Vibration Patents (Class 340/566)
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Patent number: 6873921Abstract: An improved method for detecting the presence of humans or animals concealed within in a vehicle uses a combination of the continuous wavelet transform and a ratio-based energy calculation to determine whether the motion detected using seismic sensors placed on the vehicle is due to the presence of a heartbeat within the vehicle or is the result of motion caused by external factors such as the wind. The method performs well in the presence of light to moderate ambient wind levels, producing far fewer false alarm indications. The new method significantly improves the range of ambient environmental conditions under which human presence detection systems can reliably operate.Type: GrantFiled: September 29, 2003Date of Patent: March 29, 2005Assignee: UT-Battelle, LLCInventor: Raymond W. Tucker, Jr.
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Patent number: 6867691Abstract: The detection output of a knock sensor, which detects knock of an internal combustion engine, is filtered by a filter in which the filtering frequency band is variable. The output of the filter is discriminated by a level discriminating unit with respect to a given determination level. A counter counts number c of times at which the detection output of the knock sensor is equal to or higher than the determination level. A determining unit determines whether knock occurs or not on the basis of the number c. In response to the output of the determining unit, when determination of occurrence of knock is impossible, a correcting unit conducts correction of shifting the filtering frequency band of the filter. Therefore, determination of occurrence of knock is enabled, and the accuracy of knock detection is improved.Type: GrantFiled: June 5, 2002Date of Patent: March 15, 2005Assignee: Fujitsu Ten LimitedInventor: Junya Nishimura
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Patent number: 6862253Abstract: A neural net sonic identification system includes an ultra-sonic emitter and receiver configured to detect characteristics of a subject by detecting reflections of the ultrasonic waves. The sonic reflections are processed by a neural network pattern recognition system that learns to recognize a particular subject and distinguish it from other subjects. The emitter/receiver is continuously optimized for phase, wavelength, spectral, and power frequencies, and the received sound “picture” is written-over the previously stored encrypted image data file for a particular individual, so as to continuously update the processor's retained identification information. In one embodiment, the emitter/receiver comprises a solid-state multi-layer tunable array of piezoelectric emitters and receivers that can be selectively “aimed” in different directions without physically moving by independently varying the wavelength and power of the various emitters/receivers.Type: GrantFiled: February 5, 2003Date of Patent: March 1, 2005Inventors: Robert L. Blosser, Ronald E. Madsen
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Patent number: 6816086Abstract: A driveway signaling device for detecting motion in a street immediately in front of a driveway and alerting a driver about to exit the driveway of such movement. The device has a pole, a motion detecting assembly mounted on the pole, and an anchor for anchoring the pole into the ground. The motion detecting assembly is mounted near the pole top, including a pair of motion detectors that extend outward from the sides of the pole in opposite directions for detecting motion in either direction in the street. The assembly has, a “red” light, a “green” light, a power source, and a logic device connecting the motion detectors to the pair of lights and the power source. Upon detection of movement, the “red” light is illuminated, signaling to the driver that it is hot safe to exit from the driveway. When no movement is detected for a predetermined time period, the “green” light is illuminated, signaling to the driver that it is safe to proceed out of the driveway.Type: GrantFiled: July 26, 2002Date of Patent: November 9, 2004Inventor: Jeffrey Kieffer, Sr.
