Abstract: Improvements to a portable fire extinguisher where the improvements relate to a system where the owner of the extinguisher can service and maintain their fire protection. Systems in place today require the servicing of a third party. The service companies (third parties) are charged with maintaining the system. Further Improvements include an anti-bridging mechanism that is articulated from the exterior of the chamber to fluff, mix or stir the powder within the chamber to keep it in a liquefied state. The improvements further include a wall mounting bracket that reduces tampering with the extinguisher, an automatic fluffing motor and manual fluffing wheel with a chuck for use with a drill. These features extend the service intervals while maintaining the fire extinguisher in a ready condition. The fire extinguisher is construction of components that are interchangeable and provide equal operation for left and right handed people.

Abstract: An information terminal displays a coordinate screen acquired from a coordinate database on a liquid crystal display, acquires data of an article code of clothes coordinated in the coordinate image from the coordinate database, acquires data of inventory status and display status associated with the acquired article code from an inventory database which stores and saves an article code of an individual article in association with inventory status of the article in a warehouse and display status of the article in a sales floor, and displays an inventory screen which reports a place where the article exists as an article inventory list on the liquid crystal display.

Abstract: A security system for protecting a plurality of items of merchandise on display in a retail environment. Each of the items is connected to a sensor which is removably mounted in a display module and connected thereto by a power cord. A single alarm module located in an inaccessible location is connected to each of the display modules by another power cord. A power cord connects each of the display modules to a source of electricity for supplying electric power to the sensor through the display module and then to the displayed item for maintaining the charge on a battery of the displayed item. The alarm unit contains an internal power source for controlling the alarm circuitry. A plunger switch and LED may be contained in the sensor.

Abstract: An alarm module is provided that includes a first and second switch, a power source and a signal module for generating an alarm signal. When the first and second switch are both in the closed position, the signal module is activated by power from the power source. The first switch opens when an item associated with the alarm module is placed on or connected to the alarm module, and closes when the item is tampered with or removed. The second switch opens when a key is inserted into the alarm module, and closes when the key is removed from the alarm module. The alarm module may also include a third switch that closes when power flows from the power source to the device, and can only be opened upon insertion of the key into the alarm module.

Abstract: A device for displaying a display item includes a mounting member which includes a first mounting element and a second mounting element which is mountable on the display item and movable relative to the first mounting element between different display positions to position the display item as desired, typically to center the display item. The first mounting element includes a base and lid which define an interior chamber and an elongated entrance opening. The second mounting element is disposed within the interior chamber and extends through the entrance opening. The base and lid close to secure the second mounting element relative to the first mounting element. The mounting member may be mounted on a base and removable therefrom for handling and viewing of the display item. An alignment mechanism may be provided for automatically moving the mounting member when on the base from an unaligned orientation to a display orientation.

Abstract: The invention includes an electronic luggage tag that uses GPS technology to both track luggage, and record the specific times and places that a specific piece of luggage is opened. The invention is designed to prevent luggage theft and additionally to provide users the ability to track the location of lost luggage. The tag device has two components: a luggage tag having an implanted GPS chip and, a separate receiving device for receiving a transmitted signal from the luggage tag.

Abstract: A system for displaying an item includes a display shelf having an aperture through it and a thin tether having a first end and a second end that extends through the aperture. The first end of the tether is secured to a mount above a top side of said display shelf and the second end of said tether is secured adjacent to a bottom side of the displays shelf. The first end of the tether has a mount for connection of tether to the item, above the shelf. The system further includes a coiled cable coiled around the tether extending through the aperture. The coiled cable provides an electrical path to the item. The coiled cable has a first end and a second end. The first end is secured adjacent to the mount and the second end securely terminates below the bottom unexposed side of said display shelf.

Abstract: The invention relates to a fixture (1) for at least one object, especially merchandise or packagings for merchandise. According to the invention, a means (21) for automatically determining the frequency with which said at least one object is removed from and/out of the fixture (1) and a control means (23) for transmitting at least one signal in accordance with the determined frequency of removal are provided.

