Specific Condition Patents (Class 340/540)
  • Publication number: 20140306823
    Abstract: An apparatus includes a pair of an alarm condition generator and an associated alarm circuit and a test circuit. The alarm circuit is configured to generate an alarm signal in response to a detection of an associated alarm condition. The alarm condition generator is configured to generate the associated alarm condition for its associated alarm circuit in response to a reception of a first reset of a first type of reset. The test circuit is configured to receive the alarm signal and the first reset and to generate in response to a reception of both the first reset and the alarm signal a second reset of a second type of reset.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 15, 2013
    Publication date: October 16, 2014
    Inventors: Steffen Sonnekalb, Stefan Mangard
  • Patent number: 8860573
    Abstract: The present invention is an alarm system comprising an alarm handset (10) having a housing (30), a detector circuit (100) having means (102, 104) for receiving a preselected signal from a remote transmitter (40) and generating a first detection signal in response thereto, first sensing means for sensing change in a preselected parameter of the handset, warning means (300) for generating a warning signal, alarm means (400) for generating an alarm signal and control means (500) responsive to receipt of the detection signal to activate the alarm means (400). The control means (500) is operable to activate the warning means in response to at least one of receipt of the control signal and sensing of the change in the preselected parameter of the handset.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2014
    Assignee: Fireangel Limited
    Inventors: Stuart Arthur Hart, Nicholas Alexander Rutter
  • Patent number: 8860676
    Abstract: The display control device is a display control device which receives a signal from the operating device having a touchpad and generates screen data to be displayed on a screen, the display control device including: a touch information detecting unit (201) which detects touch information including position information about a position on the touchpad that is touched with a finger of a user during operation of the touchpad; a direction determining unit (203) which determines a direction intended by the user, using a characteristic which is indicated by the touch information detected by the touch information detecting unit (201) and which results from the operation on the touchpad with the finger; and a screen data generating unit (205) which generates the screen data depending on the direction determined by the direction determining unit (203).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2014
    Assignee: Panasonic Intellectual Property Corporation of America
    Inventors: Akio Higashi, Masaki Yamauchi, Susumu Kobayashi
  • Patent number: 8860562
    Abstract: Methods and apparatuses are disclosed that allow an electronic device to autonomously adapt one or more user alerts of the electronic device. For example, some embodiments may include a method for operating a haptic device including driving a haptic device using a control signal, measuring a frequency related to the operation of the haptic device and comparing the measured frequency with a target frequency. A control signal is adjusted based on the comparison to drive the haptic device to the target frequency.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2014
    Assignee: Apple Inc.
    Inventor: Matthew Hill
  • Patent number: 8860577
    Abstract: The motion-activated hunting light includes a telescoping tripod that includes a plurality of motion sensors that are directed around the tripod in order to form 360 degrees of surveillance. The motion-activated hunting light includes a red light that is illuminated once at least one of the motion sensors is activated. The red light may illuminate for a pre-determined amount of time, and provides a warning to persons in the immediate vicinity of the hunting light. After a pre-determined amount of time of illumination of the red light, at least one spotlight shall illuminate in order to alert a hunter to the presence of a wild game. An optional speaker may work in conjunction with the spotlight to provide an audible alarm or to broadcast sounds that lure in a predatory animal and work as an audible luring means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2014
    Inventors: Charles F. Chumas, Charles J. Chumas
  • Publication number: 20140300473
    Abstract: A system for monitoring of an object. The system includes a communication unit in proximity to the object, the communication unit including an electrical energy supply, a reader, and a radio station configured to communicate with a terminal over a communication network. The system also includes an ID unit coupled to the object. The ID unit has a unique ID and contains a receiver and a transmitter configured to transmit the unique ID in response to receiving an incoming signal from the reader. The system further includes an alarm circuit coupled to the reader and the radio station. The alarm circuit is configured to trigger an alarm if the reader does not receive a response from the ID unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 24, 2012
    Publication date: October 9, 2014
    Applicant: DYREIDENTITET AS
    Inventors: Gudbrand Vatn, Kristian Solberg, Inge Marius Bryhni
  • Patent number: 8854209
    Abstract: A warning tag for providing an indication relevant to shelf life of a product is to be disposed on a product. The warning tag includes a storage unit, a clock unit, a control unit and a warning unit. The storage unit stores product information of the product. The product information includes time data associated with end of the shelf life of the product. The clock unit generates a current time. The control unit is electrically coupled to the storage unit and the clock unit, and outputs a warning signal based on the current time and the end of the shelf life of the product. The warning unit is electrically coupled to the control unit, and generates the indication according to the warning signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2014
    Assignee: Wistron Corporation
    Inventor: Yao-Tsung Chang
  • Patent number: 8854213
