Abstract: Receiving a first signal or a first message and taking the receipt of the first signal or of the first message as a basis for producing a second signal or a second message for a driver of a vehicle.

Abstract: There is disclosed methods and systems for managing drop boxes. Events reflecting outputs from one or more sensors are detected. Information that is a function of the detected event is forwarded to a drop box management system. This information, along with additional information received by the drop box management system, is utilized to generate instructions including display instructions for each drop box. Displays of drop boxes are then updated based on the instructions.

Abstract: Described are systems and methods for autonomously operating network devices by revising the operational status of the network devices in response to conditions or physical quantities sensed by one or more sensors.

Abstract: Systems and methods of security are provided, including at least one of a plurality of sensors to detect a location of at least one user, and generate detection data according to the detected location of the at least one user. A processor may be communicatively coupled to the at least one of the plurality of sensors to receive the detection data and to determine whether the at least one user is occupying a building according to the detection data. An alarm device, communicatively coupled to the processor, can be armed or disarmed by the processor according to the determination as to whether the at least one user is occupying the building.

Abstract: A method and apparatus is described for providing energy system status information. A status indication device may be mounted near an entry door for determining when an individual is about to leave an area. When the status indication device determines that an individual is about to leave an area, it displays an energy status to the individual, so that the individual can decide whether to place energy-consuming devices in a conservation mode of operation.

Abstract: Embodiments are directed to methods and apparatuses for remotely managing electrical devices. In one scenario, a computer system performs a method for remotely managing electrical devices. The method includes determining that an electrical device has been left turned on for a threshold minimum period of time. The method next includes determining that a first device management criteria has been met indicating that the electrical device is no longer being actively managed. The method then includes notifying a user that the electrical device is still turned on, receiving an indication that the electrical device is to be turned off, and turning the electrical device off. Other scenarios include an electronic device that allows remote management of electrical devices.

Abstract: A system includes a plurality of sensing devices disposed at a premises, the sensing devices being configured to generate data based on activity detected at one or more openings in the premises and to transmit the data, a plurality of speakers dispersed at the premises, a memory configured to store output profiles corresponding to a plurality of respective events and to store a plurality of respective sounds, and a processor configured to identify an event based on the transmitted data and to execute a stored output profile assigned to the event, the execution including automatically playing a stored sound through one or more of the speakers in accordance with the selected output profile.

Abstract: Security and/or automation systems, collectively referred to as automation systems, may allow a parent to leave their child at home and feel comfortable. The automation system may receive a notification that the parents are leaving. The parents may set a child alone state or a babysitter state. The system may use settings determined by the parents to track child parameters. Restricted areas may include a parents liquor cabinet, a parents bedroom, an office, and the like. The automation system may additionally track the comings and goings of a child to determine if the child is out past a curfew, when the child left, when the child arrived at home, and the like. Additionally, the parent away state may implement a lock down on any firearms or other potential hazards in a home.

Abstract: A control system for providing Cloud based commands to a garage door includes one or more Cloud servers for receiving commands from at least one mobile web enabled user device. A load balancer is used for receiving communication from a server for distributing commands from at least one web enabled device to the Cloud. A server based garage door opener is used for receiving commands and controlling operation of a garage door from the server. The status of the garage door is determined by measuring a distance of the garage door to the garage floor using a distance measuring device such that distance measuring information is communicated to the server for determining the open or closed status of the garage door before movement.

Abstract: Methods and systems are described for determining operation of an openable barrier into a building. A method for determining an open state of a barrier includes confirming a first position for the barrier, the barrier having at least one hinge and a hinge sensor mounted to the at least one hinge, determining with the hinge sensor when the barrier changes position from the first position to a second position, and wirelessly transmitting data concerning the change in barrier position.

