Signal-carrying Conduit Between Sensor And Article (e.g., Cable, Power Cord, Or Data Link) Patents (Class 340/568.2)
  • Patent number: 9838008
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides modular lighting control system interfaces and method of implementing modular lighting control system interface for a lighting control system. The lighting control system includes a light switch module including a light switch actuator coupled to an actuator circuit board system. The light switch actuator is configured to move with respect to the actuator circuit board. The actuator circuit board includes a low power circuit electrically connected to a low power circuit electrical connector. The light switch also includes a light switch base module including a base housing forming a well configured to receive, at least in part, the actuator circuit board. The high power circuit electrical connector is configured to engage the low power circuit electrical connector. The high power circuit board includes a voltage reducer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2017
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2017
    Assignee: Noon Home, Inc.
    Inventors: William Lark, Jr., Ann Claire Lim Chi Cheung, Nicholas David Pennycooke
  • Patent number: 9836934
    Abstract: The disclosed technology relates to a security tag. The security tag can include a tamper assembly having a clutch assembly capable of affixing the security tag to a merchandise item and a locking device for inserting into the clutch mechanism. An insertion of the locking device into the clutch mechanism causes a transmission of a closed signal indicating a closed status for the security tag, and a displacement of the locking device causes a transmission of an open signal indicating an open status for the security tag.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2015
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2017
    Assignee: SMTP Associates, LLC
    Inventor: Joseph Joseph
  • Patent number: 9831724
    Abstract: A method for operating a Wearable Access Sensor (“WAS”). The methods comprise: capturing RF energy by the WAS, where the RF energy is emitted within a surrounding environment from equipment disposed at an access point of a restricted area; passing the RF energy through a switch that is normally in a position which provides an electrical connection between an antenna of the WAS and a full wave rectifier of the WAS; performing operations by the WAS to convert the RF energy into direct current for generating electric power; supplying the electric power to an energy storage device of the WAS for charging the energy storage device to a pre-determined voltage level; and supplying power from the energy storage device to a controller of the WAS when a voltage level of the energy storage device is equal to or greater than the pre-determined voltage level.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2015
    Date of Patent: November 28, 2017
    Assignee: Tyco Fire & Security GmbH
    Inventors: Richard L. Copeland, Melwyn F. Sequeira
  • Patent number: 9830792
    Abstract: An electronic article surveillance device with an electronics housing and base attaches to an article to be protected. The housing and base have connecting interfaces which act together to attach the housing to the base. The housing has a switch on the underside and the base has an aperture partially covered by a flexible tab that aligns with the switch. The flexible tab normally protrudes away from the bottom surface of the base. When the base is attached to an article, the tab is pushed back into the aperture. When the housing is attached to the base, the switch contacts the tab. If the EAS device is removed from the base without disarming the device, the tab moves out of the aperture and allows the switch to detect the removal. The EAS device then issues an alarm. The flexible tab may a piercing element to pierce plastic wrapping, if present.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2016
    Date of Patent: November 28, 2017
    Inventor: Xiao Hui Yang
  • Patent number: 9815575
    Abstract: In one or more embodiments, the present disclosure teaches a method for reconfiguring a solar array. The method involves providing, for the solar array, at least one string of solar cells. The method further involves deactivating at least a portion of at least one of the strings of solar cells of the solar array when power produced by the solar array reaches a maximum power allowance threshold. In addition, the method involves activating at least a portion of at least one of the strings of the solar cells in the solar array when the power produced by the solar array reaches a minimum power allowance threshold.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2017
    Assignee: THE BOEING COMPANY
    Inventor: Robert K. Levy
  • Patent number: 9747766
    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: February 19, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2017
    Assignee: InVue Security Products Inc.
    Inventors: Christopher J. Fawcett, Jeffrey A. Grant, Jonathon D. Phillips, Gary A. Taylor
  • Patent number: 9721454
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a method for protecting a terminal device and the terminal device thereof. The method includes: obtaining status information of a terminal device plugged with an earphone; determining whether the status information meets a preset condition; and activating an alarm mode of the terminal device when the status information meets the preset condition. According to the present disclosure, given that activating the alarm mode of the terminal device is based on the status information of the terminal device, the alarm mode of the terminal device can be activated based on environment information of the terminal device without a user manually activating the alarm mode of the terminal device, therefore user experience is improved. Moreover, the security of the terminal device is further improved by avoiding an incident of the user forgetting to start the alarm mode, thus further protecting the terminal device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 1, 2017
    Assignee: XIAOMI INC.