    Abstract: An RFID label comprising an RFID circuit and an RFID antenna, and optional secondary security label ensures the authenticity of a beverage contained in a beverage container. The RFID label cannot be removed without destroying the RFID label or rendering it inoperable. A secondary security label may be placed over the closure of the beverage container to provide a secondary measure against tampering as well as a visual indicator of authenticity. It is placed on a portion of the bottle, a portion of the beverage container's closure, and the RFID label. An attempt to remove the secondary security label will also render the RFID label unusable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2014
    Inventors: Kjell Roland Adstedt, Joakim Alexander Sternberg
  • Patent number: 8854544
    Abstract: A system is disclosed for controlling operation of an electronic device, such as a TV. The system includes a first sensor located at or near the electronic device and a second sensor spaced apart from the first sensor, wherein the first and second sensors are configured to detect motion of a user within an operating zone associated with the electronic device. A processor is coupled to the electronic device and the first and second sensors, the processor being configured to input a signal from the first and second sensors. Memory is coupled to the processor, the memory comprising a sensing algorithm configured to process the input signal from the first and second sensors and determine the location of the user with respect to the operating zone. The processor is configured to send a control command to the electronic device based on an output of the sensing algorithm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2014
    Assignees: Sony Corporation, Sony Electronics Inc.
    Inventor: Ling Jun Wong
  • Patent number: 8854205
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a system and method for countering terrorism by monitoring shipping containers using an advanced communication system network for tracking and monitoring the container as it travels over international seas.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2014
    Inventor: Isaac S. Daniel
  • Patent number: 8854187
    Abstract: In one aspect of the present invention there is provided an alarm communicator configured to communicate directly with an alarm panel. The alarm panel includes a key-switch input terminal which is in direct communication with a relay switch defined on the alarm communicator. The alarm communicator is capable of sending open or closed signals from the relay switch to the key-switch input terminal in response to receiving a command that was initiated from a remote device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2014
    Assignee: Telular Corporation
    Inventor: Gilson O. Motta
  • Patent number: 8845969
    Abstract: A multilayer material is described herein that includes at least one signaling layer configured to propagate at least one electromagnetic signal; and a flexible layer configured to enclose the at least one signaling layer, wherein the flexible layer is substantially impermeable to an environment and to the at least one electromagnetic signal. The multilayer material including the at least one signaling layer is configured to transmit a change in the at least one electromagnetic signal upon exposure of the signaling layer to the environment. A system, an article of clothing, or a method is described herein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2014
    Assignee: The Invention Science Fund I, LLC
    Inventors: Mahalaxmi Gita Bangera, Michael H. Baym, Roy P. Diaz, Roderick A. Hyde, Muriel Y. Ishikawa, Edward K. Y. Jung, Jordin T. Kare, Erez Lieberman, Nathan P. Myhrvold, Dennis J. Rivet, Michael A. Smith, Elizabeth A. Sweeney, Lowell L. Wood, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8849608
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for surveillance. A signal is sent to sensors on a ground in an area. The sensors are configured to generate electromagnetic radiation in response to the signal to activate the sensors. The current positions of the sensors are detected from the electromagnetic radiation generated by the sensors in response to the signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2014
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Dallas Steven Scholes, Eric Paul Oman
  • Patent number: 8847756
    Abstract: A bed includes bed status indicators, such as a pair of spaced lamp modules that are illuminated to signify a satisfactory status or an unsatisfactory status of the bed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2014
    Assignee: Hill-Rom Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Dan R. Tallent, William G. Pittenger, Irvin J. Vanderpohl, III, James L. Walke
  • Publication number: 20140285341
    Abstract: A system is provided for coordinated communication between various campus personnel and administrators, so that timely responses and effective actions are taken during times of emergency to provide reduced risk of injury or death to persons affected by the emergency is provided. The coordinated communication system includes a group of communication alert devices and at least one administrator alert device for sending and receiving alert indicators throughout a campus or location.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 19, 2014
    Publication date: September 25, 2014
    Inventor: Miriam Gitau
  • Patent number: 8842008
    Abstract: A multi-modal load control system includes a sensor that operates as an occupancy sensor in a first mode of operation and operates as a vacancy sensor in a second mode of operation. The load control system comprises a load control circuit coupled in series between an AC power source and an electrical load for controlling the amount of power delivered to the load in response to sensor, which is operable to detect occupancy or vacancy conditions in a space in which the sensor is located. In the first mode, the load control circuit turns the load on when the sensor detects the occupancy condition and turns the load off when the sensor detects the vacancy condition. In the second mode, the load control circuit turns the load off when the sensor detects the vacancy condition and does not turn the load on when the sensor detects the occupancy condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2014
    Assignee: Lutron Electronics Co., Inc.
