Article Placement Or Removal (e.g., Anti-theft) Patents (Class 340/568.1)
  • Patent number: 8488133
    Abstract: Systems and methods for marking media are provided. The method may include preparing an image for printing on print media, the image including an indication of a first and a second event. The method may further include printing a first portion of the image on the print media, evaluating data and electing to print a second portion of the image wherein the second portion includes the indication of either of the first or second event.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2013
    Assignee: Lexmark International, Inc.
    Inventors: Cuong Manh Hoang, David John Mickan, Mark Stephen Underwood
  • Patent number: 8487773
    Abstract: Disclosed are a crime prevention system using human body communication and a crime prevention method using human body communication capable of actively and effectively preventing a generation of a crime by using human body communication. The crime prevention system using human body communication includes: a monitoring device attached to a monitoring target to sense his physical contact with an observer and providing information obtained by monitoring the monitoring target through human body communication when body contact of the monitoring target with the observer is sensed; and a reception device attached to the observer, receiving the monitoring information through human body communication, and transmitting the monitoring information to a pre-set destination. A criminal act of the monitoring target may be prevented in advance, and when a criminal act is attempted, an observer who may fall a victim of the criminal act can actively cope with the situation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2013
    Assignee: Electronics and Telecommunications Research Institute
    Inventors: Tae Wook Kang, Sung Weon Kang, Jung Hwan Hwang, Tae Young Kang, Kyung Soo Kim, Sung Eun Kim, Jung Bum Kim, Kyung Hwan Park, Hyung Il Park, In Gi Lim, Byoung Gun Choi, Seok Bong Hyun, Chang Hee Hyoung
  • Patent number: 8487739
    Abstract: A signal received by a television over a communication medium is interrogated for the presence of a remotely transmitted ping. The television is operated in response to detection of the presence of the ping in the received signal. The television is locked against use in response to failing to detect the presence of the ping in the received signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2013
    Assignee: Zenith Electronics LLC
    Inventor: Richard Lewis
  • Patent number: 8482414
    Abstract: A theft-deterring security apparatus for articles with handles is described. The apparatus consists of a bracket that substantially surrounds an article handle and a locking body into which the bracket is telescopically inserted, to in turn compress both the bracket and the locking body about the article handle so as to be releasably fastened thereto. Fastening devices, such as a threaded screw and nut, are used to initiate and maintain compression of the bracket and locking body about the article handle. The bracket is shaped to accommodate different types of article handles. The bracket may be hinged to accommodate the insertion of article handles into the bracket periphery. The apparatus is further equipped with an electronic article surveillance element capable of setting off an alarm if an attempt is made to remove the article from the store. Alternatively, a pair of locking body elements surrounds a knob on an article handle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2013
    Assignee: Se-Kure Controls, Inc.
    Inventors: Roger J. Leyden, Terrance Surma
  • Patent number: 8482411
    Abstract: A tamper indicating padlock assembly for providing remote indication of tampering with the lock mechanism of the padlock includes a padlock having a padlock housing, an arm extending from the padlock housing, and a locking mechanism selectively engaging the arm. A sensor is positioned in the padlock housing for sensing movement of the arm within the padlock housing. The sensor is operationally coupled to a processor. A transmitter is operationally coupled to the processor for transmitting a tamper signal upon the sensor detecting movement of the arm relative to the housing. A key is provided to release the arm from the locking mechanism. A remote alarm assembly has a remote receiver for receiving the tamper signal. The remote alarm assembly includes a remote tamper indicator operationally coupled to the remote receiver for providing an indication of tampering to a user when the remote receiver receives the tamper signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2013
    Inventor: Monty M. Brown
  • Patent number: 8482403
    Abstract: A first device may receive a signal from a sensor coupled to the first device, determine whether the first device is tapped one or more times against a second device, send a message to the second device when it is determined that the first device has been tapped one or more times against the second device, determine if the one or more taps are valid user input based on a response from the second device, and perform an application specific action when the one or more taps are valid user input.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2013
    Assignees: Sony Corporation, Sony Mobile Communications AB
    Inventor: Ola Karl Thorn
  • Publication number: 20130169439
    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.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 16, 2012
    Publication date: July 4, 2013
    Applicants: HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD., HONG FU JIN PRECISION INDUSTRY (ShenZhen) CO., LTD.