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Patent number: 6813220Abstract: Methods and apparatus determine if an underwater intruder passes under a protective boundary. A sonar sensor system comprises a plurality of sonar sensor modules that are spaced on a protective boundary. A sonar sensor module comprises a sonar transducer (sonar array) that is characterized by an omni-directional radiation pattern that may overlap an omni-directional radiation pattern of an adjacent sonar sensor module transducer. The sonar sensor module collects sonar data such as range information of the target in relation to time. A central processor obtains the sonar data from each sonar module through a telemetry link. The central processor processes the sonar data from the plurality of sonar sensor modules in order to determine an estimated path of the target and may determine if the target should be considered as a threatening underwater intruder from a calculated threat level estimate based on this data.Type: GrantFiled: January 17, 2003Date of Patent: November 2, 2004Assignee: Science Applications International CorporationInventors: Gary W. Hicks, Larry R. McDonald
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Patent number: 6788216Abstract: Accessory alarm device of computer lock, including a housing in which an alarm system is installed and a connecting plate extending from the housing. The connecting plate is formed with at least one perforation adapted to a locking bolt of a computer lock. The locking bolt of the computer lock can be passed through the perforation and inserted into a socket of the computer to lock the alarm device on the computer. The alarm device is controllably set in a standby state. In case the computer is unauthorizedly moved, the shake will trigger the alarm device to emit alarm sound so as to achieve a burglarproof effect.Type: GrantFiled: September 18, 2002Date of Patent: September 7, 2004Inventor: Chung-Yang M. Chen
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Patent number: 6771166Abstract: In a vehicle (102) a method of detecting air bag (106) deployment includes detecting an acoustic energy level increase (150) and developing a spectral content (502) of the increase. Further comparing the spectral content (502) to a template (134) and if spectral content (502) correlates to template (134), outputting an air bag deployment signal (138). An apparatus for detecting air bag deployment includes a means for detecting an acoustic energy level increase (150) in a vehicle (102), a spectral content (502) of the acoustic energy level increase (150) and a template (134), where the spectral content (502) is compared to template. An air bag deployment signal (138) is outputted if the spectral content (502) correlates to the template (134).Type: GrantFiled: November 14, 2001Date of Patent: August 3, 2004Assignee: Motorola, Inc.Inventor: Gary E. Mastenbrook
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Publication number: 20040134281Abstract: An electronic device includes a motion sensitive power switching integrated circuit, which, in turn, includes a power switch connected between an input and an output, and a MEMS inertial sensing switch movable from a first position to a second position based upon motion thereof. The motion sensitive power switching integrated circuit also includes a detector operating the power switch to supply power to the output from the input based upon the MEMS inertial sensing switch moving from the first position to the second position. The first and second positions may be, respectively, a normally open position and a closed position. The device may be unpowered until the MEMS inertial sensing switch moves from the open to the closed position. The detector may generate a power on reset (POR) signal based upon the MEMS inertial sensing switch moving from the open to the closed position.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 10, 2003Publication date: July 15, 2004Applicant: STMicroelectronics, Inc.Inventors: Giorgio Pedrazzini, Ernesto Lasalandra, Bendetto Vigna
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Patent number: 6737972Abstract: A vibration sensor is used in conjunction with perimeter security systems. The sensor is comprised of two conductive spherical elements each resting on a pair of parallel conductive arcs. A plurality of sensors are attached to mounting device and placed at spaced intervals on a security fence. The sensors are used to detect persons who attempt to cut, climb, lift, or contact the security fence.Type: GrantFiled: November 8, 2002Date of Patent: May 18, 2004Assignee: Integrated Detection SystemsInventor: Meir Gitlis
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Publication number: 20040090330Abstract: A vibration sensor is used in conjunction with perimeter security systems. The sensor is comprised of two conductive spherical elements each resting on a pair of parallel conductive arcs. A plurality of sensors are attached to mounting means and placed at spaced intervals on a security fence. The sensors are used to detect persons who attempt to cut, climb, lift, or contact the security fence.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 8, 2002Publication date: May 13, 2004Inventor: Meir Gitlis