Abstract: Systems and techniques are provided for sensor bypass. Activation may be received at a bypass input of an entry point sensor of a security system while the entry point sensor is in an armed mode. The entry point sensor may detect that the entry point monitored by the entry point sensor is closed. The entry point sensor may enter into a bypass mode. Detection by the entry point sensor of an opening of the entry point while the entry point sensor is in the bypass mode may not result in the generation of an alarm by the security system.

Abstract: Systems and techniques are presented for displaying information customized for a ticket of a fare gate. Ticket information for the ticket is received via a ticket validation device. A customized image for the ticket is determined based on the ticket information. Further, a first position of an object is detected within an area of the floor. Based on the first position of the object, a second position within the area for displaying the customized image is determined. The second position is proximate to the first position. A display image is determined for the area and the display image includes the customized image at the second position. The display image is displayed within the area on the floor.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for monitoring the security of an area, a corresponding security monitor device and a wireless access device. The method comprises steps of: determining whether there is at least one first mobile device accessing a wireless access device that serves said area; starting to monitor a breach of security conditions, if there is no at least one first mobile device accessing the wireless access device; and, generating an alarm signal and sending said signal to one of said at least one first mobile device, if the breach of security conditions is detected. With this method, it does not need the host to turn on the security monitoring device every time he leaves home and effectively eliminates the possibility of forgetting to turn on the security monitoring procedure by the user, making the security device more reliable and convenient.

Abstract: Techniques can relate to a multi-purpose a detector surface on a network device. A stimulus variable can be identified at a detector device based on an environmental stimulus detected by a sensor. The detector device can include the sensor. The detector device can transmit an initial communication to a device. The first communication can include the stimulus variable. A new communication that includes data corresponding to another device can be received at the detector device. The detector device can determine, based on the stimulus detected by the sensor and is further based on the new communication, that a visual stimulus is to be presented. The visual stimulus can be presented.

Abstract: Aspects of the present disclosure are directed to security-based apparatuses and methods. As may be implemented in accordance with one or more embodiments, an apparatus includes a presence sensor that senses the presence of an individual, and an image sensor that captures an image of the individual in response to the sensed presence, and that provides the captured image as image data. A user authorization circuit identifies the individual as being authorized or unauthorized based upon the provided image data and stored image data for authorized individuals. An electromechanical device operates with the user authorization circuit to deploy one or more deterrents in the vicinity of the individual, in response to the user authorization circuit identifying the individual as being unauthorized.

Abstract: Methods, systems, and apparatus, including computer programs encoded on computer storage media, for event notification. One of the methods includes receiving an event from a security system; determining at least one contact to notify of the alert from a collection of contacts, the determining including applying one or more event notification rules, wherein the one or more event notification rules include one or more event notification rules specified by a user of the security system and wherein a number and identity of the at least one contact varies depending on the applicable rules of the one or more event notification rules; transmitting an event notification to the one or more determined contacts; and performing a security action based on feedback from one or more of the determined contacts.

Abstract: A wireless control method includes steps as follows. A connection with an authentication device is built through a directional antenna of a wireless host device. Information, which is received by the wireless host device from the authentication device, is transmitted to a switch control device through a data transmission interface. The switch control device is utilized to control a switch according to the information, which is received by the wireless host device from the authentication device. The present invention also discloses a wireless host device and a switch control device.

Abstract: A door lock controller receives sensor data from a sensor, such as a motion sensor or an RF envelope sensor, and determines whether to permit operation of a keypad associated with the door lock based at least in part on the sensor data. The door lock controller further sends messages including key pad data to a local receiver, receives messages containing door lock commands from the local receiver, and controls a state of the door lock based at least in part on the door lock commands.

Abstract: An electronic door lock system automatically controls locking and unlocking of a door. A door lock controller interfaces with an electronic door lock, sends messages including door lock data to a local receiver, and receives messages including door lock commands from the local receiver. In turn, the local receiver interfaces with a hub device through a mesh network. The hub receives the door lock data, applies a rule set to make lock operation decisions, and sends messages, which may comprise commands to operate the door lock, through the mesh network to the local receiver. The local receiver decodes the messages and passes the commands to the door lock controller to automatically control the electronic door lock.

