Alarm On Protected Article Patents (Class 340/571)
  • Patent number: 7012529
    Abstract: A tracking system for identifying contents of a container includes an electromagnetic identification apparatus that provides an electromagnetic signal indicative of a container content data set; a writer for use in encoding the container signal onto the apparatus; a controller for receiving the encoded signal and for storing the signal in a master database storage apparatus; and a reader configured outside the container for communicating with the electromagnetic identification apparatus and for receiving the encoded signal therefrom and corresponding to the container content data signal set.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 14, 2006
    Assignee: United Security Applications ID, Inc.
    Inventor: James M. Sajkowsky
  • Patent number: 7009512
    Abstract: The alarm system is for preventing loss or theft of a portable and/or movable device. The alarm system has a first portable and/or movable device provided with a first communication device operable for wireless communication with another communication device. A second portable and/or movable device is provided with a second communication device operable for wireless communication with another communication device. At least one of the first and second communication devices is configured to generate an alarm signal when a distance (D) between the first and second communication devices exceeds a predetermined distance (d).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2006
    Inventor: Juan Carlos Cordoba
  • Patent number: 7005989
    Abstract: EAS marker, in one embodiment, comprises a self-lockable loop fastener. The self-lockable loop fastener comprises an elongated strap having a first end and a second end, the second end being provided with a plurality of teeth. The self-lockable loop fastener also comprises a paddle disposed at the first end of the strap. The paddle includes a recess and a locking head. The second end of the strap is insertable into, but not through, the locking head, the locking head having a tang for lockably engaging the teeth in such a way as to prevent withdrawal of the strap from the locking head and thereby forming a locked loop of fixed size.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2006
    Assignee: Avery Dennison Corporation
    Inventors: James C. Benoit, John R. Franks, Charles L. Deschenes
  • Patent number: 7002451
    Abstract: A system is provided for locating an intended package, product, or other item that may be located in an area where a number of such packages may be located, such as a warehouse, a receiving area, or the like. The system allows personnel to quickly identify a particular package or package location from among other packages in the area. The system includes a wireless transmitter operative to transmit coded signals, each associated with a respective package to be located. A receiver device such as an RFID tag is disposed on or near each particular package being sought. The receiver device upon receipt of an interrogating signal from the transmitter and recognition of a unique identifying address code indicates its presence by an audible and/or visible signal that can be directly sensed by a human.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2006
    Inventor: Jeffrey R. Freeman
  • Patent number: 7002467
    Abstract: An alarm interface for a merchandise security system is coupled to an alarm system of the merchandise security system. The alarm interface includes one or more wireless interface transmitters and receivers. One or more output devices are connected to at least one of the one or more wireless receivers. In one aspect, the alarm system includes a controller for sensing alarm events, one or more hubs connected to the controllers, and a plurality of sensors capable of attachment to a plurality of objects to be secured. A set of sensors within the plurality of sensors is attached to a corresponding hub, and each sensor or hub generates an alarm event when separated from the controller or object to be secured. The wireless interface transmitters wirelessly transmit one or more alarm signals from the alarm system. The wireless interface receivers are adapted to receive at least one of these alarm signals transmitted from one or more of the wireless interface transmitters.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2006
    Assignee: Protex International Corporation
    Inventors: Joseph Deconinck, Dominick Dimonda
  • Patent number: 6998987
    Abstract: A video surveillance system is integrated with an RFID tracking system. The calibration of the RFID tracking system is enhanced by using information provided by the video surveillance system. Optionally, the calibration of the video surveillance system may be enhanced by using information provided by the RFID tracking system. Calibration of the RFID tracking system is facilitated by placing RFID tags at visually apparent locations in a surveillance area and using the location information determined from the video surveillance system to determine appropriate correction factors for use in subsequent RFID location determinations. Dynamic performance is also calibrated by placing RFID tags on visually apparent moving targets and using the location information determined from the video surveillance system to determine the parameters used to qualify subsequent RFID location estimates of moving targets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2006
    Assignee: Activseye, Inc.
    Inventor: Yun-Ting Lin
  • Patent number: 6995654
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for determining the location of an item from a plurality of like items, using matching paging devices and passive transponder tags on each item. The unique code number (IC) of the tag is programmed into its matching paging device. The paging device operates remote control location functions. The tags are preferably passive acoustic wave transponders.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 7, 2006
    Assignee: X-Cyte, Inc.
