Article Placement Or Removal (e.g., Anti-theft) Patents (Class 340/568.1)
  • Patent number: 9007210
    Abstract: Solar panel theft protection system operable both during daytime and nighttime. Power is feed into a solar array system sufficient to operate local management units. The units monitor solar panels; in the event that a panel is disconnected, an alarm is set off.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2015
    Assignee: Tigo Energy, Inc.
    Inventors: Mordechay Avrutsky, Ron Hadar, Shmuel Arditi
  • Patent number: 9007215
    Abstract: In the embodiments described herein, a RFID enabled license plate is constructed by using the license plate, or a retro-reflective layer formed thereon as part of the resonator configured to transmit signals generated by and RFID chip integrated with the license plate. Such an RFID enabled license plate can include a metal license plate with a slot formed in the metal license plate, and a RFID tag module positioned in the slot. The RFID tag module can include a chip and a loop, and the loop can be coupled with the metal license plate, e.g., via inductive or conductive coupling. In this manner, the metal license plate can be configured to act as a resonator providing increased performance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2015
    Assignee: Neology, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey Zhu, Chih-chuan Yen, Jason Liu, Joe Mullis
  • Patent number: 9007205
    Abstract: An embedded security system for an environment-controlled trailer including a transportation refrigeration unit. The security system includes a plurality of sensors mounted to the trailer and a communication device embedded in the transportation refrigeration unit of the trailer, the communication device being configured to receive data from the plurality of sensors, and to send the received data to a controller being remote from the trailer. The controller is configured to monitor the security status of the trailer and to determine a security risk at the trailer based, at least in part, on the received data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2015
    Assignee: Thermo King Corporation
    Inventors: Timothy Alan Walker, Eduardo S. Tan, Ulrich Fink
  • Patent number: 9007209
    Abstract: Implementations for a system to receive a message indicating that an ambient light level measured by an ambient light sensor within a container exceeds a first threshold value or falls below a second threshold value; in response to the message indicating that the ambient light level exceeds the first threshold value, activate a cargo sensor; and in response to the message indicating that the ambient light level falls below the second threshold value, de-activate the cargo sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2015
    Assignee: I.D. Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael L. Ehrman, Steven R. Wendler, James E. Gripp
  • Patent number: 9007170
    Abstract: A rapid-access gun safe includes a portable enclosing structure and a communication module. The portable enclosing structure encloses a firearm. The portable enclosing structure includes a fixed portion and a collapsing wall. The collapsing wall provides rapid access to the firearm. The communication module is coupled to the fixed portion of the enclosing structure. The communication module facilitates incoming and outgoing electronic communication of at least one access signal from a device external to the rapid-access gun safe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2015
    Assignee: Rocky Mountain Safe Company, LLC
    Inventors: Ross B Wall, Michael M. Austin
  • Patent number: 9007211
    Abstract: A tethering system with an elongate cable. A first cable end is configured to be directed through a first article opening. Structure cooperates between the first cable end and a first blocking component and is configured to releasably fix the first cable end to the first blocking component. The first blocking component is configured so that the first blocking component will not pass through the first article opening. Structure cooperates between a second blocking component and cable and is configured to releasably fix the second blocking component to the cable at a location spaced from the first cable end with the cable directed through the second opening. The second blocking component is configured so that it will not pass, together with a portion of the cable to which the second blocking component is fixed, through the second article opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2015
    Assignee: Se-Kure Controls, Inc.
    Inventor: Roger J. Leyden
  • Publication number: 20150097673
    Abstract: A system of electronic devices for the detection and location of changes in a predetermined space for the protection and security of places, persons, and goods, comprising at least two general sensors, two data processing electronic devices connected to each other. One of the two data processing devices comprises two electronic means. One of said electronic means reproduces with an appropriate fidelity the place to be monitored into a three-dimensional virtual reality. The second electronic means is capable of acquiring and storing security rules, receiving from the sensors and mapping their signals by correlating them according to criteria of coincidence in the virtual reality to identify events predetermined by the security rules as relevant for the activation of appropriate alarms or notifications.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 8, 2013
    Publication date: April 9, 2015
    Applicant: HYPERION S.r.l.
