Abstract: A method for issuing alert signals as a reminder to perform a recurring act. The method comprises providing a device with a programmable electronic circuit, an electrical power source, a control switch, and an alert body controlled by the electronic circuit, programming the device with a signaling pattern, determining a first alert time based at least in part on the signaling pattern, issuing a first signal from the alert body, issuing a second signal from the alert body at the first alert time, the second signal being different from the first signal, and determining a next alert time upon activation of the control switch, wherein the next alert time is based at least in part on the signaling pattern and the time elapsed between the first alert time and activation of the control switch.

Abstract: The invention relates to an electronic system for anti-theft protection of goods. The system comprises: a unit for detecting a metallic material in a first detection zone; a unit for detecting a magnetic or magnetisable material in a second detection zone; and a control unit. The control unit is capable of receiving information from the units for detecting metallic and magnetic material when the one or both of these units detect(s) a metallic or a magnetic material, respectively, in the respective detection zones. The control unit is further programmable to the effect that the control unit can be programmed to emit a signal which depends on whether it receives information about the detection of metallic and/or magnetic material.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention include a system for scheduling the shipment of a set of products. The shipment may be loaded into a set of vehicles and further configured to fit a set of compartments on those vehicles. The system may include attempts to fill each vehicle and the compartments of each vehicle. The system may include evaluating a set of constraints on the shipment. The constraints may include a complex logical statement.

Abstract: A cardholder in a book form, comprising a plurality of units each having two pockets, wherein each pocket is sized to hold a card, comprises an alarm circuit in its cover or in a special compartment. Conductive strips/traces on both sides of the walls of said pockets are configured such that if the cardholder is closed while at least one of the pockets is empty, said traces creates a closed electric path between terminals of said alarm circuit and the alarm is activated. However, if the book shaped cardholder is open such that an empty pocket is exposed—the alarm is deactivated.

Abstract: A security and tracking apparatus includes at least a first signaling unit and a second signaling unit, wherein the apparatus is adapted for transmitting the location of each signaling unit when the first and second signaling units are separated by more than a preselected distance. A method to locate a person, animal, or object, includes providing in contact with or at least in close proximity to the person, the animal, or the object, at least a first signaling unit and a second signaling unit, wherein each respective signaling unit is adapted for identifying the location of the signaling units and for transmitting the location of the signaling units when the first and second signaling units are separated more than a preselected distance; and activating the signaling units to transmit the location of the signaling units.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for use with a security system. The method includes the steps of providing a plurality of sensors within the security system where each sensor of the plurality of sensors is associated with an asset, detecting activation of a sensor of the plurality of sensors and displaying an image of the asset associated with the activated sensor.

Abstract: An alarm system includes a number of radio frequency identification (RFID) tags, an RFID reader, a warning unit, and a control module. The RFID reader receives radio-frequency signals from some of the number of the RFID tags via an antenna when the some of the number of the RFID tags are in a determined area around the RFID reader. The control module activates the warning unit when a radio-frequency signal from at least one of the number of RFID tags is not received by the RFID reader.

Abstract: An anti-tamper assembly is provided in order to sense the attempted removal of a body attached to a surface by a fastener. The assembly includes an anti-tamper access-blocking element positioned in an anti-tamper position proximal to the fastener, along with an anti-tamper switch operably coupled with the element in order to bias the switch to one switch condition. In the event that the element is moved from its anti-tamper position, the switch moves to another switch condition, which generates an alarm signal. The assembly may be used to protect an alarm section forming a part of an alarm assembly. The section includes a sensor or switch operable to detect relative movement between first and second members such as a door and doorframe. A mechanically actuatable switch having an actuating arm may be used where the arm engages access-blocking element.

Abstract: Methods, systems and other embodiments associated with charging merchandise items are presented. A method of charging merchandise items includes displaying merchandise items at a consumer display so that the merchandise items can be handled by a consumer. A first powers supply charges a portion of the display that does not include the merchandise items and a second power supply charges the merchandise items. The merchandise items are charged at the display on a multiplexed basis. An alarm is generated if the first power supply or the second power supply looses power but not if the first and second power supply loose power.

Abstract: Techniques for tracking physical assets are described. In one aspect, input indicating that an asset has been loaded on a conveyance is received. When a tag attached to the asset is unable to transmit position fix data describing a location of the asset to a server, alternative position fix data (e.g., from the conveyance or another tag coupled to another asset on the conveyance) is used to indicate the position of the asset and tag. In another aspect, a relay component is used to receive the tag position fix data from the tag and forward it to the server.