    Inventor: XUE-YUN CHEN
  • Patent number: 8474781
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention provide a system and method for displaying items of goods on shelving systems. A shelf display accessory unit can include a top panel with a top surface configured for displaying an item of goods, and a bottom surface which is opposite the top surface, that includes a module that houses a cable. The shelf display accessory unit further can include a front panel having a display surface that is configured to display a label, and a back panel having a supporting surface that includes means for coupling the shelf display accessory unit to a front portion of a shelf. In embodiments, the shelf display accessory unit can include a cable that has one end anchored to the module and the other end connected to the item of goods. In embodiments, the shelf display accessory unit further can include a flap coupled to the front panel and configured to secure a label to the front panel of the shelf display accessory unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Assignee: IBT Holdings, LLC
    Inventors: Joe Deguglimo, Glenn Robinson
  • Patent number: 8474690
    Abstract: An apparatus includes a depository (10) that can receive deposit containers (20) from persons authorized to open a door lock (24). The depository includes a depository head (12) and a chest (14). A security curtain assembly (36) is movable by an actuator to block the deposit entry opening into the chest. The security curtain assembly comprises a plurality of movable plate members (52, 54, 56). At least one processor is in operative connection with sensors that can sense conditions which correspond to an attack on the depository. The at least one processor causes the actuator to close the security curtain assembly in response to a sensed attack. The processor can also cause alarms to be activated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Assignee: Diebold, Incorporated
    Inventors: Steven R. Davis, Virgil Barnes, Robert V. Artino, Gary Baker, Neil Gromley
  • Patent number: 8477032
    Abstract: A system for detecting electronic article surveillance (“EAS”) marker shielding includes an EAS subsystem, a metal detector, an object detector, a timer, a cart detection subsystem and a processor. The EAS subsystem is operable to detect an EAS marker in an interrogation zone. The metal detector is operable to detect a metal object in the interrogation zone. The object detector is operable to detect objects located proximate to an entry point of the EAS subsystem. The timer is programmed to start a countdown sequence upon receiving a signal generated by the object detector. The cart detection subsystem includes a sensor array. The cart detection subsystem is operable to differentiate between a wheeled device and a human passing through the interrogation zone based on an output of the sensor array. The processor is electrically coupled to the EAS subsystem, the metal detector, the object detector, the timer and the cart detection subsystem.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Assignee: Tyco Fire & Security GmbH
    Inventors: Adam S. Bergman, Robert Kevin Lynch, David R. Noone
  • Publication number: 20130162432
    Abstract: A fiber optic security system is provided. The fiber optic security system includes at least one length of fiber optic cable affixed to at least one item to be monitored using the fiber optic security system. The fiber optic security system also includes at least one local control node, the at least one local control node including at least one light source for generating and transmitting light through the at least one length of fiber optic cable, and the at least one local control node monitoring a status of the light. The fiber optic security system also includes a remote control unit for receiving information from the at least one local control node regarding the status of the light.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 25, 2013
    Publication date: June 27, 2013
    Applicant: US Seismic Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: US Seismic Systems, Inc.
  • Patent number: 8471690
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device for the production of a haptic feedback from keyless input units such as touchscreens or keypads in mobile IT devices such as mobile telephones, PDAs, music or multimedia players, cameras, navigation devices, etc. The market demands a device which can produce a haptic signal for a touchscreen such that the display is movable as a whole essentially perpendicular to the housing surface at least in one direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2013
    Assignee: PI Ceramic GmbH
    Inventors: Eberhard Hennig, Peter Ditas
  • Publication number: 20130154835
    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.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 20, 2011
    Publication date: June 20, 2013
    Applicant: HH WELL CARE LTD
    Inventors: Dov EHRMAN, Eyal Dov VARDI
  • Patent number: 8466789
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method for recognition of the theft of at least one solar module (5) on a photovoltaic unit with an inverter (1) an intermediate circuit (3), a DC-AC converter (4), at least one solar module (5) connected via connector lines (19) and a control device (8). A signal unit (19) which can be connected to the connector lines (9, 10), for generating and transmitting an electrical signal and a device for measuring and analyzing the signal received from the at least one solar module (5) are provided such that conclusions can be drawn about the theft of a solar module (5) from the received signal. According to the invention, reliable recognition of theft of a solar module (5) can be achieved by designing the signal unit (19) for generating varying electrical signals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2013
    Assignee: Fronius International GmbH
    Inventors: Thomas Mühlberger, Roland Prötsch
  • Patent number: 8461978
    Abstract: A wireless ultrasound probe has a probe case enclosing a transducer array, an acquisition circuit, a transceiver and a battery. The probe also includes a loudspeaker which produces audible sounds as a function of the range between the wireless probe and a host system. When the probe is within a near field range of the host system, the loudspeaker is silent. But if the probe is moved to an intermediate or a far field range from the host system, the loudspeaker sounds an alert. This audible alert can be used to locate the probe by transmitting a paging signal which, upon reception by the probe, causes the probe to sound its alert. If the probe is moved to an unauthorized location where it is within range of a transmitter or receiver, the reception of a signal by the probe, the transmitter, or receiver will sound an alert signaling the unauthorized presence of the wireless probe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2013
    Assignee: Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V.
