Beam Patents (Class 340/556)
  • Patent number: 8587457
    Abstract: The present invention relates to method for obtaining traffic information by the use means of optical signals between a vehicle and an optical communication node, wherein the node forms part of a road network. According to the present invention there is provided a method comprising a first method for detecting a vehicle using a first light detector and first light source associated with the node, wherein the first detection method comprises the steps of: a light signal being transmitted by the first light source; this light signal being detected by the first light detector; characterized by causing the light signal transmitted by the first light source to be reflected on the underside of the vehicle, measuring this reflected light with the first light detector and determining a presence status subject to this measurement. The present invention also provides an optical communication assembly and system for implementing the method.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2013
    Inventor: Markus Henricus Beuvink
  • Publication number: 20130278423
    Abstract: A detecting device includes at least one transmitter and plural receivers. After the at least one transmitter emits plural incident light beams to a detection zone, plural reflected light beams reflected from the detection zone are received by the plural receivers. If no object is moved within the detection zone, the plural reflected light beams strike a first part of the plural receivers, so that the plural receivers are in an initial reception configuration. If an object is moved within the detection zone, the plural reflected light beams are disturbed by the object and deflected to a second part of the plural receivers, so that the plural receivers are in a disturbed reception configuration. According to the reception configuration change, a moving direction of the object within the detection zone is determined. Consequently, the detecting range is largely enhanced, and the cost is reduced.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 17, 2013
    Publication date: October 24, 2013
    Applicant: LivingStyle Enterprises Limited
    Inventors: MING-YUN CHEN, SHENG-GUO HONG
  • 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: 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: 8497783
    Abstract: The invention relates to the determination of direction, speed and/or distance of vehicles on a roadway by means of a sensor, which operates according to the light-section procedure and is directed onto the roadway, for recording the surface contour of a vehicle, and an evaluation unit, which is connected to the sensor and determines the direction, speed and/or distance of the vehicles therefrom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 30, 2013
    Assignee: Kapsch Trafficcom AG
    Inventors: Alexander Leopold, Andreas Schechora, Oliver Nagy
  • 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: 8482417
    Abstract: A networked jump safety system and method for monitoring a jump area is described. The system comprises a safety analysis station connected via a network to least one monitoring station. The output of a sensor is analyzed at the safety analysis station to determine if it is safe for a rider to enter a jump area. A status corresponding to the determination is transmitted via the network from the safety analysis station to a light emitting output.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2013
    Inventor: David Stewart
  • 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: 8466786
    Abstract: A lock mechanism for locking a door or the like with a Sabbath control unit comprises a Sabbath control unit comprising an optical device including a light beam emitter and detector spaced apart with a line of sight path between them, the optical device operative to provide output indicating if a light beam emitted by the emitter is received by the detector, and a locking mechanism comprising a moving member operative to be displaced between a locked state position wherein the door is locked and an unlocked state position wherein the door is unlocked, wherein the moving member is operative to block the line of sight path while in the locked state position and to clear the line of site path while in the unlocked state position, and wherein the Sabbath control unit is operative to activate an electronic device in response to output indicating that the light beam emitted by the emitter has not been received by the detector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2013
    Assignee: Rav-Mafteah Ltd.
