Light Patents (Class 340/555)
  • Patent number: 8098157
    Abstract: A zoned interactive control area (10) wherein an architectural space is divided in to a plurality of zones (16), each having its own sensor (22) and zone lights (18). In a normal operating mode (50) the sensors (22) are used to detect the presence of a person such that the zone lights (18) can be turned on and/or adjusted for light level. Each zone light (18) also has a light sensor (24) used, at least in part, for communication with the other zone lights (18), such that the light level can be adjusted not just in response to a presence in the respective zone (16) but also in response to presence in other zones (16). According to a security method (70) when the zone lights (18) are not in use for normal lighting (as when they are turned off) then if the sensors (22) detect the presence of an intruder the zone lights (18) flash to deter the intruder and also communicate the fact of the presence of the intruder to the other zone lights (18) via the light sensors (22).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2012
    Assignee: VNS Portfolio LLC
    Inventors: F. Eric Saunders, Gregory V. Bailey, Nicholas A. Antonopoulos
  • Patent number: 8077054
    Abstract: A garage door opener and parking guide combination includes a housing that includes a drive assembly mechanically coupled to a garage door to selectively open or close the garage door when the drive assembly is activated. The housing is attached to a ceiling of a garage containing the garage door. A light bulb socket is in electrical communication with a control of the drive assembly and receiving electricity while the drive assembly is activated. A male connector is removably extended in and electrically coupled to the light bulb socket. A light bulb is electrically coupled to the male connector and emits light when electricity is supplied to the light bulb socket. A laser light assembly is electrically coupled to the male connector and emits laser light when the male connector receives electricity from the light bulb socket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2011
    Inventor: Ronald W. Aarons
  • Publication number: 20110273292
    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: Application
    Filed: January 6, 2009
    Publication date: November 10, 2011
    Applicant: OPTEX CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Koji Hayashide, Katsutoshi Tatsuoka
  • Patent number: 8050778
    Abstract: The invention relates to a sensor-machine interface for the coupling of at least one sensor to at least one machine with at least one sensor input for receiving sensor status signals, at least one machine output, for transmission of machine control signals, a programme memory and a controller for programme-controlled operation of the machine output dependent on the signals received by means of the sensor input and a method for operating such an interface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2011
    Assignee: Sick AG
    Inventor: Bernd Manner
  • Patent number: 8044784
    Abstract: A sun protection system for a transportation vehicle has plurality of LCD zones laminated into one or more glazings of the vehicle. An occupant sensor detects an expanse of at least one occupant in the vehicle. A navigation system determines a vehicle location, a date and time value, and a heading. External and internal temperature sensors sense outside and inside temperatures. A controller generates respective drive signals for the respective LCD zones in a manual mode and in an automatic mode. The controller compares a temperature difference between the outside temperature and the inside temperature to a temperature threshold. The respective drive signals provide substantially zero attenuation if the temperature difference is less than the temperature threshold while in the automatic mode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 25, 2011
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Mahmoud Y. Ghannam, Howard E. Churchwell, Todd N. Clark, John W. Jensen
  • Patent number: 8040239
    Abstract: A lighting control system (1) comprises: a communication bus (2); at least one extension movement detector (30) issuing detection pulses (DOS) over said communication bus in response to detecting a movement, at first time intervals (T1) determined by a sensor timer (34); one master luminaire (10) comprising a lamp (11) and a master controller (13) issuing master command signals (MCS) over said bus in response to detection pulses (DOS) received over said bus; and at least one slave luminaire (20) comprising a lamp (21) and a slave controller (23) being responsive to the master control signals (MCS) received over said bus to switch the corresponding lamp ON and OFF. Whenever the master controller receives a detection pulse, it starts a master timer (15) and switches the lamps ON. If the master timer times out (T2) without the master controller receiving any detection pulses, the master controller switches the lamps OFF.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2011
    Assignee: Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V.