    Inventors: David Garner, Kevin Appareti, McKee Poland, David Rust, Denise Marie Haley, Martha Wilson, Anthony Gades, Christopher Fleming, Dino Cuscuna, John Fraser
  • Patent number: 8463186
    Abstract: A communications device includes a processor and Radio Frequency (RF) circuitry that includes a communications module. An electromagnet is connected to the communications module and the processor. The electromagnet is configured to couple magnetically to a second communications device having a magnetic sensor and to transmit from the electromagnet to the magnetic sensor electromagnet pulses containing data regarding a wireless communications protocol. The processor and communications module are configured to establish a wireless communications connection with the second communications device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2013
    Assignee: Research In Motion Limited
    Inventors: Jason Tyler Griffin, Steven Henry Fyke
  • Patent number: 8463484
    Abstract: A theft deterrent apparatus is used in a marine vessel which includes a propulsion device. The theft deterrent apparatus includes an authentication unit, a fault detection unit arranged to detect a fault of the authentication unit, and an operation control unit arranged to control operation of the propulsion device. When the authentication unit is normal, the operation control unit controls the operation of the propulsion device in accordance with an authentication result of the authentication unit. When a fault has occurred in the authentication unit, the operation control unit controls the operation of the propulsion device without referring to the authentication result of the authentication unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2013
    Assignee: Yamaha Hatsudoki Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Takaaki Bamba
  • Publication number: 20130142494
    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.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 6, 2011
    Publication date: June 6, 2013
    Applicant: Southern Imperial, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas E. Valiulis, Peter T. Valiulis
  • Patent number: 8456298
    Abstract: A method for tracking movements in a portable tracking apparatus includes a movement sensor. Virtual object position information is generated and local movement instructions for a user of the portable tracking apparatus is determined based on the generated virtual object position information. The local movement instructions are presented only non-visually to the user and movement of the portable tracking apparatus is determined using the movement sensor. A non-visual feedback is presented to the user of the portable tracking apparatus based on the determined movement of the portable tracking apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2013
    Inventor: Timo Valtonen
  • Patent number: 8453937
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is a security hang tag that includes a body, a head and a strap. The body includes a head-receiving compartment defining a circumferentially-extending flange. The head includes a circumferentially-extending lip to engage the flange, capturing the lip within the compartment such that the head is rotatably secured to the body. The head has a first strap-receiving channel including a first locking shoulder and a second strap-receiving channel including a second locking shoulder. The strap has first and second ends and includes a first cavity at the first end and a second cavity at the second end. The first end is configured for insertion within the first strap-receiving channel until the first cavity engages the first locking shoulder and the second end is configured for insertion within the second strap-receiving channel until the second cavity engages the second locking shoulder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2013
    Assignee: B&G International Inc.