    Inventor: John H. Bull
  • Patent number: 8843268
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a motor vehicle having a steering wheel, the motor vehicle including a first display, integrated into the steering wheel, for the variable representation of information; a first touchscreen, situated over the first display, for the input of commands; a second display, integrated into the steering wheel and separated spatially from the first display, for the variable representation of information; and a second touchscreen, situated over the second display, for the input of commands.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2014
    Assignee: Volkswagen AG
    Inventors: William Brian Lathrop, Evan Small, Deborah Garcia
  • Patent number: 8842007
    Abstract: A live performance is monitored by analyzing an input data stream comprising real-time updates related to the live performance. Different sets of excitement levels, excitement curves, alerts and teasers are generated based on the analysis and reported to a plurality of subscribers using any of a variety of mobile communication and/or computing devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2014
    Assignee: Thuuz, Inc.
    Inventors: Warren Joseph Packard, Robert John Barcklay, Alan Levin
  • Patent number: 8843238
    Abstract: Systems and methods for limiting power consumption by a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) subsystem of a building are shown and described. A feedback controller is used to generate a manipulated variable based on an energy use setpoint and a measured energy use. The manipulated variable may be used for adjusting the operation of an HVAC device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2014
    Assignee: Johnson Controls Technology Company
    Inventors: Michael J. Wenzel, Kirk H. Drees
  • Patent number: 8842009
    Abstract: Systems and methods are disclosed to control light output at one or more light fixtures based on input from one or more light detectors. Embodiments of the invention may also be used for auto commissioning, personal control and/or day lighting. Some embodiments of the invention can be used to ensure that light output at the light fixtures provides a combined uniform photometric distribution within an architectural space. Moreover, embodiments of the invention can respond to changes to ambient light, which illuminates the architectural space from a window, door, or television, etc., in a smooth and non-oscillating way. Embodiments of the invention can be implemented in lighting systems employing multiple light fixtures having one or more light source and multiple light detectors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2014
    Assignee: MoJo Labs, Inc.
    Inventor: Morgan Jones
  • Publication number: 20140266714
    Abstract: Arrangements relate to the automatic adjustment of an alert trigger threshold associated with a metric. In response to a determination that a predetermined alert trigger threshold associated with a metric is met, an alert notification can be sent to a plurality of users associated with the metric. Feedback on the alert notification can be received from one or more of the plurality of users. The alert trigger threshold can be adjusted based on the received feedback. Such adjusting can be performed using a processor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2013
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Applicant: INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MACHINES CORPORATION
    Inventors: Jennifer G. Becker Antley, Venkatramanan Jeyaraman, Mark D. Reinhardt, Benjamin I. Rubinger
  • Publication number: 20140266715
    Abstract: A method and apparatus incorporating the method where the method includes the steps of providing an access controller that controls locking devices on entry and egress portals of a secured area, registering the controller with an external website or information source that provides information about public threats existing outside the secured area and modifying an access level for entry into the secured area in response to notice of a public threat received from the external website or information source.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Applicant: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventor: Honeywell International Inc.