    Inventors: Baicen Hou, Mingyong Tang, Chengping Hua
  • Patent number: 9672388
    Abstract: A computer return apparatus includes a processor. The apparatus includes a memory connected to the processor. The apparatus includes a display. The apparatus includes a return screen that the processor automatically causes to appear during or after boot-up of the processor on the display, that displays information concerning an owner who owns the computer, concerning user information about who the user is who the computer is assigned to for use, and return information for returning the computer to the owner from data stored in the memory. A method for displaying information to assist with returning a computer to its owner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2016
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2017
    Inventor: Carolyn W. Hafeman
  • Patent number: 9666053
    Abstract: A device for tagging an object includes a tag body having an engagement arrangement with a removable strap for engaging the tag body to the object. The engagement arrangement further includes a sensing arrangement having a strap sensor arrv banged to be connected to the removable strap to detect a disengagement of the tag body from the object. The removable strap further includes a conductive member arranged to connect with the strap sensor and disconnect from the strap sensor when the tag body is disengaged from the object.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 30, 2017
    Assignee: Hong Kong R&D Centre for Logistics and Supply Chain Management Enabling Technologies Limited
    Inventors: Kwong Yeung Simon Wong, Chi Hung Tong, Chun Wai Lai, Tsz Ching Anthony Kwok, Yiu Man Chan
  • Patent number: 9652952
    Abstract: A device for detecting the theft of an object, intended to be integrated to said object, includes an antenna for receiving a remote-supply signal and means for detecting an interruption of the remote-supply signal. Means for delivering an alarm signal when the interruption of the remote-supply signal is detected are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2017
    Assignees: Commissariat à l'Energie Atomique et aux Energies Alternatives, Evolution Consulting
    Inventors: Thierry Boudet, Francois Foschia
  • Patent number: 9640855
    Abstract: A chipless RFID transponder is disclosed. The transponder comprises an antenna and a plurality of resonant structures that together define a spectral signature of the RFID transponder. Each of the resonant structures comprises conductive portions separated by interstitial regions. A photo-polymerizable filler is disposed in the interstitial regions of the resonant structures between the conductive portions. The photo-polymerizable filler is positioned so as to shift the spectral signature of the RFID when exposed to radiation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Assignee: XEROX CORPORATION
    Inventors: George A. Gibson, James R. Larson
  • Patent number: 9552568
    Abstract: A mobile dispensing cart having a plurality of locked drawers has medical articles stored therein for particular patients. The storage drawers have sizes wherein the resonant frequency of the sizes does not match the frequency of operation of the RFID system of the cart. Enclosures are used in the storage areas that provide robust RFID fields for exciting and reading RFID tags. A health care practitioner for a particular patient obtains access and opens a drawer. An RFID tracking system takes an inventory of the cart after the drawer is later closed to determine if any medical article was taken, and if so which one. The identified taken article is compared to a data base of medical articles stored in the cart for the patient and if the taken article does not match the patient data base, an alarm is provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2017
    Assignee: MEPS Real-Time, Inc.
    Inventors: Jimmy C. Caputo, Shariq Hussain, Jeffrey Shamblin
  • Patent number: 9536187
    Abstract: An attachment assembly on a cylindrical protuberance of an article comprising a flexible cap configured for fitting an outer shape of the cylindrical protuberance, the flexible cap comprising an central recess part, a RFID tag fixedly mounted in the central recess part, the RFID tag comprising identification data relative to the article, and a magnet having two opposite flat faces, the magnet generating a magnetic field perpendicular to the flat faces being fixedly mounted by one of the two flat faces on the RFID tag and configured to be affixed by the opposite one of the two flat faces onto the cylindrical protuberance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2017
    Assignee: Neopost Technologies
    Inventor: Jean-Baptiste Pantaloni
  • Patent number: 9520038
    Abstract: A copper theft alarm system is disclosed. The alarm system can be deployed on existing grain bins or other electrically powered equipment, allowing persons to receive an automated phone call, text message notification, or other desired notification when the system has sensed that a copper cable is being pulled out of a conduit. The notification can aid in potentially disrupting a thief's activity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2016
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2016
    Assignee: Net Irrigate, LLC
    Inventor: Edward DeSalle
  • Patent number: 9475612
    Abstract: An indicator circuit for a storage container designed to enable remote electronic searching for file folders located within the container. Address signals from a host computer are supplied to the storage container to designate a sought file folder. The indicator circuit is activated whenever a sought file folder is located in a given container. When two or more storage containers are interconnected to receive address signals designating a sought file folder, only the indicator circuit of the storage container containing the sought file folder is activated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2014
    Date of Patent: October 25, 2016
    Assignee: MICRODATA CORPORATION
    Inventors: Shengbo Zhu, Su Shiong Huang
  • Patent number: 9466192
    Abstract: A merchandise security device for displaying an electronic item of merchandise includes a strain relief block configured for attachment to the merchandise and an alarming power cable configured for being electrically coupled to a power input port provided on the merchandise. The alarming power cable is routed through the strain relief block for reducing strain applied to the alarming power cable, which may prevent damaging the power input port or the portion of the alarming power cable extending between the strain relief block and the power input port.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2015
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2016
    Assignee: InVue Security Products Inc.