    Inventor: Franciscus Laurentius Van Boekhout
  • Patent number: 8035513
    Abstract: A sensor circuit for remotely commanding the operation of a remote device includes a motion sensor circuit for detecting motion relative thereto and having an output conditioned upon motion detection. Additionally, a photocell sensor circuit for detecting a low ambient illumination level has an output command conditioned upon the detection of a predetermined illumination level that is electrically coupled to a control circuit having a plurality of inputs. The invention further includes a data output comprising a remote device operation command and a transmitter circuit coupled to the data output of said control circuit for transmitting said operation command to a remote device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2011
    Assignee: HeathCo LLC
    Inventor: William C. Raper
  • Patent number: 8035514
    Abstract: A system and method for improved white light immunity for IR motion sensors. The system comprises a first sensor responsive to light in a first range of wavelengths in the secure area, the first sensor generating a first output signal indicative of a first detected parameter of the light in the first range of wavelengths, a second sensor proximate to the first sensor, the second sensor being responsive to light in a second range of wavelengths in the secure area, and a logic unit for compensating the first output signal based in part upon a reference signal indicative of a second parameter of the light in the second range of wavelengths. The first sensor is a pyro-electric sensor and the second sensor is a visible light sensor. The second parameter comprises an intensity value of the light in the second range of wavelengths, wherein the reference signal is indicative of a differentiation of said intensity value with respect to time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2011
    Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventors: Joe Patrick Brown, Armin Duft, Tobias Koenig
  • Patent number: 8026827
    Abstract: A user interface display system can include at least one user responsive element. The user responsive element can include an optical mechanism. A pulsed light source can produce a light beam. Apparatus are provided for causing the light beam to repeatedly scan across the activity field. A controller can be arranged to repeatedly turn the light source on at one or more predetermined scan positions to illuminate the user responsive element. The controller can also be programed to act upon a signal regarding the status of the element. A photo detector can send the signal to the controller. The optical mechanism acts upon the light beam differently based upon the status of the user responsive element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2011
    Assignee: Yazaki North America, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael Boyd, Kang Li
  • Patent number: 8022835
    Abstract: An improved optic system for measuring and/or controlling displacement, force, pressure, position, or chemistry is disclosed. This apparatus allows for more accurate, robust, and economical communication between the transducer (or control input element) and the reader device (or control output), allows the use of a single optic fiber and/or or a gap for the communication link, and produces substantial insensitivity to attenuation due to mechanical, chemical, thermal, and radiation effects acting on the optic fiber or open space in which the signal propagates. It is also significantly immune to interference from electromagnetic radiation, since the link can be easily produced as a non-conductor which will not propagate unwanted electrical energy or lightning, and is intrinsically safe from igniting fires or explosions. It also facilitates use on rotating machinery and remote location of the transducer by the ability to transmit the signal across a large gap or air space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Inventor: Nathan John Coleman
  • Patent number: 7999694
    Abstract: An electronic sensor module for us in an interactive system, such as an interactive sports training device, for accurately detecting a projectile brought within close proximity of a target. The sensor module includes a plurality of light sources arranged in a housing such that the light sources are visible through a surface of the housing when activated. A plurality of sensors are also arranged in the housing for detecting the presence of a projectile. In one aspect, the sensors are arranged in a polar array about a center of housing with spaces between adjacent sensors, and with a light source positioned in each space between adjacent sensors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2011
    Inventors: Arthur L. Martin, Mark Simonds, Mark Weber
  • Patent number: 7990269
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for configuring a safety sensor such as a light barrier, with parameters which can be set on an application-specific basis, wherein an operator control unit equipped with input means is provided, which operator control unit is connected to the safety sensor under automatic interface and sensor identification, and the parameters on an application-specific basis are set using the input means, wherein a feedback message of the set parameters is simultaneously and automatically displayed in a visualized manner on a display unit (10) of the operator control unit. The present invention further relates to a corresponding operator control unit and to a method for monitoring a safety sensor with parameters which can be set on an application-specific basis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2011
    Assignee: OMRON Corporation
    Inventors: Harald Bork, Jochen Betz
  • Patent number: 7980719
    Abstract: A digital light used with stage items. The digital light can form a portion of a stage performers costume, by for example illuminating a logo of the or a shape or color onto that costume. The digital light can also form effects when used in conjunction with phosphor paint. Another aspect includes using the digital light to signal the performer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2011
    Assignee: Production Resource Group, L.L.C.