  • Publication number: 20140266713
    Abstract: The subject matter disclosed herein provides methods for generating an alert to perform maintenance on a medical device based on actual usage of the medical device. In one aspect, the method can include measuring a parameter value for a parameter type. The parameter type can be associated with a component in a medical device connected to a network and related to a function performed by the component. The method can further include locally storing at the medical device the measured parameter value, the parameter type, and a first value that indicates when the measured parameter value was measured; accessing a maintenance threshold value that specifies a performance limit for the parameter type; comparing the maintenance threshold value with the measured parameter value; and generating an alert based on the comparing to indicate that maintenance is needed for the component. Related apparatus, systems, techniques, and articles are also described.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2013
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Applicant: CareFusion 303, Inc.
    Inventors: Ritika Sehgal, Aron Weiler, Brian Sullivan
  • Publication number: 20140267710
    Abstract: By detecting the specific frequency component included in an alarm sound by a frequency analysis and a period analysis, even under a noisy and echo environment, a reliable, almost-no-false-detecting and small-sized abnormality detection device, which can detect the alarm sound, can be realized and then an integrated security system can be realized.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2013
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Inventor: Katsuhiko Asada
  • Publication number: 20140266716
    Abstract: A system and eyewash station having an automatic expiration warning system is disclosed. The station includes a base portion having a cradle configured to hold an eyewash container. The eyewash container has an expiration date thereon. A sensor is configured to detect whether an eyewash container is in the cradle. An indicator is on the body portion. A control module is connected to the sensor, and configured to query the expiration date of the eyewash container when the sensor detects an eyewash container is placed in the cradle. The control module is further configured to compare the current date to the expiration date read from the eyewash container, and to activate the indicator at a predetermined time calculated from the expiration date of the eyewash container. The data from eyewash containers may be transmitted to a computer server to track all expiration dates and provide reminders to change expiring containers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Applicant: HONEYWELL INTERNATIONAL INC.
    Inventors: Raymond A. Boissonneault, Kelly A. Piotti
  • Publication number: 20140266718
    Abstract: A method, device and/or a system of centralized management and emergency allocation of deployed defibrillators each having associated communication modules. A central server may process a message from a communication module associated with a defibrillator, and then analyze a photograph and/or a video of a defibrillator display to compare it to a set of expected visual markers using a pixel algorithm of a pixel analysis module. The central server may then determine the operational status of the defibrillator such as whether it is in a nonfunctional status. The central server may then send alerts to the communication module and notifications to the an organization owning or leasing the defibrillator. The central server may also send alerts to the communication module based on a nearby emergency call, provide geospatial mapping of defibrillators to improve deployment efficiency and/or establish bi-directional communication between the operator of the defibrillator and a medical professional.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2014
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Inventors: Micah Bongberg, Jan Gerritrsen, Walt Maclay, John Hoving, Mark Brinkerhoff
  • Publication number: 20140266753
    Abstract: Embodiments of systems and methods include a sensor subsystem (e.g., within a container-mounted device) that produces a sensor output, and a processing system that implements a state machine. Upon entry into a first state, the processing system starts a timer, and while in a second state, the processing system waits for a specific sensor output value to be received. The processing system transitions from the first state to the second state upon expiration of the timer, and the processing system transitions from the second state to the first state when the sensor output corresponds to the specific sensor output value. When the state machine is in the second state, the output device produces a human-perceptible indicia configured to prompt a human user to perform an action that is likely to cause the sensor to produce the sensor output that corresponds to the specific sensor output value.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2013
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Inventors: Michael A. Steffen, Rodrigo L. Borras
  • Publication number: 20140266717
    Abstract: An automation system may include a control panel monitoring one more automation system components. When an event is detected at an automation system component, the control panel may automatically access a local or remote data source and identify procedures to be implemented in response to the event. The procedures may include follow-up actions and procedures specific to a particular dealer of the automation system. Dealer-specific procedures may then be displayed or otherwise communicated by the control panel to alert the user of what actions to take or to expect.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2014
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Applicant: Vivint, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeremy B. Warren, Todd Matthew Santiago, Jeffrey G. Thomas
  • Publication number: 20140266669
    Abstract: This patent specification relates to apparatus, systems, methods, and related computer program products for providing home security objectives. More particularly, this patent specification relates to a plurality of devices, including intelligent, multi-sensing, network-connected devices, that communicate with each other and/or with a central server or a cloud-computing system to provide any of a variety of useful home security objectives.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2013
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Inventor: Nest Labs, Inc.
