Abstract: RFID-based inventory management systems are provided for various applications. Such systems include a plurality of RFID-readable products tags, with each product tag being associated with a piece of merchandise and programmed to generate a signal containing information regarding the associated piece of merchandise. Such systems also include an RFID reader capable of sending and receiving signals from the product tags. Such systems further include a processor capable of receiving signals from the RFID reader with information regarding the product tags. The processor compares the information regarding two or more product tags to determine whether they are being moved together as part of a moving group. If the processor determines that there exists a moving group of product tags, it generates an output based at least in part on the signals being sent from the product tags in the moving group.

Abstract: A signal receiver unit for retail systems is provided. The signal receiver unit may include a receiver, a processor, and an output transmitter, and may be configured to receive and process an alarm signal and to transmit an output signal in response. The output signal may be configured to be received by an output receiving device such that store personnel may be alerted to a possible theft.

Abstract: A package comprises a security device where a security loop is formed integrally with the package for detecting a breach of the package. Additionally, the security loop may be formed with a portion to be interrupted if the contents are removed from the package.

Abstract: A system for authenticating electronic devices, particularly chips or integrated circuits is described. This allows authenticating that the devices are authorized by the original manufacturer for operation in critical applications.

Abstract: A vent cover (16) for installing on a shipping container. The vent cover includes a housing (16a) adapted for covering a vent hole (24) of the shipping container. A direct current (DC) power source is encased or enclosed in the housing. The DC power source includes a battery. The vent cover may also include a circuit board (34) attached to the DC power source. An antenna (36) may be located on a surface of the housing and attached to the circuit board. The circuit board may include a satellite antenna interface for a satellite antenna and a global positioning system (GPS) module attached to the satellite antenna interface. The vent cover may include an environmental sensor (304) for sensing a parameter of the shipping container. The environmental sensor may be adapted to protrude through a hole in a wall (12) of the shipping container when the vent cover is mounted on the shipping container.

Abstract: A system and method for self-detecting vehicle theft is provided that includes a first antenna and a second antenna, both located on a vehicle. The first antenna transmits the signal and the second antenna receives the signal. A monitoring module in communication with the second antenna is configured to determine whether the signal has changed. A vehicle security system is configured to activate based on a change in the signal.

Abstract: A system, apparatus, and method for a high degree of container security using tamper evident indicator is provided. According to one embodiment, the tamper evident indicator may be a visible alarm, an audible alarm, or their combinations. Further, the tamper evident indicator may be incorporated into a smart container monitoring system. More specifically, the tamper evident indicator may be linked to a mesh network, thus a primary container in a set of linked containers may alert inspectors to other containers that have been tampered.

Abstract: A computer-implemented method is disclosed herein. The method includes the step of receiving, at a processing device of a monitoring server, a theft detection signal from a first augmented reality device worn by a first employee of a retail store. The method also includes the step of linking, with the processing device, the first augmented reality device in communication with an electronic computing device operated by a second employee in response to said step of receiving the theft detection signal. The second employee can assist the first employee in assessing whether a theft is occurring.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a portable theft prevention device that includes an outer shell/main body for housing a processor that is conventionally connected to an internal memory, one or more movement detection sensors, an alarm consisting of one or both of a speaker and an alarm light, an input unit, a biometric sensor, and a power source. The device functioning to detect movement and generate an alarm in response to the detection.

Abstract: Arrangement and method for monitoring a structure at a fixed location, e.g., a house, parked boat or parked airplane, includes a monitoring or sensor system arranged to obtain information about the structure, an exterior of the structure and/or an interior of the structure different than the location of the structure, and a communication system coupled to the sensor system and being provided with a location of the structure. The communication system transmits the information about the structure obtained by the sensor system and the location of the structure to a remote facility. The remote facility can therefore monitor the structure, and take steps to ensure the integrity of the reservoir and the fluid therein. To enable wireless and powerless monitoring, a power source independent of a power grid extending outside of the trailer may be provided to supply power to the sensor system and the communications unit.

Abstract: An apparatus and method of determining bearing and distance measurements between a mobile device and an object using Rf based measurements. The mobile device communicates with a control in the object to determine the relative bearing between the mobile device and the object with respect to magnetic north and, optionally, the distance between the mobile device and the object. An indicator on the mobile device aid in directing s the user of the mobile device toward the object as the mobile device is moved relative to the object. The mobile device can be a key fob and the object can be a vehicle.