    Inventor: Jeremiah J. Harris
  • Patent number: 7969297
    Abstract: Light sources are affixed at appropriate positions in a multilevel structure or in an obstructed environment. The light sources generate modulated light signals, such as controlled light-emitting diodes, which identify the positions of the light sources by their three-dimensional global positioning coordinates and/or equivalent representation that specifies their in situ locations in the environment. Mobile communication devices, upon receiving the light signals, can derive spatial positioning information and transmit such information to a remote location, such as an emergency response system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2011
    Assignee: Sony Ericsson Mobile Communications AB
    Inventors: Jacobus C. Haartsen, William O. Camp, Jr., Phillip Marc Johnson, Norbert Donald Ingram
  • Patent number: 7968837
    Abstract: An object is to provide a separated sensor capable of synchronizing a light transmitting unit with a light receiving unit, without using a control line. There is provided a separated sensor including a light transmitting unit that transmits detection light to a monitoring area, and a light receiving unit that receives detection light transmitted by the light transmitting unit, the light transmitting unit and the light receiving unit laid out separately from each other. On one of the light transmitting unit and the light receiving unit, there is provided a synchronization-light transmitting unit that transmits, by wireless, synchronization light to synchronize the light transmitting unit with the light receiving unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2011
    Assignee: Hochiki Corporation
    Inventors: Satoshi Nakajima, Masayuki Itou
  • Patent number: 7940166
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an emergency assistance beacon signal methodology for law enforcement, emergency and military personnel by which such personnel who encounter an imminent need for assistance or rescue while on duty in a vehicle, may utilize such methodology to invite the assistance or rescue of other such personnel. Upon a first personnel determining that assistance or rescue is needed, the first personnel activate a powerful light element attached to a such that the powerful light directs a beam of light upwardly and non-horizontally from the vehicle. Upon a second personnel recognizing the beam of light, travels to a general area of the beam of light to locate the first and provides first personnel assistance or rescue.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 10, 2011
    Inventor: Konstantinos Koliopoulos
  • Patent number: 7928854
    Abstract: Techniques for smoke detection are provided. In one aspect, an exemplary smoke detection device is provided. The smoke detection device comprises an infrared beam transmitting unit; an infrared beam receiving unit; and a control module associated with the infrared beam transmitting unit and the infrared beam receiving unit. The infrared beam transmitting unit and the infrared beam receiving unit are configured to communicate with each other, via an infrared beam, and with the control module, via a signal produced in response to smoke being present at a level that is greater than a threshold smoke level.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2011
    Inventor: Gary Martino
  • Patent number: 7902979
    Abstract: There is disclosed apparatus and methods for a directed energy beam virtual fence. The directed energy beam virtual fence may include a source unit to provide an energy beam and a sequence of relay units disposed at intervals along the length of the virtual fence. Each relay unit in the sequence may receive the energy beam from a previous unit and may recollimate and redirect the energy beam towards a subsequent unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2011
    Assignee: Raytheon Company
    Inventor: Kenneth William Brown
  • Patent number: 7893829
    Abstract: A dispensing device includes a dispenser configured to dispense a volatile material, a sensor configured to detect an environmental condition, and a nonlinear circuit element coupled to the sensor to establish a bias point. A voltage level at the bias point varies nonlinearly with respect to a current that flows through the sensor, wherein the current that flows through the sensor represents the environmental condition. The dispensing device further includes a controller coupled to the bias point. The controller controls the dispenser to dispense the volatile material in response to the environmental condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Assignee: S.C. Johnson & Son, Inc.
