Light Patents (Class 340/555)
  • Patent number: 8736446
    Abstract: Since a sensor signal intermitted on the basis of a sensor signal including an abnormality detection signal, detected as a result of a persistence of an abnormal condition of a security sensor, is generated and an intermitted output signal in dependence on an intermitted sensor signal input is transmitted from a wireless transmitter 17 to a receiver 18, a condition in which the intermitted output signal can be transmitted from the wireless transmitter 17 to the receiver 18 can be retained even though the wireless transmitter 17 is of a type capable of transmitting an output signal in the form of, for example, one pulse on the basis of the signal input, and it is therefore possible for the side of the receiver 18 to recognize assuredly the persistence of the abnormal condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2014
    Assignee: Optex Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Koji Hayashide, Katsutoshi Tatsuoka
  • Patent number: 8723447
    Abstract: A wireless battery-powered daylight sensor for measuring a total light intensity in a space is operable to transmit wireless signals using a variable transmission rate that is dependent upon the total light intensity in the space. The sensor comprises a photosensitive circuit, a wireless transmitter for transmitting the wireless signals, a controller coupled to the photosensitive circuit and the wireless transmitter, and a battery for powering the photosensitive circuit, the wireless transmitter, and the controller. The photosensitive circuit is operable to generate a light intensity control signal in response to the total light intensity in the space. The controller transmits the wireless signals in response to the light intensity control signal using the variable transmission rate that is dependent upon the total light intensity in the space. The variable transmission rate may be dependent upon an amount of change of the total light intensity in the space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2014
    Assignee: Lutron Electronics Co., Inc.
    Inventor: James P. Steiner
  • Patent number: 8698636
    Abstract: A wireless detection apparatus includes an antenna, a voltage control oscillator, and a processing unit. The antenna receives a first wireless signal and generates an electrical signal according to the first wireless signal. The first wireless signal is generated by reflecting a second wireless signal from an object under test. The voltage control oscillator is coupled to the antenna to generate an oscillating signal under an interference of the electrical signal. The oscillating signal varies with variation of the electrical signal. The processing unit is coupled to the voltage control oscillator to evaluate a parameter of the object under test according to the variation of the oscillating signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2014
    Assignees: Industrial Technology Research Institute, National Sun Yat-sen University
    Inventors: Tzyy-Sheng Horng, Fu-Kang Wang, Chieh-Hsun Hsiao, Je-Kuan Jau
  • Patent number: 8633462
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a movement detection device for detecting a movement of an object in a space range. The movement detection device includes a light source, a light guiding element, at least two light sensing elements and a processing unit. The light sensing elements have an offset therebetween along a first direction such that the object, when moving in the space range, reflects the light from the light source sequentially to the light sensing elements through the light guiding element. The processing unit identifies the movement of the object along the first direction according to a sequence that the light sensing elements detect the light reflected by the object.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2014
    Assignee: PixArt Imaging, Inc.
    Inventor: En Feng Hsu
  • Patent number: 8629938
    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: October 5, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2014
    Assignees: Sony Corporation, Sony Electronics, Inc.
    Inventor: Ling Jun Wong
  • Patent number: 8624526
    Abstract: A sensing device, for controlling an LED lighting equipment, and more especially for electrical connection with at least one LED lighting equipment that can be driven by a DC power supply, is disclosed. The sensing device, which can be supplied with an external DC power source, comprises a control module, a signal adjusting unit, an object detecting unit, and a manual time-delay adjustor. The control module can send a control signal train of PWM or PFM to the signal adjusting unit, which will in turn send an amplified signal train of PWM or PFM to the LED lighting equipment, so as to control the illuminating level of the equipment. Thus, the problems of the conventional light modulators, resulting from the use of an AC power supply, can be alleviated. Also, the associated cost of the equipment can be reduced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2014
    Assignee: IR-TEC International Ltd.