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Patent number: 6731210Abstract: A vibration detection and classification system and associated methods are disclosed. The system includes a waveguide in operative contact with a boundary, such as a security fence. At least one sensor for sensing vibrations such as acoustic waves is operatively connected to the waveguide, the waveguide extending the range of the sensor. At least one control circuit is operatively connected to the one or more sensors and is adapted for detecting and classifying vibrations. The method includes securing an area protected by a boundary by mechanically transmitting a vibration from a portion of the boundary to a waveguide, transmitting the vibration along the waveguide to a sensor, sensing the vibration at the sensor, determining at least one characteristic associated with the vibration, and using the at least one characteristic associated with the vibration to determine if the vibration is indicative of an intrusion.Type: GrantFiled: May 2, 2002Date of Patent: May 4, 2004Assignee: The Penn State Research FoundationInventors: David C. Swanson, Nicholas C. Nicholas, David Rigsby
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Patent number: 6707384Abstract: A system for automated monitoring of pest insects in stored products to help identify insect species and improve reliability across adverse external conditions, including environmental, biological and aging. The system includes sensor units having a microcontroller which collects, analyzes, and stores data from a signal pulse created by an insect falling through the sensor unit.Type: GrantFiled: May 2, 2001Date of Patent: March 16, 2004Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Department of AgricultureInventors: Dennis Shuman, R. David Crompton
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Patent number: 6703932Abstract: A warning system comprises a piezo-electric ceramic capable of resonating with an ultrasonic wave having a frequency within a predetermined frequency band and thus outputting an electric signal, a resonator capable of detecting only a signal component having a specific frequency from the electric signal output from the piezo-electric ceramic. When the resonator has detected a signal component having a specific frequency, an alarm signal is continuously generated for a predetermined time set by a timer, so that a warning notice is produced by an alarm device in accordance with the alarm signal.Type: GrantFiled: March 7, 2002Date of Patent: March 9, 2004Assignee: Iwata Electric Co., Ltd.Inventor: Kazuhiko Matsuzawa
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Patent number: 6696971Abstract: An adapter (10) for a light fixture (F) has a socket (16) into which the base of the light bulb (L) is screwed. The adapter has a base (12) sized to be inserted in a socket of the light fixture for attaching the adapter to the light fixture. The adapter further includes a housing (14) in which is installed an audio alarm (20) for a security system. The audio alarm is electrically operated and connected in parallel with the light bulb. Electrical current routed to the adapter through the light fixture simultaneously illuminates the light bulb screwed into the socket of the light holder and the audio alarm.Type: GrantFiled: December 12, 2001Date of Patent: February 24, 2004Inventor: Gess Tukin
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Patent number: 6693537Abstract: A personal item storage tray which includes a storage surface that incorporates a personal item identification, placement, retention, storage and removal apparatus or structure. One embodiment includes a substantially planar arrangement of depressions or recessed compartments designed to receive specific personal items such as, for example, eyeglasses, hearing aids and dentures. The compartments may be uniquely designed, shaped and marked to signal the uses of the compartment and to distinguish each compartment from the other to aid in visual identification and discrimination between the uses of each recessed compartment. The presence of items in the compartments is used to signal to the users of the tray that items are accounted for and not missing. The bottom surface of the tray includes a non-skid surface to avoid accidental or undesirable lateral movement. The tray is designed with a moldable or shapeable material.Type: GrantFiled: May 30, 2001Date of Patent: February 17, 2004Inventor: Ruth Frank
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Patent number: 6650239Abstract: An outdoor intrusion detection system that includes a portable housing (1), a plurality of adjustable fasteners (21) and (22), an augmented switch (5), and a sensor line (3) for sensing human and/or animal intrusions into a predetermined perimeter or boundary configuration, which can be variable in conformity with terrain and flora. A battery-powered high decibel piezo siren (7) activates when any intrusion occurs. The sensor line is released, retrieved, and stored on a reel that is an integral part of the housing, completing a lightweight alarm system that fits in a coat pocket or backpack pouch of a camper, hiker, or soldier. The system can also be used for protecting gardens and fruit trees, automobile and airplane displays, and comparable things.Type: GrantFiled: June 28, 2002Date of Patent: November 18, 2003Inventor: Thomas George Hron
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Patent number: 6642847Abstract: A pool alarm device for detecting when a person enters a pool. The pool alarm device includes a detector means for detecting motion. A saddle for holding the detector means removably receives the detector means. A fastening means removably fastens the saddle to the wall of the pool. A transmitter for transmitting a signal is operationally coupled to the detector means. The transmitter transmits a radio signal when the detector means detects motion. A housing holds a control means. A receiver receives a signal transmitted by the transmitter. The receiver is mounted in the housing and is operationally coupled to the control means. A speaker for producing an audible sound is operationally coupled to the control means. The speaker is mounted in the housing. The control means sends an audio signal to the speaker when the receiver receives a transmitted signal.Type: GrantFiled: August 31, 2001Date of Patent: November 4, 2003Inventor: Donald R. Sison
