Abstract: An automatic cycle storage system comprising cycles, each of which carries a blocking device and an electronic circuit; a cycle storage area serving to receive the cycles while they are not being used; and a control device adapted to authorize, selectively, cycles to be borrowed from the storage area. The control device and the cycle are each provided with a respective short-range wireless communications interface, and the cycle includes an electrical lock device adapted to lock the blocking device in the blocking position.

Abstract: A security device for attachment to an article to deter theft has a housing containing an alarm system including an audible alarm speaker. The alarm system includes a conductor located within the housing which forms a loop that extends at least partially about the alarm speaker or about the periphery of the housing. The conductor which can be an electrical conductor, fiber optic conductor, light pipe, etc., when severed by a thief will actuate the audible alarm. In another embodiment, the conductor forms a loop about a simulated speaker grille formed in the housing to prevent tampering, wherein the audible alarm is located in the housing remote from the simulated speaker grille.

Abstract: A leaky cable having radiation directivity which varies with frequency transmits electric waves in different frequency bands. A measurement apparatus outputs measurement information including signal intensity and phase of a reflected electric wave in each frequency band which is reflected by a target and is received by another leaky cable, and propagation delay time. A calculator groups the measurement information by target on the basis of signal intensities and phases of the reflected electric waves in different frequency bands, and calculates the position of the target with respect to the longitudinal direction of the leaky cables and the distance between the target and the leaky cables.

Abstract: A remote sensing device includes a sensor and reference circuit. A resonant circuit of the sensor has a resonant characteristic modifiable by exposure to an external condition. The sensor is configured to produce a sensor signal associated with the modifiable resonant characteristic. A reference circuit of the remote sensing device is configured to produce a reference signal suitable for use in conjunction with the sensor signal. The reference signal is used to account for variations of the sensor signal due to variations in the inductive coupling between the remote sensing device and a reader designed to detect the reference signal and the sensor signal.

Abstract: A theft deterrent device allows a customer to handle an item of merchandise to which the device is connected. The device is configured to protect items of merchandise having first and second pieces each of which are sufficiently valuable to warrant such protection. The device includes a base mountable on a support structure, an audible alarm, first and second connectors which attach respectively to the first and second pieces of the item of merchandise, lanyards for connecting the base to the first and second connectors and a removal sensor for sensing removal of one or both of connectors from the first and second pieces of the item of merchandise so that the alarm is activated when the connector or connectors are removed from the item of merchandise. The lanyards provide electrical communication between the alarm and the connectors, which may include plunger switches which serve as removal sensors.

Abstract: A system and method for automatically determining a physical location of one or more units in a rack, including: using one or more physical cables between rack units; cascading a first signal through the one or more units located in the rack, the first signal being encoded with a unit number and a physical parameter; and creating a rack ID by utilizing hardware parameters, the hardware parameters being determined by: detecting a second signal that exists from a bottom unit, the bottom unit located at the bottom of the rack; and using a third signal to send data between the one or more units in the rack by manipulating void spaces within the rack, the third signal being either cabled or an optical signal.

Abstract: A Programmable Logic Device (PLD), such as a Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA), is provided with components of a Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) tag and circuitry to enhance operation. The RFID antenna and circuitry is provided in either directly in layers of the die forming the PLD, on a die package containing the PLD die, or on a printed circuit board containing the PLD. An RFID antenna provides a source of power from an external electromagnetic radiation source (such as an RFID reader) during storage of the PLD to prevent loss of decryption software in volatile memory should batteries run down. The RFID antenna can further provide a path for providing a bitstream to program the PLD as well as to read data to verify programming. With multiple PLDs having RFID antennas, programming of the PLDs can be performed in parallel. Further, the RFID antenna can be used with limited PLD resources to identify the PLD for inventory.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for determining a location of a wireless device within an environment. A wireless device, which is operable in a wireless communication system, comprises a transmitter for transmitting a first signal to a transponder, where the transponder operates independent of the wireless communication system. The wireless device further includes a receiver for receiving a second signal from the transponder, where the second signal includes identifying data associated with the transponder. The wireless device further includes a processor for determining a location of the wireless device within the environment or classifying the environment based at least in part upon the received identifying data.