    Inventors: Christopher J. Fawcett, Gary Andrew Taylor, Robert O. Hartweg
  • Patent number: 9466191
    Abstract: An alarm device applied to a portable electronic device is provided. The alarm device includes a detection unit and a connecting unit. The detection unit includes a first data transfer pin, and the first transfer pin is preset to a first electric potential. When the portable electronic device is connected to the detection unit via the connecting unit, the first data transfer pin is connected to a second electric potential via the connecting unit. The detection unit is set in a detection mode. In the detection mode, when electric potential of the first data transfer pin is switched from the second electric potential to the first electric potential, the detection unit issues an alarm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2014
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2016
    Assignee: ASUSTeK COMPUTER INC.
    Inventors: Chyi-Cheng Wang, Chung-Chin Hsiao
  • Patent number: 9460594
    Abstract: An apparatus, a system and a method positions a cable extending from an alarm system through a housing to face the cable toward the rear of an electronic device to which the cable is attached. The housing has a sensor assembly that holds a light visible through the sensor assembly to denote an alarm condition. A sensor associated with the sensor assembly connects to a corresponding sensor port in the electronic device. A joint attached to the sensor assembly rotates to position the cable. Detachment of the sensor from the port in the electronic device disrupts a circuit formed between the alarm system, the cable and the electronic device to activate the alarm condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2015
    Date of Patent: October 4, 2016
    Assignee: Sennco Solutions Inc.
    Inventors: Jim Groth, Andy Reynolds, Daniel Horvath
  • Patent number: 9367709
    Abstract: Disclosed is a mobile terminal. The mobile terminal according to the present inventive concept, comprises: a case; a printed circuit board (PCB), which is arranged inside of the case, and on the surface of which is a temper detect pattern comprising first and second contact-type conductive patterns that are arranged adjacent to each other and a non-contact-type conductive pattern that is arranged apart from the first and second contact-type conductive patterns are provided; a detection circuit, which is electrically connected to the tamper detect pattern, for detecting whether the tamper detection pattern is conductive; and a pattern conduction module for controlling so that the first and second contact-type conductive patterns are conductive when the case is assembled, and the conduction of the first and second contact-type conductive patterns is released when the case is disassembled.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2016
    Assignee: BLUEBIRD INC.
    Inventors: Jang Won Lee, Chan Woong Park
  • Patent number: 9349265
    Abstract: A merchandise display security device for displaying and protecting an article of merchandise from theft is provided. The security device includes a mounting base and at least one movable member coupled to the mounting base and configured to releasably attach the mounting base to the article of merchandise. The security device may also include a housing configured to be secured to the mounting base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2016
    Assignee: InVue Security Products Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey A. Grant, Christopher J. Fawcett, Larry T. McKinney, Larry Keith Hooks, Jr.
  • Patent number: 9343860
    Abstract: In distribution networks for safety sensors and devices, aspects of the invention provide routing individualized status signals in parallel to potential safety sensor locations in addition to serially routing safety signals to provide substantially increased protection. A shorting plug that electrically shorts together an individualized status signal to a voltage reference level at a safety sensor location, in addition to electrically shorting together the safety signals for electrical continuity, provides individualized status information for each potential safety sensor location in addition to the serial safety information provided by the safety signals. Another aspect of the invention provides a remote monitoring device coupled to one or more adapter ports, with each adapter port coupled to one or more safety sensors, wherein adapter ports are coupled via cabling with cable endings of the same type, thereby preventing circumvention of a safety sensor simply by coupling together adjacent cables.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Assignee: Rockwell Automation Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Kevin M. Zomchek, Brian H. Schriver, Derek W. Jones, Richard W. Boyd, James J. Boschuetz, Jr.