Abstract: A marking and identification system and method includes a dispersing device configured to disperse marker therefrom when in an activated mode. An activating device is configured to arm the dispersing device from an inactivated mode wherein the dispensing device does not disperse marker to the activated mode. A triggering device is configured to operate the dispersing device and disperse marker when in the activated mode. The marker can be identified at a later time to positively identify a person that triggered the marking and identification system.

Abstract: A security sensor includes a wall mount having features for fixing the wall mount to a wall to monitor an area for security. A cover is adapted to attach to the wall mount. The cover includes a base to couple to the wall mount, connectors to couple to a power source, a circuit board supported proximate the base and coupled to the connectors, the circuit board having a transmitter to receive signals from a sensor and wirelessly transmit the signals, and an antenna coupled to the circuit board and spaced from the wall to reduce electromagnetic interference from the wall.

Abstract: A system for remote control of lights and small appliances utilizing miniature remote control units, and a method for easily and simply setting which remote controls control which item(s). Unlike conventional remote controls which are moved from place to place, these miniature remote controls are so small they may be removably mounted at each location needed, unobtrusively or even hidden. Receivers for the remote signal are described manufactured within a lamp socket assembly, a very short light bulb socket adapter, the light bulb itself, a wallswitch dimmer and an outlet adapter. One remote control can control multiple receivers, or vice versa, or any other combination, without conflict and with the combination set up or changed more intuitively than in completing systems. Appliances may be turned on or off and lights may be dimmed precisely or set flashing in unison to summon help.

Abstract: An electronic device that identifies an environmental condition associated with a portal (such as a door or a window) is described. In particular, a sensor mechanism in the electronic device measures environmental signals associated with the portal, such as vibrations and/or acoustic waves. Then, an integrated circuit in the electronic device analyzes the measured environmental signals to identify the environmental condition. To facilitate the measurements, the electronic device may be mechanically coupled to the portal by an impedance-matching material, so that the vibrations and/or the acoustic waves are coupled to the electronic device. Moreover, the analysis may also be based on measured environmental signals received from one or more additional electronic devices that are mechanically coupled to the portal and/or may involve correcting the measured environmental signals for a mechanical transfer function associated with the portal based on a position of the electronic device on the portal.

Abstract: A security method and apparatus is disclosed. In one embodiment, a security method comprises storing one or more data points representing an alarm condition in a memory, generating an electronic signal from a motion sensor in response to movement of the door or window, comparing the electronic signal to the data points, and detecting an alarm condition of the door or window if the electronic signal substantially matches the data points.

Abstract: A system and method for detecting a security breach of an electronic device are provided. The system includes a sensor assembly having at least one IR LED which outputs IR light, and an IR sensor which detects the IR light output by the IR LED and outputs corresponding IR detection signals. The system further includes a processor which generates an IR profile of an interior of the enclosure with reference to the IR detection signals output by the IR sensor. The processor determines that there has been a security breach of the enclosure at least in response to detecting IR activity in the enclosure from the IR detection signals that does not correspond to the IR profile. Output signals from a various other sensors may be used to confirm whether the security breach has occurred.

Abstract: A presence detection device (10) for detecting the presence of an object (24) in a determined detection area, comprising at least one RFID tag (12A, 12B) that emits an identification signal at a determined RFID frequency; an RFID interrogator (16) receptive of the identification signal via at least one antenna (18); and an insulating plate (20) electromagnetically shielding the antenna from a direct emission of the identification signal, wherein the presence of the object in a determined detection area results from the reception by the RFID interrogator after being reflected by the object of the identification signal emitted by the corresponding RFID tag.