    Inventor: Asher Haviv
  • Patent number: 8463561
    Abstract: A stand-alone renewable-energy generating device which generates electric energy from renewable energy sources, such as the sun or wind, in a stand-alone context. To allow users to asses their contribution to carbon dioxide emission savings, a sensor element that is configured to generate emission savings data representative of electric energy units generated by using a renewable energy device. Further, a clock device is configured to generate a time data representative of at least one of a time and a date specification and unique sensor-ID data are stored in a memory. A processor unit is configured to time-stamp the emission savings data by combining it with the time data. The processor unit retrieves the sensor-ID data to combine them with the emission savings data to form savings profile data. A communication interface is configured to communicate the savings profile data directly or indirectly via a network system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2013
    Assignee: Changers LLC
    Inventors: Dirk Gamboa Tuesta, Markus Schulz
  • 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: 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: 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: 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: 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: 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: 8339260
    Abstract: A hazardous area in the region surrounding a reel transport of a reel changer is secured. A contactless protective device is located at the access boundaries of the region. This protective device can be deactivated for feeding and/or removing a known object and comprises an evaluation unit. The protective device is configured as a light curtain that is comprised of a plurality of light beams that run in parallel to each other. The evaluation unit includes an assembly for detecting the sequence of the interruption of the light beams during the feeding and/or the removal of an object. Based on the detected sequence of interruption of the light beams, a known object, that is permitted to access the hazardous area, is detected. The protective device is deactivated in this situation. Securing the hazardous area further includes the provision of a second contactless protective device that is permanently active.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2012
    Assignee: Koenig & Bauer Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Katja Paula Krieger, Manfred Wilhelm Maierhöfer, Klaus Karl Müller, Josef Herbert Olbort, Karlheinz Rahner, Senad Ugljesa
  • Patent number: 8334771
    Abstract: Slaves are respectively provided corresponding to electric devices, measure, in real time, power usage states and disposed positions of the electric devices to transmit to a master. The master detects operational states of electric devices on operation based on power usage states received from the slaves, and detects a positional relation between electric devices on operation based on disposed positions of the electric devices. Then, the master estimates the number of residents in the house by determining achievability of operational states of electric devices based on the detected operational states and positional relation of electric devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 18, 2012
    Assignee: National Institute of Information and Communications Technology
    Inventors: Takashi Matsuyama, Tatsuya Yamazaki, Yasuo Tan, Yutaka Kidawara, Rui Teng, Youngjae Kim
  • Patent number: 8319649
    Abstract: An electronic insect electrocution device with an integral display and counting means that displays the number of discharges, or “zapped” insects is herein disclosed. The device comprises a lamp enclosed within an enclosure comprising series of alternating grids energized by a voltage increasing device, which electrocutes any insects that fly towards the lamp. A numeric digital display is provided on the top of the enclosure and reflects the current number of discharges or killed insects. The counter is provided with an input signal that detects the voltage fluctuation of the grid every time an insect is killed. This detection circuit drives a counting circuit which interfaces with the counter. It is reset every time the unit is unplugged.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2012
    Inventor: James E. Devane
  • Patent number: 8319172
    Abstract: An optoelectronic sensor (10) is provided having a transmitter (12) for operating light, a light receiver (14) for the generation of an electrical received signal from incident light and an evaluation unit (16) which can detect an object in the beam path from the transmitter (12) for operating light to the light receiver (14) from the received light, wherein a first alignment light transmitter (13a) is provided. In this respect, a second alignment transmitter (13b) is provided, with the first alignment light transmitter (13a) and the second alignment light transmitter (13b) being able to be individually activated and the evaluation unit (16) being designed to determine alignment information on the adjustment of the sensor (10) from a received first alignment signal of the light receiver (14) with an activated first alignment light transmitter (13a) and from a received second alignment signal of the light receiver (14) with an activated second alignment light transmitter (13b).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2012
    Assignee: Sick AG
    Inventors: Michael Klein, Christoph Märkle, Bernhard Schindler, Fabian Weisenberger