Abstract: A child alert system that uses radio transmitters and receivers to provide the location of a child, adult or object to which a transmitter unit of the system is attached. The transmitter unit includes a panic button for allowing the wearer of the transmitter unit to send a panic signal when they feel endangered. The system further includes signaling when the transmitter is submerged, when the vital signs of the wearer fall below a certain threshold, or when the transmitter is tampered or removed from the person.

Abstract: A remotely monitorable shipping container including a shipping container body having associated therewith at least one door and at least one door latch having a latch locking element arranged for locking engagement with a door mounted locking element, at least one wireless communicator mounted in a secure location within the shipping container and being operative to wirelessly transmit information to a remote monitor regarding the status of an electronic seal mounted onto the locking element for confirming locking of the at least one door, and at least one wireless antenna mounted within a protected enclosure on the outside of the shipping container for transmitting the information from the at least one wireless communicator.

Abstract: A method of monitoring portable consumer articles at a display, which method includes the steps of: providing a first portable consumer article; providing a security system capable of interacting with the first portable consumer article at a first location; operatively interacting the first security system with the first portable consumer article; and interacting with the security system from a second location remote from the first location.

Abstract: The combination of a portable article and a security system. The security system includes a tether having a length. The tether is attached to the portable article and a support so that the portable article is movable relative to the support and confined in movement relative to the support by the tether within a range dictated by the length of the tether. The security system further includes a security response assembly that is triggered as an incident of the portable article being repositioned with the tether attached to the portable article.

Abstract: A security device for attachment to an article to deter theft has a housing containing an alarm system including an audible alarm speaker. The alarm system includes a conductor located within the housing which forms a loop that extends at least partially about the alarm speaker or about the periphery of the housing. The conductor which can be an electrical conductor, fiber optic conductor, light pipe, etc., when severed by a thief will actuate the audible alarm.

Abstract: In a particular embodiment, a method of producing a powered device detection signature includes rectifying a device detection input received from a powered network to produce a rectified detection input at a powered device. The method further includes applying the rectified detection input to a signature resistor and to a variable impedance circuit in parallel with the signature resistor to produce a device signature that is substantially constant over a power range associated with the device detection input.

Abstract: In one embodiment, a system for dynamically tasking one or more surveillance resources includes multiple collection requirements (CRs) that identify multiple surveillance resources. The system also includes an intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance requirement (ISRR) that is a parent of the CRs. The CRs inherit one or more attributes from the ISRR, and the inheritance of the attributes from the ISRR to the CRs enables management of the CRs from the ISRR.

Abstract: A tamper switch mechanism utilized in security interface devices such as keypad installations to render them tamper-resistant, wherein the devices are generally connected to burglar alarm and fire alarm systems. More particularly, provided is a conductive tamper switch which is installed in a security interface device, such as a keypad, which upon an unauthorized attempt to dislodge the device or keypad from a wall or surface on which it is mounted, will trigger an alarm or generate a warning signal at a monitoring site indicative that an effort at tampering with the device has been effected. Also disclosed is a method of providing the tamper switch mechanism in a security interface device, such as a keypad installation.

Abstract: A portable security device for displaying articles of merchandise in a retail environment has a base formed with a plurality of holes arranged in predetermined patterns for mounting the device on a plurality of different support structures. A housing containing an alarm system, a retractor and an alarm cable is contained within the housing. The housing is locked on the base by a key operated tumbler attached to the base. The base is mounted on the various support structures by fasteners, the attachment heads thereof being concealed within the housing. A plunger switch at the outer end of the alarm cable is activated when the cable is attached to an item of merchandise. An audible alarm is sounded if the integrity of the alarm cable is comprised or if the item of merchandise is removed therefrom. In a modified embodiment, a space is provided between the alarm and mounting base providing increased sound alarm level in all directions.