Abstract: A system for remotely detecting a power state of an associated device comprising: an optical sensor configured to detect a light emitted from the associated device, wherein the light is indicative of the power state of the associated device; or electrical field (EF) sensor to detect the electrical field around power cord of associated device, wherein the electrical field is indicative of the power state of the associated device; a transmitter in communication with the optical or EF sensor; the transmitter configured to transmit a notification responsive to the optical sensor detecting the light or to the EF sensor detecting the electrical field; a receiver configured to receive the notification; and an alarm in communication with the receiver, the alarm configured to generate a warning responsive to the receiver receiving the notification.

Abstract: An at least partially secure communication environment is provided in which accessory devices can be communicated with and controlled in the context of a movable barrier operator system. In one example approach, a gateway device can be configured to coordinate and control such communications in a secure manner. Three example approaches to such a communication environment include: a gateway device's receiving an accessory device control signal and sending a rolling code based accessory command signal to a target accessory device; receiving a rolling code based accessory device control signal and sending a command signal to an accessory device; and receiving a rolling code based accessory device control signal and sending a rolling code based accessory command signal to a target accessory device. Combinations are possible. An integrated system provides for automatic functioning of one device in response to status changes of one or more other devices.

Abstract: The wireless non-contact switch detects movement of human body in the beam-shaped detection are which extends from the upper area on the wall toward the floor surface, and controls opening and closing of the automatic door. Regardless of the height of the location of the movement, as long as it is in the detection area, the switch detects the movement of different height location in the detection area. Therefore, regardless of the difference of regulation between each states, it can be operated at any height of the movement.

Abstract: A door, or window detector incorporates a magnet and a magnetometer. Dual loop processing can be provided for real-time signals from the magnetometer, as the magnet moves relative to it, to determine when at least one of small gap or large gap indicating alarms should be issued. Security can be substantially increased by randomizing the orientation of the magnet.

Abstract: A system for controlling ambient light effects comprises a receiving device including at least one processor programmed to parse incoming video content to detect at least one portion of the incoming video content and determine at least one ambient light effect to be associated with the portion of the video content. The system further comprises a home automation controller in communication with the processor and at least one lighting device in communication with the receiving device and the home automation controller. The processor of the receiving device is programmed to send a command to the home automation controller specifying the ambient light effect determined by the processor to be associated with the portion of the video content. The lighting device generates the ambient light effect specified in the command when the portion of the video content is displayed to a user.

Abstract: The present invention includes, a failure sensing part to sense the failure created in the encoder mode and sensorless mode to control the door; a main control part to convert the main operation part and backup control part mutually when a failure is sensed by the primary operation mode by the failure sensing part after deciding either of the encoder mode or sensorless mode as a primary operation mode and another one is decided as a backup operation mode; and a location/speed conversion part to perform the door control by calculating the door moving distance according to the corresponding mode when the operation mode is converted by the main control part.

Abstract: An automated gatekeeper system and method are disclosed. The system and method comprise a control unit, sensors monitoring a checkpoint and gates to controlled premises and controllable gates. A person who wishes to enter may be inquired by the system in order to monitor and identify his or her identity, to verify whether the identified person is listed in at least one list of classified persons and to define whether that person is in a state of mind or mood which may have implication on the decision whether to allow his or her entrance to the premises.

Abstract: Methods, systems, and apparatuses for securing property are presented. Video content viewed by a user may be detected, and the user may be automatically prompted to change settings on a security system based on the detecting. A comparison of the current time with the duration of the video content may serve as the basis for such prompting. Additionally, a premise security system may be placed in a learning mode. Changes in position of a security sensor may be detected and used to set a permitted range of motion for the sensor. Further, a plurality of security sensor profiles may be stored, and each profile may identify a different predefined permitted range of motion of a sensor. The addition of a new sensor to a premise may be detected, and a user may be prompted, on a display, to identify a profile to be used for the new sensor.