  • Patent number: 8284071
    Abstract: An assembly (20) for controlling movement of an automatically moveable door panel (22) includes a sensor (30, 32, 34) positioned on at least one of a door panel (22) or a door frame member (24, 26). The sensitive portion provides an indication of when an object is in contact with or in very close proximity to a sensitive portion. A sensitive portion is established over an area of the door or door frame member at which an object may become caught during automated door movement. A disclosed example includes using an electromechanical film as a sensor so that the sensitive portion is responsive to pressure applied by the object on the sensitive portion. Another disclosed example includes a field effect sensor that generates an electric field that is at least partially interrupted when an object contacts or comes in very close proximity to the sensitive portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2012
    Assignee: Otis Elevator Company
    Inventors: Pei-Yuan Peng, Jaime A. Rivera, Atsushi Yamada, Takashi Saiki
  • Publication number: 20120242508
    Abstract: Disclosed is a method for the monitoring of a cabin region of a transport system located outside a field of view, wherein at least one light beam is emitted, passing through the cabin region in the longitudinal direction, and in the event of a disturbance of the at least one light beam path a message is generated. A monitoring device is also provided, with at least one emitter unit for purposes of emitting at least one light beam, with at least one receiver unit for purposes of receiving the emitted light beam, and with at least one messaging unit for purposes of generating a message in the event of a disturbance of the at least one light beam path; also disclosed is an aircraft cabin with at least one such monitoring system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 22, 2012
    Publication date: September 27, 2012
    Applicant: AIRBUS OPERATIONS GMBH
    Inventor: Carsten KOHLMEIER-BECKMANN
  • 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: 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: 8193936
    Abstract: A solar powered perimeter beam security system comprising a plurality of spaced towers. The towers have detection beams extending between them for detecting an intruder when at least one of the detection beams is interrupted. Each of the towers communicates with a remote unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2012
    Assignee: Solarbeam Security, LLC
    Inventor: Robert Houston
  • 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: 8164472
    Abstract: A jump safety system and method for monitoring a jump landing area is described. The system of examining a landing area associated with the jump includes a camera, a memory, a processor, an image processing module, and a light emitting output. The camera is positioned to generate a camera output that displays the landing area. The landing area has a declining slope angle that reduces a landing force in relation to the slope angle. The image processing module, which is controlled by the processor, determines a landing area clear status by analyzing the camera output and determining the landing area is clear of obstructions. A landing area obstruction status is determined by identifying that there is an obstruction in the landing area. The light emitting output communicates either the landing area clear status or the landing area obstruction status.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2012
    Inventor: David James Stewart
  • Patent number: 8144014
    Abstract: An electronic article surveillance system utilizing infrared communication is disclosed wherein added security is obtained by using dynamic passcode protection. The system includes tags, deactivators, a base control system and perhaps one or more remote management stations. Each tag, base station, remote station and deactivator includes an accurate clock generator, a microprocessor, infrared communication capabilities, and machine readable instructions encoded for performing an algorithm for generating multiple passcodes. At a specified time, each active tag possesses a changeable passcode. The base station further includes infrared communication capabilities with an infrared communication path between each tag and each base station, the path enabling interchange of information between each tag and each base station. Each tag replaces the passcode at a specified interval, or at a specified point in time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2012
    Assignee: WG Security Products
    Inventor: Xiao Hui Yang
  • Patent number: 8094039
    Abstract: An application solution using infrared communication in automatic sensing for use in bathroom sanitary wares. A main circuit board emits an infrared pulse signal on one side to detect a user. After a user is detected, the main circuit board produces a group of pulse collated code opening valve signals to drive another infrared emitting diode to send this collated code. The infrared receiving diode on the slave board receives this collated code, transforms it into a pulse signal and then transmits it to the chip for procession. If the collated codes agree with each other, the solenoid valve can be controlled to open or close the valve. At the same time, the collated code is returned to the main circuit board, which consequently stops emitting the collated code signal for opening the valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2012
    Assignee: Shanghai Kohler Electronics, Ltd.