    Inventors: Chester Kolton, Michael Norman, Jake Strassburger
  • Patent number: 8456281
    Abstract: The present invention provides a non-contact IC medium communication device (1) capable of detecting a non-contact IC medium (25) in a desired area with a simple configuration, by obtaining, from each of separate read areas, identification information of the non-contact IC medium that exists within the read area and a signal level of a reception signal received from the non-contact IC medium, the identification information and the signal level being associated with each other, performing difference operation or division with respect to respective signal levels of reception signals from the separate read areas, for each of the identification information, to obtain a composite signal level, and extracting the identification information whose composite signal level falls within a predetermined threshold range. The present invention further provides a method thereof, a program thereof, and a computer-readable storage medium storing the program.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2013
    Assignee: Omron Corporation
    Inventor: Hidekatsu Nogami
  • Patent number: 8451124
    Abstract: A method for sensing a stimulus comprising providing a sensing assembly having a first structure and a second structure, wherein the first structure is made of a material different than the second structure and each of the first structure and the second structure is nanoscale. The method further includes providing an inductive antenna operably coupled to the sensing assembly, disposing the sensing assembly upon a spatial area, exposing the sensing assembly to the stimulus thereby producing a detectable change in the sensing assembly, and wirelessly coupling a reader with the inductive antenna to obtain a signal representative of the detectable change in the sensing assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2013
    Assignee: The Regents of The University of Michigan
    Inventors: Jerome P. Lynch, Nicholas A. Kotov, Kenneth J. Loh
  • Patent number: 8451118
    Abstract: Theft increases the average product cost to consumers. A mentoring system is presented that can help to reduce or prevent the inventory from lost or theft. Theft is a serious concern in the consumer market place. Industry loses billions per year on theft of merchandise. According to a Reuters report, last year, thefts by employees of U.S. retail merchandise accounted for $15.9 billion, or 44 percent of theft losses at stores, more than shoplifting and vendor fraud combined. Thus,total thief by the customers and store employees during the year 2008 amounted to $36 billion. Several embodiments of ways to control or reduce the thefts in the market place are presented.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2013
    Assignee: TrackThings LLC
    Inventors: Quinton Andrew Gabara, Thaddeus John Gabara
  • Patent number: 8451105
    Abstract: A security and driver identification system for use within the commercial transportation industry and which can be applied to private vehicles. The central component of the system is a telecommunications mobile terminal located within the vehicle with primary capability being to positively identify driver and vehicle to facilitate transceiver wireless communications between vehicle and authorized personnel. The telecommunications mobile terminal is preprogrammed with wireless network number, and is accessible and security procedure implemented by biocell phone communication from authorized driver.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2013
    Inventor: James Holland McNay
  • Patent number: 8452479
    Abstract: Disclosed is a device and method for providing service interval notifications to a vehicle operator, and to incorporate relevant vehicle operating conditions which most directly impact the longevity of engine lubrication and other wear prone components of vehicles. Wear prone conditions which are determined include city driving, frequency of “cold” starts, frequency of “winter” “cold” starts, and high load high grade travel. The device and method utilize as a primary input a location aware sensor device and as a secondary input a source for the ambient temperature either retrieved from an Internet source or a local ambient temperature sensor. No direct vehicle sensor is utilized for the service interval adjustment performed by the device and method.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2013
    Assignee: Kaarya, LLC
    Inventors: Ujjual Nath, Gaurav Sharma, William Fletcher, Douglas MacGlashan, Brian Billett
  • Patent number: 8451126
    Abstract: A combination EAS/RFID antenna for use in an EAS/RFID surveillance system. The antenna includes an EAS antenna element and an RFID antenna element. The EAS antenna element includes an EAS loop antenna defining an interior area. The RFID antenna element is positioned within the interior area defined by the EAS loop antenna and includes a ground plane and RFID patch antenna. The ground plane and/or the RFID patch antenna have a segmented conductor pattern etched thereon. The segmented conductor pattern minimizes eddy currents in the ground plane produced by current flow through EAS loop antenna. The RFID antenna element is situated proximate the EAS loop antenna in such a fashion that the overall size of the antenna is reduced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2013
    Assignee: Tyco Fire & Security GmbH
    Inventors: Steven V. Leone, Larry K. Canipe
  • Patent number: 8451117
    Abstract: In accordance with at least some embodiments, a process for transmitting a signal is presented. The process may be implemented to detect an occurrence of a predetermined event associated with an object and in response to detecting the occurrence of the predetermined event, transmit a signal relating to a content associated with the object.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2013