Abstract: Systems and methods are operable to perform pre-operations at a media device in anticipation of an occurrence of a user action. An exemplary embodiment receives an in-use signal from an electronic device that is remotely proximate to the media device, wherein the received in-use signal corresponds to a user interaction with the electronic device; and performs the pre-operation at the media device. The pre-operation is performed prior to receiving an initial user action configured to operate at least one of the media device and a media presentation device coupled to the media device.

Abstract: A security system comprises a system control panel for arming and disarming the security system. A door sensing unit comprises a first transceiver interconnected with the system control panel over a network. The first transceiver is mounted proximate to a door that defines at least a portion of a perimeter around an area to be monitored by the security system. The first transceiver has an detection field proximate to the door. A disarm device comprises a second transceiver that automatically transmits a disarm device packet. The first transceiver receives the disarm device packet when the second transceiver is within the detection field. The first transceiver sends a disarm message to the system control panel over the network to disarm the security system based on at least the disarm device packet.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a device and a method for an additional electronic immobilizer (10) having a door-opener and theft-alarm function for a vehicle, comprising: a) a micro-controller; b) a mobile radio interface (1); c) a second interface (2) to a central locking system for doors of the vehicle; d) a near-field radio interface (3) such as RFID or NFC; e) a smart relay interface (4) for transmitting a control signal (S1) for a smart relay (8) and for receiving a receiving signal (S2) of the smart relay (8).

Abstract: A method for a contactless transmission of electric energy and/or an electric signal between a wall and a wing fastened to the wall includes providing a first coil fastened to the wall and a second coil fastened to the wing which are actively inductively connected to each other. A control signal is applied to the first coil within a control time interval to induce a first signal in the second coil, which is then detected. A second control signal is applied to the second coil within the control time interval to induce a second signal in the first coil, which is then detected. A fault signal is generated if the first or second control signal, or a part thereof, is not applied during the control time interval, or if the first or second signal, or a part thereof, is not detected during the control time interval.

Abstract: A system for controlling ambient light effects comprises a receiving device including at least one processor programmed to parse incoming video content to detect at least one portion of the incoming video content and determine at least one ambient light effect to be associated with the portion of the video content. The system further comprises a home automation controller in communication with the processor and at least one lighting device in communication with the receiving device and the home automation controller. The processor of the receiving device is programmed to send a command to the home automation controller specifying the ambient light effect determined by the processor to be associated with the portion of the video content. The lighting device generates the ambient light effect specified in the command when the portion of the video content is displayed to a user.

Abstract: Described is a device for electronic access control (EAC) and surveillance. The device includes an EAC module and an imager integrated in a single unit. The EAC module controls physical access through a secure portal and the imager maintains surveillance of an observation area near the portal. A data signal is provided at a data port proximate to the EAC module and imager. The data signal includes EAC data for the portal, image or video data of the observation area and optional audio data. The device can be configured to communicate with a remote server and database over an IP data network. The device can also include one or more analytical modules for real-time computation and processing of data and generation of metadata for transmission over the data network. Correlating and combining current and historical data from multiple devices results in powerful real time threat detection and forensic search capability.

Abstract: A mine door control system and method that uses sensor input from a plurality of sensors corresponding to at least one of a position of at least one associated opposing wing mine door and a path through the at least one associated mine door to determine at least one predefined action in accordance with received sensor input. A control command is then communicated a drive mechanism associated with the at least one associated mine door, the control command including instructions for operating the drive mechanism in accordance with the at least one predefined action.

Abstract: A communication system and method in which the communication system comprises a first communication module (11) and a second communication module (12). The first communication module (11) is located inside a vehicle (1), and the second communication module (12) is located in a garage door opener (3) and/or a home (2). A first information (11) relating to status information of the vehicle (1) is transmitted wirelessly between the first and second communication modules (11, 12). Additionally or alternatively, a second information is transmitted between the first and second communication modules (11, 12). The second information relates to status information of the garage door opener (3) and/or the home (2).