  • Publication number: 20140266690
    Abstract: A system and method for generating alerts for events in an emergency assistance system are provided. A report of an event is received from an event detecting device along with related information. A severity of the event is determined based at least in part on the related information, and one or more alerts are generated for responding to the event based at least in part on the severity. The related information can include audio recorded based on occurrence of the event, other component measurements based on occurrence of the event, etc.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Applicant: SaferAging, Inc.
    Inventors: John McKINLEY, Christopher WILLIAMS
  • Patent number: 8836500
    Abstract: The present disclosure describes, among other things, a method that may include receiving, at one or more sensors in communication with a mobile computing device positioned within a device receptacle portion of a device, the device receptacle portion being configured to substantially enclose and protect the mobile computing device during physical activity, sensor data. The method may include determining, by a processor of the mobile computing device, motion data regarding a movement of the protective device. The method may include estimating a behavior of a user based in part upon the motion data. The method may include generating a response to the behavior including at least one of graphic, audio, tactile, or video output. The method may include providing, through a wireless communications path, the response to a second device in wireless communication with the mobile computing device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2014
    Assignee: Physical Apps, LLC
    Inventors: Robert C. Houvener, Michele M. Hermsen, Tyler N. Doyle
  • Patent number: 8836504
    Abstract: The invention relates to a system and method for determining the state, state changes, and/or condition changes of a potted plant and for indicating the determined state of said object to the owner or user thereof, wherein the system and method locally determine at least one physical and/or chemical parameter on top of on the side of or in the immediate vicinity of the plant (1) to be monitored by means of preferably several sensors or sensing elements (3). Said physical and/or chemical parameter is processed into a coded digital parameter signal and transmitted wirelessly, optionally by means of intermediate stages, to a central processor, which determines a statement about the state of the plant (1) from said coded digital parameter signal and other digital as an optical and/or acoustic indication of the current or prognosticated state of the plant/object (1).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2014
    Assignee: Eidgenössische Technische Hochschule Zürich
    Inventors: Moritz Köhler, Philipp Bolliger, Benedikt Ostermaier
  • Patent number: 8836488
    Abstract: An alarm turning off method and a mobile device adapted to the method are provided. The method includes reproducing a preset alarm audio sound and outputting a preset beat at a preset alarm time, determining whether the mobile device receives an input beat, when the mobile device has received the input beat, muting the reproduced alarm audio sound, determining whether the preset beat is identical to the input beat in a state where the alarm audio sound is muted, and turning off the alarm when the number of occurrences where the preset beat matches the input beat is a preset number in a state where the alarm audio sound is muted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2014
    Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Yong Ho You
  • Patent number: 8836532
    Abstract: A notification appliance configured to emit a notification output based upon at least one detected environmental condition is provided that includes a sensor configured to detect the at least one environmental condition, at least one light emitting diode (LED) light source configured to emit light having an intensity during a pulse time period, and a controller in communicative connection with the sensor and the LED light source, wherein the controller is configured to control the LED light source so that the pulse time period is approximately less than or equal to two hundred milliseconds (200 ms), while substantially maintaining an effective intensity and enhancing a perceived brightness of the emitted light.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2014
    Assignee: Gentex Corporation
    Inventors: Richard T. Fish, Jr., Greg R. Pattok, Scott R. Edwards, Jeremy A. Fogg, Darin D. Tuttle
  • Patent number: 8836499
    Abstract: Methods and apparatuses are disclosed that allow an electronic device to autonomously adapt one or more user alerts to the current operating environment of the electronic device. For example, some embodiments may include a method comprising providing a plurality of alert devices in an electronic device, determining an operating environment of the electronic device using a sensor of the electronic device, and actuating at least one of the plurality of alert devices that corresponds to the determined operating environment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2014
    Assignee: Apple Inc.
    Inventors: Dave Pakula, Matthew Hill, Ethan Larry Huwe, Fletcher R. Rothkopf, Richard Hung Minh Dinh
  • Publication number: 20140253328
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention are generally directed towards hazard communication and alarm systems. Specifically, embodiments of the present invention are configured to provide a hazard or disaster warning apparatus configured to work independently or in conjunction with security cameras and/or an existing hazard detection and/or communication system in order to provide one or more of an audio or visual hazard alert. Certain embodiments of the present invention provide for exit path or other path routing capabilities during emergency and/or disaster recovery operations. Further embodiments of the present invention may be integrated with one or more security components (e.g., hazard sensors, anti-theft sensors).