    Inventor: Andrea Lagomarsini
  • Patent number: 9000920
    Abstract: A merchandise display security device for displaying and protecting an article of merchandise is provided. For example, the security device comprises an alarm unit and a first connector electrically coupled to the alarm unit and configured to releasably engage the article of merchandise. The security device further comprises a second connector electrically coupled to the alarm unit. The second connector is configured to releasably engage an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) power supply cable such that the alarm unit is disposed between a source of electric power and the article of merchandise, and the power supply cable is configured to provide power to both the alarm unit and the article of merchandise. The alarm unit is configured to at least one of activate an alarm in the event that the first connector is removed from the article of merchandise or the second connector is removed from the power supply cable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2015
    Assignee: InVue Security Products Inc.
    Inventors: Christopher J. Fawcett, Jeffrey A. Grant, Larry T. McKinney
  • Patent number: 9000925
    Abstract: A radio-frequency identification (RFID) tag is provided that comprises an RFID transceiver configured to transmit and receive radio frequency (RF) signals, the RFID transceiver comprising an integrated circuit chip (IC) coupled to an antenna having an impedance, gain and directionality that in conjunction with the characteristics of the IC defines a first read range of the RFID tag. The RFID tag also comprises a releasable coupler configured to be releasably engagable with the RFID transceiver comprising a coupling material, the releasable coupler being configured such that when the releasable coupler is releasably engaged with the RFID transceiver, the coupling material altering at least one of the impedance, the gain and the directionality of the antenna to define a second read range of the RFID tag, wherein the second read range is greater than the first read range.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2015
    Assignee: Avery Dennison Corporation
    Inventor: Ian James Forster
  • Patent number: 9000919
    Abstract: A solar panel system includes a plurality of the panels connected together in one or more panel strings. An embodiment includes a signal generator module connected to the photovoltaic panel strings injecting a multiple radio frequency signal onto each of the strings and a detector module analyzing a frequency response echo from the panel strings. The signal generator may include a string coupling module communicating with a controller. The detector module analyzes the echo to obtain an analog fingerprint for each panel string and determine whether the fingerprint for each panel string is within an acceptable range. The detector module initiates an alarm when one of the fingerprints is outside the acceptable range. During night time, when no current is being produced by the photovoltaic cells, a DC or AC source may be connected to the panel strings to inject a signal onto the strings for the same purpose.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2015
    Assignee: Tigo Energy, Inc.
    Inventors: Ron Hadar, Daniel Eizips, Gil Katzir, Luiz Felipe Fuks
  • Patent number: 8994531
    Abstract: A merchandise sensor for protecting an item of merchandise displayed on a merchandise display security device from theft includes sensor electronics and a sensor element operably coupled to the sensor electronics. The sensor element provides an output value in an initial stable state before an interaction state and in a subsequent stable state following the interaction state. The sensor electronics compares the output value of the sensor element in the subsequent stable state and the output value of the sensor element in the initial stable state to determine whether a change in the output value indicates an alarm condition. In the event that the output value of the sensor element in the subsequent stable state is not within a predetermined tolerance bandwidth of the output value of the sensor element in the initial stable state, the sensor electronics activates an alarm in response to the alarm condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Assignee: InVue Security Products Inc.