Abstract: Method and arrangement for monitoring cargo includes coupling an inertial measurement unit to the cargo such that accelerations of the cargo are detected by the inertial measurement unit, monitoring, using a processor, the accelerations of the cargo as detected by the inertial measurement unit, and generating a warning based on the monitoring of the accelerations. The warning may be generated when the detected acceleration is excessive in magnitude, duration or frequency and/or when integration of the detected acceleration is indicative of excessive velocity, angular velocity or angular displacement.

Abstract: A location based service and method configured to provide recovery assistance for a misplaced or stolen mobile device. The location based system and method is configured to locate (recover) high value mobile devices using location, presence and other IMS (IP Multimedia Subsystem) based telecommunications network assets. The method includes leveraging location dips performed for other services to drive a recovery process for a mobile device to thereby reduce resource overhead on a location platform; locating the mobile device using the location dips performed for other services; and sending a notification to a subscriber of the location of the mobile device for recovery of the mobile device.

Abstract: Devices, methods, systems and a computer readable medium for the provision of alerts to electronic devices in response to real-time, location based analysis of the risk of theft or loss of such devices are provided. A continually updated database of locations of thefts, losses and/or stolen or lost electronic devices is accessed in order to provide the alerts to the electronic devices.

Abstract: An encoded information reading (EIR) terminal can comprise a microprocessor electrically coupled to a system/data bus, a memory communicatively coupled to the microprocessor, an EIR device, a multi-band antenna, and a wireless communication interface. The EIR device can be provided by a bar code reading device, an RFID reading device, or a card reading device. The EIR device can be configured to output raw message data containing an encoded message and/or output decoded message data corresponding to an encoded message. The wireless communication interface can comprise a radio frequency (RF) front end electrically coupled to the multi-band antenna. The RF front end can comprise a micro-electromechanical (MEMS) filter array including one or more band-pass filter. Each band-pass filter of the MEMS filter array can be electrically coupled to a bias voltage source or an oscillating signal source.

Abstract: Embodiments of systems and methods for automatic backup of a user's data stored on a mobile device are disclosed. In one embodiment, a method includes storing a user information from a memory of a mobile communication device into a database; determining a status of the mobile communication device; and when the status indicates that the mobile communication device requires replacement, notifying a user of an availability of the user information from the storage facility for creation of a replacement device.

Abstract: The present invention provides a device, comprising one or more embedded tamper deterrent and security systems that trigger an alarm if the device is tampered.

Abstract: A security device may include a spool, locking mechanism, button, plug, and latch. The spool is configured to either wind or unwind a cable for wrapping around an object. The locking mechanism is configured to partially lock the spool. The button may be used to move the locking mechanism between locked and unlocked positions. The button may be blocked by inserting a plug into a housing of the device such that the button can not be activated to unlock the spool. The plug may be secured to the housing through the latch that prevents the unauthorized removal of the plug. For an enhanced locking feature, the latch and the plug may be configured to require at least two forces to move the latch and free the plug. The spool, locking mechanism, and button may be stacked along a common axis to provide a more compacted design.

Abstract: Described is a system and method for monitoring a mobile computing Arrangement. The arrangement may include a sensor and a processor. The sensor detects first data of an event including a directional orientation and a motion of the arrangement. The processor compares the first data to second data to determine if at least one predetermined procedure is to be executed. The second data may include a predetermined threshold range of changes in the directional orientation and the motion. If the predetermined procedure is to be executed, the processor selects the predetermined procedure which corresponds to the event as a function of the first data. Subsequently, the predetermined procedures is executed.

Abstract: A theft detection method for a rotary laser tool includes using a motion sensor incorporated into a base unit of the rotary laser tool to detect movement of the base unit, monitoring duration of movement of the base unit as indicated by the motion sensor using a control system of the rotary laser tool, and activating an alarm indicator in response to the duration of movement being greater than a predefined threshold.

Abstract: A device for detecting the theft of an object, intended to be integrated to said object, includes an antenna for receiving a remote-supply signal and means for detecting an interruption of the remote-supply signal. Means for delivering an alarm signal when the interruption of the remote-supply signal is detected are also provided.

