Abstract: An electronic apparatus includes a structure and an optical navigation circuit. A first end of the structure is located inside the electronic apparatus and its second end corresponds to a user's control. The structure can be moved forward/backward in a specific direction and/or rotated in another direction. The optical navigation circuit captures reflection of a light emitting to the structure to detect displacement of the image along a specific axis of the structure, and determines the user's operating behavior as a specific operation according to a change of the sensed displacement of the image.

Abstract: An electronic apparatus includes a structure and an optical navigation circuit. A first end of the structure is located inside the electronic apparatus and its second end corresponds to a user's control. The structure can be moved forward/backward in a specific direction and/or rotated in another direction. The optical navigation circuit emits light to the structure, captures reflected light from the structure to sense/receive an image from the surface of the structure, detects displacement of the image along a specific axis of the structure, and determines the user's operating behavior as a specific operation according to a change of the sensed displacement of the image.

Abstract: A programmable security system and method for protecting an item of merchandise includes a programming station, a programmable key and a security system. The programming station generates a security code and communicates the security code to a memory of the programmable key. The programmable key initially communicates the security code to a memory of the security device and subsequently operates the security device upon a matching of the security code in the memory of the security device with the security code in the memory of the programmable key. The programmable key may also transfer power via electrical contacts or inductive transfer from an internal battery to the security device to operate a lock mechanism. The security code may be communicated by wireless infrared (IR) systems, electrical contacts or inductive transfer. A timer inactivates the programmable key and/or the security device after a predetermine period of time.

Abstract: A programmable security system and method for protecting an item of merchandise includes a programming station, a programmable key and a security system. The programming station generates a security code and communicates the security code to a memory of the programmable key. The programmable key initially communicates the security code to a memory of the security device and subsequently operates the security device upon a matching of the security code in the memory of the security device with the security code in the memory of the programmable key. The programmable key may also transfer power via electrical contacts or inductive transfer from an internal battery to the security device to operate a lock mechanism. The security code may be communicated by wireless infrared (IR) systems, electrical contacts or inductive transfer. A timer inactivates the programmable key and/or the security device after a predetermine period of time.

Abstract: A programmable security system and method for protecting an item of merchandise includes a programming station, a programmable key and a security system. The programming station generates a security code and communicates the security code to a memory of the programmable key. The programmable key initially communicates the security code to a memory of the security device and subsequently operates the security device upon a matching of the security code in the memory of the security device with the security code in the memory of the programmable key. The programmable key may also transfer power via electrical contacts or inductive transfer from an internal battery to the security device to operate a lock mechanism. The security code may be communicated by wireless infrared (IR) systems, electrical contacts or inductive transfer. A timer inactivates the programmable key and/or the security device after a predetermine period of time.

Abstract: The invention relates to a burglar alarm arrangement, which can be installed in a mechanical lock, which mechanical lock comprises at least a lock cylinder (204), a lock frame (208) and a turn knob (214). A burglar alarm arrangement according to the present invention can be installed in a mechanical lock without a need to change keys, rekeying the lock or without adding code systems. Additionally, the burglar alarm arrangement can identify an authorized opening of the door by use of the key or the turn knob, and deactivate the alarm system for that time. The burglar alarm arrangement comprises an alarm system and first means (206) and second means (212), which first and second means (206 and 212) are functionally connected to the alarm system.

Abstract: The invention refers to automatic parking station for cycles or bicycles, comprising at least one interactive workstation (2) and a plurality of parking posts (3). Each parking post includes a first lock portion (4) aimed at securing a cycle or bicycle thereto through a removable second lock portion (7) of the cycle or bicycle (6). The parking posts (3) are connected to the interactive workstation (2) through a local communication network (5) to allow exchange of commands between the interactive workstation (2) and the parking posts (3). Each parking post (3) comprises code reading means for reading a cycle/bicycle code univocally identifying a cycle or bicycle and stored in a memory medium, so that the cycle/bicycle can be identified by the interactive workstation (2).