Abstract: An anti-theft device (1) comprising a flexible cable (2) provided with two conducting wires which are mutually connected in order to close an electrical contact and are connected, at a first end (2b), to a control unit (100) designed to act in response to the opening/closure of the electrical contact, characterized in that the flexible cable (2) is connected, at the second end (2a), to means (3) for detachable connection to at least one item (4) to be restrained, the detachable connection means (3) comprising security means (5) of the mechanical type which are adapted to prevent the opening of the detachable connection means, a deactivation device (10) being provided which can engage the detachable connection means in order to open the security means.

Abstract: In one embodiment, a system comprises an enclosure, at least one item enclosed within the enclosure, and at least one optical medium disposed between the enclosure and the at least one item. The at least one optical medium is arranged in a pattern such that the at least one optical medium substantially encloses the at least one item. The system further comprises a generator communicatively coupled to a first portion of the optical medium. The generator generates a pseudo-random sequence of bits. The pseudo-random sequence of bits is optically transmitted over the optical medium. The system further comprises a detector communicatively coupled to a second portion of the optical medium. The detector detects any portion of the pseudo-random sequence of bits received at the second portion of the optical medium.

Abstract: A security alarm system includes a camera, an alarm control panel, a mixer at the camera, a signal processor at or associated with the alarm control panel, and a single cable comprising only two operative conductors extending between the mixer and the signal processor. The cable provides current to the camera via the mixer and provides a tamper circuit as well as conveying video signals to the signal processor.

Abstract: A package security feature is provided, the package security feature having a static element and a dynamic element. The dynamic element selectively interacts with the static element to enable identification and anti-tampering for a package.

Abstract: A system is disclosed for preventing an unauthorized person from use a portable computer having an external port. The system includes a control device capable of connecting to an external port of the portable computer. The control device includes a wireless receiver to receive wireless signals. The control device is capable of enabling and disabling a security function executed by the computer based on a wireless signal received by the wireless receiver.

Abstract: A conveyance tracking system provides two-phase transaction commit processing for synchronizing seal state information between a seal device attached to a conveyance and a host for tracking conveyances. The system uses a reader device for synchronization and communication between the seal device and host system regarding various operations, such as a lock operation, an unlock operation, and a clear tamper operation. In the first phase of the two-phase commit, the seal device prepares for the operation and the host executes the operation. In the second phase, the seal device fulfills the irreversible operation, ensuring that the seal state of the seal device and host are in sync.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method, apparatus, and computer instructions for warning of a presence of a person in a zone having an inadequate security clearance. Movement of the person in the zone is detected. A message is broadcast to selected data processing systems associated with the zone, wherein the data processing systems initiate actions to protect data in the selected data processing systems.

Abstract: Security material such as cloth, either normal strength or armored, or fragile webbing into which electronic micro-devices are woven to detect and react to tampering of the monitored article at the scene or via a network. Also disclosed are fasteners that permit reuse of the cloth and webbing. Facilitates the monitoring of high value articles and facilities and automatically records or responds to tampering attempts to increase the level of security for personal and organizational uses.

Abstract: An identification device has a band and a non-reusable tamper-resistant fastening arranged to join opposite end regions of the band to fasten it around a limb of a user. A transponder circuit is attached to the band, and is responsive to a received wireless signal. In response to the received wireless signal, the transponder emits a wireless signal representative of information pre-stored in the transponder. An electrically conductive continuous loop on the band extends from the transponder and forms an electrically continuous path along substantially the entire length of the band, the loop being frangible and easily broken in response to an attempt to remove the band from the wearer's limb. Circuitry in the transponder is electrically connected to the loop and arranged to become inoperative and disable the transponder if the loop is broken.

Abstract: Disclosed is a substrate damage detection mechanism using Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) tag including a substrate, at least one RFID tag with a RFID chip, a RFID transmitter and at least one data input/output port and at least one conducting circuit loop arranged to cover the substrate and provided with a first end that is electrically connected to a reference voltage and a second end that is electrically connected to the data input/output port of the RFID tag. The RFID chip generates a conductive code when the conducting circuit loop is originally conducting and generates a open-circuit code when the conducting circuit loop becomes open circuit resulting from the damage of the substrate in which both the conductive code and the open-circuit code are transmitted by the RFID transmitter and received by a RFID reader to determine the damage of the substrate.