  • Patent number: 9336664
    Abstract: Provided is a crime prevention system using a sensor module capable of sensing all directions. The crime prevention system using a sensor module may be applied to buildings in which internal structures and crime prevention environments are various, have relatively low power consumption, and be simply installed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 10, 2016
    Assignee: AMBUS CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Kee Woon Na
  • Patent number: 9305444
    Abstract: A security device for an item of merchandise is provided. The security device includes a non-programmable locking mechanism comprising a mechanical lock and a programmable locking mechanism comprising a monitoring circuit operatively coupled to an alarm. The security device is configured to secure an item of merchandise from theft or removal when the mechanical lock is locked and to be separated from the item of merchandise when the mechanical lock is unlocked. The alarm is configured to provide an alarm signal if the security device is separated from the item of merchandise while the monitoring circuit is armed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2016
    Assignee: InVue Security Products Inc.
    Inventor: James K. Sankey
  • Patent number: 9293019
    Abstract: A security device may include a lanyard, a lanyard retention lock, and connectivity detection circuitry. The lanyard may include a first conductor and a second conductor that form an open circuit due to an insulator being electrically disposed therebetween. The lanyard retention lock may be configured to retain one or more ends of the lanyard to secure the security device to a protected object. The connectivity detection circuitry may be electrically connected to the first conductor and the second conductor. The connectivity detection circuitry may be configured to detect an occurrence of a closed circuit connection between the first conductor and the second conductor due to, for example, physical damage to the insulator, and may be configured to generate an alarm trigger signal in response to detecting the occurrence of the closed circuit connection between the first conductor and the second conductor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2016
    Assignee: CHECKPOINT SYSTEMS, INC.
    Inventors: Benoit Perreau, David P. Christianson
  • Patent number: 9279842
    Abstract: An assembly and a method for determining a change in capacitance in a cable, such as a change caused by a deformation of the cable. The deformation may be caused by a deforming element attached to the cable and slideable along the cable. The deforming element may be adapted to be compressed by a user and convert the compression force into a compression of the cable so as to cause the capacitance change. The assembly may form part of a headset and the deformation may be used to control a media player or mobile telephone used with the headset.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2016
    Assignee: GN Store Nord A/S
    Inventors: Jakob Jensen, Peter Mossner, Peter Schou Sørensen, Kathrine Steen Urup, Lars Klint Johansen, Flemming Juul Raklev, Thomas Vad
  • Patent number: 9245156
    Abstract: A process is disclosed for capturing screenshots on an electronic device of a user, and for transmitting representations of the captured screenshots to a monitoring system for storage. The captured screenshot data may, for example, be used to recover a device that is lost or stolen.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2016
    Assignee: Absolute Software Corporation
    Inventors: Trevor Cox, Damien Loveland
  • Patent number: 9222285
    Abstract: A portable theft deterrent device is disclosed. The theft deterrent device comprises a lock detection mechanism. The lock detection mechanism includes a plurality of connectors. The lock detection mechanism includes a first active circuit therein coupled to the plurality of connectors. When the lock detection mechanism is coupled to an electrical path via at least one connector of the plurality of connectors and if the first active circuit detects an interruption in electrical flow in the electrical path, the lock detection mechanism provides an alert. The theft deterrent device includes a monitoring key member. The monitoring key member includes a second active circuit therein that allows for wireless communication with the lock detection mechanism when detached therefrom. The monitoring key member is configured to receive the alert remotely.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 2014
    Date of Patent: December 29, 2015
    Assignee: PERSEUS MICRO LOGIC CORPORATION
    Inventors: Shahriar Ilislamloo, Andisheh Sarabi
  • Patent number: 9202163
    Abstract: The invention consists in an RFID label consisting of at least: one functional layer comprising at least one electronic component, one antenna connected to the electronic component; one upper layer; one lower layer having an adhesive surface; wherein the upper and lower layers consist of one or more materials capable of resisting to ultraviolet radiation and/or of filtering the ultraviolet radiation. The invention also includes the method for manufacturing the RFID label and the machine applying the method for manufacturing the RFID label.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 1, 2015
    Assignee: PARAGON IDENTIFICATION
    Inventor: Olivier Bouchard
  • Patent number: 9189931