Abstract: A tamper indicating padlock assembly for providing remote indication of tampering with the lock mechanism of the padlock includes a padlock having a padlock housing, an arm extending from the padlock housing, and a locking mechanism selectively engaging the arm. A sensor is positioned in the padlock housing for sensing movement of the arm within the padlock housing. The sensor is operationally coupled to a processor. A transmitter is operationally coupled to the processor for transmitting a tamper signal upon the sensor detecting movement of the arm relative to the housing. A key is provided to release the arm from the locking mechanism. A remote alarm assembly has a remote receiver for receiving the tamper signal. The remote alarm assembly includes a remote tamper indicator operationally coupled to the remote receiver for providing an indication of tampering to a user when the remote receiver receives the tamper signal.

Abstract: The present invention provides system, method and apparatus for energizing one or more brake lights on a vehicle without an operator of the vehicle applying a brake of the vehicle by determining an acceleration of the vehicle, energizing the brake lights on the vehicle whenever the acceleration of the vehicle equals or exceeds a braking threshold, and deenergizing the brake lights on the vehicle whenever: (a) the brake lights are energized, (b) the acceleration of the vehicle is less than the braking threshold, (c) a specified period of time has elapsed since the brake lights were energized, and (d) the operator is not applying the brake of the vehicle.

Abstract: The disclosure relates to a system and method for unlocking and unlocking access to a device. The system comprises: a graphical user interface (GUI) module providing instructions to a microprocessor operating on the electronic device and an access management module providing instructions to the microprocessor. The GUI module provides instructions to generate on a display of the electronic device an interface for entry and modification of a tap pattern used to change an access state of the electronic device; and process inputs from an input device through the interface that select described levels of movement and described locations for expected tap signals for the tap pattern. The access management module provides instructions to receive signals from a monitoring circuit in the electronic device that processes a tap signal received from an accelerometer in the electronic device; and determine whether the tap signal completes a match for the tap pattern.

Abstract: A medication dispenser provides automation to the steps of locating and acquiring medications to be administered to a patient. The medication dispenser includes an enclosure providing a secure environment for storing medications in multiple sized medication storage bins. The medication storage bins are hung in storage racks located within the enclosure. A robot system is also provided within the enclosure for moving bins between the storage racks and a medication dispensing area. The medication dispensing area includes doors configured to open to define an opening for passing a selected bin through the enclosure. The medication storage bin includes a bulk bin loading drawing for loading medication storage bins into the medication dispensing apparatus.

Abstract: A medication dispenser provides automation to the steps of locating and acquiring medications to be administered to a patient. The medication dispenser includes an enclosure providing a secure environment for storing medications in multiple sized medication-storage bins. The medication storage bins are hung in storage racks located within the enclosure. A robot system is also provided within the enclosure for moving bins between the storage racks and a medication dispensing area. The medication dispensing area includes doors configured to open to define an opening for passing a selected bin through the enclosure. In some embodiments, the doors provide a variable-sized opening and, in some instances, the opening matches the size of a bin containing medications selected for dispensing.

Abstract: A bicycle rental system and automated station that may be integrated with an automobile parking payment and management system. Users may pay for parking and/or rent and pickup bicycles at the station. The station has a meter, bicycle docks, and power plant. Transaction formalities for parking payment and rental may be handled at the meter. The bicycle docks each are adapted to secure a bicycle. The power plant uses a solar panel to collect power and stores it in energy storage device. Low-power operation may be achieved by placing some electronics in a low-power mode. Each bicycle dock may have a trigger mechanism that when activated powers on associated electronics. The bicycle docks may be divided among a number of bicycle modules. The bicycle modules provide flexibility and modularity so that the number of bicycle docks at a station may be changed.

Abstract: Method for automatically ascertaining the number of people and/or objects present in a gate (10; 50; 70) which has the following steps: detection of weight data for people and/or objects moving in the gate (10; 50; 70) by means of a plurality of weight sensors (18, 20, 22, 24) integrated in the floor of the gate (10; 50; 70) and evaluation of the detected weight data in order to ascertain the number of people/objects from their maximum values and from their dynamics and/or the number of detected centers of gravity and/or the position of the weight sensors (18, 20, 22, 24) which have detected the weight data, and/or the order in which the weight sensors (18, 20, 22, 24) have detected the weight data.