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Patent number: 6642848Abstract: This invention is pertaining to multi purpose shock sensor comprising three conductive plates arranged in 3 layers in parallel which make 2 variable capacitors connected in series. Two outer plates are firmly attached to a supporting insulating material and the center plate is located between the 2 outer plates and arranged as movable by resilient element toward either side of the outer plate depending on the direction of the impact felt on the shock sensor causing changes of the capacitance values of the both capacitors. If the 2 capacitors are connected across a voltage source through a resistor, the voltage is charged across the 2 capacitors and their charged values are inversely proportional to their capacitance values. Moving the center plate due to a shock causes changes on both capacitance values, which change voltages across the capacitors, and the changed voltage can be used to activate an object.Type: GrantFiled: April 15, 2002Date of Patent: November 4, 2003Inventor: Sang J. Choi
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Publication number: 20030201891Abstract: This invention is pertaining to multi purpose shock sensor comprising three conductive plates arranged in 3 layers in parallel which make 2 variable capacitors connected in series. Two outer plates are firmly attached to a supporting insulating material and the center plate is located between the 2 outer plates and arranged as movable by resilient element toward either side of the outer plate depending on the direction of the impact felt on the shock sensor causing changes of the capacitance values of the both capacitors. If the 2 capacitors are connected across a voltage source through a resistor, the voltage is charged across the 2 capacitors and their charged values are inversely proportional to their capacitance values. Moving the center plate due to a shock causes changes on both capacitance values, which change voltages across the capacitors, and the changed voltage can be used to activate an object.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 15, 2002Publication date: October 30, 2003Inventor: Sang J. Choi
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Publication number: 20030197609Abstract: A detachable alarm includes an enclosure, a suction cup connected to the enclosure, a circuit board connected to the suction cup and a spring. The circuit board has a vibration sensor, and the spring presses against a surface on which the alarm is mounted. The alarm is easily detachably mounted on doors or windows by the suction cup and the enclosure. The circuit board outputs sound when the vibration sensor detect abnormal vibrations on the surface. Therefore the alarm not only conveniently stick to any place to provide security but can output sound to frighten an intruder.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 23, 2002Publication date: October 23, 2003Inventor: Hung-Chang Liu
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Patent number: 6600417Abstract: The present invention involves a system and method for detecting a graffiti-making act such as the spray of a spray paint can, the writing with a felt-marker pen on a surface, and the scratching with an abrasive instrument on a surface. The system includes one or more sensors adapted to sense the graffiti-making act and transmit a signal representative of the graffiti-making act, and a base unit including electronics adapted to process the signal and determined whether the signal represents a graffiti-making act, and a communication device coupled to the electronics and adapted to communicate to one or more entities that a graffiti-making act has been detected. The method includes sonically detecting the graffiti-making act, and initiating an alarm indicating that the graffiti-making act took place.Type: GrantFiled: July 17, 2001Date of Patent: July 29, 2003Assignee: Traptec CorporationInventors: George H. Lerg, Arthur J. Devine, Donald L. Roberts, Randy E. Johnson
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Patent number: 6570500Abstract: The invention is a method for monitoring an environment by evaluating an infrasonic signal obtained from said environment. The method includes averaging said infrasonic signal (Vinfra) to provide an averaged infrasonic signal (Vav), mapping said averaged infrasonic signal (Vav) according to a function to provide an infrasonic noise signal (Vnoise); averaging said infrasonic noise signal (Vnoise) to provide an averaged infrasonic noise signal (Vav noise); offsetting said averaged infrasonic noise signal (Vav noise) with an offset value to provide an infrasonic level signal (Vlimit); comparing said infrasonic level signal (Vlimit) with said averaged infrasonic signal (Vav); and generating a trigger signal (30) if said averaged infrasonic signal (Vav) is greater than said infrasonic level signal (Vlimit).Type: GrantFiled: November 9, 2001Date of Patent: May 27, 2003Assignee: Nokia CorporationInventor: Norbert Pieper
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Publication number: 20030090377Abstract: The invention is a method for monitoring an environment by evaluating an infrasonic signal obtained from said environment. The method includes averaging said infrasonic signal (Vinfra) to provide an averaged infrasonic signal (Vav), mapping said averaged infrasonic signal (Vav) according to a function to provide an infrasonic noise signal (Vnoise); averaging said infrasonic noise signal (Vnoise) to provide an averaged infrasonic noise signal (Vav noise); offsetting said averaged infrasonic noise signal (Vav noise) with an offset value to provide an infrasonic level signal (Vlimit); comparing said infrasonic level signal (Vlimit) with said averaged infrasonic signal (Vav); and generating a trigger signal (30) if said averaged infrasonic signal (Vav) is greater than said infrasonic level signal (Vlimit).Type: ApplicationFiled: November 9, 2001Publication date: May 15, 2003Inventor: Norbert Pieper