    Inventors: Gene Sipinski, Thomas P. Blandino
  • Patent number: 7855657
    Abstract: An aid for a blind person (1), includes a distance sensor (3), which creates a distance image of an object (2). The distance information that is generated by the distance sensor (3) is transmitted to a tactile matrix (10), which is integrated into a guide stick (11). The blind person (1) obtains information about his or her environment by touching the tactile matrix (10).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 21, 2010
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Günter Doemens, Peter Mengel, Wolfgang Stark
  • Patent number: 7852213
    Abstract: A security system is disclosed for detecting intrusions at a plurality of predetermined locations having moveable closure members. The system comprises a plurality of intrusion sensors disposed at the locations for detecting movement of the closure members. Primary and secondary optical fiber sensor lines are routed through the intrusion sensors, and primary and secondary scanning units pulse signals along the sensor lines and receive reflected signals back from the sensor lines. A processor processes the reflected signals to determine if a reflection and/or attenuation change has occurred in a reflected pulse signal signifying a prescribed level of unauthorized intrusion activity which matches a signature intrusion signal. In the event of a cut through in the sensor lines, the primary sensor line monitors the sensors downstream of the break, and the secondary sensor line is activated to monitor the sensors upstream of the break.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2010
    Assignee: Woven Electronics, LLC
    Inventors: Thomas E. Browning, Jr., Randall E. Wooten, Mark C. Phillips, Mary H. Owens, Sam S. Shasteen
  • Patent number: 7852210
    Abstract: A motion detector for detecting a tampering within a detection zone. A vibration-sensing unit sensitive to vibrations applied to the detector is provided to produce a vibration output signal representative of a detected parameter of the vibrations. A light-sensing unit sensitive to light in a predetermined spectrum is provided to produce a light output signal representative of a detected parameter of the light in the predetermined spectrum. A processing unit is further provided to determine if the vibration output signal is consistent with a predetermined model indicative of a tampering and producing an activating signal accordingly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2010
    Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventors: David E. Merritt, Mark C. Buckley
  • Publication number: 20100302369
    Abstract: A security system suitable for surveying remote installations or sites containing obstacles is provided. The security system may also be well suited for surveying large areas or focusing in on certain spots in an area to be surveyed. The security system may comprise one or more satellite surveillance units (also called surveillance peripherals or simply satellite units) and a main server unit (also called a main unit). The satellite surveillance units may be deployed in a manner that may facilitate monitoring of locations on such sites that a single surveillance unit, even one comprising several surveillance devices, may not be able to monitor due to the presence of obstacles obscuring or blocking the lines of sight of the surveillance devices. The satellite surveillance units may transmit the results of the monitoring to the main server unit, and the main server unit may receive, process and/or store these results.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 1, 2009
    Publication date: December 2, 2010
    Inventor: MICHAEL G. MONSIVE, JR.
  • Patent number: 7843326
    Abstract: The disclosed system provides headgear, i.e., a Firefighter Helmet, with forward illumination that also acts as a personal rescue detection system for quickly finding a downed of lost firefighter. More specifically, the headgear includes a forward illuminating light that has unique characteristics that are easily detected in a smoke filled space by using a handheld photodetector probe that is tuned to the exact characteristics of the light source. The handheld probe has a somewhat narrow directional response to allow a directed search for a downed firefighter or other emergency personnel in a smoke filled noisy environment that hinders normal visual and audible search methods. The handheld photodetector probe produces a unique audio tone that is proportional in volume to the intensity of the exact-characteristics-light-source thus allowing a sweeping motion of the probe to immediately determine the relative direction to a firefighter who is down or requiring assistance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 30, 2010
    Inventors: Judd R. Weber, Eric Ermer, John T. Huston
  • Patent number: 7800047
    Abstract: A computerized apparatus and method for detecting unauthorized activity in a protected area in real-time using a fiber optic cable having an optical sensor line, a fiber scanning unit, and a computer. Detecting unauthorized activity is done by scanning the sensor line using the scanning unit to obtain repetitive scan signals representing the state of the sensor line, receiving scan signals at the computer, processing the scan signals to determine an initial baseline representing the normal state of the sensor line, storing the baseline, continuously monitoring the sensor line using the scan signals received in real-time by the computer, comparing the scan signal to the baseline, determining if a fault has occurred based on an predetermined attenuation change in one or more of the scan signals as compared to the baseline, generating a fault signal, and providing a warning of a fault in response to the fault signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2010
    Assignee: Woven Electronics, LLC
    Inventors: Thomas E. Browning, Jr., Mary H. Owens
  • Patent number: 7796036
    Abstract: A secure connector is provided. The secure connector comprises a casing; a tamper sensor disposed inside the casing and configured to detect unauthorized tamper events; and one or more conductors configured to carry signals, the one or more conductors passing through the tamper sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2010
    Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventors: William J. Dalzell, Scott G. Fleischman, James L. Tucker, Kenneth H. Heffner
  • Patent number: 7782196