    Inventor: Wen-I Huang
  • Patent number: 8584345
    Abstract: Because reprocessing or refurbishing of physiological sensors reuses large portions of an existing sensor, the material costs for refurbishing sensors is significantly lower than the material costs for making an entirely new sensor. Typically, existing reprocessors replace only the adhesive portion of an adhesive physiological sensor and reuse the sensing components. However, re-using the sensing components can reduce the reliability of the refurbished sensor and/or reduce the number of sensors eligible for refurbishing due to out-of-specification sensor components. It is therefore desirable to provide a process for refurbishing physiological sensors that replaces the sensing components of the sensor. While sensing components are replaced, generally, sensor cable and/or patient monitor attachments are retained, resulting in cost savings over producing new sensors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2013
    Assignee: Masimo Corporation
    Inventors: Ammar Al-Ali, Yassir Abdul-Hafiz, Massi Joe E. Kiani
  • Patent number: 8587442
    Abstract: A smoke alarm has a base element with a flat mounting surface, a light emitter that is attached to the mounting surface and that is configured to issue an illuminating light, and a light receiver that is attached to the mounting surface next to the light emitter and that is configured to receive a measurement light that results from a back-scattering of the illumination light at a measurement object located in a detection space. A data processing device is coupled to an output of the light receiver and configured to evaluate temporal changes of an output signal issued by the light receiver. Also, there is provided a method for checking the functional capability of the smoke alarm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2013
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Markus Loepfe, Kurt Müller, Georges A. Tenchio, Walter Vollenweider
  • Patent number: 8576089
    Abstract: A system for data communication connection in an architecture including an optical fiber communication line running from a communication service provider source to a proximity of at least one building, a fiber optic branch line extending from a point along the communication line generally towards the at least one building, and a receptacle, comprises a communication unit, a fiber optic cable coupled to the communication unit, and at least one connector adapted to couple the branch line to the fiber optic cable coupled to the communication unit. The connector may reside within the receptacle, and at least one of the communication unit, the cable, the branch line, the connector, and the receptacle may provide a visual indication that coupling of the branch line and the cable is effected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2013
    Assignee: Google Inc.
    Inventor: James Fintan Kelly
  • Patent number: 8575538
    Abstract: A safety system for safeguarding a moving, guided motion element against unwanted collisions with an object located on a motion path in the direction of motion of the motion element, including an object-detection device that includes a plurality of parts for detecting an object in an area of the motion element, wherein the object-detection device can be blocked with respect to object detection by a motion of the motion element, and an electronic unit that controls the motion of the motion element and is configured to assign a blocked state to the object-detection device when the motion element approaches, wherein in the blocked state an object and motion element does not trigger a safety mode, and wherein shut-off means are provided which, when a shut-off signal coming from the motion element is detected, transfer one or more parts of the object-detection device into the blocked state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2013
    Assignee: Cedes AG
    Inventors: Beat De Coi, Christian Signer, Markus Menzi, Rene Hug
  • Patent number: 8542109
    Abstract: An intrusion detection system that provides foliage penetration is disclosed employing an array of field disturbance transceivers operating at UHF frequencies. The array of transceivers generate a multiplicity of electromagnetic wave fields between nearby units and detect the presence of intruders by detecting disturbances in these fields. The emitted UHF signals used to generate the electromagnetic wave fields are also used to provide the communication link between transceivers in the array and to a control station. The control station facilitates the operation of the array from a remote monitoring site. A unique method of array deployment provides multiple opportunities to detect an intruder and secondarily provides redundant communication links in case of a sensor failure. Automatic means of setting detection thresholds based on environmental conditions assures a high probability of detection along with a low false alarm rate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2013
    Assignee: Flir Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Walker Butler, John Edward Bjornholt
  • Patent number: 8536510
    Abstract: A multi-optical axis photoelectric sensor is provided having a casing that forms an outer shape of each of a projector and an optical receiver. The casing includes a frame body having a front face and two ends opened, a pair of caps to cover both ends of the frame body, and a light transmissive plate to cover the opened front face of the frame body 3. In the inner surfaces of both side plates of the frame body, supports are formed extending along the corresponding side edges of the opening of the front face. Both side edges of the light transmissive plate 6 are supported by the supports, and both ends thereof are supported by the caps. Portions of the caps that support the light transmissive plate 6 include communication portions to communicate with the supports of the frame body 3, and a string-like elastic member is disposed around a closed loop formed by each support and each communication portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2013
    Assignee: OMRON Corporation