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Patent number: 6538570Abstract: A glass-breakage detector that provides improved immunity to false triggering when detecting the breakage of a glass window, or similar structure, as sensed by an acoustic transducer. The detector employs a validation method which improves discrimination of commonly known false alarm signals, such as glass flexing. Signals from an acoustic transducer are amplified, conditioned, and measured within three signal processing sections which process the signals at low-frequencies, medium-frequencies, and high-frequencies according to methods highly selective to breakage events. The detector provides an alarm output upon validating a detected breakage event.Type: GrantFiled: June 22, 2000Date of Patent: March 25, 2003Assignee: Honeywell InternationalInventor: Richard A. Smith
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Patent number: 6529130Abstract: Detection of an intruder includes providing a sensor which senses an action generated by an intruder and produces a signal, determining portions of the signal from individual steps and making values of the signal with this portion closer to one another, determining a main amplitude threshold, obtaining an enveloping line of initial data of the signal, determining maximum values of amplitudes of the enveloping line and time points corresponding to the maximum amplitudes, determining an average value of time intervals between neighboring maximums of amplitudes and an average square value of the intervals of an average value, making more accurate the average value of time intervals between neighboring maximums of amplitudes of the enveloping line and average squared deviation of the time intervals from an average value, as well as other parameters, and making a decision about a presence of an intruder from the thusly determined parameters.Type: GrantFiled: February 16, 2001Date of Patent: March 4, 2003Assignee: General Phosphorix LLCInventor: Alex Pakhomov
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Patent number: 6525663Abstract: Briefly, an alarm system monitors the entry and exit of a fitting room. Various devices, including cameras for imaging, are used to scan customers as they enter and leave. Using image analysis, analysis of the audio signature of footfalls, and other criteria, the system attempts to match the images of customers leaving with stored images of customers entering. If no match can be found, an alarm signal is generated.Type: GrantFiled: March 15, 2001Date of Patent: February 25, 2003Assignee: Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V.Inventors: Antonio Colmenarez, Srinivas Gutta, Miroslav Trajkovic
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Patent number: 6518523Abstract: A tilt switch includes an insulating housing with an inner peripheral wall surface which confines an accommodation chamber for rollably receiving an electrically conductive ball. First and second electric contact terminals have upper end portions inserted into the chamber and having contact surfaces to contact the ball when the housing is in an upright position so as to make an electrical connection therebetween. The inner peripheral wall surface includes a shoulder segment for facilitating the rolling movement of the ball to break the electrical connection when the housing is tilted to a predetermined angle.Type: GrantFiled: November 13, 2001Date of Patent: February 11, 2003Inventor: Tien-Ming Chou
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Publication number: 20030020610Abstract: A vibration detection and classification system and associated methods are disclosed. The system includes a waveguide in operative contact with a boundary, such as a security fence. At least one sensor for sensing vibrations such as acoustic waves is operatively connected to the waveguide, the waveguide extending the range of the sensor. At least one control circuit is operatively connected to the one or more sensors and is adapted for detecting and classifying vibrations. The method includes securing an area protected by a boundary by mechanically transmitting a vibration from a portion of the boundary to a waveguide, transmitting the vibration along the waveguide to a sensor, sensing the vibration at the sensor, determining at least one characteristic associated with the vibration, and using the at least one characteristic associated with the vibration to determine if the vibration is indicative of an intrusion.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 2, 2002Publication date: January 30, 2003Inventors: David C. Swanson, Nicholas C. Nicholas, David Rigsby
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Publication number: 20030020609Abstract: A warning system comprises a piezo-electric ceramic capable of resonating with an ultrasonic wave having a frequency within a predetermined frequency band and thus outputting an electric signal, a resonator capable of detecting only a signal component having a specific frequency from the electric signal output from the piezoelectric ceramic. When the resonator has detected a signal component having a specific frequency, an alarm signal is continuously generated for a predetermined time set by a timer, so that a warning notice is produced by an alarm device in accordance with the alarm signal.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 7, 2002Publication date: January 30, 2003Inventor: Kazuhiko Matsuzawa