Abstract: A voice bulb, which is adapted for detachably mounting to an electric bulb socket, includes a supporting housing, an illumination unit, and an audio unit. The supporting housing includes a supporting base and an electric head extended therefrom for detachably connecting to the bulb socket. The illumination unit is extended from the supporting base for providing an illumination effect. The audio unit includes an audio outlet provided on the supporting base, and an audio circuit disposed in the supporting base to electrically connect to the electric head, wherein the audio circuit is selectively activated to produce a sound effect through the audio outlet to coordinate with the illumination unit so as to provide an audio-visual effect of the voice bulb.

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: Systems and methods for surveillance in a mobile environment. In some cases, the systems and methods utilize a variety of image and/or audio sensors to record activity ongoing in a mobile environment. In one particular embodiment, the activity is temporarily recorded in a first tier memory implemented as a volatile FIFO. Where a trigger input is detected, the activity is recorded in a second tier memory that can be configured as a non-volatile memory. Further, in some cases the recorded activity can be transmitted wirelessly to a remote location.

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: A security system and display module therefore protects an item of merchandise mounted on the display module in a retail environment. The item of merchandise is electrically and mechanically connected to a sensor which is removably mounted on the display module by a first power cord. A second power cord connects the display module to the sensor and a third power cord connects the display module to a source of electricity for supplying electric power to the sensor through the display module and then to the displayed item for maintaining the charge on a battery of the displayed item. The display module contains an alarm unit having an audible alarm which is actuated if the integrity of either of the first or second power cords is compromised. A plunger switch and LED may be contained in the sensor and in a base of the display module and connected to the internal alarm to provide additional security for the protected item of merchandise.

Abstract: The present invention is a method and system for controlling a RC device via a secure radio link. In one embodiment of the invention, spread spectrum modulation may be employed which may provide a digital radio frequency (RF) link between a controller and a RC device. A controller may be coupled with a transmitter module and a radio controlled device may be coupled with a receiver module in accordance with the present invention to provide an add-on upgrade capability. The method and system for controlling a RC device may also include error detection and correction, interpolation of lost packets, failsafe technology and force-feedback telemetric technology to further enhance the user experience with radio controlled devices.

Abstract: A security system for powering and displaying a handheld electronic device includes a stand assembly mounted to a support and a housing removably mounted on a top portion of the stand assembly. The handheld electronic device is secured to a top portion of the housing and a sensor is coupled to the handheld electronic device. The sensor has a secure and a non-secure state and produces a detectable signal in the non-secure state. An output voltage controller controls an output voltage to the handheld electronic device which can be set only when the sensor is in the non-secure state. The output voltage is set to zero if the sensor is not placed in the secure state within a predetermined time.

Abstract: A system and method for monitoring the status of various types of fixtures and products sold in commercial, e.g., retail environments. The system is arranged to automatically detect and notify store personnel of undesirable conditions, specifically: out of stock, low-stock, and rapid product dispensing or removal. The system consists of an FMS Intelligent Controller (FMS-IC) which is a microprocessor based input/output device mounted on the monitored display device or fixture, and sensors that are connected to inputs used to trigger the FMS-IC when a sensor senses the presence of an item of merchandise to be monitored. The FMS is battery powered and is used with various embodiments of fixtures that may be mounted to shelves within the retail environment.

Abstract: An inductive powering device provides power to a portable device via inductive coupling between primary coils in the surface of the powering device and a secondary coil in the portable device. The portable device includes a passive locator device, such as an RFID device, to allow the primary coils of the inductive powering surface to detect the presence and location of the secondary coil, and only primary coils adjacent the secondary coil are energized for power transfer. A cost-effective driving configuration that arranges the primary coils into a matrix with drive circuits switchably connected to the row and columns is used to energize the primary coils.

Abstract: A security system for powering and displaying a handheld electronic device includes a stand assembly mounted to a support and a housing removably mounted on a top portion of the stand assembly. The handheld electronic device is secured to a top portion of the housing and a sensor is coupled to the handheld electronic device. The sensor produces a detectable signal if the handheld electronic device is moved from an authorized state. A switch is disposed on the top surface of the housing and indicates whether the handheld electronic device is in contact with the housing. An output voltage controller controls an output voltage to the handheld electronic device which can be set only when the switch indicates that the device is not in contact with the housing. The output voltage is set to zero if device is not brought into contact with the housing within a predetermined time.