Abstract: An integrated theft deterrent tag 20 having a lanyard 38 emanating therefrom. The lanyard 38 having a pin 48 permanently attached thereto and the pin 48 being received within a locking mechanism 32 and enclosing an article to be protected.

Abstract: The disclosure includes improvements in the field of retrofit-detector installation such as adapters that simplify retrofit of addressable detectors onto previously installed zone-type system hardware. Each adapter includes electrical circuitry for electrically connecting new addressable detectors with legacy system once installation is complete. The disclosure includes structures that permit users to efficiently solve a number of problems that may arise during installation of retrofit-detectors into legacy systems. For example, one or more switches may be used to reverse electrical polarity to thereby correct polarity and/or mapping faults. One or more switches may also be provided to disconnect at least one electrical terminal to assist in locating ground faults and/or other wiring problems. One or more test points may also be provided to test one or more electrical characteristics relevant to retrofit installations.

Abstract: A tamper-resistant remotely monitorable electronic seal including a shaft portion, a sensor, a socket arranged to engage the shaft portion and the sensor in a monitorable manner and a wireless communicator associated with at least one of the shaft portion, the sensor and the socket and being operative to provide a remotely monitorable indication of at least one monitorable event, the sensor being operative to sense application of force to the electronic seal in an attempt to separate the shaft portion from the socket and to indicate the application of force as one of the at least one monitorable event.

Abstract: Provided herein is a security system for a portable electronic device comprising a port connector, a latching mechanism, and a locking mechanism. Also provided is a method for securing a portable electronic device and a security system configured as a multiple-piece shell.

Abstract: An anti-thief electronic device capable of confirming respective existing statuses of a plurality of apparatuses coupled thereto and method thereof is disclosed. The anti-thief electronic device includes a first table, a second table, a micro control unit and an alert device. The first table stores respective initial existing statuses of the apparatuses coupled to the anti-thief electronic device as regular existing statuses. The second table stores respective existing statuses of the apparatuses periodically. The micro control unit periodically compares the second table with the first table to confirm whether the respective existing statuses of the apparatuses are changed or not. The alert device generates an alert if the respective existing statuses of the apparatuses are changed. Specifically, the micro control unit periodically queries an extended display identification data from the display for detecting the removal of the display.

Abstract: An identification device has a band and a non-reusable tamper-resistant fastening arranged to join opposite end regions of the band to fasten it around a limb of a user. A transponder circuit is attached to the band, and is responsive to a received wireless signal. In response to the received wireless signal, the transponder emits a wireless signal representative of information pre-stored in the transponder. An electrically conductive continuous loop on the band extends from the transponder and forms an electrically continuous path along substantially the entire length of the band, the loop being frangible and easily broken in response to an attempt to remove the band from the wearer's limb. Circuitry in the transponder is electrically connected to the loop and arranged to become inoperative and disable the transponder if the loop is broken.

Abstract: A communication system includes master and slave controllers, a local device connected to the slave controller, and a communication cable having a pair of wires and connected between the master and slave controllers. The master controller feeds a first DC voltage to the slave controller via the communication cable and communicates with the slave controller by changing the first DC voltage such that voltages on the wires of the communication cable are opposite in phase. The slave controller generates a second DC voltage from the first DC voltage and feeds the second DC voltage to the local device. When the master and slave controllers communicate with each other, the slave controller changes the second DC voltage such that voltages on terminals of the local device are opposite in phase and vary synchronously with the voltages on the communication cable.

Abstract: A method, system, and computer-usable medium for laptop security. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, a security manager establishes a desired network topology with a collection of laptops, wherein each of the collection of laptops communicates with other laptops within the collection of laptops utilizing a wireless connection. In response to establishing the desired network topology, the security manager causes the plurality of laptops to enter a lock down state. In response to detecting that a disruption in communication has occurred, the security manager issues an alarm.