Abstract: A method and system for notifying an owner of a mobile electronic device of an unauthorized movement of the mobile electronic device from a physical location.

Abstract: Radio frequency identification is used in cooperation with the computer system aboard a motor vehicle to track service and maintenance activities relating to the vehicle. Each component or part of the vehicle that may require maintenance is provided with a unique passive identification tag. The output data from the tag is read by a reader placed in proximity to the tag, and the data is transmitted to an on-board computer module where it is processed, and the service record is updated. A data stream converter may be used to process the information read by the reader into a format that is acceptable to the on-board computer. The data from the on-board computer is stored in a device external to the computer. Provisions are included for notification to the user, the auto dealer or service other agency as needed.

Abstract: A medication dispenser provides automation to the steps of locating and acquiring medications to be administered to a patient. The medication dispenser includes an enclosure providing a secure environment for storing medications in multiple sized medication storage bins. The medication storage bins are hung in storage racks located within the enclosure. A robot system is also provided within the enclosure for moving bins between the storage racks and a medication dispensing area. The medication dispensing area includes doors configured to open to define an opening for passing a selected bin through the enclosure. The medication storage bin includes a bulk bin loading drawing for loading medication storage bins into the medication dispensing apparatus.

Abstract: The invention is an improved security and product display system for use by retailers who sell hand-held electronics in stores. The system includes a combination of a mobile, hand-held electronics device (e.g., cell phone or like), a mounting member, and an adaptor cable that electrically connects the device to the mounting member. The device has power detection circuitry adapted to detect a break in the power circuit between device and mounting member. Detection of a circuit break causes the device to output a security alarm.

Abstract: An apparatus includes a container defining an internal region configured to contain multiple medicament delivery devices, such as, for example, pen injectors, auto-injectors, inhalers or the like. The container includes an electronic circuit system configured to output a first electronic output associated with a first medicament delivery device contained within the internal region when the first medicament delivery device is removed from the internal region of the container. The electronic circuit system is further configured to output a second electronic output associated with a second medicament delivery device contained within the internal region when the second medicament delivery device is removed from the internal region of the container. The second electronic output is different than the first electronic output. At least one of the first electronic output or the second electronic output is associated with a use instruction.

Abstract: A utility network interface device is provided for operation with a utility network. The utility network interface device includes a detector configured to produce a state signal upon occurrence of a prescribed state that interferes with the ability of a utility meter, with which the utility network interface device is associated, to measure consumption of a commodity and/or report consumption of the commodity. The utility network interface device also includes a control unit configured to detect a tampering with the utility meter in accordance with the state signal produced by the detector. The control unit automatically controls a notification unit to output, external to the utility meter, notification of the tampering detected by the control unit, in response to the detection of the tampering.

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 method and apparatus for detecting non-linear tags. In one advantageous embodiment a system for detecting non-linear tags has a transmitter and a receiver. The transmitter transmits a plurality of electromagnetic signals having a first frequency and a second frequency. The receiver monitors for an electromagnetic signal having a frequency equal to a difference between the first frequency and a second frequency that is generated by a non-linear tag in response to receiving the plurality of electromagnetic signals, wherein the non-linear tag is detected when the electromagnetic signal is detected by the receiver.

Abstract: Apparatus that includes alarms with indicators to prevent burglary and theft includes a depository (10) operative to receive deposit containers (20) from authorized persons who open a lock (24). The apparatus includes a depository head (12) and a chest (14). A security curtain assembly (36) comprising a plurality of movable plate members is operative to selectively block an opening in the top of the chest that communicates with the head in response to an actuator. The actuator operates responsive to at least one circuit to cause the security curtain to close responsive to sensing conditions that may correspond to an attack through one or more sensors. Alarms are given locally or remotely when the at least one circuit senses conditions that may correspond to an attack.

Abstract: A device for protecting articles, especially displayed goods, from theft is typically configured to produce information about the article when a person is detected approaching the article or the article is moved but not taken. The device typically includes an alarm which may be sounded if the article is moved too far from the display position or under other conditions.

Abstract: A component (10) of a device, such as a keypad mechanism (10) of a cash dispenser, is provided with a mechanism for detecting separation of the component from another part (16) of the device, for example a front panel (16) of the cash dispenser. The mechanism includes a member (64) moveable between first and second positions, and biasing means (34) to bias the member resiliently in the first position. In use, the member (64) is forced into the second position by contact with the part (16). If the component (10) and the part (16) are separated, the member (64) moves from the second position to the first position. The mechanism also includes a signal means to provide a warning signal when the member (64) moves to the first position. A tube (50) of ceramic material or other hard material is provided to resist ingress of a drill bit to the member (64).