Abstract: Methods, systems, and apparatus for engaging a wireless communication device assembly to a housing. In one aspect including a wireless communication device assembly adapted to engage a knockout hole in a housing after removal of a knockout blank from the knockout hole, the wireless communication device assembly adapted to connect to the base unit and comprising: a housing engagement portion being of dimensions to at least substantially cover any uncovered portions of the knockout; a remote unit portion positioned outside of the housing when the wireless communication device assembly is engaged with the knockout hole, the remote unit portion having a remote unit surface distal from the housing engagement portion; and at least one of: an antenna device to receive wireless communications and a stimulating device that upon actuation of the stimulating device causes the base unit to perform one or more predefined operations.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for determining a digital signature from an article. A coherent light source directs a beam to illuminate the article and a detector arrangement collects data points from light scattered from many different parts of the article to collect a large number of independent data points, typically 500 or more. By collecting a large number of independent signal contributions specific to many different parts of the article, a digital signature can be computed that is unique to the area of the article that has been scanned. This measurement can be repeated whenever required to test authenticity of the article. Using this method, it has been discovered that it is essentially pointless to go to the effort and expense of making specially prepared tokens, since unique characteristics are measurable a in a straightforward manner from a wide variety of every day articles.

Abstract: A dual band antenna includes a far field antenna structure for facilitating the communication of first data with a remote device via far field signaling in a millimeter wave band. A near field antenna structure facilitates the communication of second data with a remote device via near field signaling in a near field band. The far field antenna structure and the near field antenna structure share at least one common antenna element.

Abstract: According to one aspect, a portable electronic device sized and shaped to be received within a holster having a magnetic element. The portable electronic device includes an electronic compass adapted to measure a magnetic field of the magnetic element in at least two axes. When the measured pattern corresponds to a first pattern, the portable electronic device is adapted to determine that the portable electronic device is in the holster.

Abstract: A wireless scanning system for obtaining data related to items includes a radio frequency identification (RFID) reader configured to interrogate RFID tags and obtain tag data from interrogated RFID tags, and a mobile wireless device that is incapable of interrogating RFID tags. The system uses a device RFID tag in close proximity to the mobile wireless device, where the device RFID tag is configured to convey data that identifies the mobile wireless device when interrogated by the RFID reader. When the mobile wireless device is within close proximity to an item of interest having a corresponding item RFID tag, the RFID reader interrogates the device RFID tag and the item RFID tag. Thereafter, the RFID reader routes the item tag data in a manner destined for the mobile wireless device. This system enables the mobile wireless device to obtain the item tag data even though the mobile wireless device has no native RFID reader capabilities.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method, a device and a system for preventing false alarms in a theft-preventing system comprising a magnetic field for detecting at least one metal object in a first detection zone and means for determining a time-difference; said method comprising the steps of detecting a first change in a parameter indicative of the magnetic field in said first detection zone; detecting a second change in the parameter indicative of the magnetic field in said first detection zone; determining a time-difference between the detection of said first change in said parameter and the detection of said second change in said parameter; and performing an action based on said time-difference. In this way, false alarms due to a metal detector falsely detecting for example movement of metal-doors in a first detection zone may be reduced/eliminated. Additionally, the false alarms due to an opening and/or closing of a door with metal parts acting as an active tag may be reduced/eliminated.

Abstract: An alarm/monitoring system includes an interface body, a first electrical contactor electrically connected to a first lead, and a second electrical contactor electrically connected to a second lead. The first electrical contactor has a magnetic field associated therewith to provide a magnetic attractive force to a ferromagnetic component of the object to be monitored. The first electrical contactor and the second electrical contactor are located on the interface body so that when the interface body is placed in an operating position with respect to the ferromagnetic component, the first electrical contactor and the second electrical contactor each contact a respective surface of the ferromagnetic component to provide a closed electrical circuit between the first lead and the second lead, the closed electrical circuit providing a monitoring input to an alarm system.

Abstract: Provided is a device for deterring purchase-wear-return of merchandise, particularly women's dresses, by a consumer.

Abstract: A tablet holder with an alert system for reminding individuals to take their medications featuring a base with seven compartments. Each compartment has a separate lid, and a base lid covers all the compartment lids. Compartment LEDs are disposed in each compartment lid. A touch screen display, a speaker, a vibrating component, and a microprocessor are each disposed in the base. The microprocessor is connected to a time keeping system that keeps the date and time. The microprocessor can be programmed to be activated at various dates and times. When the microprocessor is activated, the microprocessor activates the LEDs, the speaker, and the vibrating component to alert the user to take his/her medicine.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for determining a digital signature from an article. A coherent light source directs a beam to illuminate the article and a detector arrangement collects data points from light scattered from many different parts of the article to collect a large number of independent data points, typically 500 or more. By collecting a large number of independent signal contributions specific to many different parts of the article, a digital signature can be computed that is unique to the area of the article that has been scanned. This measurement can be repeated whenever required to test authenticity of the article. Using this method, it has been discovered that it is essentially pointless to go to the effort and expense of making specially prepared tokens, since unique characteristics are measurable a in a straightforward manner from a wide variety of every day articles.