    Assignee: Empire Technology Development LLC
    Inventor: Hiroshi Goto
  • Patent number: 8452868
    Abstract: According to some example embodiments, systems, apparatus, methods and computer program products are provided for monitoring articles, such as in a commercial environment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2013
    Inventors: Gary Mark Shafer, Michael Mercier, Lee H. Eckert, James Gordon Wyatt, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8446279
    Abstract: An apparatus is provided for holding articles, such as keys, which is attachable to a person's clothing, handbag or a purse, and wherein a physical or electronic tether is used to allow the user to use the articles stored thereupon without removing them from the holder or from their clothing, handbag, purse, briefcase or other hand carried item. The tension on the tether is manageable by the use of a tension management system, so that the tension of the tether will not damage the article or the mechanism that the article is used with and the article is tracked by use of the tether so that the user does not lose the article. Infrared, radio frequency, and transponder and polling versions of the invention are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2013
    Inventor: Bethew Bertrand Jennings, III
  • Patent number: 8446288
    Abstract: A light projection device, includes a movable projector section which illuminates or display information by projecting light while moving a projection position; a position detecting section which detects a position of a lost article instructed by a user; a view field detecting section which detects a view field of the user, and a controller section which controls said movable projection section based on the lost article detected by the position detecting section and the view field of the user detected by the view field detecting section, and either directly illuminates the lost article or projects guide information for guiding the user to the lost article within a view field of the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2013
    Assignee: Panasonic Corporation
    Inventors: Tetsuro Mizushima, Kazuhisa Yamamoto, Akira Kurozuka, Kakuya Yamamoto, Keiji Sugiyama, Kenji Nakayama
  • Patent number: 8441351
    Abstract: The present invention provides a system and method for tracking an interrogator relay unit disposed on a shopping cart within a store. The method comprises emitting an RF interrogation signal using the IRU; receiving, at the IRU, location data from an RFID tag in response to the RF interrogation signal; transmitting the location data, an identification information of the IRU, and timestamp data to a remote server using the IRU; and generating a behavior report using the transmitted location data, the identification information, and the timestamp data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2013
    Assignee: Insight Holding Group, Inc.
    Inventor: James Christopher
  • Patent number: 8436731
    Abstract: A device and method for protecting personal property. The device includes an angular rotation detection system utilizing a gyroscope and an alarm adapted to signal when the device has tilted or rotated beyond a predetermined position from a reference position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2013
    Inventors: Barrie William Davis, Benjamin John Davis, Mathew Kai Davis
  • Patent number: 8428509
    Abstract: Presented is a system for providing a rich media visitor log comprising a communications server accessible by members of a group, a local services network interactively connected to the communications server, a group management application resident on the communications server, and a visitor log host application. The group management application is configured to activate a group session, manage communications among group members and the local services network during the group session, and expire activation of the group session after a predetermined time interval.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2013
    Assignee: Disney Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventors: Scott Watson, Armando Santana, Orrin J. Shively, Robert Swirsky, Jonathan Gilbert, Ben Brown
  • Patent number: 8427319
    Abstract: A method for tracking one or more portable devices in real time to detect theft of the one or more portable devices is provided. The method enables, firstly, interrogating a Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) tag via a RFID reader during successive sweep intervals. The sweep interval represents active state of the RFID reader. Secondly, the method enables receiving one or more pairing information from the RFID tag. Further, the method enables comparing the one or more pairing information with corresponding one or more pairing information stored in the RFID reader. Finally, the method enables generating an alert signal via the wearable-band or the one or more portable devices when the one or more pairing information does not match with the corresponding one or more pairing information stored in the RFID reader.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2013
    Assignee: Infosys Technologies Limited
    Inventors: Sunil Kumar Vuppala, Puneet Gupta, Kirti Chawla
  • Patent number: 8427314
    Abstract: An anti-theft protection system for goods presented to the public includes a set of sensors connected to the goods and linked to a control unit capable of determining states, the states being at least a state of presence of the goods and a state of theft attempt and/or actual theft, the shift from a state of presence of the goods to a state of theft attempt and/or actual theft resulting, in the absence of inhibition of the detection for the sensor, in the control unit being set into alarm, the control unit including or being connected to a sonorous alarm generating elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2013