    Inventors: Satoru Shimokawa, Takayoshi Takahara, Shunsuke Mogi, Toshinori Sato
  • Patent number: 8537011
    Abstract: A fence for establishing a secure marine perimeter includes a floating platform, at least two uprights extending to a predetermined height, at least one anchor, at least one anchor line, an optic fiber net extending from a first predetermined point above the surface of the body of water to a second predetermined point below the surface of the body of water, the optic fiber net including at least one optic fiber with an input end and an output end, a light transmitter connected to the input end introducing an input optic signal into the optic fiber, a light receiver connected to the output end receiving an output optic signal from the optic fiber, and a processor comparing the output optic signal with the input optic signal and generating an alarm if a difference between the input optic signal and the output optic signal exceeds a predetermined alarm threshold.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2013
    Inventor: David Iffergan
  • Patent number: 8514076
    Abstract: An entrance denial security system comprises an entrance barrier closing an entrance into a secured area having a plurality of structural tubular elements with hollow cores forming a rigid integral barrier. At least one optical fiber sensor line is laced through the hollow cores of the structural elements for detecting a fault condition signifying an unauthorized intrusion attempt. A processor in communication with the fiber sensor line generates a fault signal in response to the occurrence of a fault condition and identifying the entrance where the fault condition occurred. A communication device operatively associated with the processor communicates the fault signal and an alarm so that a proper security response can be made to the fault condition. The system further comprises a plurality of intrusion sensors disposed at certain locations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2013
    Assignee: Woven Electronics, LLC
    Inventors: Douglas E. Piper, Sr., Thomas E. Browning, Jr., Mary Hester Owens, Clifford Leroy DeYoung
  • Patent number: 8508366
    Abstract: A method of identifying a potential security threat in a space. A first scan of the space is performed during a first time interval by illuminating at least a portion of the space with energy from an energy source at an illumination angle, such that the energy is reflected from a surface in the space. An incident angle of the reflected energy is detected with a detector located at a known distance from the energy source and a distance from the surface to the energy source is calculated based on the incident angle. The steps are repeated for a plurality of different locations in the space. A first map of the space is generated from the first scan, and a second map is generated from a second scan of the area. The maps are compared to determine a change in the space and to determine if a potential security threat is present.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2013
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventor: Dennis M. Petricoin, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8493238
    Abstract: The invention relates to the detection of wheel axles of a vehicle on a roadway by means of a sensor, which operates according to the light-section procedure and emits at least one fan of light from a first location along the roadway to project a line of light onto the roadway and a vehicle possibly located thereon, and records this line of light from a second location along the same side of the roadway and detects a wheel axle as soon as the recorded line of light exhibits, in its course emanating from the said side of the roadway, a shift-free change in direction differing from its course when the roadway is empty.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2013
    Assignee: Kapsch Trafficcom AG
    Inventor: Oliver Nagy
  • Patent number: 8487236
    Abstract: The invention provides a multi-optical axis photoelectric sensor capable of improving workability of wiring. The sensor outputs to an external apparatus a safe signal generated based upon an interrupted state of at least one optical axis among optical axes formed between the phototransmitter and the photoreceiver. The photoreceiver includes a first cable connecting section (end section case), connected with a cable including a power line for receiving power supply from the external apparatus and an output line for outputting a safe signal to the external apparatus, and a second cable connecting section (end section case), connected with a cable including a power line for performing power supply to the phototransmitter and a communication line for transmitting or receiving a timing signal that defines timing for light projection of the light projecting elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2013
    Assignee: Keyence Corporation
    Inventor: Tsuyoshi Tagashira
  • Publication number: 20130169438
    Abstract: A device having an alarm system based on infrared detection includes an exterior casing, an interior casing located in the exterior casing, and an alarm system received in a space cooperatively formed by the exterior and interior casings. The alarm system is configured to detect transgression into the space, and includes a number of pairs of infrared sensors, an alarm nodule, and a control module. Each pair of infrared sensors includes an infrared radiation transmitter configured to emit infrared rays, whereby the space is fillable with infrared rays emitted by all the infrared radiation transmitters; and an infrared radiation receiver configured to receive the infrared rays from the infrared radiation transmitter. The control module is configured to detect any signal generated by an infrared radiation receiver, and actuate the alarm module to generate an alarm signal when at least one infrared radiation receiver has ceased to receive infrared rays.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 21, 2012
    Publication date: July 4, 2013
    Applicants: HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD., HONG FU JIN PRECISIO INDUSTRY (ShenZhen) CO., LTD.