Abstract: A reusable electronic seal for a trailer includes a structural enclosure configured to attach onto a shackle of a padlock with an electronic module integrated within the to enclosure. A rechargeable battery circuit with a photovoltaic cell is in communication with a battery permitting the battery to be charged by the photovoltaic cell when the voltage is low. The electronic module incorporates a microprocessor, a random number generator and a liquid crystal display which communicates with the random number generator. A shackle engagement switch is configured to engage the padlock shackle, applying a signal to the microprocessor when the padlock has been opened. When the padlock is re-latched the shackle engagement switch triggers the microprocessor to signal the random number generator to transmit a new number to the liquid crystal display.

Abstract: An electronic device for packet boxes includes a processor programmed to assign users to groups of users and a control system capable of managing the possibilities of access to functions of the device on the basis of the user's membership to the user groups.

Abstract: An electronic lock module consisting of a series of electronic buttons used for entering a lock combination; LEDs for monitoring the status; a piezo-buzzer to provide audio feedback; a microcontroller circuit to process the input; a locking mechanism in the form of a combination cam and latching solenoid to actuate the mechanical interface which actually unlocks the lock; other components such as battery power and miscellaneous hardware round up the main parts. By pressing the buttons in a certain sequence, a code is sent to the microcontroller circuit which interprets it as valid or not in order to trigger or not the unlocking process. The mechanical interface is designed to be compatible with the ILCO mechanical locks so as to replace their current mechanical locking means. Of course, this present invention can be combined with newly created mechanical components so that this present invention can be used both as a retrofit or as a complete standalone lock.

Abstract: A door lock includes a body, a locking device installed in part of the body to lock and unlock an entrance door and having a first handle provided at an inner side of the entrance door, a lock assembly engaged with the first handle when a normal key is inserted, and a locking member actuated by rotation of the first handle, a first sensing device which becomes an ON state as the locking member protrudes outside the locking device and an OFF state as the protruded locking member retreats, a speaker generating alarm when the first sensing device senses an intruder, and a power portion supplying electric power to the first sensing device and the speaker, wherein holes, through which the first handle and part of the first sensing device are exposed, are formed at an outer surface of the body, a cover is provided at a portion corresponding to the power portion, and the speaker is installed on the body so that sound is emitted out of the body.

Abstract: A control apparatus controls a drive of a motor having a movable part via an electric power converter. The control apparatus includes a detecting device for detecting a position of the movable part of the motor; a locking device for locking the movable part of the motor; and a storage device for storing an initial position at which the movable part of the motor is locked for the first time. It is determined that the movable part is locked at an abnormal position when a deviation between the position detected by the detecting device where the movable part of the motor is locked and the initial position stored in the storage means is larger than a predetermined reference distance.

Abstract: A device (10) for receiving date transmitted as impulses through an input transmission body (16) is provided. The device (10) has a vibration sensitive transducer (50) which constitutes part of a floating mass assembly (40) with a pick-up portion (42). The pick-up portion (42) is biased towards a surface of a rigid body that is either the input transmission body (16) or a vibrations transmissive member (151). The assembly (40) has a freedom of movement permitting it to vibrate independently from the rigid body.

Abstract: A motor vehicle door lock system with at least one vehicle lock, an outside door handle assigned to the vehicle lock, and at least one sensor assigned to the outside door handle, where the system is adapted to detect the approach of the hand of an operator to the outside door handle and/or touching and/or activating of the outside door handle. In one embodiment of motor vehicle door lock system, the activation of the outside handle by the hand of an operator or the approach to the outside door handle is recognized early. A vibration generator is assigned to the outside door handle such that the outside door handle or a part thereof is mechanically vibrated. A sensor is provided for acquiring the vibration, the sound waves caused by the vibration and/or their reflections so that the motor vehicle door lock system can detect when the outside door handle or a part thereof is being approached and/or touched and/or activated by the hand of an operator.

Abstract: To provide a vibration-damping positioning controller capable of effecting stable positioning operation within a short period of time.