    Abstract: An entrance denial security system for detecting a fault condition at one or more entrances into a secured area representing unauthorized activity and an attempt to gain entry through the entrance. The system comprising an entrance barrier closing an entrance into a secured area; the barrier including a plurality of hollow structural elements having hollow cores forming a rigid integral barrier; an optical fiber sensor line laced through the hollow cores of the structural elements of the gate for detecting the fault condition; a processor in communication with the fiber sensor line for generating a fault signal in response to the occurrence of a fault condition and identifying the entrance where the fault condition occurred; and a communication device operatively associated with the processor for communicating the fault signal so that a proper security response can be made to the fault condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 24, 2010
    Assignee: Woven Electronics, LLC
    Inventors: Douglas E. Piper, Sr., Thomas E. Browning, Jr., Mary Hester Owens, Clifford Leroy DeYoung, Sam Snead Shasteen
  • Publication number: 20100194559
    Abstract: Disclosed is a detection process performed in the detector, which is switchable between an active detection mode, where the detector actively monitors the surrounding area, and a passive detection mode. The data obtained by operation in the active detection mode for the first time are temporarily stored to serve as an initial environmental parameter. Subsequently, the detector operates primarily in the passive detection mode to determine whether or not a downstream device is to be activated, while switching intermittently from the passive detection mode to the active detection mode to thereby determine the activation or deactivation of the downstream device based on the result of comparing the detected value with the initial environmental parameter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 19, 2008
    Publication date: August 5, 2010
    Inventor: Cheng-Hung HUANG
  • Patent number: 7755024
    Abstract: A safety sensing system includes an apparatus for use in a doorway having a powered door slidable for closure of the doorway. The apparatus includes radiation transmitters and/or receivers for providing a curtain of detection beams across the doorway, and is formed as a composite structure that includes: a fixative member connectable by securing means to a side of the doorway at a door frame, the fixative member including a first portion of a mating connection means; and, a housing containing a plurality of the transmitters and/or receivers along its length, and including a second portion of the mating connection means for attaching the sealed housing to the fixative member. The mating connection means allows the housing to be removed and replaced while the fixative member remains in situ.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 13, 2010
    Assignee: MEMCO Limited
    Inventors: Terence Christopher Platt, Robert Douglas Wells
  • Patent number: 7741597
    Abstract: A motion sensor incorporates an internal light source, typically a super bright LED and an optical projection system visible to an observer standing in the motion sensor coverage zone(s) to simplify orientation of the sensor on installation. A multi-lens system or an arrangement of small windows in front of the LED projects a visible light pattern that mimics the detection pattern of the motion sensor to an observer standing in the detection zone and looking at the sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 22, 2010
    Assignee: Jenesis International Inc.
    Inventors: Bradford B. Jensen, Kim I. McCavit
  • Publication number: 20100141444
    Abstract: The present invention provides a system and method for improved white light immunity for 1R motion sensors. The system comprises a first sensor responsive to light in a first range of wavelengths in the secure area, the first sensor generating a first output signal indicative of a first detected parameter of the light in the first range of wavelengths, a second sensor proximate to the first sensor, the second sensor being responsive to light in a second range of wavelengths in the secure area, and a logic unit for compensating the first output signal based in part upon a reference signal indicative of a second parameter of the light in the second range of wavelengths. The first sensor is a pyroelectric sensor and the second sensor is a visible light sensor. The second parameter comprises an intensity value of the light in the second range of wavelengths, wherein the reference signal is indicative of a differentiation of said intensity value with respect to time.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 10, 2008
    Publication date: June 10, 2010
    Applicant: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventors: Joe Patrick Brown, Armin Duft, Tobias Koenig
  • Publication number: 20100141443
    Abstract: An in-container monitoring sensor system is based on an UWB radar intrusion detector positioned in a container and having a range gate set to the farthest wall of the container from the detector. Multipath reflections within the container make every point on or in the container appear to be at the range gate, allowing intrusion detection anywhere in the container. The system also includes other sensors to provide false alarm discrimination, and may include other sensors to monitor other parameters, e.g. radiation. The sensor system also includes a control subsystem for controlling system operation. Communications and information extraction capability may also be included. A method of detecting intrusion into a container uses UWB radar, and may also include false alarm discrimination. A secure container has an UWB based monitoring system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 16, 2009
    Publication date: June 10, 2010
    Inventors: Carlos E. Romero, Peter C. Haugen, James M. Zumstein, Richard R. Leach, JR., Mark L. Vigars
  • Patent number: 7719436
    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 couple with the display. The handheld user command tool is also adapted to generate an optical serial communication. The optical serial communication provides data and commands for operation of the faulted circuit indicator. The display may be remote or integrated into the FCI.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2010
    Assignee: Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories, Inc.