    Assignee: SAAA—Systemes d'Automatismes d'Alarmes Automatiques
    Inventor: Jean-Pierre Billiard
  • 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: 8429759
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for theft management are described. In an embodiment an out-of-band notification is received, indicative of theft of a computing device. In response, a theft message is delivered to the computing device using a wireless wide area network. Other embodiments are also disclosed and claimed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2013
    Assignee: Intel Corporation
    Inventor: Farid Adrangi
  • Patent number: 8421626
    Abstract: There is provided a passive RFID transponder assembly that includes a condition responsive device adapted to read a condition relating to the component that is associated with the RFID transponder assembly. The condition that is read by the condition responsive device relates to physical contact with a field technician or a mating component, relates to electrical connection between an integrated circuit chip and an antenna, relates to one or more environmental conditions, or the like. The components with which the RFID transponder assemblies are associated include components of telecommunications equipment, such as fiber optic connectors, fiber optic adapters, fiber optic patch panels, copper connectors, and copper adapters to list some non-limiting examples.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2013
    Assignee: Corning Cable Systems, LLC
    Inventors: John D. Downie, Matthew S. Whiting, James S. Sutherland, Richard E. Wagner, Leo Nederlof
  • Patent number: 8421615
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for a sensor network having a plurality of reference nodes and a sensor node that enables the sensor node to compute a relative position through transmission range control and position mapping. In transmission range control, each reference node sends location information signals to the sensor node while varying transmission power. In position mapping, the sensor node forms a grid of vertical and horizontal lines corresponding to a square area defined by the neighboring reference nodes, extracts coordinates of intersections in the grid belonging to a shared region between areas covered by location information signals of various transmit power levels from the neighboring reference nodes, and sets the position of the sensor node to the middle points of the extracted coordinates. Each reference node sends a location information signal when a random backoff time expires after reception of a location information request signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2013
    Assignees: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd., Research and Business Foundation, Korea University
    Inventors: Jehyok Ryu, Sun Gi Kim, Hyo Hyun Choi, Sun Shin An, Sae Young Ahn, Bum Jin Kim
  • Patent number: 8422791
    Abstract: Disclosed herein are a method and system for classifying a detected region of change of a video frame as one of an abandoned object event and an object removal event, wherein a plurality of boundary blocks define a boundary of said region of change. For each one of a set of said boundary blocks (510), the method determines a predicted edge characteristic (520) and an observed edge characteristic (530) for said boundary block. The method then determines an individual block score (540) for said boundary block, based on said predicted edge characteristic (520) for said boundary block and said observed edge characteristic (530) for said boundary block. Once all of the set of boundary blocks have been processed, the method determines a global score (560) for said region of change, based on said individual block scores of said boundary blocks. The method then classifies the region of change (570) as an abandoned object event or an object removal event, based on how the overall score relates to a threshold.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2013
    Assignee: Canon Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Qiang Liu, David Grant McLeish, Jarrad Michael Springett
  • Patent number: 8416077
    Abstract: A monitoring system according to the present invention includes a detecting unit, a tracking unit, a place judging unit and a reporting unit. When a pass unpermitted material that is not permitted to pass through a pass monitoring point passes through the pass monitoring point, the detecting unit detects the pass unpermitted material as a fraudulent passing material. The tracking unit tracks a position of the fraudulent passing material detected by the detecting unit. The place judging unit judges whether or not the fraudulent passing material exists inside a predetermined area. The reporting unit visibly reports the position of the fraudulent passing material and the judged result by the place judging unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2013
    Assignee: NEC Corporation
    Inventor: Akira Monden
  • Patent number: 8416081
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2013
    Assignee: Innovative Control Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Gregory Kron, Richard E Halbach, James Stoffer, Mark J Kieckhefer
  • Patent number: 8416080
    Abstract: An RFID cabinet for monitoring items having an RFID tag includes a cabinet having at least one locking front door. An RFID detector is used for monitoring each item placed within the cabinet and is located within the interior of the cabinet. A computer is coupled to the RFID cabinet and controls opening and closing of the front door and is configured to receive an input that identifies the user. In this way, the computer is configured to periodically record data read from the RFID tags by the RFID detector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2013
    Assignee: Omnicell, Inc.