Abstract: A monitoring system for a valuable item, such as a digital device, has a base unit affixed to the valuable and a remote unit carried by a person responsible for the valuable. Signals are exchanged between the base and remote units. The base continuously monitors for signals from the remote unit and can arm or disarm automatically in response to such signals. When armed, the base communicates with a program running on the valuable to lock peripherals. The base alerts the owner upon movement of the valuable, allowing the owner to screen for false alarms or be notified of an occurring theft attempt. A digital connection between the base and the valuable may be used to encrypt any data stored on the valuable and charge the internal batteries of the security device. A soft switch enables the base to be powered off by the corresponding remote unit.

Abstract: A display device body includes an image display section for displaying an image, a first power supply section for supplying power to the image display section, an anti-theft section for preventing the display device body from theft, and a second power supply section for supplying power to the anti-theft section. The anti-theft section includes a vibration sensor for sensing a shake of the display device body, a vibration detection section for detecting a vibration based on an output level from the vibration sensor, a state retention section for selectively retaining one of a cautionary state in which caution is taken against the theft of the display device and an alarming state indicating that the display device is being stolen, an alarm section for issuing an alarm when the state retention section is in the alarming state, and an operation control section.

Abstract: A security collar for placement around the base of a display package to prevent removal of a cover from the base to protect merchandise contained therein. An EAS security tag is contained in the collar. A magnetically actuated lock mechanism is formed on the collar to lock the collar in a closed locked position on the display package. The collar includes a pair of semi-circular housing members pivotally joined at one end and swingable between open and closed positions. The collar is formed with spaced projections which trap the base and portions of the cover therebetween to secure the collar about the base and cover. Each of the housing members each locking teeth which mutually engage each other to secure the housing members in locked position.

Abstract: A hidden security device for a container of cargo transportation includes a case provided with an electronic processing unit; a tightly-seized device, including a plate, extending from the case, on which a displacement sensor communicating with the electronic processing unit is provided at a predetermined place; and a tightly-seized part, perpendicularly extending from the plate and having a flexing end; and an antenna, communicating with the electronic processing unit and extending out from the case to the flexing end of the tightly-seized part. The present security device can accurately record the time and frequency of opening the door plates of the container, and meanwhile it is disposed on the inner side of the door plates, and is readily concealed.

Abstract: A method for processing a surface of an item and providing an association using a surface processing system includes receiving an item having a first identification marking on a surface of the item to provide a received item for providing a first identification signal in response to a first interrogation signal and applying a second identification marking to the surface of the item for providing a second identification signal in response to a second interrogation signal. At least one of the first and second interrogation signals is applied to the item to provide at least one of the first and second identification signals. At least one of the first and second identification signals is received in response to the at least one of the first and second interrogation signals. An association is made is determined in response to the first receiving.

Abstract: An anti-theft device, comprising at least one spool (2) made of electrically insulating material that is mounted rotatably on a support (3); a cable-like element (4) that can be wound onto, and unwound from, the spool or a respective spool and has a free end (5) that can be detachably anchored to an item (6) to be restrained, elastic loading means for the or each spool in order to ensure the automatic tensioning and rewinding of said cable-like element on its own spool, detachable engagement means for an item to be restrained which are located at the free end of said cable-like element or of each cable-like element and are suitable to open or close an electrical contact, and a control unit (8) that is meant to act in response to the opening-closing of the electrical contact.

Abstract: One or more RFID tags (104) are integrated into a fire hose (102) to facilitate an individual's exit from a structure. A portable interrogator (106) worn by the individual interrogates the closest RFID tag (104). Each RFID tag (104) has location information stored therein which gets decoded upon interrogation by the portable interrogator (106). The RFID location information assists the individual in locating the hose (102) and following the hose towards its source point (110) and out of the structure.