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Patent number: 6476721Abstract: An alarm arrangement for swimming pools includes an electronic transmitter unit (16) and an electronic receiver unit (18). The transmitter unit (16) has a housing (20) containing electronic circuitry. Water activated electrical contacts (24, 26) are provided outside the housing (20) for causing energization of the electronic circuitry when coming into contact with water for emitting an ultrasonic operative signal when a person wearing the transmitter unit (16) enters into water in a pool. The receiver unit (18) has a housing (36) containing electronic circuitry, water activated electrical contact (54, 56) outside its housing (36) for causing energization of the electronic circuitry when coming into contact with water, for detecting any preselected operative signal from the transmitter unit (16) when the transmitter unit (16) comes into contact with water in a pool so as to emit a suitable alarm signal.Type: GrantFiled: April 6, 2001Date of Patent: November 5, 2002Assignee: Diel Marketing (Pty) Ltd.Inventor: Bernhard Diebold
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Publication number: 20020145521Abstract: A system (and method) includes a sound monitoring system, a detector for identifying a source of the sound, a computing system for processing the sound to trigger a notification event, and a user interface system for notifying at least one individual responsible for the sound.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 4, 2001Publication date: October 10, 2002Inventors: Paul Bao-Luo Chou, Marco O. Gruteser, Jennifer C. Lai, Anthony Levas, Paul Andrew Moskowitz, Danny Chan Yong Wong
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Publication number: 20020113702Abstract: A system for detecting a walking intruder has at least one sensor which senses the presence of intruders, and a processing unit connected with the sensor and operative for determining a plurality of parameters, analyzing the parameters, and making a decision from the determined value about a type of intruder present.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 16, 2001Publication date: August 22, 2002Inventors: Alex Pakhomov, Tim Goldburt, AI Sicignano
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Patent number: 6411202Abstract: A safety system for a vehicle including at least one sensor (20) viewing at least one region (22) in an interior portion of a vehicle defining a protected volume at least partially in front of the vehicle airbag, and logic circuitry responsive to the at least one sensor (20) for determining geometric data of objects (151) in the protected volume.Type: GrantFiled: December 22, 1999Date of Patent: June 25, 2002Assignee: Sensotech Ltd.Inventors: Eli Gal, Uri Agam, Eli Ben-Bassat, Ronen Jashek
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Patent number: 6404336Abstract: The chamber (3) of the sensor (1) comprises a first and a second passage (16, 17) that communicate with the outside; a source of visible light (11) outside the chamber, through the first of the said passages (16), illuminates the interior of the chamber (3) and the spherical body (7) arranged inside it; an element sensitive to the quantity of light (9) outside the chamber to receive, through the second of the said passages (17), the light reflected from inside the chamber and electronic circuit that analyzes the electric signals correlated with the quantity of light seen by the said light-sensitive element (9) to generate at least one pulse that activates a movement control system of the means in which the sensor (1) is installed and an alarm system.Type: GrantFiled: May 15, 2001Date of Patent: June 11, 2002Assignee: Autotecnica S.r.L.Inventors: Achille Palumbo, Renzo Previati
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Patent number: 6377166Abstract: A movement sensor has a spherical body freely movable within a chamber. Radiation is passed through the chamber from at least two different sources. Detectors opposite the radiation sources produce signals responsive to the amount of detected radiation which is dependent on the position of the spherical body relative to the chamber.Type: GrantFiled: January 12, 2000Date of Patent: April 23, 2002Inventor: Joseph Cauchi
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Patent number: 6370481Abstract: An apparatus and method for human presence detection in vehicles where a vehicle vibration sensor is provided to sense vehicle vibration. This vibration signal is processed to obtain a measure of vehicle vibration independent of vehicle damping. Also, a seismic sensor senses ground vibrations in the area of the vehicle simultaneously with the sensing of vehicle vibration, and if the ground vibration exceeds a first threshold, the measure of vehicle vibration is discarded. Similarly, an infrasonic sensor may be used to sense infrasonic wind vibrations adjacent to the vehicle simultaneously with the sensing of vehicle vibration. When the infrasonic vibration within a desired frequency range exceeds a second threshold value, the measure of vehicle vibration is discarded.Type: GrantFiled: July 13, 1999Date of Patent: April 9, 2002Assignee: Ensco, Inc.Inventor: Thomas D. Gamble
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Patent number: 6359558Abstract: An alarm relay device including a microphone that produces a signal responsive to an audible alarm having a frequency. A first circuit coupled to the microphone produces a first detect signal when the signal is above a predetermined level. A second circuit coupled to the microphone and the first circuit receives power responsive to the first detect signal. The second circuit produces a second detect signal when the signal is within a predetermined range of the frequency.Type: GrantFiled: November 22, 1999Date of Patent: March 19, 2002Inventor: Philip Y. W. Tsui