Abstract: A merchandise display security system for displaying and protecting an item of merchandise having a movable or removable cover includes a sensor configured to be attached to the cover. The sensor may include a magnet assembly that produces a magnetic field defining a predetermined minimum strength when the sensor is attached to the cover and the cover is closed on the item of merchandise. A transducer detects the presence of the magnetic field, or alternatively, changes in the strength of the magnetic field and generates an electrical signal corresponding to the strength of the magnetic field, for example an output voltage. The transducer communicates the electrical signal to electronics that activate an alarm if the strength of the magnetic field is less than a predetermined minimum strength or greater than a predetermined maximum strength.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention are directed to anti-theft devices, systems, and methods. For example, an anti-theft device includes a lens ring assembly comprising a ring configured to removably engage a removable camera lens. The anti-theft device also includes a sensor cable assembly configured to attach to the lens ring assembly and to provide a signal indicative of an unauthorized removal of the lens ring assembly from the removable camera lens or removal of the sensor cable assembly from the lens ring assembly.

Abstract: A mobile wireless communications device includes a near field communications (NFC) device, and a magnetic sensor. A processor is coupled to the NFC device and the magnetic sensor, and is switchable between an active mode and an idle mode based upon the magnetic sensor. The processor is configured to remain in the active mode based upon communication via the NFC device irrespective of the magnetic sensor.

Abstract: The invention relates to a security device for a cover device of a pipe and/or for a pipe, that can be used for producing pipelines having a series of further pipes welded to each other, wherein the cover device comprises a sleeve covering an inner wall of the pipe, and the security device is designed for generating an alarm signal, wherein the security device comprises a structure-borne sound detection device comprising a structure-borne sound sensor for detecting manipulation of the pipe. The invention further relates to a system for monitoring pipes having a plurality of security devices having a receiving station for receiving the security device signals, preferably repeatable by means of a repeater, and an electronic data processor designed for analyzing the signals and for out-putting an alarm signal.

Abstract: Object tracking is facilitated. In accordance with one or more embodiments, an object tracking apparatus (200) includes a proximate-range circuit (212), a positioning circuit (214) and a communications circuit (216). The proximate-range circuit wirelessly verifies the identity and presence of at least one proximate-range communications device (220), and the positioning circuit determines positioning information of the object tracking apparatus. The communications circuit receives outputs from the proximate-range circuit and positioning circuit respectively regarding the verification and positioning information, and wirelessly communicates data to a remote communications station based upon the received outputs (140).

Abstract: An electronic device has a chassis, and a printed wiring board (PWB) having a hole. A fastener is installed in the hole thereby securing the PWB to the chassis. A pair of conductive traces is formed in the PWB. A cap, being an amount of conductive glue, covers a part of the fastener and fills an electrically insulating gap between the two traces, to thereby form a conductive path that connects the two traces. A sensing circuit is coupled to the traces, to detect a change in impedance of the path and signal a tamper event alert. Other embodiments are also described and claimed.

Abstract: A notebook computer stand includes a base and an anti-theft circuit received in the base. A number of supporting pads are positioned on the top surface of the base, to support a notebook computer. The anti-theft circuit includes a pressure sensitive switch, an alarm, a control switch, and a battery. The pressure sensitive switch, the alarm, and the control switch are connected in series. The pressure sensitive switch is positioned on one of the supporting pads. When the notebook computer is placed on the top surface, the pressure sensitive switch is open. The pressure sensitive switch is closed when not under the pressure applied by the weight of the notebook computer, and the battery supplies power to the alarm, the alarm works, when the control switch is closed.

Abstract: A microprocessor controlled security tag and accompanying security system is described. The tag generally includes a housing having external contacts to interface with elongated contacts on a connecting band. The band forms a complex impedance circuit with a patient's limb that allows detection features such as removal and band compromise. A microprocessor and related circuitry as well as a transmitter and receivers are enclosed in the housing. The tag is adapted to communicate inductively with an activator/deactivator unit as well as a tag programmer that updates and changes tag features in the tag firmware. The overall system further includes a hub to receive the data from a plurality of tags in the system. The tag can also communicate with a phased multiple antenna that sends signals to the tag.

Abstract: An anti-effraction and antitheft system (1) of an electromechanical type for photovoltaic panels (8) and components of electrical plants and systems in general, which has the purpose of rendering unserviceable and/or unlikely to be re-usable, in the case of theft or tampering, of the photovoltaic panels (8). The system (1) is based upon the combination of functions of connection and electrical and electronic functions; namely, it is based upon at least one electromechanical element or connector (24), an electronic unit or management card (21) and a central system (39) with georeferencing, communication, and signalling functions.