Abstract: A single use security padlock-style lock for sea containers, bonded warehouses, trailers and other storage areas where security is necessary. The lock has an electronic timepiece which displays the time and date in a tamper-resistant case. A shackle is extended through the hasp or closure of the area to be secured. When the shackle is engaged in the lock body, the timepiece display is interrupted providing an indication of the time the area was secured. Each case carries a unique identification number.

Abstract: A radio frequency identification (RFID) tag is used to detect the presence and identification of devices or equipment in a rack. Each device in the rack has an associated RFID tag that contains device information. The system which is implemented in the rack receives the information from the RFID tag on each device in the rack and provides the information to a central location, such as a central computer, where that information can be acted on, stored, processed, analyzed, and/or accessed by a system administrator or user, for example. The system that is implemented in the rack may continue to monitor the presence of the devices in the rack for security purposes.

Abstract: A display system for displaying an item of merchandise in a retail environment that allows a potential customer to handle the item while it is secured to the display system. The item is supported on a display shelf and is connected to a retractable cable. The shelf is locked to a base by an alarm unit. Unauthorized removal of the shelf, base, item of merchandise, severing of the retractable cable or alarm unit will activate an alarm. First and second locks lock the alarm unit to the base.

Abstract: Card-type anti-miss/anti-theft alarm device including a portable mainframe and an alarm sub-frame each having a central processing/controlling unit and a power supply unit. One of the portable mainframe and alarm sub-frame includes an intermittent oscillating transmission unit, while the other includes a signal receiving unit and a sonic/optical warning unit. The alarm sub-frame is designed as a thin card with a dimension smaller than or equal to that of an existent credit card, whereby the alarm sub-frame can be easily placed and hidden in an article carried by a user. In case the user misses the article or the article is stolen by a thief and spaced from the user by a certain distance, at least one of the portable mainframe and the alarm sub-frame can emit an alarm to indicate the user of the location of the missing article. Accordingly, the user can easily find the article and the thief is scared.

Abstract: A security seal for a freight car, freight container or other enclosure. The seal has an electronic timepiece which displays the time and date and is preset at an established reference time. A cut-resistant strap is secured at one end to the seal and has a latch at the other end. When the latch is passed through a lock and is engaged in a receiver in the seal, the strap is locked in place and the power to the timepiece is interrupted providing an indication of the time and date on which the lock was sealed. Other information may be applied to the seal at the time of sealing such as the identification of the individual responsible for the sealing.

Abstract: A method for automatically changing the address of an occupant when the occupant moves from one internal address to another internal address. The foregoing is accomplished by placing a radio frequency identification tag in occupant's nameplate, wherein the tag contains encoding information that identifies the occupant so that when the occupant changes his/her location, the nameplate may be used to update a data base and determine the occupant's new address.

Abstract: A security support for display article, in particular wrist-watches, designed to be integrated in a display unit includes a sensor fixed on the base and connected by a conductor were to a connector linked to an alarm central station. The support consists of a globally cylindrical block whereof the side surface is truncated along a chord to form a plane whereon is fixedly mounted a mechanical locking member adapted to co-operate removably with corresponding parts of the sensor fixed at the base of the watch, such that the latter thus equipped with the sensor, can be mechanically locked on the cylindrical block by the locking member and can be locked on that same block by winding of its own bracelet and by closure of its clasp.

Abstract: The subject invention is centered on an improved device for security and holding jewelry in a store setting so that the risk of theft is minimized while the jewelry is being shown or demonstrated for potential sales, such device comprising a flexible cord like or wire member having means on the upper end to hold a jewelry item secured to the cord like member while the lower end of the cord-like member is secured to a fixed item or a security alarm so that the jewelry item is secured from unauthorized removal.

Abstract: A displacement sensing system including an oscillator circuit having a characteristic frequency which varies as a function of a magnetic field in the vicinity thereof, an element whose position relative to the oscillator circuit is varied by a displacement, the element being operative to vary the magnetic field in the vicinity of the oscillator circuit as a function of the displacement and circuitry for sensing a change of frequency of the oscillator circuit over time (delta f/delta t) and for providing an output indication when the change in frequency of the oscillator circuit over time exceeds a threshold.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to an apparatus and method involving a voltage selectable alarm sensor for operably mounting an anti-theft device to an article being monitored. The voltage selectable alarm sensor comprises a sensor housing, a detector switch having at least first and second alternative positions to indicate that an alarm event is occurring, an electrical cord for providing power to the alarm sensor which power is then directed to the article being monitored through connection to a power output port on the sensor. The voltage emanating from the power output port and directed to the article may be varied by a voltage selection switch positioned on the sensor.