Abstract: A request for an access code for a locking mechanism is received; and a non-permanent use access code for the locking mechanism is subsequently issued. The non-permanent use access code may be issued from a list of currently available access codes for the locking mechanism in response to a request therefor, for example by a merchant or delivery service. Such a code may be issued by a server, which server is further responsible for updating the list of available access codes in response to an indication that a code has been used or has otherwise expired. Such a code may also be issued by a locking mechanism controller The list of currently available access codes is preferably a subset of all access codes for the locking mechanism, which codes may be generated using a cryptographically strong random number generator.

Abstract: A request for an access code for a locking mechanism is received; and a one-time use access code for the locking mechanism is subsequently issued. The one-time use access code may be issued from a list of currently available access codes for the locking mechanism in response to a request therefor, for example by a merchant or delivery service. Such a code may be issued by a server, which server is further responsible for updating the list of available access codes in response to an indication that a code has been used or has otherwise expired. The list of currently available access codes is preferably a subset of all access codes for the locking mechanism, which codes may be generated using a cryptographically strong random number generator.

Abstract: A knocking activated device and method for operating an electromechanical device responsive to a control signal. The knocking activated device has a vibration transducer for generating a signal in response to knockings on a solid object. It also has a storing system for storing data representative of a predetermined sequence of knocks. The device further comprises a user operable interface for changing the data stored in the storing system. The device also has a comparing system for comparing the signal generated by the vibration transducer with the data stored in the storing system to produce the control signal when the signal generated by the vibration transducer matches the predetermined sequence of knocks.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a system and method of a single provider supplying goods and services to a group of households. These goods and services are supplied to each of the customers at a periodic basis over a period of time. A list of available goods and services is generated and distributed to a plurality of households within a geographic area and orders are received from the households. The goods are acquired from a plurality of different suppliers are periodically delivered to each of the households. While at the household, the provider may also perform the services indicated by the customer. This system and method provides for a single provider to get to know each of the customers and provide them with quality goods and services at a low cost and timely manner.

Abstract: A storage device (10, 100) configured to be mounted to or near a house or other building for storing delivered goods. The storage device is shiftable between an expanded position wherein the device occupies a relatively large amount of space when in use and a collapsed position wherein the storage device occupies a relatively small amount of space when not in use.

Abstract: A data transmission system (1) suitable for use with an impact transmissive body (4) and including a data transmitting device (6) having a reciprocable impact impeller head (3) for transmitting an encoded series of discrete mechanical impacts to a first surface of the impact transmissive body and a data receiving device (5) having an impact sensitive transducer (2) at a second surface of the impact transmissive body substantially opposite to its first surface for picking up vibrations resultant of the series of impacts.

Abstract: An intrusion detection system includes a remote controller activated by a user transmitting a particular RF carrier signal to a self-contained monitor. The self-contained monitor is energized by a primary power source and comprises an RF receiver circuit for receiving the particular RF carrier signal, a tuning code circuit for inputting a tuning code, a nonvolatile memory circuit for storing the tuning code which makes the RF receiver circuit responsive to the particular RF carrier signal, a volatile memory circuit having an armed state and a disarmed state, a motion detector for detecting an intruder in the predetermined space, a timing circuit for measuring a preset period of time and a responder. The user switches the volatile memory circuit from the disarmed state to the armed state by activating the remote controller.

Abstract: A warning device for door lock of car. The door lock has a driving motor to drive a driven shaft to lock the door of the car, and a locking shaft passing through a through hole on the driven shaft. The warning device for door lock of car is characterized in that the through hole is lengthened to form a triggering space and a sensor is provided within the triggering space. When the puller is pulled by external force, the sensor arranged within the triggering space generates a signal to a controlling IC and the controlling IC triggers a driving circuit. The driving circuit drives a loud speaker to alarm the car owner.

Abstract: Unattended package delivery cross-docking apparatus includes a plurality of storage devices, each having a door with a lock that is locked and unlocked in response to codes. A local lock controller is associated with each of the storage devices and includes an entry device for entering an access code that unlocks the lock when it is locked and a transaction code that locks the lock when it is unlocked. A central operations controller in communication with the local lock controllers is programmed to receive the access and transaction codes entered to each local lock controller, to create an access code for the lock of each storage device upon receiving a transaction code that locks the lock, and to output a notice of the access code to be used to unlock the lock of each storage device when it is locked.