    Abstract: A circuitry with a warning function, adapted to an electronic device electrically connected to plural peripheral devices each of which has a connector, includes a mainboard, plural switches and a light-emitting device. The mainboard is electrically equipped with plural of sockets to be electrically plugged by the connectors respectively. The switches are located in the sockets respectively. The light-emitting device is electrically connected to the switches and a power supply for providing power thereto. When one of the connectors electrically plugs into the corresponding socket and turns on the corresponding switch, the corresponding light-emitting device reveals a first warning state, and when one of the connectors does not electrically plug into the corresponding socket and does not turn on the corresponding switch, the corresponding light-emitting device reveals a second warning state. Thus the error connection can be concluded and excluded immediately before the electronic device is turned on.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2014
    Date of Patent: November 17, 2015
    Assignee: GIGA-BYTE TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Chin Jun Kao
  • Patent number: 9177463
    Abstract: An alarm system for monitoring portable articles comprises a smart sensor for operatively engaging a portable article. The smart sensor includes an actuator having a secured state and an unsecured state relative to the portable article. A memory stores a sensor address. A controller has a sensor bus operatively connected to the smart sensor. The controller includes a memory storing sensor addresses. The controller is operative to periodically communicate with the smart sensor to determine state of the sensor and to read the sensor address. The controller generates an alarm when the smart sensor is in the unsecured state or if the sensor address read from the smart sensor is not stored in the memory.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 3, 2015
    Assignee: Se-Kure Controls, Inc.
    Inventors: Roger J. Leyden, David M. Adams
  • Patent number: 9171441
    Abstract: A programmable security system and method for protecting an item of merchandise includes a programming station, a programmable key and a security system. The programming station generates a security code and communicates the security code to a memory of the programmable key. The programmable key initially communicates the security code to a memory of the security device and subsequently operates the security device upon a matching of the security code in the memory of the security device with the security code in the memory of the programmable key. The programmable key may also transfer power via electrical contacts or inductive transfer from an internal battery to the security device to operate a lock mechanism. The security code may be communicated by wireless infrared (IR) systems, electrical contacts or inductive transfer. A timer inactivates the programmable key and/or the security device after a predetermined period of time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2014
    Date of Patent: October 27, 2015
    Assignee: InVue Security Products Inc.
    Inventors: Christopher J. Fawcett, Jeffrey A. Grant, Dennis D. Belden, Jr., Ronald M. Marsilio, Ian R. Scott
  • Patent number: 9135800
    Abstract: A programmable security system and method for protecting an item of merchandise includes a programming station, a programmable key and a security system. The programming station generates a security code and communicates the security code to a memory of the programmable key. The programmable key initially communicates the security code to a memory of the security device and subsequently operates the security device upon a matching of the security code in the memory of the security device with the security code in the memory of the programmable key. The programmable key may also transfer power via electrical contacts or inductive transfer from an internal battery to the security device to operate a lock mechanism. The security code may be communicated by wireless infrared (IR) systems, electrical contacts or inductive transfer. A timer inactivates the programmable key and/or the security device after a predetermine period of time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2015
    Assignee: InVue Security Products Inc.
    Inventors: Christopher J. Fawcett, Jeffrey A. Grant, Dennis D. Belden, Jr., Ronald M. Marsilio, Ian R. Scott
  • Patent number: 9117351
    Abstract: A system for securing and charging handheld electronic devices of different charging voltages is disclosed. The system can include a security device with two charging ports to provide the ability to charge the battery of the handheld electronic device at two different charging voltages. The system can include an alarm activated when the alarm switch is activated or when the charging cable connected to the charging ports or the handheld electronic device is disconnected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 25, 2015
    Inventors: Franklyn W. Gulick, Jr., Stefan Henneboele
  • Patent number: 9041536
    Abstract: An asset retention device, including: a housing including a base portion and a cap portion, the base portion and the cap portion containing a plurality of electrical contacts; and an asset attachment structure securely coupled to the cap portion and making electrical contact with the plurality of electrical contacts, thereby completing an electrical circuit through the asset attachment structure and the housing; wherein, if the continuity of the asset attachment structure is broken, the electrical circuit is broken. The base portion of the housing is configured to be selectively coupled to a main console including a controller/processor operable for detecting a break in the continuity of the asset attachment structure and the associated electrical circuit. The asset retention device also includes an identifying chip. The asset attachment structure includes a plurality of hooked ends that extend through channels manufactured into an interior portion of the cap portion of the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 26, 2015
    Assignee: Marcon International, Inc.