    Inventors: Christopher J. Fawcett, Jeffrey A. Grant, Jonathon D. Phillips, Gary A. Taylor
  • Patent number: 8994535
    Abstract: The present invention discloses a device for hanging clothes, comprising an engaging portion and a deformable elongate member, the elongate member comprising a connection mechanism such that the elongate member can be deformed back upon itself and connected to itself to form a loop.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Assignee: The Janger Limited
    Inventor: John Coote
  • Publication number: 20150084773
    Abstract: A mobile terminal and an anti-theft method thereof are described. The anti-theft recognition module of the mobile terminal sends a security number acquisition instruction to a security number acquisition module after determining that the mobile terminal enters an anti-theft mode, the security number acquisition module automatically acquires a security number according to the security number acquisition instruction and sends the acquired security number to an anti-theft processing module, the anti-theft processing module gives an alarm according to the received security number to help the owner of the mobile terminal retrieve the mobile terminal or the information stored in the mobile terminal, thereby minimizing the loss of the owner of the mobile terminal and eliminating the potential safety hazard brought by the loss of the personal information stored in the mobile terminal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 27, 2012
    Publication date: March 26, 2015
    Applicant: ZTE CORPORATION
    Inventors: Liqin Fu, Lei Yuan, Kefei Li, Qiuzhu Li, Jianping Shuang, Xing Liu
  • Patent number: 8988199
    Abstract: A Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) system uses read difficulty factors (RDFs) to improve tag-parameter estimation. During inventory, a reader can obtain a tag's item identifier (II), determine a read metric such as a received signal strength indicator (RSSI), retrieve an RDF associated with the II, and adjust the RSSI using the RDF to more accurately estimate a tag parameter such as distance from the reader antenna. The system can then use the estimated distance to categorize the tag.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2015
    Assignee: Impinj, Inc.
    Inventors: Vincent C. Moretti, Robert C. Collins
  • Patent number: 8988195
    Abstract: Indoor locationing using radio frequency based tags includes distributing a plurality of radio frequency based tags at mapped locations within the indoor environment. The radio frequency based tags periodically transmit their identity information in a message. A mobile device in proximity to at least one of the radio frequency based tags receives the message. A location of the mobile device is associating to the mapped location of the radio frequency based tag identified in the received message.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2015
    Assignee: Symbol Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Avinash Joshi, Saurabh Bhargava, Radhakrishnan Suryanarayanan
  • Publication number: 20150077253
    Abstract: A vehicle has an interior antenna for detecting transmissions from a keyless entry device (KED) and/or a radio frequency device (RFD) associated with a portable item when inside the vehicle, and an exterior antenna for detecting transmissions from the KED and/or the RFD when outside the vehicle. A processor receives determines, based on transmissions received by the interior and exterior antennas, passing of the KED from inside to outside the vehicle, and generates an alert if the interior antenna detects the RFD remaining inside the vehicle after said passing. The processor may further determine passing of the RFD from outside to inside the vehicle based upon detection by the exterior antenna of transmissions indicating the RFD is outside the vehicle, and subsequent detection by the interior antenna of transmissions from the RFD indicating it is inside the vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 17, 2014
    Publication date: March 19, 2015
    Inventors: Robert SPAHL, Stephen David FLEMING
  • Patent number: 8981934
    Abstract: A loss prevention system comprises a protected article and a receiver. The protected article and the receiver are located in the same room. The loss prevention system can help to prevent loss or theft of the protected article. The protected article comprises a transmitter that emits an infrared signal. The infrared signal has a carrier frequency that is modulated to encode a digital signature. The receiver detects infrared signals. The receiver performs an alarm action if the receiver does not detect within a rolling time window an infrared signal having the carrier frequency that is modulated to encode the digital signature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2015
    Assignee: Welch Allyn, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert J. Wood
  • Patent number: 8981938