    Inventor: WEN-HUI ZHANG
  • Patent number: 8471705
    Abstract: A multifunction detector for detecting energy reflected from the surface, the detector comprising: a focal plane array in communication with the optical receiving path; and an optical receiving path; a read-only integrated circuit in communication with the optical receiving path, integrated with a focal plane array; and a processor programmed to operate the focal plane array and read-out integrated circuit in a first mode to process signals in a first frequency band, and in a second mode to process signals in a second, wider frequency band.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2013
    Assignee: Lockheed Martin Corporation
    Inventors: William Yenisch, Richard LeBlanc
  • Patent number: 8466808
    Abstract: An optical sensor based parking guidance system using visual indicators to guide a driver into an optimal position to park a vehicle. The optical sensors create a safe parking envelope and provide visual indicators to the driver in the event the vehicle leaves the established safe area. The invention also indicates the appropriate stopping position within a parking space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2013
    Assignee: Tracker LLC
    Inventor: Sudip Ghatak
  • Patent number: 8456323
    Abstract: A lighting-system control method applied to the lighting-system including a light source and an ultrasonic transmitting-and-receiving device is provided. The method comprises steps of: determining a distance between an object and the ultrasonic transmitting-and-receiving device by the ultrasonic transmitting-and-receiving device according to a flight time of an ultrasonic-wave; changing a first light property of the light source when the object is detected moving toward the ultrasonic transmitting-and-receiving device; and changing a second light property of the light source when the object is detected moving away from the ultrasonic transmitting-and-receiving device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2013
    Assignee: Lite-On It Corporation
    Inventors: Sheng-Fa Hou, Tzu-Nan Chen
  • Patent number: 8451135
    Abstract: An anti-masking system and method for a motion detector includes a plurality of anti-masking components such as a spreading lens, at least one reflector located outside a housing of the motion detector, and a retroreflector located on the housing proximate to a lens. The system and method uses the plurality of anti-masking components to determine whether the lens of the motion detector has been masked by an object.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2013
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventor: Robert H Carl, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8451116
    Abstract: A wireless battery-powered daylight sensor for measuring a total light intensity in a space is operable to transmit wireless signals using a variable transmission rate that is dependent upon the total light intensity in the space. The sensor comprises a photosensitive circuit, a wireless transmitter for transmitting the wireless signals, a controller coupled to the photosensitive circuit and the wireless transmitter, and a battery for powering the photosensitive circuit, the wireless transmitter, and the controller. The photosensitive circuit is operable to generate a light intensity control signal in response to the total light intensity in the space. The controller transmits the wireless signals in response to the light intensity control signal using the variable transmission rate that is dependent upon the total light intensity in the space. The variable transmission rate may be dependent upon an amount of change of the total light intensity in the space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2013
    Assignee: Lutron Electronics Co., Inc.
    Inventors: James P. Steiner, Greg Edward Sloan
  • Patent number: 8447474
    Abstract: Externally deployed airbag system for a vehicle including one or more inflatable airbags deployable outside of the vehicle, an anticipatory sensor system for assessing the probable severity of an impact involving the vehicle based on data obtained prior to the impact and initiating inflation of the airbag(s) in the event an impact above a threshold severity is assessed, and an inflator coupled to the anticipatory sensor system and the airbag for inflating the airbag when initiated by the anticipatory sensor system. The airbag may be housed in a module mounted along a side of the vehicle, in a side door of the vehicle (both for side impact protection), at a front of the vehicle (for frontal impact protection) or at a rear of the vehicle (for rear impact protection). Also, the externally deployed airbag can be deployed to cushion a pedestrian's impact against the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2013
    Assignee: American Vehicular Sciences LLC
    Inventor: David S. Breed
  • Patent number: 8436741
    Abstract: The invention is based on a locating device for locating objects in an item being investigated, said device having a basic body, a sensor unit for detecting a movement parameter when the basic body is moved relative to the item being investigated, an output unit and a control unit which, in conjunction with the output unit, is provided for the purpose of outputting an item of information on the basis of the movement parameter. It is proposed that the output unit has a light signal unit which is provided for the purpose of outputting the information using a light signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2013