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Patent number: 6351214Abstract: A method and a device for detecting the breakage of glass. A glass breakage detector that uses an acoustic transducer, an analog-to-digital converter, and a processing means which uses software algorithms to determine if a signal received by the acoustic transducer is a result of glass breaking. The glass breakage detector also uses amplifiers which have a greater gain response for higher frequency components in the received signal. The glass breakage detector is also able to correct the offset error generated by the amplifiers. The processing means or digital signal processor (DSP) uses a feature extraction software algorithm that extracts characteristics of the received sound using a plurality of filters centered at different frequencies and a rules analysis software algorithm to compare the extracted features to features from glass breakage and false alarms. The DSP is also capable of transmitting the extracted features to an external computing device for further analysis.Type: GrantFiled: April 9, 2001Date of Patent: February 26, 2002Assignee: Pittway Corp.Inventors: Kenneth G. Eskildsen, Ying Xiong, Christopher R. Paul, John E. Foster
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Patent number: 6335683Abstract: The invention concerns a method for discriminating between signals generated by means sensitive to variations in the pressure of a gaseous fluid. This method is characterized in that, in order to discriminate between electrical signals, it operates as follows: when a means (5) sensitive to pressure variations generates an electrical signal, the evolution of the amplitude of at least one characteristic of this signal is monitored and, when two successive amplitude variations (A1, A2) substantially opposite relative to a median value (M) are detected, a means (6) for informing people is inhibited, whereas when amplitude variations of a different type are detected, the means (6) for informing people is activated.Type: GrantFiled: October 30, 2000Date of Patent: January 1, 2002Inventor: Damien Bouillet
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Patent number: 6288643Abstract: The present invention involves a system and method for detecting a graffiti-making act such as the spray of a spray paint can, the writing with a felt-marker pen on a surface, and the scratching with an abrasive instrument on a surface. The system includes one or more sensors adapted to sense the graffiti-making act and transmit a signal representative of the graffiti-making act, and a base unit including electronics adapted to process the signal and determined whether the signal represents a graffiti-making act, and a communication device coupled to the electronics and adapted to communicate to one or more entities that a graffiti-making act has been detected. The method includes sonically detecting the graffiti-making act, and initiating an alarm indicating that the graffiti-making act took place.Type: GrantFiled: June 6, 2000Date of Patent: September 11, 2001Assignee: Traptec CorporationInventors: George H. Lerg, Arthur J. Devine, Donald L. Roberts, Randy E. Johnson
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Patent number: 6278367Abstract: A device for indicating/limiting the overall displacement of a movable member from a preset position, wherein the device (1) is selectively positionable to accomodate variation in allowable displacement of the movable member (32, 38, 39, 42, 49, 50, 52) prior to preventing displacement of the movable member or for providing an indication of any such displacement of the member.Type: GrantFiled: March 27, 2000Date of Patent: August 21, 2001Inventor: Neil Ernest Baglin
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Patent number: 6246322Abstract: An electronic key or other missing object locator device is responsive to the impulse characteristics of received sounds to distinguish expected impulse-like triggering sounds such as humanly produced hand claps from other impulse-like sounds such as speech or music or non-impulse-like sounds. Errors may be counted whenever the received sounds do not correspond to the expected characteristics of the expected impulse-like triggering sounds. Whenever the expected number of triggering sounds having the expected impulse characteristics have been discriminated and detected, an audible alert is sounded, provided that the errors are not too many. The device of the invention is thereby able to distinguish expected hand claps (or other humanly produced sounds) from non-intended music, speech or other impulse-like or non-impulse-like triggering sounds, rendering it operable even in noisy environments. False alarms from mechanical wave energy are prevented.Type: GrantFiled: August 31, 1999Date of Patent: June 12, 2001Assignee: Headwaters Research & Development, Inc.Inventors: Timon Marc LeDain, Rudy Anthony Vanderbelt, Troy Gene Anderson, Michael Bruce Christopher Irwin
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Patent number: 6236329Abstract: A vibration sensor includes a housing having an opening, and a movable trigger retained within the housing by a resilient member. The moveable trigger includes a projection of a dimension to fit at least partially through the opening. The resilient member retains the movable trigger within the housing until overcome by a predetermined acceleration. Whereas the moveable trigger is maintained within the housing the vibration sensor is minimally affected by radial acceleration while providing a calibrated resistance which must be overcome by an acceleration of predetermined severity along the measured direction. When the sensor experiences a predetermined acceleration, the trigger slides within the housing until the projection encounters the opening. The projection then “pops” through the opening such that the projection encounters a switch which awakes and activates a transmitter to send a signal to a warning device.Type: GrantFiled: March 23, 1999Date of Patent: May 22, 2001Assignee: Meritor Heavy Vehicle Systems, LLCInventor: Christos Kyrtsos