    Abstract: Methods of connecting or linking real objects to machines or the virtual world in real time utilizing a device are disclosed. In one embodiment, a wireless tag attached to an object in communication with an electronic device, such as a cellular phone, tablet computer, laptop computer, or watch, monitors and updates the position of a wireless tag locally and on a machine/network/cloud. Methods of using a wireless tag in safety, loss/theft prevention, healthcare, tracking, advertising and marketing, education, games, finance, payment, and athletic are disclosed. In another embodiment, methods of providing an application programming interface and/or a software development kit based on the devices are provided, allowing software developers the ability to create their own programs or applications on top of the disclosed system is disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2015
    Assignee: Linquet Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Pooya H. Kazerouni
  • Patent number: 8981905
    Abstract: An asset tracking technology wrings from a scan, event, location, and personal data in combination, immense mounds of useful information about the assets by interacting this information with Points of Data via cloud processing and analytics. The system tracks each asset at each location starting at its initial location and thereafter at each succeeding location, including time taken and steps involved as reported by each player in the supply chain. Each asset and each critical embedded component has a tag or mark that uniquely identifies it. Each tag is registered in a cloud-hosted database. Each sending and each receiving location will input the tag information with a scanner. This data flowing from the tracking model is transmitted to the cloud-hosted database for processing using Big Data Analytics techniques and artificial intelligence expert systems tools to determine the probably of a deviation from a normative established by the expert system based on the collected data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2015
    Assignee: A2B Tracking Solutions, Inc
    Inventor: David J. Collins
  • Patent number: 8981924
    Abstract: In some embodiments, a personal possession management system using a short range Internet Protocol (IP) based Personal Area Network (PAN) comprises a master device MD to be worn or held by a user, and an IP based RFID electronic tag ET to be attached to or contained within a personal possession desired to be managed. The electronic tag ET has communicability with the master device. The master device MD is configured to allot an IP address to the electronic tag ET in a registration mode using IEEE 802.11 protocols and sends probes to the electronic tag ET. The electronic tag ET is configured to receive messages from the master device MD and respond accordingly. The master device MD alerts a user when the communicability between the master device MD and the electronic tag Er is disrupted in a monitoring mode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2015
    Assignees: Toshiba America Research, Inc., Telcordia Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Raziq Yaqub, Tao Zhang
  • Publication number: 20150070168
    Abstract: The Guitar alarm comprises of a fob and a receiver. The fob is a portable wireless device while the receiver is fixed to the Guitar. Both the fob and the receiver are made up of rigid plastic with the electrical components enclosed. At present the system provides three function options: 1: Proximity Detection—when a preset distance between the fob and the receiver is exceeded, the system will trigger an alarm on both the fob and receiver. 2: Movement Detection—when the Guitar is disturbed, the system will trigger an alarm on both the fob and receiver. 3: Both functions can operate simultaneously. As the alarm alerts the user of the possible theft or disturbance of the Guitar, it also forces the thief to abandon the Guitar.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 12, 2013
    Publication date: March 12, 2015
    Inventors: Alistair Ross-Mowat, Kenneth Michael Eddy
  • Patent number: 8976026
    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 magnetizable 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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 10, 2015
    Assignee: Alert Metalguard ApS
    Inventor: Verner Falkenberg
  • Patent number: 8976028
    Abstract: A system and method for tracking items are disclosed. The system and method include a computing device capable of near filed communication (NFC), and at least one tag coupled to each of at least one item, where the at least one tag is communicatively coupled to the NFC of the computing device using radio frequency (RF) signals. The coupling of the at least one tag to the at least one item enables the computing device to identify the at least one item and the distance from the at least one item to the computing device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 10, 2015
    Assignee: OKKOLA Technologies, LLC
    Inventor: Louis Caporizzo
  • Publication number: 20150061870
    Abstract: A portable alarm system designed for unoccupied unsecured locations, such as construction sites, machinery, campsites and the like. The alarm system defines a continuous monitoring line about the perimeter of the unsecured location using a plurality of wireless sensors attached to a flexible non-stretchable tape suspended between to vertical poles. The system has motion-sensing/detecting capabilities such that any movement of a housing where the microprocessor of the system is located generates audible/visual alarm. Each of the wireless sensors has a magnet and a transmitter positionable within a predetermined distance from the magnet. If the intruder tampers with the tape and increases the distance between the magnet the transmitter, the alarm is activated as well.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 27, 2013