    Inventor: Laurence V. Feight
  • Publication number: 20100117830
    Abstract: An intrusion detection system for monitoring a premises includes at least one optical cable that houses at least one optical fiber and extends about the premises. Optical time domain reflectometry (OTDR) means is operably coupled to opposite first and second ends of the at least one optical fiber. The OTDR means includes first signal processing circuitry that analyzes the backscatter signal received via the first end of the at least one optical fiber in order to detect an intrusion of the premises, and second signal processing circuitry that analyzes the backscatter signal received via the second end of the at least one optical fiber in order to detect an intrusion of the premises. The redundancy of intrusions decisions made by the first and second signal processing circuitry can be verified.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 6, 2007
    Publication date: May 13, 2010
    Applicant: SCHLUMBERGER TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION
    Inventors: Andrew Strong, Arthur H. Hartog
  • Patent number: 7705286
    Abstract: A mobile storage system includes a number of storage units supported by a supporting surface, including first and second storage units that are movable toward and away from each other to create an aisle. A sensing system detects the presence of persons or objects in the aisle and the direction of movement of persons or objects into or out of the aisle. The sensing system includes exit zone sensors located adjacent an end area of the storage units that defines the end area of the aisle, and inner sensors located along an inner area of the storage units inwardly of the end area. The exit zone and inner sensors are located at generally the same elevation above the supporting surface. Each of the storage units includes a carriage that is movable relative to the supporting surface, and the sensors are mounted to the carriage via a sensor housing interconnected with the carriage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2010
    Assignee: Spacesaver Corporation
    Inventors: Matthew A. Tourdot, Brian P. Bourke, William B. McHenry, Steven M. Lehmann
  • Publication number: 20100097216
    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: Application
    Filed: November 12, 2007
    Publication date: April 22, 2010
    Inventor: Christopher John Morcom
  • Patent number: 7696468
    Abstract: A device is provided for detecting an object within a monitored area of a machine or installation. The device includes at least one sensor for detecting objects within the monitored area. At least one configuration module is fixedly connected to the machine or the installation. The configuration module includes configuration data for the sensor, wherein the at least one configuration module feeds the sensor with the configuration data upon being connected to the sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2010
    Assignee: Leuze Lumiflex GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Lutz Lohmann
  • Patent number: 7675415
    Abstract: A method for controlling security truck door lockers and a structure for controlling security truck door lockers are disclosed. A control device is configured to control electronic lockers respectively mounted on security truck doors by means of detecting the unlocked/locked status of the electronic lockers and changing or not changing their status accordingly, and then informing users of the locker's current status. The electronic locker includes a substrate, a fastener, a stopper, a micro switch, and a locker core. When a bolt of the door fastens the fastener, the stopper horizontally moves to contact a bottom of the fastener by means of controlling the operation of the micro switch, or the locker core drives an engagement portion to contact the fastener so that the fastener is fastened and the locker is locked.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2010
    Inventor: Ping-Jan Yang
  • Patent number: 7671733
    Abstract: A system for monitoring and reporting medical alarms includes an alarm messenger for receiving an alarm signal from monitored equipment. The alarm signal includes information to enable determination of the location of the monitored equipment. The alarm messenger outputs an alarm messenger signal including the information. A database includes a master association table stored in the database. A central server receives the alarm signal, utilizes the information from the alarm signal to access the master association table to determine alarm information and, in response to the alarm information, notifies the appropriate staff of an alarm condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2010
    Assignee: Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V.
    Inventors: Michael McNeal, Axel Souders, Mark Brezina, Adrian Crooks, Juan Sierra, David Weiss
  • Patent number: 7667598
    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: June 19, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2010
    Assignee: Lockheed Martin Corporation
    Inventors: William Yenisch, Richard Leblanc
  • Patent number: 7667585
    Abstract: A method and a device for improving the visibility in a motor vehicle, at least one infrared sensor of the motor vehicle producing a sensor signal when a person is situated in the area illuminated by the light source, and the light source being controlled dependent on the sensor signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2010
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventor: Dominique Marchal
  • Publication number: 20100039261
    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: Application
    Filed: January 22, 2008
    Publication date: February 18, 2010
    Inventors: Douglas E. Piper, Thomas E. Browning, Mary Hester Owens, Clifford Leroy DeYoung
  • Patent number: 7646944
    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 fiber arrangement has different density in different parts of the monitored structure, such as, for example, critical places in the structure may have larger number of fiber loops surrounding them. All fibers transmit signals in both directions: from the transceiver to a returning point and back. 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. Polarization states of the returning signals are controlled by transceiver built-in controllers. 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: May 14, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 12, 2010
    Assignee: CeLight, Inc.