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Patent number: 6236313Abstract: A glass breakage detector that uses an acoustic transducer, an analog-to-digital converter, and a processing means which uses software algorithms to determine if a signal received by the acoustic transducer is a result of glass breaking. The glass breakage detector also uses amplifiers which have a greater gain response for higher frequency components in the received signal. The glass breakage detector is also able to correct the offset error generated by the amplifiers. The processing means or digital signal processor (DSP) uses a feature extraction software algorithm that extracts characteristics of the received sound using a plurality of filters centered at different frequencies and a rules analysis software algorithm to compare the extracted features to features from glass breakage and false alarms. The DSP is also capable of transmitting the extracted features to an external computing device for further analysis.Type: GrantFiled: January 26, 1999Date of Patent: May 22, 2001Assignee: Pittway Corp.Inventors: Kenneth G. Eskildsen, Ying Xiong, Christopher R. Paul, John E. Foster
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Patent number: 6218961Abstract: A system and method for preventing collisions between vehicles, such as railway vehicles, by exchanging data regarding track position of the vehicles. By use of an on-board track database, the system provides an indication of the distance between vehicles based not on line-of-sight but on track distance. Additionally, a system and method for accurately determining location of railway vehicles without the use of a network of trackside indicators. The disclosed system uses a gyro, position indicator, and a satellite position determination along with a track database to maintain highly accurate estimates of measurement errors and track position.Type: GrantFiled: February 20, 1998Date of Patent: April 17, 2001Assignee: G.E. Harris Railway Electronics, L.L.C.Inventors: Eric Gross, Anthony J. Guarino, Scott Easterling, Ernest Peek, Charles L. Zahm, Leonard R. Reinhart, Michael S. Gottfried
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Patent number: 6150927Abstract: An anti-vandalism detection and alarm system is disclosed for detecting and reporting the scratching of relatively hard materials such as glass and plastic which generate characteristic sound or vibration frequencies during scratching, and for detecting and reporting the cutting and slashing of relatively soft materials such as fabric, leather and plastic.Type: GrantFiled: March 30, 1998Date of Patent: November 21, 2000Assignee: Nextbus Information Systems, LLCInventor: Bryce Nesbitt
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Patent number: 6144298Abstract: An electronic filament netting including a warp of a first plurality of wires woven together with a weft of a second plurality of wires, wherein a random number of the warp and the weft wires are electrically connected to electronic monitoring apparatus so as to create a random electrical connection which defines an initial electrical parameter, wherein a change in the initial electrical parameter is communicated to the electronic monitoring apparatus.Type: GrantFiled: August 30, 1999Date of Patent: November 7, 2000Assignee: Hi-G-Tek Ltd.Inventors: Yosef Haimovich, Yehuda Armoni, Michael Auerbach
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Patent number: 6140914Abstract: A vehicle security system 10 having a sensor 28 which selectively produces output signals based upon a threshold signal comparison, which automatically deactivates upon the presence of transmitter 20, and which may be used in combination with an existing vehicle security system 106.Type: GrantFiled: February 19, 1998Date of Patent: October 31, 2000Inventors: Rand W. Mueller, Thomas Lemense, Robert J. Pizzuti, Hilton W. Girard, Graham Fishman, Mark Cohrs, Jay N. Cullimore, Joseph Santavicca, Todd Scott, David Rupert, Peter J. Stouffer, John Gillespie
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Patent number: 6133838Abstract: A system for monitoring a swimming pool to prevent drowning accidents includes sensing devices (D1, D2, D3) for providing electrical signals forming images of bodies immersed in the pool water. Appropriate hardware (10) digitizes the resulting images, and the digital image data is compressed and stored at a series of times. Digitized images of a single body are compared at a series of times. The nature of a body, the path of the body and changes in the position of the body are estimated on the basis of the series of images; and an alarm is activated should the path or movement of the body being observed give cause for concern.Type: GrantFiled: May 12, 1998Date of Patent: October 17, 2000Assignee: PoseidonInventor: Jerome Meniere
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Patent number: 6130615Abstract: A swimming pool alarm system including a plurality of motion sensors positioned around a periphery of a swimming pool in a spaced relationship. The plurality of motion sensors generate a sensor beam that extends around the periphery of the swimming pool. An alarm horn is positionable within a house adjacent to the swimming pool. The alarm horn is couplable to an electrical outlet. The alarm horn is in communication with the motion sensors. A portable alarm mechanism is positionable on a body of a pool owner. The portable alarm mechanism is in communication with the motion sensors.Type: GrantFiled: March 31, 1999Date of Patent: October 10, 2000Inventor: Maria Poteet