    Inventor: Chen Weigen
  • Patent number: 8093544
    Abstract: A passenger detecting apparatus including a sensor unit of a small size heightwise which can be manufactured inexpensively includes a light emitting means (21a, . . . , 21h) for emitting light rays in a substantially horizontal direction, a beam forming means (22a, 22b) for transforming light rays emitted from the light emitting means into a collimated or converged light beam in a substantially horizontal direction, a downward reflecting means (23a, 23b) for reflecting the light beam in a direction toward a lower seat disposed in the compartment, and a light receiving means (24a, 24b) for receiving the light beams scattered upon striking on the passenger for thereby detecting the state of the passenger.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2012
    Assignee: Mitsubishi Denki Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Katsuaki Yasui
  • 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
  • Patent number: 8063780
    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: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2011
    Assignee: Keyence Corporation
    Inventor: Tomohiro Onishi
  • Publication number: 20110273293
    Abstract: A light-curtain alarm system is disclosed that provides to authorized persons uninhibited access to a protected item by automatically, temporarily deactivating the alarm whenever proximity of an authorized person is detected. Each authorized person carries a deactivating device that is detected at short range, preferably using radio waves or Bluetooth. Embodiments can track detection information, and/or distinguish between a plurality of deactivating devices, so as to track and/or control access to the protected item. The deactivating device can be included in an identification badge, and/or can be carried in a pocket or worn around a wrist or neck. The light-curtain can be generated using any combination of lasers and/or other light sources, light reflectors, and photo-detectors. In preferred embodiments, the alarm system can be configured to control access to a magnet of a magnetic resonance device, such as an MRI or NMR.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 4, 2011
    Publication date: November 10, 2011
    Inventors: Arnold Itkin, Douglas P. Burum
  • 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: 8026820
    Abstract: The movement of persons is indicated at least at two predefined locations in a building with motion detectors intended for monitoring each location and fastened to the building. By means of the detections, the movement of each person is detected from a predefined initial location to a predefined destination location in a predefined time without raising an alarm if the detected locations of the person form a line of predefined consecutive locations. Otherwise, an alarm is raised.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2011
    Assignee: Seniortek Oy
    Inventors: Pasi Nurmela, Sami Nurmela
  • 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: 8009044
    Abstract: A detector, system including a detector and method for sensing motion within a detection region. The detector has a detection element and a focusing element aiming received energy corresponding to a presence within the detection region toward the detection element. The focusing element has a plurality of sections in which each of the plurality of sections establishes a corresponding detection zone within the detection region. The plurality of sections are arranged to allow a motion vector to be determined for an object passing through the detection region. The system includes a detector that generates pulses each time presence in a detector zone is detected as well as a central alarm panel. The central alarm panel receives the pulses and has processor that evaluates the timing between electrical pulses to determine the motion vector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Assignee: Sensormatic Electronics, LLC
    Inventors: Gary Mark Shafer, Alfred Yarbrough
  • Patent number: 8004405
    Abstract: It is provided an alarm system for underground boundary intrusion detection, and methods for deployment and operation. The deployment method includes constructing of a computing-and-empowering apparatus, connecting thereof a longitudinally extended power-and-communication cable, connecting addressable junction-units, storing a physical location and an address of each junction-unit in the computing-and-empowering apparatus, connecting each addressable junction-unit to a wired-mole having a wire bundle which initially is contracted there within and measurable physical characteristics, and infiltrating the wired-moles normally into ground to a desired depth. In operation, the sensors frequently measure the physical characteristics of the wired-mole, deliver the measurement of the physical characteristics to the computing-and-empowering apparatus, which stores and analyzes the measurements, comparing past and present measurements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2011
    Assignee: Nuclear Research Center-Negev
    Inventor: Gyora Gal
  • 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: 7973273
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a light barrier for the monitoring of a light path having a base assembly of a first transmitter emitting a light signal and a first receiver generating an output signal for a control. In accordance with the invention, the light barrier has an active reflector assembly having a second receiver for the reception of the light signal emitted by the first transmitter and a second transmitter for the transmission of a feedback signal in dependence on the received light signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2011
    Assignee: Marantec Antriebs—und Steuerungstechnik GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Michael Hoermann
  • 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: 7884313
    Abstract: A sensor arrangement includes at least one transparent elevation, which is formed on the surface. The transparent elevation is made of a first transparent material. At least one first facet of the transparent elevation defines a first angle with the surface. This first angle is larger than an angle at which a total-reflection occurs at an interface of the first transparent material and air and is at the same time smaller than an angle at which a total reflection occurs at an interface of the first transparent material and the liquid. A light source is arranged for emitting an incident ray into a first direction passing through the surface into the transparent elevation such that in a presence of a liquid at the first facet, an incident ray is transmitted through the first facet. In an absence of a liquid, the incident ray is reflected due to a total reflection at the facets. A light detector is provided for detecting the reflected ray.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2011
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventor: Matthieu Richard
  • 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
  • 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