Abstract: A multi-level equipment configuration monitoring system can include a plurality of RFID tags associated with respective user protective elements such as respirators, eye protectors, gloves boots, helmets and hearing protectors. A user communication unit can activate the tags and determine which elements are present. The determined elements can be compared to a pre-stored, approved list of elements to establish the state of a user's complement of protective equipment. Missing equipment can be immediately identified and brought to the user's attention. Information can be collected as to duration of use of the elements as well as duration of exposure of those elements to one or more predetermined hazardous conditions to schedule maintenance and replacement.

Abstract: An alarm system is applied for a computer to warn an owner of an electronic device via a terminal when the electronic device is detached from the computer. The alarm system includes a memory unit and a main controller connected the memory unit. The main unit controller includes a recording unit, a determining unit, and an information obtaining transmitting unit. The recording unit is used to log the electronic device detachably connected to the computer. The determining unit is used to determine whether the electronic device detachably connected to the computer is detached from the computer. The information obtaining transmitting unit is used to read the alarm information from the memory unit when the electronic device is detached from the computer, and transmit the alarm information to the owner' terminal.

Abstract: A display for displaying a plurality of rings with a display having a number of pockets in each of which a ring can be nested. Each pocket has an aperture in the bottom with a tether extending through the aperture for attachment to a ring with the other end being attached to a retractor secured to the display. The tether permits a person to examine the ring but not to remove it from the display. The retractor is preferably a spring loaded reel. Each pocket has a ramp on each side placed diagonally across for each other with a ramp stop for turning the ring into alignment with the pocket as the retractor pulls the ring into the pocket.

Abstract: A tamper sensing system mounted with respect to a protected structure so as to have corresponding stress changes occur therein in response to selected kinds of tamperings with said protected structure comprising a first pair of stress affected magnetoresistive memory devices each capable of having a magnetic material layer therein established in a selected one of a pair of alternative magnetization states if in a first kind of stress condition and of being established in a single magnetization state if in an alternative second kind of stress condition, and the magnetic material layer in each having a magnetization in a first direction in one of the pair of alternative magnetization states and in a second direction in that remaining one of the pair of magnetization states.

Abstract: A semiconductor device typified by a wireless tag, which has improved mechanical strength, can be formed by a more simple process at a low cost and prevent radio waves from being shielded, and a manufacturing method of the semiconductor device. According to the invention, a wireless tag includes a thin film integrated circuit formed of an isolated TFT having a thin film semiconductor film. The wireless tag may be attached directly to an object, or attached to a flexible support such as plastic and paper before being attached to an object. The wireless tag of the invention may include an antenna as well as the thin film integrated circuit. The antenna allows to communicate signals between a reader/writer and the thin film integrated circuit, and to supply a power source voltage from the reader/writer to the thin film integrated circuit.

Abstract: A monitoring system includes a controller, a plurality of sensors, a plurality of alarms, and a plurality of input/output devices. Each input/output device is connected between the controller and a sensor or an alarm. Each input/output device includes an input circuit, an output circuit, and a connector. The input circuit and the output circuit are connected between the controller and the connector. The connector is further selectively connected to a sensor or an alarm and a DC power in series. The controller controls a status of the input circuit and the output circuit. When the connector is connected to the alarm, the input circuit does not operate. The controller outputs a motion signal to the alarm via the output circuit. When the connector is connected to the sensor, the output circuit does not operate. The sensor outputs a detection signal to the controller via the input circuit.

Abstract: Tamper-proof alarm components for detecting theft, for example, of copper, air conditioning component(s), and/or an air conditioning unit are disclosed. Methods of making and using tamper-proof alarm components are also disclosed.

Abstract: An activity monitor which can be pre-programmed at the factory, the doctors office or the pharmacist, or that can be programmed by the user. The activity monitor is affixed to a medicine bottle or container and activity associated with the bottle or container, such as movement, opening, volume changes, etc. are monitored in view to the schedule. The activity monitor records and allows for the analysis of the recorded data to determine is there is a likelihood of substance abuse.