Abstract: A bag includes an upright bag body with a rectangular mouth portion confined by opposite longer walls and opposite shorter walls. At least one of the longer walls is formed with first strap holes therethrough. A carrying strap has opposite sections extending respectively through the first strap holes and formed with a respective retaining end for connecting the carrying strap to the bag body. A backing plate is disposed to lie against one of the longer walls, and is formed with second strap holes that permit extension of the carrying strap therethrough. A sound generating module has a frame unit mounted on the backing plate, and a data storage unit and an audio playback unit mounted on the frame unit. The audio playback unit is coupled to the data storage unit and is operable so as to audibly reproduce audio information stored in the data storage unit.

Abstract: A luggage locating system for facilitating location of luggage within an airport. The luggage locating system includes a remote transceiver assembly comprising a first transceiver means for transmitting a unique remote signal. A base transceiver assembly comprises a second transceiver means for transmitting a unique luggage signal. The second transceiver means transmits the unique luggage signal to the first transceiver means when the second transceiver means has received the unique remote signal from the first transceiver means. The first transceiver assembly comprises an indicator assembly. The indicator assembly is operationally coupled to the first transceiver means whereby the first transceiver means actuates the indicator assembly for indicating to the user that the base transceiver assembly is within a predetermined range of the user when the first transceiver means receives the unique luggage signal from the second transceiver means.

Abstract: The security system as presented is used preferredly to monitor paintings and other work of art. Essential component of the security system are suspending elements, for mounting e.g. paintings. The suspending elements also serve to transmit signals (data) or electrical power, for illumination purposes. It is preferred to implement a two wire bus system with the suspending elements. In case an alarm is triggered, the system according to the invention is able to immediately identify and display the time and the place of the objects to be guarded. Several levels of monitoring capabilities are provided, which work in cooperation with hardware consisting of different sensors or transponders. The security system in accordance with one embodiment is connectable to a network.

Abstract: A sensor element may be provided for a monitoring device designed to protect displayed merchandise against theft. The sensor element may be flexible and include a sensor layer with a measuring circuit loop integrated therein. During attempted theft, a contact element that may be arranged on an adhesive surface creates an open in the measuring circuit loop, thereby triggering an alarm.

Abstract: A system for discouraging the unauthorized removal of an electronic device from a designated area is provided. The electronic device includes at least one functional feature (such as a display, speaker, power enabler, controller, etc.) for performing at least one desired function and an enabler, operatively coupled to the functional feature, for enabling the functional feature to perform the at least one desired function. The system further includes a security device that generates a signal, such as an electromagnetic field, so as to cause the enabler to enable the functional feature to perform the at least one desired function. The enabler may comprise a breakable link, such as a fuse. When the electronic device is placed in proximity to the electromagnetic field, the link is broken and the functional feature is enabled. In another preferred embodiment, the electronic device may include a controller operatively coupled to the functional feature for controlling the operability of the functional feature.

Abstract: Disclosed are a shoplifting monitoring apparatus and an attachment unit. The shoplifting monitoring apparatus includes the attachment unit and an alarm device. The attachment unit has an attachment surface to be attached to an article. The attachment unit includes a detection element for detecting whether the attachment unit is attached to the article or not. The attachment unit is provided at the attachment surface with a first portion screw-fittable onto a screw of the article. The attachment unit can be attached to the article by screw-fitting the first portion of the attachment unit onto the screw of the article. The alarm device issues an alarm based on information indicating that the attachment unit is not attached to the article, the information being detected by the detection element.

Abstract: Disclosed are a shoplifting monitoring apparatus and an attachment unit.

Abstract: A security display system typically used to display, and permit the handling of, costly items such as cameras, video cameras and recorders, while preventing the theft of those items. The system permits persons to handle the item and prevents theft of the item through a cable which acts to tether the item, provide power to the item and trigger an alarm if it is cut or disconnected. The cable is largely hidden until the item is picked up, as the cable runs through the item support and under the counter.