Abstract: A method for providing an alarm for a window comprises calculating a first distance between a detector mounted within a movable portion of the window and a window frame edge and calculating a second distance between the detector and the window frame edge. The method further comprises determining whether the movable portion of the window has remained stationary for more than a predetermined time period based on the first distance and the second distance and, if the movable portion has remained stationary for more than the predetermined time period, storing the second distance in a memory, placing the security apparatus into an active alarm state, calculating a third distance observed by the detector, determining a change between the third distance and the second distance, determining whether the change exceeds a predetermined distance, and generating an alarm signal if the change exceeds the predetermined distance.

Abstract: Devices are provided which include a component assembly for detecting inward, outward and sideways door movement. A component of the assembly extending from a structure comprises a distal end for contacting a door face when the structure is arranged in proximity to the door face. Systems are provided which include a portable stand, a door movement sensor attached to the stand, a proximity sensor, and a user interface. The system is configured to transmit signals to the user interface when the proximity sensor has been placed a predetermined distance from a door face and when door movement occurs. Apparatuses are provided which include program instructions for receiving input regarding a number of entryways of a room and inhibiting commencement of a task for which an apparatus arranged in the room is configured to perform until a number of signals received from a door movement sensor equals the number of entryways.

Abstract: A universal system and method for controlling existing garage doors via existing garage door openers. The system includes a module operable both manually and automatically to control the existing garage door, Wifi communication circuitry to receive instructions wirelessly from a remote, circuitry for automatic and remote control of the garage door and circuitry for pushing garage door status information.

Abstract: Mounting devices for attaching electronics equipment to a cargo container. An embodiment of the present invention comprises a mounting plate comprising a first portion for securing the electronics equipment to the mounting device, a second portion, coupled to the first portion at an edge of the first portion, at an approximate right angle to the first portion, and a third portion, coupled to the second portion at a second edge, wherein the third portion is approximately parallel to the first portion, wherein a length of the second portion being substantially similar to a width of a door of the cargo container, and the third portion is of sufficient length to retain the mounting device on the cargo container when the door of the cargo container is closed.

Abstract: The invention specifies an apparatus and a method for monitoring a building opening which is closed with a closure element (6, 6a . . . 6n) which is not fully transparent. The apparatus comprises a pattern (M), which is arranged on one side of the closure element (6, 6a . . . 6n) or is projected onto this side, and a detection unit (7a . . . 7e) which is aligned with this pattern (M). A comparison unit compares the actual pattern (M) detected by the detection unit (7a . . . 7e) with a desired pattern and triggers an alarm if the difference between the actual pattern (M) and the desired pattern exceeds a predefinable threshold.

Abstract: According to one embodiment of the invention, a method for monitoring a location is presented. The method includes monitoring one or more entryways of a building to detect when an entryway of the building is being opened and responsive to detecting an entryway of the building being opened, the method monitors for a presence of one or more wireless devices within a range of a residential wireless access point located within the building. In response to detecting the presence a wireless device within the range of the residential wireless access point, the method identifies an identifier associated with the wireless device. The method determines whether the identifier associated with the wireless device is registered with the residential wireless access point and responsive to the identifier associated with the wireless device being unregistered with the residential wireless access point, the method performs a user-specified event.

Abstract: A method and apparatus of recognizing the presence of a passenger in front of a door of a transit vehicle comprises directing an ultrasound transmitter/receiver at a volume of space adjacent the door, emitting an ultrasound pulse into the empty volume, recording and integrating intensity of the echoes and storing the integrated value as a standard value, repeatedly emitting an ultrasound pulse into the volume, and comparing the integrated values to the standard value.

Abstract: Methods, systems, and devices for managing an end-device connected to a commodity delivery network. One device includes computer-readable medium containing instructions for managing the end-device and a processor for executing the instructions. The instructions include instructions for detecting tampering of the end-device, ignoring the detected tampering when the end-device has been placed in an ignore mode, and automatically disconnecting the end-device from the commodity delivery system based on the detected tampering when the end-device has not been placed in the ignore mode.