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventors: Reiner Krapf, Michael Mahler, Christoph Wieland, Ulli Hoffmann
  • Patent number: 8436732
    Abstract: A security system lays out a sensing optical fiber tautly at the perimeter of an area to be secured. The sensing optical fiber has at least one sensing Fiber Bragg Grating (FBG) which is stretched when the sensing optical fiber is stretched by an intruder. The center wavelength of reflection of the stretched sensing FBG shifts towards longer wavelengths. The shifted center wavelength of reflection is detected using a reference FBG with a longer center wavelength of reflection. The sensing optical fiber has a loose buffer coating for isolating the sensing optical fiber and the sensing FBG from nuisance disturbances and noise such as vibrations caused by wind. Trip wires may be attached to the sensing optical fiber for enhancing intruder detection. A cut of the sensing optical fiber may be detected by monitoring the optical power exiting the far end of the sensing optical fiber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2013
    Inventor: Jason Bentley Lamont
  • Patent number: 8432281
    Abstract: A method and system that creates a boundary with an alert and deterring function when the boundary is crossed. The system employs a base unit and one or more portable IR motion sensors which are capable of discriminating between objects of differing physical characteristics, and notifies the user when the parameters for sufficient obstruction have been met. Both sensors and base unit have audio and visual deterring capabilities to frighten away unwanted intruders. The method and system can be utilized in camping situations to deter dangerous wildlife and can be configured to notify users when children exit from an area. The system can be used to create a contiguous perimeter, or any boundary arrangement desired.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2013
    Assignee: Utah State University
    Inventors: James T. Reese, Rickey D Hughes
  • Patent number: 8432280
    Abstract: Systems and methods for indicating a swept pocket in a mail processing system. A mail processing system includes a plurality of pockets configured to receive and retain processed mail until the processed mail is removed by a user, and a movable paddle disposed in each pocket to retain the processed mail in the respective pocket. The user moves the paddle in order to remove processed mail from the respective pocket. The mail processing system includes a sensor connected to detect when the paddle in one of the plurality of pockets has been moved by the user, and an indicator associated with each pocket and connected to activate when the sensor detects that the paddle in the associated pocket has been moved by the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2013
    Assignee: Siemens Industry, Inc.
    Inventors: Janice L. Conklin, Michael O. Norris, Dale E. Redford, Susan L. Wertheim
  • Patent number: 8427311
    Abstract: The invention provides a lighting device (1) comprising one or more light sources (10) arranged to generate light, an accommodating device (5) having an external boundary (2) which is at least partly translucent and is arranged to accommodate the one or more light sources and a controller (40). The lighting device can generate two types of light. One or more lighting parameters selected from the group consisting of the first luminous intensity of the first type of light, the second luminous intensity of the second type of light, the color point of the first type of light and the color point of the second type of light can be controlled. This allows task lighting and atmosphere lighting. The invention is also directed to a method of providing a wake-up stimulus by means of such a lighting device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2013
    Assignee: Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V.
    Inventors: Lucas Josef Maria Schlangen, Lucius Theodorus Vinkenvleugel, Vanja Hommes
  • Patent number: 8427312
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to tamper detection, memorization, and indication for packaging. A method in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention includes: detecting when the package is opened and closed; and generating an alarm if the package is opened more than once after it is initially closed to indicate that the package has been tampered with.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2013
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Gerard Marmigere, Bernard Pucci, Xavier Rey-Robert, Pierre Secondo
  • Patent number: 8395524
    Abstract: A merchandiser communication system including a first plurality of merchandisers arranged in a first row and a second plurality of merchandisers arranged in a second row. Each of the merchandisers includes a light assembly coupled to a case to illuminate a product display area, a light sensor coupled to the case to detect light pulses, and a microcontroller. The light sensor is in visual proximity with one or more of the adjacent merchandisers located across the aisle. The microcontroller is in electrical communication with the light assembly and the light sensor to operate the light assembly to encode the signal in light pulses of the light assembly that are not detectable by a human eye. The communication system also includes a visible light-based communication network in communication with the merchandisers and is operable to communicate the encoded light pulses among the merchandisers via the light assemblies and the light sensors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 11, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2013