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 23, 2014
    Publication date: September 11, 2014
    Inventor: Jessel Craig
  • Patent number: 8830057
    Abstract: Methods and devices are disclosed for monitoring environmental conditions in one or more environments. In one embodiment, the method includes maintaining a plurality of environmental-condition thresholds, each of which corresponds to an environmental condition and is predetermined based on data corresponding to the environmental condition that is received from a plurality of robots. The method further includes receiving from a first robot first data corresponding to a first environmental condition in a first environment. The method may still further include making a first comparison of the first data and a first environmental-condition threshold corresponding to the first environmental condition and, based on the first comparison, triggering a notification. Triggering the notification may comprise transmitting to the robot instructions to transmit the notification to at least one of a call center and a remote device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2014
    Assignee: Google Inc.
    Inventors: Arshan Poursohi, Ryan Hickman
  • Patent number: 8830051
    Abstract: A method has been invented for dynamically adapting a diagnostic system, which is at least partially implemented in a controller, and which has at least one diagnostic block. In such case, the controller is, in communication via a fieldbus with at least one field device, wherein the at least one diagnostic block is embodied in such a manner, that through this, various diagnostic parameters of the at least one field device are capable of being read. Additionally, the at least one diagnostic block is implemented (or provided) in the controller and/or in the at least one field device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2014
    Assignee: Endress + Hauser Process Solutions AG
    Inventors: Robert Kolblin, Emilio Schiavi, Michael Maneval, Jorg Hahniche
  • Patent number: 8830058
    Abstract: A duet power-driven window shade comprises a controlling device to receive an external controlling signal, which is then analyzed, determined and compared with a preset value in a memory unit of the controlling device. A driving signal is output via a processing unit according to a comparing result. A power source then brings convolutions of a first covering sheet and a second covering sheet in sequence or concurrently for increasing the rolling speed and the using convenience and allowing the connecting members connected to the covering sheets to be efficiently rolled up without entanglement so that the duet power-driven window shade is smoothly operated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2014
    Assignee: Bintronic Enterprise Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Wei-Cheng Yeh
  • Patent number: 8831824
    Abstract: In one example, a network device stores a mapping of application operation modes to vehicle conditions such as a first condition of the vehicle powered but not moving and a second condition of the vehicle moving. The network device receives a wirelessly transmitted request for a particular application to utilize an interface powered by the vehicle. The network device compares an application identifier specified by the received request to the mapping. The network device then identifies a portion of the vehicle interface according to the comparison and signals control software on the vehicle to grant the particular application access to only the identified portion of the vehicle interface itself. The application can reside on the mobile device and utilize the vehicle interface as an extended interface, or the application can reside on the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2014
    Assignee: Airbiquity Inc.
    Inventors: Kamyar Moinzadeh, Leon L. Hong, Lee Zhao
  • Patent number: 8830114
    Abstract: A mobile object detecting apparatus includes first radiation detecting means; and second radiation detecting means for radiating an electromagnetic wave having the same frequency as the electromagnetic wave radiated by the first radiation detecting means such that the radiated electromagnetic wave passes near a point in the first radiation detecting means from which the electromagnetic wave is radiated, and detecting a standing wave which is generated due to reflection of the radiated electromagnetic wave at an object; wherein a distance, over which the electromagnetic wave radiated by the first radiation detecting means travels until it reaches near the first radiation detecting means, corresponds to a distance of an integral multiple of a wave length of a half cycle of the electromagnetic waves radiated by the radiation detecting means plus a wave length of a predetermined period which is smaller than the half cycle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2014
    Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Tomoyoshi Yasue, Tomoyoshi Kushida
  • Patent number: 8830056
    Abstract: Prior art solutions only implement absolute music-on-hold suppression at the conference bridge. The present disclosure moves the intelligence and control capabilities to the entity implementing music-on-hold functionality and also provides mechanisms for applying the music-on-hold treatment more intelligently. Intelligent and flexible music-on-hold control algorithms are disclosed which make conference participation more convenient and enjoyable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2014
    Assignee: Avaya Inc.