Abstract: A system for monitoring residents of a health care facility including a plurality of tamper-resistant resident monitoring devices, each of the devices being uniquely associated with a resident of the facility, a multiplicity of device detectors operative to communicate with the monitoring devices and a computer subsystem operative to communicate with the plurality of tamper-resistant resident monitoring devices via the multiplicity of device detectors, and to thereby monitor the residents of the facility.

Abstract: The aircraft tire pressure loop link is formed of first and second single metal loops connected by parallel spaced apart metal shafts, and provides for coupling a magnetic field between a wheel hub coil and a tire pressure sensor coil to provide electromagnetic communication between a control unit connect to the wheel hub coil and a tire pressure sensor connected to the tire pressure sensor coil. The current induced in the first single metal loop travels the distance from the edge of the wheel axle coil to the periphery of the of the wheel rim to the second single metal loop, which generates the flux in the tire pressure sensor receiver coil necessary to power the tire pressure sensor.

Abstract: A security system for monitoring a shipping container being transported on a cargo transport vehicle and methods for making and using same. A mounting device removably couples a container security device (CSD) to the cargo container. Monitoring cargo inside the container and detecting vehicle intrusions and container damage, the CSD includes an anti-tamper sensor, a microcontroller, a communication device, and a plurality of accelerometers and strain gages. The microcontroller generates an alarm signal based on output data from the anti-tamper sensor and records container events. The anti-temper sensor undergoes individual and integrated sensor processing procedures; whereas, the integrated sensor processing procedure determines a container alert status. The accelerometers and strain gages define a moment of inertia of the cargo container.

Abstract: In a method of switching a locked state of an electronic device with a user-verifying function, a biologic feature data from a user is captured while receiving an input from the user for an operation when the electronic device is in a locked state. Whether the biologic feature data conforms to a reference biologic feature data is then determined. If it is determined that the biologic feature data conforms to the reference biologic feature data, the electronic device is switched from the locked state into a non-locked state and directly controls the electronic device to perform the operation according to the input when the biologic feature data is determined conforming to the reference biologic feature data.

Abstract: Systems, methods, apparatus, and computer program products are provided for tracking the inventory of items. In one embodiment, a compartment comprises a plurality of sensors disposed proximate a surface of the compartment. A container storing items can be disposed above the surface of the compartment. Then, the sensors can detect the presence or absence of items from the container.

Abstract: The disclosure is directed at a system and method for preparing a device for power loss when the presence of a component cover is not sensed. The system includes a component cover with a detection portion; a sensor adapted to detect the presence of the detection portion in the component cover; and a processor able to receive information from the sensor and to prepare the mobile device for power loss.

Abstract: Devices, methods, systems and a computer readable medium for the provision of alerts to electronic devices in response to real-time, location based analysis of the risk of theft or loss of such devices are provided. A continually updated database of locations of thefts, losses and/or stolen or lost electronic devices is accessed in order to provide the alerts to the electronic devices.

Abstract: A system and method for remotely auditing inventoried assets, particularly those financed by asset-based inventory lending, by capturing unique, non-clonable, auditing information with an interrogation device at an inventory location to indicate whether each asset is present or absent at the inventory location, and by sending inventory information about such assets based on the captured auditing information to an auditor.

Abstract: A method for providing an alert to a person to unplug an electrical power cord of an electrical device or equipment includes an alarm device that is activated upon separation of a first portion from a second portion. The first and second portions of the alarm device are secured proximate opposite sides of a loop provided in the power cord. The first and second portions, when engaged, maintain a switch of an electrical circuit in an open position. If the equipment is moved prior to unplugging the power cord, the loop will be straightened, causing the first and second portions to separate. The switch closes, completing the electrical circuit and activating the alarm device. The alarm alerts the person to unplug the power cord. A first alternate method includes the alarm device as a part of newly manufactured equipment. A second alternate method includes a motion detector or sensor in the alarm device of the newly manufactured equipment.

Abstract: An electronic article surveillance (EAS) tag incorporates alternative theft deterrence systems. The security tag incorporates both a benefit-denial ink-based system and two independent EAS detection elements operating at two different frequencies such that the tag can alternatively be operated in two different systems. The security tag is further adapted to be reusable after ink ampoule breakage and includes a visual indication of ink to serve as a further visual deterrence to shoplifters.