    Inventor: Dennis E. Guessford
  • Patent number: 9041537
    Abstract: Security systems and methods configured for use with an item of merchandise for retail display are provided. In one example, a security system includes at least one sensor operably coupled to the item of merchandise and at least one alarm module operably coupled to, and configured to communicate with, the at least one sensor. The alarm module is configured to generate a first alarm signal in response to the item of merchandise being handled in an abnormal manner, and the alarm module is further configured to generate a second alarm signal in response to the item of merchandise continuing to be handled in an abnormal manner. In general, the second alarm signal is different than the first alarm signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 26, 2015
    Assignee: InVue Security Products Inc.
    Inventors: Gary A. Taylor, Nicholas M. Sedon, Larry T. McKinney, Andrew W. Moock, Jeffrey A. Grant
  • Publication number: 20150137973
    Abstract: A security device comprises a mounting plate and a mounting device. The mounting plate, for being fixed to a surface, comprises a first electrical contact point and a second electrical contact point electrically connecting to the first electrical contact point. The mounting device is to be assembled to the mounting plate and comprises a third electrical contact point, a fourth electrical contact point and a detection circuit. The third electrical contact point is for contacting the first electrical contact point when the mounting device is assembled to the mounting plate. The fourth electrical contact point is for contacting the second electrical contact point when the mounting device is assembled to the mounting plate. The detection circuit is electrically connected to the fourth electrical contact point, for determining whether the fourth electrical contact point is electrically connected to the third electrical contact point.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 21, 2014
    Publication date: May 21, 2015
    Inventors: Meng-Chien Chiang, Po-Tsung Chen
  • Patent number: 9032222
    Abstract: A data entry device including a housing formed of at least two portions, data entry circuitry located within the housing, at least one case-open switch assembly operative to sense when the housing is opened and tamper indication circuitry operative to receive an input from the at least one case-open switch assembly and to provide an output indication of possible tampering with the data entry circuitry located within the housing, the at least one case-open switch assembly including an arrangement of electrical contacts including at least first, second and third contacts and a displaceable conductive element, the tamper indication circuitry and the third contact together being operative such that when the third contact is short circuited to at least one of the first contact, the second contact and another contact, an output indication of possible tampering is provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2015
    Assignee: Verifone, Inc.
    Inventors: Mehran Mirkazemi-Moud, John Henry Barrowman, Christian Eric Schulz, Arnon Aviv, Amihav Avital, Sergey Meron, Dave Faoro
  • Patent number: 9030322
    Abstract: A method of using a security display apparatus for media content products in a retail store is disclosed. The method includes arranging sample media content containers in a side-by-side configuration on a front lip of a security display fixture, wherein each of the sample media content containers is anchored to the security display fixture with a security cable. The method further includes unlocking an access door of the security display fixture, in response to a consumer request, to provide access to an internal space defined by the security display fixture rearward of the sample media content containers, and retrieving one or more non-tethered media content containers from the internal space that are of a same title as one of the sample media content containers positioned immediately in front of the one or more non-tethered media content containers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2015
    Assignee: Target Brands, Inc.
    Inventors: Blake M. Johnson, William Donald Splain, David Joseph Floersch, Joseph H. Bowser, William Y. Stafford
  • Patent number: 9019113
    Abstract: A circuit, a system and/or a method detect a passive electrical connection and/or an active electrical connection between an electrical device and a power supply. An integrity of the electrical connection between the electrical device and the power supply is monitored to determine if the electrical device may have access to power and/or to determine if the electrical device may be secure while on display. A high frequency AC signal is modulated onto a positive power rail between the electrical device and the power supply. Capacitance circuitry of the electrical device may remove the high frequency signal from the positive power rail. An absence of the high frequency signal on the positive power rail indicates that the electrical connection exists between the electrical device and the power supply. A presence of the high frequency signal on the positive power rail indicates that the electrical connection does not exist between the electrical device and the power supply.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 28, 2015
    Assignee: Sennco Solutions, Inc.