Abstract: An activation system for optical media in one embodiment includes a tag having at least one pair of conductors with at least one heating element coupled to the conductors. The heating element is oriented proximate one or more activation regions on the optical media, and wherein the heating element activates the optical media. The tag in one embodiment is an elongate flexible tag material with a number of conductors that couple on one end to heating elements wherein the heating elements are disposed within a media case such that they are proximate activation regions on a media article.

Abstract: A theft deterrent device includes a carrier having a pivotally mounted pin and an alarm tag for receiving the pin to secure the carrier and alarm tag together when secured on an item of merchandise by an adhesive pad on the carrier. Spaced electrical contacts within the alarm tag receive the pin therebetween to provide an electrical path between the contacts to close a first electrical circuit which turns the device on. A flexibly mounted projection on the carrier depresses a plunger switch to arm the device when the carrier is attached to an item of merchandise. The security device is configured to sound an onboard alarm in response to prying of the carrier from the alarm tag or cutting of the pin of the carrier, or if an EAS tag receives a wireless signal from a security gate. Security gate alarms also sound if the tag moves through the gate or within a predetermined distance thereof.

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: 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: An apparatus for recognizing an entry/exit direction of a moving body includes a first moving body detection sensor; a second moving body detection sensor; and a control means connected to the first and second moving body detection sensors by wire/wireless to recognize as an entry of a moving body only when, after moving body detection signals of the first and second moving body detection sensors are received simultaneously or together for a first predetermined time, the moving body detection signal of the second moving body detection sensor is not lastly received, and to recognize as an exit of a moving body only when, after moving body detection signals of the first and second moving body detection sensors are received simultaneously or together for a first predetermined time, the moving body detection signal of the first moving body detection sensor is not lastly received.

Abstract: An apparatus is illustrated for collecting containers and that includes a storage receptacle having an access door and a support tray. The storage receptacle has an opening through which a container is inserted for receipt on the support tray. The support tray has an initial substantially horizontal position. A scanner detects the presence of the container on the support tray. A collection bag is supported in the storage receptacle at a bottom thereof and for receiving a plurality of containers. The collection bag is accessible via the access door. A mechanism is responsive to the scanner detecting the presence of the container for releasing the container from the support tray to enable the container to fall into the collection bag. The container is released by the support tray pivoting from the substantially horizontal position to an angled position to thus enable the container to fall into the collection bag.

Abstract: A recognition system recognizes and prevents the unlawful use of a firearm. The present invention also provides a means for tracking and tracing the history of a firearm movement and registered ownership. The recognition system may include a variety of scanning devices that may be adapted to scan for a firearm and/or may scan for a special component formed into the firearm material. The scanning devices may be made visible to people to act as a deterrent, or may be hidden in various everyday items, such as in exit signs, advertisement displays and the like. The scanning devices may not only detect firearms, but other items that may be restricted in their carry, such as knives, narcotics, explosives, or the like.

Abstract: A shipping and tracking system has a number of tracking stations that are geographically distributed. The tracking stations gather information from shipping items processed by the shipping and tracking system. The shipping and tracking system provides an enhanced level of security for selected shipping items. The enhanced level of security for the selected shipping items is based at least on the information gathered at the tracking stations. The enhanced security is provided in such a way that personnel of the shipping and delivery system cannot physically discern whether or not a shipping item is being shipped with enhanced security.

Abstract: A system and/or method to control access to medication and/or medical supplies may be implemented by providing secured compartments for the medication spread through a medical facility, such as in or adjacent patient rooms and/or connecting locking mechanisms to the secured compartments. Computers positioned throughout the facility are interfaced to respective locking mechanisms to operate the locking mechanism in response to access codes, which may be transmitted over the network. Additional steps may involve programming an authorization computer for providing access codes in whole or part for use with the computers. One or more access points may be functionally coupled to a computer system and/or to the locking mechanism and accessible to users for entry of requests for access to the secured compartment.

Abstract: A system and/or method to control access to secured compartments in a facility. Computers positioned throughout the facility are interfaced to respective locking mechanisms to operate the locking mechanism in response to access codes, which may be transmitted over the network. Additional steps may involve programming an authorization computer for providing access codes in whole or part for use with the computers. One or more access points may be functionally coupled to a computer system and/or to the locking mechanism and accessible to users for entry of requests for access to the secured compartment.

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: A drive assembly has a controller for moving an object. A security reset button initiates and terminates security functions for the system. An alarm is provided. A circuit assembly includes a first circuit for moving the object. The circuit assembly includes a second circuit for generating the alarm in response to unauthorized moving of the object.