Abstract: A sensor system is provided for use in detecting movement of an item, e.g. a picture 16, suspended from a wall or other substantially vertical structure, or for detecting movement of an item displayed or stored on a horizontal or inclined surface, the sensor system including a piezoceramic element (22) which is mounted on a metallic disc (23) which, in use, is located between the item (16) and the structure or surface, and means for detecting the generation of an output by the piezoceramic element (22) as a result of deflection of the disc (23) in either of two opposite directions as a result of movement of the item (16).

Abstract: Methods for remotely detecting whether a specific object is in a specific position or state. For example, to detect a desired condition, such as; that a residential sliding door is both fully closed and also locked, or a stove element is turned off, or that a window's pane of glass is intact. Optical methods are used, and in one embodiment a retroreflective surface is affixed to the door's locking handle, or the control dial for the stove element, or the glass surface, respectively, for this example. A narrow light beam illuminates the location where the retroreflective surface would be if; the door is closed and its lock handle is in the locked position, the control dial for the stove element is in the off position, or the window's glass is intact. If a monitoring device senses the retroreflected beam of light, then the retroreflective surface must be in the desired position, and the desired condition has been confirmed.

Abstract: In order to develop an apparatus for safeguarding a merchandise item against theft, having a safeguarding part for fixing to the merchandise item and having a connecting cord for connecting the safeguarding part to an object which is not at risk of theft in such a way that it allows improved presentation of the merchandise item, it is proposed that the safeguarding part comprises a substantially rigid base part and also a fixing part, which can be fixed to the merchandise item and can be adapted to the form of the merchandise item at least in a partial region of its surface associated with the merchandise item.

Abstract: A system for discouraging the unauthorized removal of an electronic device from a designated area is provided. The electronic device includes at least one functional feature (such as a display, speaker, power enabler, controller, etc.) for performing at least one desired function and an enabler, operatively coupled to the functional feature, for enabling the functional feature to perform the at least one desired function. The system further includes a security device that generates a signal, such as an electromagnetic field, so as to cause the enabler to enable the functional feature to perform the at least one desired function. The enabler may comprise a breakable link, such as a fuse. When the electronic device is placed in proximity to the electromagnetic field, the link is broken and the functional feature is enabled. In another preferred embodiment, the electronic device may include a controller operatively coupled to the functional feature for controlling the operability of the functional feature.

Abstract: Generally speaking, the present invention comprises a method for securing a timepiece to a display unit. The timepiece includes a head and a strap, and the display unit includes a member adapted to support the timepiece. The method includes the steps of: arranging the timepiece upon the member; affixing a security device to a securing means; and securing the securing means about the strap of the timepiece and a portion of the member, wherein the timepiece is secured to the member by the securing means. In one embodiment, the method includes the step of affixing the security device to the securing means by means of an adhesive. For example, the securing means is an adhesive layer having a center portion, a first side flap and a second side flap opposite the first side flap, and the method includes an initial step of tapering the ends of the first and second side flaps opposite the center portion.

Abstract: An enhanced information collage that combines a computational system with a physical information collage to preserve the advantages of conventional information collages while alleviating many problems associated with such collages. A physical information collage (e.g. a pin board with spatially differentiated pin mounted task cards, each card having a detectable identity tag) can be made part of a computational system by sensing the identity, position, and contents of the collage component artifacts. In effect, each collage component has its content and position stored in a database, with movement of a particular component resulting in update of the database to record the new position of that component. Further provided are Operator Icon components which may be used to provide digital services, such as combining, erasing, saving, or transferring, to other collage components.

Abstract: An anti-theft tag assembly including an electronic tag, a monitored attachment mechanism which attaches the tag to an object to be protected and which provides an output indication of tampering with the attachment mechanism, a monitored proximity determination mechanism which monitors a proximity of the tag, and thus of the object to be protected, to a given object and which provides an output indication of tampering with the proximity determination mechanism, and a communicator for providing a sensible indication of receipt of at least one of the output indications.