Abstract: A switch detection device using RFID tags is disclosed. The switch detection device includes a RFID tag, a conducting circuit loop and a switch connected to the conducting circuit loop to form a control circuit. The switch is controlled to turn on or off, leading to the closing or opening of the control circuit. The RFID tag detects the state of the conducting circuit loop and transmits a signal representing the opened/closed state to a RFID reader. The switch detection device is incorporated to a turning operation mechanism which includes a lever lock assembly, a deadbolt lock assembly, a window sash lock assembly, an odometer wheel, a hinge provided with a first hinge member and a second hinge member interconnected by a central axle, a door closer, a water faucet, a rotatable switch, or a rotatable lock.

Abstract: A system and method for tracking and controlling access to objects such as keys includes a lockable storage cabinet adapted to receive, store, and dispense objects within transparent security containers. A control computer is operably coupled to the cabinet. Information about objects, such as their weight, an image, or magnetic characteristics, is extracted by sensors when the objects within their containers are dispensed to a user or checked in by a user. This information is compared to a data base of the same information previously extracted for these objects. From the comparison, the connected control computer verifies that the objects present in the security container are the objects expected to be in the security container. If they are not, then theft or tampering is indicated and the computer takes remedial actions such as setting alarms or notifying security personnel.

Abstract: A system for disabling a device. An embedded identifier contained within a cable security system is read in response to enabling a cable security mechanism within the device. The device is disabled if the embedded identifier is not found.

Abstract: A wireless monitoring system and method. A distributed electrical circuit can be printed on a dielectric film for wrapping pallets or containers in a logistic chain, wherein the distributed electrical circuit (e.g., a Wheatstone Bridge) detects a rupture of the film through an electrical resistance change of one or more elements of the distributed electrical circuit. The electrical resistance change is indicative of a potential tampering event. An electronic module can be provided that conditions and processes a signal transmitted from the distributed electrical circuit and thereafter transmits the signal wirelessly via an antenna to a monitoring station. Additionally, a monitoring station can be implemented, which communicates with a network and the electronic module, and permits a user in real time to receive data concerning the potential tampering event.

Abstract: An anti-theft/anti-fraud system includes a tag assembly that renders a retail item ineligible for merchandise return or refund if tag is removed from the retail item, if the label attached to the front side of tag has been removed or tampered with, or if the retail item is a garment that had been washed or dry-cleaned. The backside of the tag contains the anti-theft/anti-fraud system trademark and a warning message. The label thereon contains the anti-theft/anti-fraud system trademark and code data preventing the item from being returned for refund after the retailers return policy period has passed, or after the item has been washed or dry-cleaned. The tag is attached to a discreet portion of the retail item. If attachment of the tag has no feasible location then a single label is utilized and applied to a discreet portion of the retail item.

Abstract: Disclosed is a method, system and apparatus for use in remotely and internally tapping a conduit. The method is performed, at least partially, by an automatic mechanism or robot configured to effectively perform the tasks and various steps of the method. The method includes the steps of: (a) lining a conduit with a liner; and (b) inserting an automatic mechanism into an internal portion of the liner, wherein the automatic mechanism (i) locates a service tap connection point; and (ii) at least partially engages a fitting device within an internal surface of the service tap entry portion, thereby providing fluid communication between a service tap internal passageway and an internal portion of the liner. An automatic mechanism, a fitting device and an insert element are also disclosed.

Abstract: A method of displaying consumer electronic devices comprises supporting a plurality of rails on a frame in a generally parallel, spaced relationship and configuring each rail for slidable movement relative to the frame in a direction generally perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of each rail. A first row of display units is supported between a first adjacent pair of the rails and a second row of display units between a second adjacent pair of the rails, with each display unit comprising at least one of a device support unit and a plate. The plurality of display units are reconfigurable by exchanging the display units between different lateral positions within at least one of the first and second rows of display units and/or by exchanging at least one display unit between the first row and the second row of display units.