    Publication date: March 5, 2015
    Inventor: Christopher C. Hamilton
  • Patent number: 8970377
    Abstract: An item tracking system includes a plurality of items for storage and removal from a compartment. The system includes tags affixed to the items and configured to store identifiers for the items. A tag reader receives data from the tags in response to the items being removed from and returned to the compartment. A sensor in the compartment identifies a state change associated with the compartment. A processor identifies removal of an item with data received by the tag reader, identifies the state change with the sensor after the item is removed and before it is returned, and generates an output with an output device including the identifier corresponding to the item in response to the state change in the compartment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2015
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventors: Christian P. Heine, Mahendra P. Srivastava, James D. Bohn, Teresa Celmer
  • Publication number: 20150054647
    Abstract: A method of providing an alert that a portable electronic device has been left at a vehicle. The method comprises determining that an occupant has exited the vehicle. The method further comprises detecting that a portable electronic device is located at the vehicle. When it has been determined that the occupant has left the vehicle and that the electronic device has been left behind, the method still further comprises generating an alert to notify the occupant that the electronic device has been left at the vehicle. A system for performing or utilizing the above-described methodology is also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 23, 2013
    Publication date: February 26, 2015
    Applicant: General Motors LLC
    Inventor: Ryan M. Edwards
  • Patent number: 8963715
    Abstract: An embodiment of an apparatus has a closed housing accommodating an element to be protected, and a pressure sensor coupled to a control unit configured to detect pressure variations within the housing upon opening the housing. The control unit is configured to activate countermeasures upon detecting opening of the housing. For example, the apparatus may be a set-top box, a cell phone, a television set, a printer ink cartridge of toner cartridge, or a meter, wherein the element to be protected is a semiconductor chip and relevant couplings, storing an enabling code or key.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2015
    Assignee: STMicroelectronics S.r.l
    Inventors: Guido Marco Bertoni, Fabio Tota
  • Patent number: 8963498
    Abstract: This specification relates to a charging, securing and monitoring system for hand-held electronic devices such as cell phones, BlackBerry's, PDA's, cameras, or the like and the components therefore. More particularly the teachings herein include a coaxial cable construction that permits securing and charging of said hand-held devices which are on display at a typical retailer. Further the cable may be accumulated on a unique recoiler assembly at one end of the coaxial cable and engages a unique holding device proximate the other end thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2015
    Assignee: RTF Research and Technologies Inc.
    Inventor: Joel Ferguson
  • Patent number: 8960440
    Abstract: A system is provided for monitoring the removal of blister pack contents. An array of spatially-extended, electrically parallel breakable traces made from electrically resistive material is formed behind a corresponding array of blisters of a blister card. Then this array is connected in series with a reference resistor to form a voltage divider. All resistive traces are formed from the same materials in a single operation. Blister breakage is determined using changes in the ratio of the resistances of the array and the divider. A predictive algorithm is used to adjust the threshold resistance ratio change that signals blister breakage and voltage ratios are used to adjust for battery output changes over time. Breakage events and their time of occurrence are recorded in nonvolatile memory for later retrieval. Additional resistors can be used for activating the system and detecting tampering.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2015
    Assignee: Verimed Holdings, LLC
    Inventor: James W. Kronberg
  • Patent number: 8963714
    Abstract: A tamper-evident package for pharmaceuticals is described. The package includes a case. A tray holding pharmaceuticals slides in and out of the case. The package includes an alarm that can be set to armed and triggered mode. When the alarm is armed, the system of the package changes the alarm to triggered in response to the tray being opened. The package may engage an access indicator in response to the alarm being triggered. The package may also flash an indicator light upon request, prior to opening the tray, to indicate whether the alarm was triggered since being previously armed. The alarm can be armed again if it is triggered, by entering a security code while the tray is closed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2015
    Assignee: AbbVie Inc.