    Assignee: Hussmann Corporation
    Inventors: Ted Wayne Sunderland, Dennis L. Wagner
  • Patent number: 8368534
    Abstract: A remote door access monitoring system includes a central monitoring component and a remote monitoring component. The central monitoring component includes an optical source, an optical power level receiver, and a microcontroller. The optical power level receiver is in communication with the microcontroller. The remote monitoring component includes an optical switch that is operably associated with a door of a communications equipment cabinet. The communications equipment cabinet is located at a geographical location different from a geographical location of the central monitoring component. The optical source transmits an optical signal from the optical source to the optical switch and back to the optical power level receiver. The optical switch attenuates the optical signal in response to opening and closing of the door. The optical power level receiver is configured to detect an attenuated optical signal and then notify the microcontroller of the existence of an attenuated optical signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2013
    Assignee: CommScope Inc. of North Carolina
    Inventors: W. Larkin Crutcher, Anil Kumar Trehan
  • Patent number: 8368535
    Abstract: An intrusion detector comprising a passive sensor for detecting a person entering a space to be monitored, said intrusion detector comprising a housing provided with a window for said passive sensor, optical means for directing electromagnetic radiation from said person onto the passive sensor, alarm means connected to said passive sensor for generating an alarm in case the electromagnetic radiation from said person being detected by the passive sensor corresponds to a signal value that exceeds a maximum level or falls below a minimum level, a special feature being the fact that the optical means are provided with a mirror curved in two directions for forming at least one protective curtain extending in a vertical plane in the space to be monitored, wherein the passive sensor is disposed on the optical axis at the focus of the mirror, and wherein the mirror directs a beam of electromagnetic radiation from the person, rotated through at least 45°, preferably through at least substantially 90°, onto the passive
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2013
    Assignee: UTC Fire & Security Americas Corporation, Inc.
    Inventor: Math Pantus
  • Patent number: 8368533
    Abstract: A system for data communication connection in an architecture including an optical fiber communication line running from a communication service provider source to a proximity of at least one building, a fiber optic branch line extending from a point along the communication line generally towards the at least one building, and a receptacle, comprises a communication unit, a fiber optic cable coupled to the communication unit, and at least one connector adapted to couple the branch line to the fiber optic cable coupled to the communication unit. The connector may reside within the receptacle, and at least one of the communication unit, the cable, the branch line, the connector, and the receptacle may provide a visual indication that coupling of the branch line and the cable is effected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2013
    Assignee: Google Inc.
    Inventor: James Fintan Kelly
  • Patent number: 8354928
    Abstract: An intruder detection system comprises an illumination means for illuminating a field of view with a modulated optical signal, modulated by a modulation signal; an optical receiver for receiving a delayed reflected signal; a cross correlator for calculating a cross correlation function between the modulation signal and the received delayed reflected signal; and means for detecting changes in the cross correlation function, a change being used to provide intruder detection. This system uses optical sensing and cross correlation calculation to enable an intruder detection signal to be obtained. This can enable a solid state, low cost, and reliable sensor to be provided for detecting intruders.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 15, 2013
    Assignee: Instro Precision Limited
    Inventor: Christopher John Morcom
  • Patent number: 8344885
    Abstract: An apparatus is disclosed including one or more security structures. The one or more security structures includes: a weldable frame; a plurality of composite panels, each panel securable to the weldable frame, each composite panel configured to form at least one joint with at least one adjoining composite panel; and a respective security element embedded within each of the composite panels. The security element is configured to detect a breach in the composite panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2013
    Assignee: Angel Secure Networks Inc.