    Inventors: Jim Groth, Christopher Marszalek, Daniel Horvath, Kerry Berland, Try Ty, Mark Kmiecik
  • Patent number: 9019103
    Abstract: A reminder system for a portable-device charger is designed for determining when it is likely that the charger is about to be left behind. Detection which may be in real time can pertain, depending on the embodiment, to disconnection of a portable device from the charger, and/or movement of a portable device out of wireless range of the charger or a charger adaptor. In some versions, the onset of reminding is, upon detecting disconnection, tentatively postponed until a predetermined criterion is met, such as expiry of a predetermined time period. Or the criterion can be detection of an out-of-range condition based on distance between the portable device and an adaptor or charger. In some embodiments detection and reminder issuance are incorporated in a unit, such as a plug-in wall adaptor or the charger itself.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 2, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 28, 2015
    Inventor: Brian Tedesco
  • Patent number: 9019114
    Abstract: A device management system includes a bus bar, a device management module, and a remote management module. The device management module includes at least one remotely-controllable switching circuit and a detecting circuit. When a device is installed in the rack cabinet, the remotely-controllable switching circuit connected with the device is enabled by the detecting circuit. The remote management module is in communication with the remotely-controllable switching circuit and the detecting circuit through the bus bar. The information of the device is acquired by the remote management module through the remotely-controllable switching circuit. A switch element of the remotely-controllable switching circuit which is connected to the device is selectively turned on or turned off by the remote management module. When the switch element is turned on, the DC power is transmitted to the device through the switch element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 28, 2015
    Assignee: Delta Electronics, Inc.
    Inventors: Chien-Lung Wu, Wen-Hsiang Lin
  • 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: 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
  • 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: 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: 9000921
    Abstract: A power strip may automatically disconnect wired connections in response to received weather alert data based on a configuration file including one or more user preference settings. The power strip may include a receiver to receive the weather alert data. The power strip may process the received weather alert data and disconnect the wired connections based on the one or more user preference settings. A timer function may also define a time period that the power strip monitors its receiver for weather alert data and automatically disconnects and reconnects the wired connections.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2015
    Assignee: State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company
    Inventor: Jackie O. Jordan, II
  • Publication number: 20150091729
    Abstract: Security systems and methods for protecting retail display merchandise from theft are provided. For example, a security system includes a sensor configured to removably engage an input port of an item of merchandise, and a monitoring component configured to wirelessly communicate with the sensor and to removably support the sensor thereon, wherein the monitoring component and the sensor are configured to communicate with one another to determine a proximity of the item of merchandise relative to the monitoring component, wherein the monitoring component and/or the sensor is configured to initiate a security signal when the proximity between the monitoring component and the sensor is not within a predetermined range, and wherein the monitoring component and/or the sensor is configured to initiate a security signal in response to the sensor being removed from the input port of the item of merchandise.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 24, 2014
    Publication date: April 2, 2015
    Inventors: Jonathon D. Phillips, Michael R. Johnston, Jeffrey A. Grant, Gary A. Taylor
  • Patent number: 8994532
    Abstract: A data center equipment location system includes both hardware and software to provide for location, monitoring, security and identification of servers and other equipment in equipment racks. The system provides a wired alternative to the wireless RFID tag system by using electronic ID tags connected to each piece of equipment, each electronic ID tag connected directly by wires to a equipment rack controller on the equipment rack. The equipment rack controllers then link over a local area network to a central control computer. The central control computer provides an operator interface, and runs a software application program that communicates with the equipment rack controllers. The software application program of the central control computer stores IDs of the equipment rack controllers and each of its connected electronic ID tags in a database.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Inventors: Noah Groth, Jan P. Warhuus, Krassimir Anastassov Boyadjiev
  • 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
  • Publication number: 20150009032
    Abstract: An alarm device applied to a portable electronic device is provided. The alarm device includes a detection unit and a connecting unit. The detection unit includes a first data transfer pin, and the first transfer pin is preset to a first electric potential. When the portable electronic device is connected to the detection unit via the connecting unit, the first data transfer pin is connected to a second electric potential via the connecting unit. The detection unit is set in a detection mode. In the detection mode, when electric potential of the first data transfer pin is switched from the second electric potential to the first electric potential, the detection unit issues an alarm.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 2, 2014
    Publication date: January 8, 2015
    Applicant: ASUSTeK COMPUTER INC.
    Inventors: Chyi-Cheng Wang, Chung-Chin Hsiao