    Inventors: Gordon R. Brunson, Richard L. Robinson
  • Patent number: 8830074
    Abstract: An entertainment device is used to notify a user of a change in an audio visual entertainment system configuration in which at least one of a plurality devices is connected to the entertainment device as an audio and/or visual source and at least one of the plurality of devices is connected to the entertainment device as an audio and/or visual output destination for the entertainment device and/or to notify a user of a perceived problem in a configuration of a controlling device used to control functional operations of the audio visual entertainment system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2014
    Assignee: Universal Electronics Inc.
    Inventors: Paul D. Arling, Patrick H. Hayes
  • Patent number: 8830084
    Abstract: A device for activating a horn of a motor vehicle by a remote transmitter independent of a vehicle user includes a receiver and a control unit. The receiver is implemented to receive an activation signal from the remote transmitter. The control unit is implemented to activate the horn of the motor vehicle in response to the activation signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2014
    Assignee: Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft zur Foerderung der angewandten Forschung e.V.
    Inventor: Guido Huppertz
  • Publication number: 20140247127
    Abstract: A method for managing hazards in a construction site is presented. One aspect of the inventive subject matter includes a hazard management process that utilitizes 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.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 12, 2014
    Publication date: September 4, 2014
    Applicant: FLUOR TECHNOLGIES CORPORATION
    Inventor: Robert Prieto
  • Patent number: 8823507
    Abstract: Approaches in accordance with various embodiments attempt to provide a user with less disruptive event notifications by being aware of a user's context. Before a notification is sent to multiple computing devices associated with the notifying account, contextual information for each device is determined. The contextual information can be determined by querying each device for information. The information can include how close each device is relative to other devices associated with the same user, if at least one of the devices is moving, whether the user's attention is focused on a particular device, whether the user is engaging multiple devices simultaneously, and the like. Once contextual information associated with each device is determined, an appropriate type of alert associated with the notification is determined for each device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2014
    Assignee: Amazon Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael P. Touloumtzis
  • Patent number: 8823521
    Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for a low stock product display alert system. A system includes a pushing element configured to push one or more products toward a front of a shelf as a unit of the product is removed from the shelf. The system also includes an RFID component, where the RFID component is configured to be in a dormant state when the pushing element is in a first position. The system further includes an activation element configured to activate the RFID component when the pushing element is in a second position, where when activated, the RFID component is configured to emit a signal indicating that the product display is out of product.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2014
    Assignee: OSA Acquisition, LLC
    Inventors: Gary L. Overhultz, John W. Pyne, Gordon E. Hardman
  • Patent number: 8823520
    Abstract: In one embodiment, a data acquisition device comprises a plurality of sensors to detect an environmental condition, a configurable processor coupled to the plurality of sensors, wherein the configurable processor is configured to receive one or more signals from the plurality of sensors and process the one or more signals to generate environmental data representative of the environmental condition, and a first input/output module to transmit the data to a remote device. Other embodiments may be disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2014
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Sidney Ly, Ali Salour, Jai J. Choi, Bruce S. Howard, Laurance N. Hazlehurst
  • Patent number: 8823509
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to an infrastructure monitoring system and method that comprises multiple communications devices. An exemplary infrastructure monitoring system includes: an operations center; and a plurality of communications devices communicatively coupled to the operations center; wherein, at least one communications device of said plurality of communications devices is coupled to a component of the infrastructure; and wherein at least two communications devices are monitoring devices, the first monitoring device monitoring a first aspect of the infrastructure and the second monitoring device monitoring a second aspect of the infrastructure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2014
    Assignee: Mueller International, LLC
    Inventors: Gregory E. Hyland, Robert Paul Keefe, Marietta Edmunds Zakas, Clayton Robert Barker
  • Patent number: 8823523
    Abstract: A refrigerator is provided. The refrigerator includes a voice recognition unit for recognizing a voice of a name of food, a memory for storing location information of the food received in a storage chamber, a controller for determining the voice recognized by the voice recognition unit and searching a storage location of the food voice-recognized in accordance with the recognized voice, and a voice output unit for outputting a voice message on the storage location information of the food searched by the controller.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2014
    Assignee: LG Electronics Inc.
    Inventors: Sung-Ae Lee, Min-Kyeong Kim