Abstract: A request for an access code for a locking mechanism is received; and a one-time use access code for the locking mechanism is subsequently issued. The one-time use access code may be issued from a list of currently available access codes for the locking mechanism in response to a request therefor, for example by a merchant or delivery service. Such a code may be issued by a server, which server is further responsible for updating the list of available access codes in response to an indication that a code has been used or has otherwise expired. The list of currently available access codes is preferably a subset of all access codes for the locking mechanism, which codes may be generated using a cryptographically strong random number generator.

Abstract: An intrusion detection system used to surveil a predetermined space includes a self-contained monitor responsive to an authorized remote controller transmitting a particular radio-frequency (RF) carrier signal under the control a user. The self-contained monitor comprises a primary power source electrically coupled to a nonvolatile memory circuit, a receiver circuit and a motion detector positioned to surveil a predetermined space for an intruder. A plurality of switches accessible to the user is included in the self-contained monitor for setting a binary code thereon which represents the particular RF carrier signal. Also included in the self-contained monitor and accessible to the user is a code transfer circuit for transferring the last code set on the code setting switch into the nonvolatile memory circuit making the self-contained monitor responsive to the particular RF carrier signal.

Abstract: An intelligent safe system. The safe system includes a safe including a housing and lockable door thereto, a central processing unit for controlling access to the safe by operating the lockable door, a card reader for reading access codes from an access card to control the lockable door, a sensor for detecting security violations, a modem for transmitting alarm signals from the CPU to indicate a security violation and for receiving external control data to lock or open the lockable door, and an audio alarm device for indicating security violations. The central processing unit may further includes a memory for storing the card numbers. A sensor may be coupled to the housing for detecting the locking an opening of the lockable door. A display may also be coupled to the housing for displaying acceptance of access codes. Further, the safe system also includes a sensor.

Abstract: An alarm device for a lock which provides a security system which displays unauthorized tampering with the lock. The device senses unauthorized movement of one or several elements in the lock and causes an alarm signal which may only be terminated by resetting the device by authorized operation of the lock.

Abstract: A lock cylinder of standard size and configuration, interchangeable with conventional mechanical cylinders, includes electronic access control features as additional security or in some embodiments as the sole security feature. A microcontroller, memory, solenoid, battery, one wire bus connection and other electric and electronic elements are self contained within the cylinder, being positioned in the cylinder shell or the cylinder plug. The microprocessor can be programmed as to authorized users, entry times, etc. using a special programming key, which itself is programmed with a computer. User keys have a memory cell or ID chip which is read by the cylinder's microcontroller on insertion of the key; however, a system of locks can include locks which are mechanical/electronic, solely electronic and solely mechanical, and keys can also be electronic, mechanical or both.

Abstract: An access control unit for an electrified door lock also toggles the state of an associated alarm. The unit is arranged to unlock the door only temporarily, but the alarm state is not toggled except by user request. The system is arranged to prevent the anomalous situation of an unlocked door and an armed alarm. Another aspect is the use of standardized key-receiving nests in disparate types of access control devices. Some disparate devices employ identical key-receiving nests, while others use different forms of nests. Yet all mate with and respond to a single type of key.

Abstract: A SIM contact position tester (100) for verifying the position of SIM card contacts (c1-c8). A printed wiring board (102) is provided with traces (A-D) which correspond to the contacts (c1-c8) of the SIM card reader connector (101) and are configured to mate with the contacts of the SIM card reader connector (101) mounted within the radio telephone. A plurality of light emitting diodes (LED) (106) are coupled to the traces (A-D). The light emitting diodes (106) are configured to provide an indication of the position of the contacts (c1-c8) when the PWB (102) is positioned within the radio telephone. In one embodiment, the LEDs (106) sequentially light up as the printed wiring board (106) is moved into position over the contacts (c1-c8) of the SIM card reader connector (101).

Abstract: A locking system for a security container includes a frame in cabinet form, a jamb formed on the frame, a movable locker plate which determines opening and closing of a door by overlapping with the jamb and which is formed on the door, a combination lock determining the movement of the locker plate, and a double relocking system including a first relocking system operated when a dial portion of the combination lock is attacked, and a second relocking system operated when a cam bolt portion of said combination lock is attacked.