    Inventor: Fred Hewitt Smith
  • Patent number: 8330095
    Abstract: There is provided an optical scanning type photoelectric switch capable of preventing interference with another photoelectric switch by use of its own capability, wherein, as for light projection pulse periods of the first and second optical scanning type photoelectric switches, the period is set to 30 ?s in the first optical scanning type photoelectric switch while the period is set to 33 ?s in the second optical scanning type photoelectric switch 1B, the light projection pulses have the same pulse width, and by setting the light projection periods different between the first and second optical scanning type photoelectric switches, even if mutual interference occurs between any optical axes, a phase difference of 36 degrees in rotation period is generated therebetween in a next scan, thereby preventing occurrence of the interference in succession in a plurality of times of scanning.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2012
    Assignee: Keyence Corporation
    Inventor: Shinji Kawabata
  • Patent number: 8324557
    Abstract: The invention relates to an optoelectronic sensor having a transmitter (12) for the transmission of transmitted light (22), a receiver (14) for the reception of the transmitted light (28) and for the provision of an electronic received signal (I), an evaluation unit (16) for the recording of the received signal (I) and for the outputting of a detection signal when an opaque object (36) to be detected enters into the transmitted light beam.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2012
    Assignee: Sick AG
    Inventors: Michael Klein, Christoph Märkle, Bernhard Schindler
  • Patent number: 8325027
    Abstract: A safety light apparatus includes a first light source to emit a first light beam and a first light modulator to modulate the first light beam to project a first light image resembling a left boundary of a bike lane. A second light source emits a second light beam, and a second light modulator modulates the second light beam to project a second light image resembling a right boundary of a bike lane. A housing supports the first and second light sources and the first and second light modulators. A mounting device is provided for mounting the housing to a bicycle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2012
    Assignee: Lightlane LLC
    Inventors: Alexander Kirby Tee, Evan Isaac Timerding Gant
  • Patent number: 8310373
    Abstract: Provided is a system, a tool and a method for communicating with a faulted circuit indicator (FCI), the faulted circuit indicator including a detection circuit for monitoring an electrical conductor of a power system. The system includes a display and a first light emitting diode associated with the display. The first light emitting diode generates an optical FCI status signal in response to an occurrence of a fault in the electrical conductor. The system also includes a first microcontroller operatively coupled to the display and the detection circuit, and a handheld user command tool adapted to optically signal the display. The handheld user command tool may be also adapted to generate an optical serial communication. The optical serial communication may provide data and/or commands for operation of the faulted circuit indicator. The display may be integrated into the FCI. The FCI may be an overhead FCI.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2012
    Assignee: Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories, Inc.
    Inventors: Laurence V. Feight, Mark L Zeller
  • Patent number: 8309904
    Abstract: A safety system for safeguarding a moving, guided motion element against unwanted collisions with an object located on a motion path in the direction of motion of the motion element. The safety system includes an object-detection device for detecting an object in an area of the motion element. The object-detection device can be blocked with respect to object detection by a motion of the motion element, and has an electronic unit with which the motion of the motion element can be controlled and which is configured to assign a blocked state to the object-detection device when the motion element approaches in the blocked state an object or motion element will not trigger a safety mode and when a shut-off signal coming from the motion element is detected, at least part of the object-detection device is transferred into the blocked state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2012
    Assignee: Cedes AG
    Inventors: Beat De Coi, Christian Signer, Markus Menzi, René Hug
  • Patent number: 8269628
    Abstract: A triple-sensor motion detector is provided for illuminating the approach to a display case or other object. The triple-sensor motion detector provides a field of detection that spans the front width of the case, yet does not include the areas along the sides of the case. The detector reduces inadvertent triggering of the illumination by persons approaching the side of the case or approaching another case on the other side of an aisle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2012
    Assignee: Advance Electronic Concepts
    Inventors: Daniel Gagnon, Paul Lukas, Robert Baker
  • Patent number: 8248235
    Abstract: This invention provides an area monitoring sensor capable of setting a monitor area without connecting a terminal device for area setting. The area monitoring sensor that emits detection light in different emitting directions and senses an intruder within a monitor area based on reflection of the detection light, the monitor area being previously set as a polygonal shaped area defined by three or more sides, the sensor being provided on a first side out of the sides of the monitor area, and includes a side selecting unit that selects a second side other than the first side out of the three or more sides that define the monitor area based on an operation input; a distance specifying unit that specifies a distance between the area monitoring sensor and the second side that is being selected by the side selecting unit based on an operation input.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2012
    Assignee: Keyence Corporation
    Inventors: Tetsu Inoue, Akiji Yamaguchi
  • Patent number: 8232896