    Inventors: Bhimaprasad Medhal, Guy C. Upchurch, Catherine A. Frank, James Lavery, Matthew L. Phillips, Philip Nathan, Robert H. Bruno
  • Patent number: 8957774
    Abstract: A transmitter, GPS, clock and, optionally, a microphone, video camera and identification signal means, and health monitoring sensors are housed in personal articles such as a pendant, a watch, a ring, mobile telephone, or other personal article. The article is disguised to look like it does not have all or some of said features, and is provided with a switching device, preferably operable with one hand, to turn the transmitter on. Preferably, the switching device has two switching elements which require simultaneous operation to energize the transmitter, so as to minimize false alarms. The method of use includes selecting the best-suited type of transmitter, causing emergency personnel to be prepared to act when receiving transmission from the alarm device, and advising users on carrying the modified personal article when protection is desired.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2015
    Inventor: Vivian B. Goldblatt
  • Publication number: 20150042809
    Abstract: An anti-theft alarm system for a vending machine includes an infrared sensor, an alarm device, and a processing unit. When the infrared sensor detects an object passing through a product exit port of the vending machine, the processing unit controls the alarm device to emit an alarm to draw attention to proximate persons around the vending machine. An anti-theft alarm method for a vending machine is also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 11, 2014
    Publication date: February 12, 2015
    Inventors: CHIN-WEN YEH, YANG XIAO
  • Patent number: 8952813
    Abstract: Aspects of the present invention disclose a system, method and computer program product for automatically assigning a location to a luggage belonging to a passenger in a passenger carrier. In an example, a computer system evaluates characteristics of the luggage. The computer system evaluates characteristics of the passenger. The computer system assigns a location associated with an RFID tag to the luggage. The computer system confirms the luggage being correctly located in the assigned location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2015
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Gregory J. Boss, Andrew R. Jones, Kevin C. McConnell, John E. Moore, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8952791
    Abstract: The current invention is a method and system for tracking an RFID tag within a defined 3D space and can be used to identify objects within a live performance and create hotspots with respect to the objects, which allows viewers the ability to select objects that are associated with one of the hotspots, and transmits their interest in the selected object to one or more users. Preferably, the system operates such that hotspots can be created for previously created video, newly created video media, as well as live broadcasts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2015
    Inventors: Lincoln Berry, III, Justin Lamar Johnson, Giacomo Caruso, Amanda Farkas, Jared Szechy, Matthew Fisher, Phillip Doepker, Ralph Barrera, Tom Whitney
  • Patent number: 8952817
    Abstract: Provided is a security package which generally comprises a casing for housing a product and a collar for locking the casing. The collar generally has a locked and unlocked configuration and comprises a first locking member having at least one male locking mechanism, and a second locking member having at least one female locking mechanism lockable to the at least one male locking mechanism. The casing generally has an open and closed configuration, and comprises a cavity shaped to substantially conform to the product. In the locked configuration the collar secures the casing in the closed configuration. The casing may comprise a first and second casing portion, and these may be integrally formed with the one or more of the first and second locking members. The collar may form a perimeter around the casing, may be adjustable, and may house a security device such as an RFID (radio-frequency identification) tag.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2015
    Inventors: Glen Walter Garner, Sheila Maureen Barry
  • Patent number: 8952827
    Abstract: A casing includes a base, a trigger switch, an alarm device, and a cover. The base includes a first side plate and a second side plate perpendicular to the first side plate. The trigger switch is mounted to an inner side of the first side plate. A resilient tab is formed on a top of the trigger switch. The alarm device is electrically connected to the trigger switch. The cover covers on a top of the base and deforms the resilient tab down. A recess is defined in a bottom surface of the cover and located between the second side plate and the resilient tab. When the cover is slid away from the second side plate, the recess aligns with the resilient tab. The resilient tab enters the recess and restores. The trigger switch triggers the alarm device to alarm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2015
    Assignee: ScienBiziP Consulting(Shenzhen)Co.,Ltd.