Abstract: A method for manufacturing an RFID disabling apparatus using prefabricated, “off-the-shelf” components. The method includes: disposing a prefabricated RFID circuit and a conductive loop on a substrate, coupling a first end of the conductive loop to a first endpoint of the RFID circuit, and coupling a second end of the conductive loop to a second endpoint of the RFID circuit. An optional electronic component can be coupled between the first endpoint and the second endpoint of the RFID circuit. The RFID circuit can be an “off-the-shelf” RFID circuit. A portion of the RFID circuit can be severed to create the first endpoint and the second endpoint.

Abstract: A system and method for automatically advertising items put on display, as well as protecting those items against theft. The system and method include an event sensor associated with the item and connected to a monitoring and alarm transmitter for initiating an advertising experience on an associated and local graphic display whenever the item is manipulated or approached by a patron. Should the item be removed or taken from its display stand, a wireless alarm is automatically transmitted to a receiver of an authorized person. The system and method also perform a logging function when a patron approaches the item or removes it without taking it away. The system and method also include the ability to provide power to electronic items that are on display.

Abstract: A cable lock device includes a housing, a tampering subsystem, and a cable having a first end and a second end. The first end is attached to the housing and is electrically connected to the tampering subsystem and the second end is selectively attached to the housing. In addition, a switch is disposed within the housing and is electrically connected to the tampering subsystem. The switch is movable between an open state and a closed state to indicate when the second end is attached to the housing. The tampering subsystem includes control circuitry that monitors the position of the switch and the status of the cable to detect removal of the second end from the housing and/or severance of the cable. The control circuitry relays status information of the cable lock device to a control unit via a transmitter to alert a property owner of a security breach.

Abstract: Security apparatus is provided for the display of battery operated hand-held electronic devices. It includes a electronic recoiler device that combines the function of tethering the displayed devices while at the same time providing the power required by each of the displayed devices by means of a continuous electrical connection from a power supply to each displayed device. It also provides wire and wireless alarm functions, as well as visual perpetrator identification. The apparatus also provides specific product information and comparative product information to the potential customer by visual and audible means.

Abstract: A cable alarm system is provided that includes: a lock; a cable coupled to the lock and operative to conduct a current; a secondary wire coupled to the lock and parallel to the cable and operative to conduct a current; a current detector coupled to the cable and the secondary wire, operative to detect an interruption of a current in at least one of the cable and the secondary wire; a battery operative to supply power to the current detector; an alarm coupled to the current detector and receiving power from the battery; and a heat sensor coupled to the cable and the secondary wire.

Abstract: A theft deterrent device allows a customer to handle an item of merchandise to which the device is connected. The device is configured to protect items of merchandise having first and second pieces each of which are sufficiently valuable to warrant such protection. The device includes a base mountable on a support structure, an audible alarm, first and second connectors which attach respectively to the first and second pieces of the item of merchandise, lanyards for connecting the base to the first and second connectors and a removal sensor for sensing removal of one or both of connectors from the first and second pieces of the item of merchandise so that the alarm is activated when the connector or connectors are removed from the item of merchandise. The lanyards provide electrical communication between the alarm and the connectors, which may include plunger switches which serve as removal sensors.

Abstract: Sensors and methods for detecting attachment to a surface are disclosed. The sensors include a housing having an inner surface, an outer surface and a passage extending through the housing. An elongated member or fastener extends through the passage and protrudes from the outer surface of the housing to attach the sensor to a surface. First and second electrical contacts are disposed within the housing so that when the sensor is attached to the surface an electrical path is formed between the first and second electrical contacts.

Abstract: A battery operated cable security seal for cargo containers and the like includes a housing with a transparent cover for visual inspection of illuminated internal green or red LEDs, the red LED representing a tampered state of a stranded metal locking cable, which has a length sufficient to secure the keeper bars and hasp of a cargo container door. The cable has an internal conductor whose conductivity, e.g., resistance, manifests a tampered condition when severed and also if reattached, e.g., by a solder or spliced joint and so on. The electrical continuity of the conductor is monitored by a circuit in one embodiment for a severed state, i.e., tampering, and whose resistance is monitored in a second embodiment correlated optionally to either or both ambient temperature and a battery output voltage. The seal housing has two compartments one being hermetically sealed and contains the circuitry and the other containing a cable locking device for receiving and locking the cable to the seal.