    Abstract: A traditional pedestrian signal housing with a video display screen mounted to a pedestrian side of the traditional pedestrian signal housing is disclosed. The video display screen is mounted to the pedestrian side of the pedestrian signal housing by way of a face plate. Tunnel visors may be attached to the traditional pedestrian signal housing to prevent cross traffic from being distracted by the visual images displayed on the video display screen. The information displayed on the video display screen may be advertisements, information, directions, etc. Local or national entities may pay for advertisements to generate revenues for the cities or governmental entities.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2012
    Inventor: Gary Keller
  • Patent number: 8207861
    Abstract: A system for detecting and containing a breach in a container includes a first containment layer and a first sensor layer. The first sensor layer includes at least one signal path extending the first sensor layer. The first sensor layer may be provided by either a fiber optic or a wire. An inability of the at least one signal path to conduct a signal from a first end to a second end represents either a breach, or an attempted breach, from outside the container or a failure of the container. The containment layers may seal against any leakage of material in a container subsequent to a breach either from within or from without. An additional layer may be provided to protect against intrusion and may be made from material such as Kevlar. The detection and containment system may be implemented to protect tunnels, pipelines, hatches and manhole covers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2012
    Assignee: 3D Fuse Sarl
    Inventor: Gilbert D. Beinhocker
  • Patent number: 8200049
    Abstract: A system and method for a structure monitoring and locating a disturbance event is disclosed. The system includes a compact transceiver chip sending optical signals in three optical fibers that encompass the monitored structure appropriately. The system contains a sequence of loops, wherein the first and the second fiber forming the loop clockwise, while the third fiber is winded along the same loop counterclockwise. A set of two detectors registers the returning signals, and a time delay between those signals is calculated, which is indicative of the disturbance event location. The event location is determined with different sensitivity in different parts of the monitored structure depending on the density of fibers in these parts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2012
    Assignee: CeLight, Inc.
    Inventors: Arkady Kaplan, Isaac Shpantzer
  • Patent number: 8172142
    Abstract: A personal digital electronic device is provided with two enhancements, namely (a) an IR receiver and associated circuitry and software/firmware for mimicking a laser scanner operation, so that information existing in physical form with an associated bar code may be entered into the personal digital electronic device at the point of transaction; and (b) a radio receiver and associated circuitry and software/firmware to receive and process RDS feeds, so that offers, coupons and promotions embedded in the RDS feeds may be detected and used to place or update information on the personal digital electronic device. The personal digital electronic device is enabled for communication with a bar code scanner preferably using the “active light” communication technology.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2012
    Assignee: MoBeam Inc.
    Inventors: Venkata T. Gobburu, Nagesh Challa, Michel E. Gannage
  • Patent number: 8125336
    Abstract: An abnormality detecting apparatus includes a power supply portion applying a voltage to electrodes provided at both surfaces of a light control glass adapted to be provided at a vehicle to change a transparency of the light control glass, a detection portion detecting a detectable amount obtained on the basis of the voltage applied to the electrodes, and an abnormality determination portion determining whether or not an abnormality occurs to the light control glass based on a predetermined detectable amount and the detectable amount detected by the detection portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2012
    Assignee: Aisin Seiki Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Kiyokazu Ieda, Yuichi Murakami, Hiroki Okada
  • Patent number: 8115914
    Abstract: This invention enables a worker, who performs a work for optical axis adjustment, to easily grasp whether adjustment for further increasing the light receiving quantity is possible. In a multi-optical axis photoelectronic sensor, a minimum value of the light receiving quantities obtained for every optical axis is detected every time a process of measuring, while lighting each light emitting element 10 by turns, the light receiving quantity of a light receiving element corresponding to a lighted light emitting element 10 is repeated for one cycle, and a peak value of the minimum light receiving quantities detected in the past is detected. A bar graph based on specific values of the most recent minimum light receiving quantity and the peak value, or a bar graph showing a proportion of the most recent minimum light receiving quantity with respect to the peak value is displayed using a plurality of indication lights 100, each arranged on the front surfaces of a light projector 1 and a light receiver 2.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Assignee: Omron Corporation
    Inventors: Kazunori Osako, Takayoshi Takahara
  • Patent number: 8110789
    Abstract: An electronic includes a memory, a photosensitive element, and a processing element. The photosensitive element receives light beams and generating trigger signals when intensity of the received light beams reach a predetermined value. The processing element electrically connected to the photosensitive element and the memory, counts a number of disassembly times of the electronic device according to the times the trigger signals have been generated by the photosensitive element and stores the number in the memory.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 7, 2012
    Assignees: Hong Fu Jin Precision Industry (ShenZhen) Co., Ltd., Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Guang-Yu Pei