    Inventors: De-Guang Zhang, Fang-Li Pan, Ai-Yu Pan
  • Publication number: 20150035674
    Abstract: An electronic label tag (100) and electronic label tag system (300) wherein electronic label tag (100) comprises machine readable identifier module, communication module for receiving product related information, attachment means for attaching the electronic label tag (100) to product, and display for displaying product related information. The machine readable identifier module of the electronic label tag (100) is configured to activate the communication module and/or display in response to a command received by the machine readable identifier module.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 10, 2013
    Publication date: February 5, 2015
    Applicant: MARISENSE OY
    Inventor: Hannu Karhuketo
  • Patent number: 8941494
    Abstract: The invention describes a safety system (100) for a working machine (1), wherein an operator (7) is able to interact with the machine (1), wherein the system (100) comprises a transceiver unit (71) associated with the operator (7), a central processing unit (11), associated with the working machine (1), so as to receive signals from the transceiver unit (71), conductive gloves (81) comprising electrical conduction means (85, 84) configured to operate in ordinary functioning (I) or in an alarm condition (II), electrical connection means (82) configured to connect the transceiver unit (71) to the conductive gloves (81), and wherein the central processing unit (11) is configured to recognize whether the operator (7) is authorized for use of the machine (1), and to transmit an alarm signal (Sx1) so as to disable the machine (1) if the second operative condition (II) occurs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2015
    Inventors: Stefano Santini, Giorgio Grasselli
  • Patent number: 8942107
    Abstract: A piece of Ethernet terminal equipment having an Ethernet connector including first and second pairs of contacts used to carry Ethernet communication signals. At least one path for the purpose of drawing DC current. The at least one path coupled across at least one of the contacts of the first pair of contacts and at least one of the contacts of the second pair of contacts. The piece of Ethernet terminal equipment to draw different magnitudes of DC current flow via the at least one path. The different magnitudes of DC current flow to result from at least one condition applied to at least one of the contacts of the first and second pairs of contacts, wherein at least one of the magnitudes of the DC current flow to convey information about the piece of Ethernet terminal equipment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2015
    Assignee: ChriMar Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: John F. Austerman, III, Marshall B. Cummings
  • Publication number: 20150022356
    Abstract: A mounting system for an electronic device is described. This mounting system includes a base that can be rigidly mounted on or underneath a wall. Moreover, the base can be remateably coupled to the electronic device. The remateable coupling may involve pins that are inserted into corresponding holes and rotated into a lock position. Alternatively, the remateable coupling may involve magnets that mechanically couple to each other so long as the electronic device and the base are within a predefined distance. The electronic device may receive power via the remateable coupling or via inductive charging. In addition, the electronic device may monitor a spatial parameter, such as: a location of the electronic device, a velocity of the electronic device and/or an acceleration of the electronic device. If this spatial parameter changes without the electronic device first receiving a security code, the electronic device provides an alert.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 20, 2014
    Publication date: January 22, 2015
    Applicant: LEEO, INC.
    Inventors: Adam Matthew GETTINGS, Andrew Gettings STEVENS, Bjorn HOVLAND
  • Publication number: 20150022357
    Abstract: A mounting system for an electronic device is described. This mounting system includes a base that can be rigidly mounted on or underneath a wall. Moreover, the base can be remateably coupled to the electronic device. The remateable coupling may involve pins that are inserted into corresponding holes and rotated into a lock position. Alternatively, the remateable coupling may involve magnets that mechanically couple to each other so long as the electronic device and the base are within a predefined distance. The electronic device may receive power via the remateable coupling or via inductive charging. In addition, the electronic device may monitor a spatial parameter, such as: a location of the electronic device, a velocity of the electronic device and/or an acceleration of the electronic device. If this spatial parameter changes without the electronic device first receiving a security code, the electronic device provides an alert.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 26, 2014
    Publication date: January 22, 2015
    Applicant: LEEO, INC.
    Inventors: Adam Matthew GETTINGS, Andrew Gettings STEVENS, Bjorn HOVLAND
  • Patent number: 8937532
    Abstract: A method of reading an RFID tag using an RFID reader includes providing an RF-blocking enclosure having a port. The RFID reader has an antenna located within the enclosure. The enclosure is positioned so that the port is adjacent to a conductive surface and the RFID tag is within the enclosure. The RFID reader is activated at a selected read power level to read the tag in the enclosure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2015
    Assignee: Eastman Kodak Company
    Inventors: Mark P. Hinman, Edward Zogg, Abhishek Sharma
  • Patent number: 8934837
    Abstract: A mobile wireless communications device includes a near-field communications (NFC) transceiver, NFC antennas and an NFC control circuit. The NFC transceiver generates a received signal strength based on a received signal from an adjacent NFC device. The NFC control circuit includes an antenna switch circuit coupled between the NFC transceiver and the NFC antennas. A capacitance sensing circuit is coupled to the NFC antennas to determine capacitance values thereof. A processor operates the antenna switch circuit based upon the received signal strength and the capacitance values.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2015