    Inventor: John Higham
  • Patent number: 8416078
    Abstract: An electronic article surveillance (EAS) system comprising a combined plurality of surveillance systems that operate independent of and autonomous from each other and are physically located within pedestal systems having at least a first EAS system for detecting a magnetic EAS tag (which are immune to foil lined bags and other Faraday Shields) and magnetic detachers, a second EAS system for detecting Faraday shields, a third EAS for detecting acousto-magnetic EAS tags, and an anti-EAS jamming alarm mechanism. The EAS system of the present invention further includes a counter that counts the number of individuals entering into and exiting out of a secured area, and validate if an alarm is legitimate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2013
    Assignee: Universal Surveillance Corporation
    Inventors: Adel O. Sayegh, Edgardo Redublo, John Clothier, Steve Gutierrez, Radim Hotovec, Vladimir Hotovec, Stanislav Vcelka, Milan Kuchar, Radim Ptacek
  • Patent number: 8410933
    Abstract: A theft warning system includes a first electronic device and a second electronic device. The first electronic device is configured for transmitting monitoring signals, wherein the frequency of the monitoring signals is capable of changing according to change in the voltage supplied to the first electronic device. The second electronic device communicates with the first electronic device by receiving the monitoring signals transmitted by the first electronic device, and generating alarms when a frequency of the received monitoring signals is changed. A theft warning method applied to the electronic device is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2013
    Assignee: Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Lung Dai
  • Patent number: 8410934
    Abstract: A warning system includes a monitoring device and a controlled device, wherein the controlled device includes a wireless transmitter, a wireless receiver, a phase analyzer and a warning indicator. The wireless transmitter can transmit a detection signal, and then the controlled device responses to the detection signal and transmits a feedback signal. The wireless receiver can receive the feedback signal. The phase analyzer can analyze a phase difference between the detection signal and the feedback signal. The warning indicator can perform a warning action when the phase difference is greater than a preset value. Moreover, a method for monitoring a controlled device is disclosed in specification.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2013
    Assignee: Inventec Appliances Corp.
    Inventor: Shang Li
  • Patent number: 8405507
    Abstract: A system and method for displaying merchandise item is presented. A merchandise display system includes a display cabinet, an alarm unit and a key extension device. The display cabinet can display several different kinds of merchandise items. The alarm unit generates an alarm when one of the merchandise items is removed from a predetermined distance from the display cabinet. The key extension device can be mounted on the display cabinet away from the alarm unit to allow an electronic key to be inserted into the key extension devise to control the alarm unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2013
    Assignee: Checkpoint Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Dennis D. Belden, Jr., Michael Rapp
  • Publication number: 20130069784
    Abstract: An embodiment of the invention provides an automated transaction apparatus including: an operation unit; a peep preventing cover that is provided in the operation unit; a sensor that detects removal of the peep preventing cover; and a control unit that performs control such that a transaction of the automated transaction apparatus is paused in accordance with a detection result of the sensor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 3, 2012
    Publication date: March 21, 2013
    Applicant: OKI ELECTRIC INDUSTRY CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Hideto KOIKE
  • Patent number: 8400269
    Abstract: Methods and systems using polarization modulated electromagnetic waves. At least some of the illustrative embodiments are systems comprising a radio frequency identification (RFID) reader, and a RFID tag (the RFID tag communicatively coupled to the RFID reader),. The RFID tag is configured to transmit data to the RFID reader with data encoded in polarization of electromagnetic waves transmitted from the RFID tag.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2013
    Assignee: Round Rock Research, LLC
    Inventor: John R Tuttle
  • Patent number: RE44275
    Abstract: A system providing vehicle, pallet, and personnel tracking within buildings, vehicles such as trucks/trailers, buses, trains and aircraft at a site or in a global network system. RFlD transponder Gate readers are used in building doorways, in vehicles such as tracks/trailers gates or bus doors to read pallets, packages and personnel equipped with RFlD transponder and tamper proof RFlD RF transceiver tags. The RFlD-RF transceivers may contain a GPS/GSM modem for locating of pallets or personnel with RF or GPS location system. Site Buildings and vehicles are equipped with compute interface unit, to communicate at time intervals with RFlD-RF tag transceiver units installed on pallets or personnel wristwatch, to indicate the presence of pallets or personnel at a site or in a vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2013
    Assignee: Loran Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Ohanes Ghazarian