrangement. When the commercial electric supply is cut off during an emergency, the power generated by the complementary green power assembly is supplied to the emergency lighting and evacuation guidance arrangement, whereby the emergency lighting and evacuation guidance arrangement guides people to evacuate and escape during the emergency.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2015
    Assignee: Shenzhen Guangan Fire-Fighting & Decoration Engineering Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Shaobin Li, Wenguang Luo, Wenhui Hua
  • Patent number: 9024747
    Abstract: A computing system is described that receives, at a particular time, notification data, the notification data indicating a threshold amount of time for which the computing system is to delay outputting an alert based on the notification data. The computing system initiates, based on the threshold amount of time, a deferred output of the alert based on the notification data. Responsive to determining that the threshold amount of time has elapsed since the particular time, the computing system outputs the alert based on the notification data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2015
    Assignee: Google Inc.
    Inventors: Alexander Faaborg, Austin Robison
  • Patent number: 9024755
    Abstract: In selected embodiments video footage is automatically analyzed to determine whether product stock levels at particular product locations are low. Video analytics may be employed to track product removal from shelves and determine approximate quantities of product remaining on each shelf based on product size and dedicated shelf area. In selected implementations an alarm notification is generated to alert store personnel that restocking is appropriate. Such an alarm notification optionally includes a still image of the area corresponding to the alarm together with data related to the product and projected quantities needed to restock the shelf. In some embodiments the system automatically identifies the store personnel who are currently located in areas near where the alarm event occurred and the notification is wirelessly distributed to their mobile devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2015
    Assignee: Target Brands, Inc.
    Inventors: Jaclyn Fuhr, Andrew Ascher
  • Patent number: 9024757
    Abstract: The present invention provides a system and method for providing an alert notification prior to occurrence of a consequent event. The present invention provides a decision maker with the means to reconstitute his unfiltered operational environment such that the information needed to make an informed decision is extracted from a vast array of data available and presented in a manner that allows the decision maker to focus on the aspects of the decision that are most important to arriving at the best course of action under the exigent circumstances that are present when a response to an unexpected and possibly deleterious event is required.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2015
    Assignee: Priority 5 Holdings, Inc.
    Inventors: Charles Q. Miller, Allen D. Bierbaum, Donald D. Dudenhoeffer, Anthony J. McDermott, David M. Miller-Klugman
  • Patent number: 9024758
    Abstract: An alarm system includes a battery-powered base unit having an audible alarm, a switched constant on constant off light which can be used as a flashlight, and a strobed light providing a visible position indicator. The audible alarm and strobed light are activated simultaneously upon the release of a pull pin from a pair of electrical contacts within the base unit. The strobed light can be visible or infrared. A trip line can be connected to the pull pin to provide a secure line of entry or a secured enclosed area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2015
    Inventor: Glenn Bushee
  • Publication number: 20150116115
    Abstract: A secure PIN entry device including a PIN entry assembly operative to receive a PIN from a user, a PIN entry prompter operative when actuated to prompt a user to enter a PIN via the PIN entry assembly, a PIN entry prompt security check enabled controller operative to prevent operation of the PIN entry prompter unless a predetermined security check has been successfully completed and security check functionality operative to check at least part of the PIN entry device for the presence of an unauthorized PIN eavesdropping element thereat and to provide an output to the PIN entry prompt security check enabled controller indicating whether the predetermined security check has been successfully completed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 24, 2014
    Publication date: April 30, 2015
    Applicant: VERIFONE, INC.
    Inventors: John Henry BARROWMAN, Douglas L. MANCHESTER
  • Patent number: 9019102
    Abstract: A service method of gas appliances includes: Detecting the gas appliances at the client ends to generate detecting signals. Transmitting the detecting signals to a service end. Identifying which client end the detecting signals come from. Examining the detecting signals to find whether the gas appliance has an abnormal condition; and informing the client end when the abnormal condition is found. After all, the service end may monitor the gas appliances at the client end, and inform the client for repair when the gas appliance has detected an abnormal signal or has damaged parts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 28, 2015
    Assignee: Grand Mate Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Chung-Chin Huang, Chin-Ying Huang, Hsin-Ming Huang, Hsing-Hsiung Huang
  • Patent number: 9019088
    Abstract: The subject disclosure is directed towards a technology by which a device includes one or more haptic feedback mechanisms that may be operated in a controlled manner to output amplitude-controlled vibrations. In one aspect, the vibrations from at least two haptic feedback mechanisms are combined, providing different amplitudes at different device locations. In one aspect, a haptic feedback mechanism outputs vibrations with a one amplitude in one state, and another, different amplitude in at least one other state, as controlled by the controller. The different states may correspond to different weights being driven at different times, and/or different positions of one or more weights.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 28, 2015
    Assignee: Lenovo (Singapore) Pte. Ltd.
    Inventors: Jennifer Greenwood Zawacki, Scott Edwards Kelso, Axel Ramirez Flores, Howard Locker, John Weldon Nicholson, John Miles Hunt
  • Patent number: 9016193
    Abstract: A preservation system for storage and logistic transport of nutritional substances. The preservation system obtains information about the nutritional substance to be preserved, senses and measures the external environment to the preservation system, senses and measures the internal environment to the preservation system, senses and measures the state of the nutritional substance, and stores such information throughout the period of preservation. Using this accumulated information, the preservation system can measure, or estimate, changes in nutritional content (usually degradation) during the period of preservation. Additionally, the preservation system can use this information to dynamically modify the preservation system to minimize detrimental changes to the nutritional content of the nutritional substance, and in some cases actually improve the nutritional substance attributes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 28, 2015
    Inventor: Eugenio Minvielle