    Inventor: Arkady Kaplan
  • Publication number: 20090295580
    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: Application
    Filed: April 21, 2009
    Publication date: December 3, 2009
    Applicant: KEYENCE CORPORATION
    Inventors: Tetsu Inoue, Akiji Yamaguchi
  • Publication number: 20090289791
    Abstract: This invention provides a monitor area setting device with which an area can be easily added to or deleted from a monitor area. The device includes: an area addition/deletion specifying unit that specifies an addition area and a deletion area based on an input signal from an operating unit; an inconsistent area extraction unit that extracts an area that is between the safety area and the addition area with respect to the safety sensor as an inconsistent area; and an area setting update unit that updates area setting information so as to set an area formed either by adding the addition area and the inconsistent area to the safety area or by excluding the deletion area and the inconsistent area from the safety area as a new monitor area.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 21, 2009
    Publication date: November 26, 2009
    Applicant: KEYENCE CORPORATION
    Inventor: Tomohiro Onishi
  • Patent number: 7619517
    Abstract: Improved alarm system that is able to distinguish intrusions by persons from intrusions by others, such as nonhuman animals and inanimate objects. Multiple sensors are placed in a vertically aligned array, so that each sensor monitors at a different elevation. As animals and other objects generally have different sizes and shapes than humans, the vertically spaced sensors will detect different intrusion patterns than the intrusion patterns typically generated by a human. By analyzing these different intrusion profiles and only signaling an alarm when a profile resembling an intrusion by a person occurs, a number of false alarms can be avoided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 17, 2009
    Assignee: Inet Consulting Limited Company
    Inventor: Larry Tracy
  • Publication number: 20090278684
    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: Application
    Filed: May 12, 2008
    Publication date: November 12, 2009
    Applicant: ROBERT BOSCH GMBH
    Inventor: Dennis M. Petricoin, JR.
  • Patent number: 7616895
    Abstract: A device and method for operating an optoelectronic safety sensitive edge (100) for the safeguarded motor-driven movement of a gate having a closing edge (141). The device has a deformable, hollow, elastic profile (110), a light transmitter device with a light transmitter (121a), and a transmitter control system (121b), by means of which at least one operating parameter of the light transmitter (121a) can be adjusted, a light receiver device (122) with a light receiver, the light transmitter device and the light receiver device (122) being coupled optically and electrically by the transfer of dynamic signals, an optical, dynamic coupling signal (K2, K2?, K2?) within the hollow profile (110); and an evaluating device (130) with means for detecting an electric, dynamic coupling signal (K2, K2?, K2?), the evaluating device (130), generating a release signal in response to the detected, dynamic, electric coupling signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 10, 2009
    Assignee: Fraba NV
    Inventor: Achim Leeser
  • Patent number: 7598484
    Abstract: A photoelectric sensor according to the present invention, performs a determination as to whether or not an object is present in a predetermined detection area and provides (1) a enable signal to enable operation related to a hazardous source and (2) a disable signal to disable the operation based on a result of the determination. The photoelectric sensor determines whether or not the object is present within the predetermined detection area and whether or not the object is present at a reference point which is a different location within a measurement area from the predetermined detection area, based on a position information; and provides the enable signal when the object is absent from the predetermined detection area but the object is present at the reference point, and provides the disable signal when the object is present within the predetermined detection area and the object is absent at the reference point.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 6, 2009
    Assignee: Keyence Corporation
    Inventor: Akiji Yamaguchi
  • Patent number: RE42495
    Abstract: An intruder detection and warning system has a plurality of infrared sensors for receiving infrared radiation from respective contiguous areas of premises in need of security. A central illumination unit including a rotatable light is operated to project a beam illuminating a selected one of the contiguous areas of the premises in response to the received infrared radiation by the infrared sensor in the selected area indicating presence of a person in the selected area. Initially a polite message randomly selected from a group of different polite messages is broadcast to request the intruder to leave the premises. When continued presence of the intruder is detected, the light beam is moved away from and then back to the selected area and a further message randomly selected from a group of different more demanding messages is broadcast to demand the intruder to leave the premises.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2011
    Assignee: Communicated Enforcement, LLC
    Inventors: Stephen Whitten, Richard Stockstill