Abstract: An electronic door security system employs an input console having two readers for enhanced security. A microprocessor processes inputs applied at each of the readers to selectively permit access through a secured door. Application of an input to either reader transforms the controller to a power-up mode.

Abstract: An unattended, automated bicycle rental system utilizes a bicycle rental station having a locking bicycle rack and a control tower. The bicycle rack has an inventory of rental bicycles of non standard size as inventory and the bicycles are locked in place on the rack in distinct bicycle-receiving bays. The control tower incudes a credit card reader that unlocks a specific bicycle from its bay upon insertion of a bank or credit card and begins timing the period of time in which the bicycle is away from the rental station. When the bicycle is returned, it is placed into the bay and in contact with the rack so that an identification sensor can determine if it is a system bicycle and lock it in place in the rack and bill the credit card for the rental charge.

Abstract: An electronic security system for controlling access to a plurality of storage locations. The system includes an electronic lock associated with each storage location, a central control terminal for controlling operation of the security system, a programming terminal to program a plurality of keys, and an identification terminal for identifying authorized users of the security system.

Abstract: A switching system for automatically transferring a call is provided. A detecting unit (80) is used to detect an event. First and second outputs (10, 20) are provided for receiving an incoming call. A switch (12) automatically switches from the first output (10) to the second output (20) when the event occurs. Thus, the incoming call is received by the first output (10) before the event occurs, and by the second output (20) after the event occurs. In another embodiment of the invention, a switching system for automatic user access is provided. In this embodiment, a detecting unit (80) is again used to detect an event. An output device (106, 107) is also provided. Both the detecting unit and the output device (106, 107) are coupled to a processor (100). Access to the output device (106, 107) is automatically granted by the processor (100) after the event occurs.

Abstract: A garage door opener system includes providing temporary access permission for some user or users while maintaining near permanent access permission for other users. The temporary access permission may be controlled by number of uses or a predetermined amount of time.

Abstract: A battery powered electro-mechanical lock and method of actuating it under normal battery voltage level condition an access variation arrangement enables the lock to be opened upon the single entry of a correct access code and under low battery voltage levels conditions another access variation arrangements, which prevents the lock from being opened unless the user enters the correct access code N number of times, where N is between 2 and 24.

Abstract: A multi-purpose locking device including a key made of a material, which is not a metal, but a synthetic resin, thereby enabling the key to be easily carried by the user. The key also has a configuration capable of selecting a key number from numerous possible key numbers, thereby preventing even skilled lock-picking persons from opening the locking device unless the key is used. The key includes a plurality of fine apertures and block members fitted in selected ones of the apertures and adapted to close those apertures. Light receiving positions are set by the apertures not closed by the block members whereas light shielding positions are set by the apertures closed by the block members. A locked state of the locking device is unlocked only when light is received at the light receiving positions while being shielded at the light shielding positions.

Abstract: With confidential information being composed of authenticating signs which belong to a first series, a second series of signs or designating symbols is defined, the first and second series of signs are displayed in a relatively random position, and this placement in correspondence is used to enter the confidential information in such a way that a third party who observes the entry operations cannot determine the confidential information. The invention also relates to the terminal associated with this process.

Abstract: An electronic combination lock includes a combination lock having a dial with no markings thereon. Rotation of the dial drives a generator which produces electrical pulses. The voltage pulses serves as a power source for the electronics of the lock. The lock also includes a security feature to disable the lock if the combination dial is stopped between dial rotations for a period of time which indicates dialing by an automatic dialer.

Abstract: A storage device (10) that secures goods from theft and exposure to the elements and that provides a notification that goods have been delivered and/or picked up is disclosed. The storage device (10) includes an enclosure (14) for enclosing the goods and a communication apparatus (16) for providing notification that goods have been delivered or picked up.

Abstract: An insert device provides a conductive path between various pins of a host computer's communication port in order to provide a computer program with the capability of determining the presence of the insert device for software copy protection purposes. The insert device is of a shape, size, and character such that a normal mating engagement between a mated connector pair is unaffected.