    Assignee: BlackBerry Limited
    Inventors: Lizhong Zhu, Libo Zhu, Robert Michael Philip Gondosch, Craig Stuart MacKenzie
  • Patent number: 8928454
    Abstract: This invention relates to a fastener system, in particular a system for improving computer room security, that reduces energy consumption. This invention provides a fastener system comprising at least one fastener for fastening a first element to a second element, the at least one fastener having a sensor to determine status of that fastener; a trigger box having an LED panel; a junction box capable of receiving and relaying authorization access; and an IP-connected control appliance with relay input/output for access control applications. This invention is particularly useful within server racks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2015
    Inventors: Steven M. Brown, Andrew Jimenez, Timothy D. Holloway
  • Patent number: 8922372
    Abstract: A secure peripheral device, coupled to a computer, capable of enabling a user to use a peripheral device such as a microphone, speakers, headset or video camera when the device is in operational state, while giving to the user a clear visual indication that the device is enabled. The device simultaneously disables the user peripheral device; and turns off the visual indication when the secure peripheral device is in secure state. The operational state is activated by the user by pressing a momentary push-button switch. A timer resets the device to a secure state after a short preset time. The device has anti-tempering functionality and becomes permanently disabled if tempered with. Optionally the device is coupled to the computer via a USB port that powers it.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2014
    Assignee: High Sec Labs Ltd
    Inventor: Aviv Soffer
  • Publication number: 20140375455
    Abstract: Anti-theft protection systems and methods for portable devices, such as portable electronic devices, that are unattended during use. The anti-theft protection systems and methods use a combination of measures including mechanical aspects, such as tethering the device to an object that is difficult to move, and electronic aspects that detect unauthorized movement and or alarm the user or other responsible party if unauthorized movement occurs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 9, 2014
    Publication date: December 25, 2014
    Applicant: H4 Engineering, Inc.
    Inventors: Scott K. Taylor, Christopher T. Boyle, Alexander G. Sammons, Denes Marton
  • Patent number: 8917188
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for detecting and warning against wrong-way drivers, the method comprising the following steps: a) establishing a radio field over a roadway section to be monitored and at least substantially transversely to a predetermined correct driving direction of the roadway section, the radio field having at least two radio field sections that are spaced apart when viewed in the driving direction and have associated reception field strengths; b) detecting attenuations of the reception field strengths of the radio field sections that occur due to radio shadowing during driving through the roadway section; c) determining the sequence of the radio field sections in which an attenuation of the respectively associated reception field strengths has been detected; d) comparing the determined attenuation sequence with the correct driving direction; and e) initiating at least one warning signal if the attenuation sequence runs opposite to the correct driving direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2014
    Assignees: Wilhelm Schroeder GmbH, Technische Universitaet Dortmund
    Inventors: Christian Wietfeld, Andreas Lewandowski, Kai Okulla
  • Publication number: 20140368344
    Abstract: A sensor for securing a camera and camera lens from theft is provided. For example, the sensor may include a mounting member configured to be secured to a camera having a camera lens engaged therewith. The sensor may also include a movable member operably engaged with the mounting member and configured to move between an engaged position with a camera lens and a disengaged position spaced away from the camera lens. Movement of the movable member away from the lens may be detected and be indicative of a security event.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 11, 2014
    Publication date: December 18, 2014
    Inventors: Jeffrey A. Grant, Gary A. Taylor, Christopher J. Fawcett
  • Patent number: 8912901
    Abstract: Portable security and protection cases and enclosures for storage and transport of high value articles susceptible or vulnerable to theft, loss or irreparable damage. The cases and enclosures include reinforced structural shells electronic anti-theft and climate control and monitoring measures, electronic and non-electronic anti-breakage performance characteristics and automated locking and control systems.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2014
    Inventor: Gregory J. Hoeth
  • Patent number: 8907786
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to an anti-theft system for protecting portable personal items attached to the system and remotely signaling their removal. The system includes a base secured in place on the edge of a table or a wall. A pressure detecting mechanism is disposed to hang from the base so it can be used to hold the personal item, and so that the presence or absence of the item from the pressure detecting mechanism can be detected. Once the device is activated and a valuable personal item is placed on the pressure detecting mechanism, the removal of the item without first deactivating the device will cause an alarm to be activated. The alarm may be a sound or flashing light on the base of the device or generate a signal that may be received remotely by the owner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2014
    Inventor: Carmen Schuller