Abstract: An alarming electronic article surveillance (“EAS”) tag for securing an item of merchandise includes an EAS sensor, a radio frequency identification (“RFID”) logic block, an alarm transducer, and an alarming tag processor. The RFID logic block includes a transceiver, a memory and a processor. The transceiver operates to receive a first interrogation signal. The memory includes a first identifier associated with the alarming EAS tag and a second identifier associated with the item of merchandise. The processor is operable to send a first trigger signal responsive to the transceiver receiving the first interrogation signal. The alarming tag processor is electrically coupled to the RFID logic block and the EAS sensor. The alarm transducer is operable to produce at least one of a visual indicator and an audible indicator based on the EAS sensor and the alarming tag processor.

Abstract: An electronic device fastener (EDF) to protect a portable device that is placed in a holder which may be a case, belt clip, holster, cradle, or the like worn or carried by the user that uses a release sensor, proximity sensor, shock sensor, and clip sensor to protect a portable device such as a cell phone, portable media player, personal digital assistant (PDA), two-way radio, GPS device, headset, or earpiece from loss and misplacement. The system can provide up to five modes of protection against loss and misplacement of a portable device.

Abstract: A document management system includes a memory portion that stores an original document identifier and a first derived document identifier in association with a second apparatus identifier, the original document identifier being provided to an original document, the first derived document identifier being provided to a first derived document created when the original document is copied, printed, edited, or sent by a first apparatus, the second apparatus identifier being provided to a second apparatus that further copies, prints, edits, or sends the first derived document; and a search portion that searches for a distribution path of the original document with the use of the association of the original document identifier, the first derived document identifier, and the second apparatus identifier.

Abstract: A security system includes a security device and a spacer. The security device defines a first opening having a first diameter. The spacer is removably positionable in the first opening to create a center opening having a second diameter smaller than the first diameter. The security device includes a magnetically actuable locking mechanism and a housing having the magnetically actuable locking mechanism disposed therein. The locking mechanism includes a magnetically actuable latch, a belt configured to provide a latch mating element for the latch, and a flexible element to bias the magnetically actuable latch and the belt into a locked position. The housing includes a passageway which defines a belt pathway configured to slidingly receive the belt therein.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method and system for room activity communication. In one embodiment, a tray sensing device detects the presence of a tray in a given location and forwards the information to a room controller. The tray can be a conventional tray for supporting food articles or can be supported or integral with a food cart. The system also includes a door lock/tag controller for monitoring door lock and door tag information. Information from the tray sensing device, door lock/tag controller is communicated to a room controller. The room controller of each room can include a wireless network to the tray controller and/or door lock/tag controller. The room controller can also monitor information of the room such as, for example, temperature, humidity and light intensity information, and receive information regarding room activities, such as, for example, room service ordering and status, housekeeping, minibar, phone messages and checkout routine.

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: A method and system for reducing the signal interference effects of metal doors in a metal detection system. The system includes a transmitter operable to transmit an interrogation signal that is used to detect transitory metal objects within the detection region, a receiver operable to receive instantaneous signals that represent electromagnetic field disturbances during operation of the metal detection system and include electromagnetic field disturbances attributed to the movement of metal doors. The system also includes a metal detection module that determines a resulting waveform representing the difference between the instantaneous signals received during operation of the metal detection system and a recorded pattern of signals representing electromagnetic field disturbances caused by a pattern of movement of the metal doors in the detection region when a transitory metallic object is not present.

Abstract: A lock for securing an electronic device includes a tamper module and a destruction module. The tamper module determines whether a component of the lock has been compromised. The tamper module may determine whether a cable securing the electronic device has been cut. If the tamper module determines that a lock component has been compromised, a destruction module may destroy an enabling component that enables the electronic device to operate. The destruction module may destroy a transmitter in the lock that communicates an authentication code if the electronic device will not function without the authentication code.

Abstract: An apparatus includes a carrier, and a system that is responsive to wireless signals transmitted by tags on items carried by the carrier for maintaining a local inventory of items carried by the carrier. A different apparatus involves a carrier having a container with an interior, a sensor for detecting a condition externally of the container that can be related to an environment within the container, and a system that handles information from the sensor in a manner facilitating an evaluation of the likelihood that a problem exists within the container. Another apparatus involves a carrier for a plurality of items, and a system that is responsive to wireless signals received from a remote location for determining a current location of the carrier and for evaluating whether the carrier is proceeding along an intended route.