    Inventor: Paul Nysen
  • Patent number: 6992574
    Abstract: An object matching method, system and apparatus. The system can include a multiplicity of RFID tags storing corresponding tag data coupled individually to respective objects. Selected ones of the RFID tags can be programmed with tag data associating the selected ones of the RFID tags with one another. At least one RFID reader/interrogator can be configured to interrogate the RFID tags and responsive to the interrogation to read the corresponding tag data. Finally, matching logic can be programmed to determine whether interrogated ones of the RFID tags contain tag data indicating an association between coupled ones of the objects. Notably, the matching logic can be disposed in the RFID reader/interrogator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2006
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Bryan Eric Aupperle, James M. Mathewson, II
  • Patent number: 6992585
    Abstract: A security system includes within a single module in combination an arming component, a motion sensing component and a notifier component. The arming component creating an output signal received by the motion sensor component, which in turn generates an alarm signal upon the motion sensor being moved. The alarm signal activates a notifier component to broadcast notification of unauthorized movement of the system. A MEMS motion sensor and a trigger optimally serve as the basis for the motion sensing component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2006
    Inventors: Rameez Saleh, James Frank Klemic, Abigail Lubow, Mark Meras
  • Patent number: 6987455
    Abstract: One assembly includes an article of manufacture having an exterior surface of a given color and an EAS marker-containing housing secured to the article and defining an exterior surface of the given color. Another assembly includes an article of manufacture having an exterior surface with a surface section of a given configuration and an EAS marker-containing housing secured to the article and defining an exterior surface having surface section contiguous with the article surface section and of the given configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2006
    Assignee: B&G Plastics, Inc.
    Inventors: Chester Kolton, Michael Norman, Robert Whittemore
  • Patent number: 6975221
    Abstract: A luggage identifier for air and rail travelers uniquely identifies a luggage piece on a airport carousel or train station conveyer belt. A battery powered remote radio wave transmitter carried by the passenger sends a radio wave to a battery powered receiving and activating mechanism associated with the luggage piece. The transmitted signal triggers a latch release mechanism connected to a flexible flagpole that is held under spring tension in the collapsed state. Upon being triggered, the latch release mechanism releases the flagpole, which is driven to an extended state under spring power. Identifiers carried by the flagpole are thereby moved into a conspicuously visible position, which facilitates identification of the luggage piece. The identifiers can comprise LED lights mounted on the flexible flagpole, a colored puffball, a name flag, and a sound generation mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 2, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2005
    Inventor: Joan M. Monck
  • Patent number: 6970095
    Abstract: A theft detection system includes an accelerometer attachable to an object, the accelerometer providing an acceleration signal in response to movement of the object; an alarm mechanism for providing a signal in response to movement of the object; and for preventing false alarms, a filter programmed to determine the frequency of the acceleration signal and to provide an output to activate the alarm mechanism only when the frequency of the acceleration signal meets a predetermined criteria.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2005
    Assignee: Caveo Technology, LLC
    Inventors: W. David Lee, Martin Wells, Christopher Verplaetse, Christopher Turner
  • Patent number: 6970100
    Abstract: A temperature tag and system for sensing and reporting an internal temperature reading inside a container. The temperature tag mounts on an outside surface of the container, and a shaft with a temperature sensor extends through the side of the container and senses the internal temperature reading. A plurality of readings may be recorded at a predefined sampling rate and stored in a data memory. The temperature tag then sends the temperature readings to a reader device that presents the temperature readings to a user. The reader device may trigger the temperature tag to send the temperature readings with a signal such as an infrared (IR) signal, a radio frequency (RF) signal, and the like. The temperature readings may be analyzed in the temperature tag, the reader device, or may be downloaded to a computer to determine if an alarm condition exists.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2005
    Assignee: Long Range Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Kenneth J. Lovegreen, James Livingston, Russell P. Blink
  • Patent number: 6965310
    Abstract: The method for identifying the presence of an item to a user interface entails using a container having a loading opening and a collection opening, passing the item through the loading opening activating a first sensor, sending a first signal from the first sensor to an intelligent device, creating a first intelligent device signal from the intelligent device, communicating the first intelligent device signal to a communication system, opening the collection opening to collect the item, thereby activating a second sensor, sending a second signal from the second sensor to the intelligent device, creating a second intelligent device signal from the intelligent device, communicating the second intelligent device signal to the communication system, and using a software interface to process the first intelligent device signal and the second intelligent device signal and present the intelligent device signals processed by the software interface to the user interface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2005
    Assignee: Gauging Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: John Charles Hoben, Allen Westmoreland, Larry Fly
  • Patent number: 6965316
    Abstract: A method and device for activation of large quantities of security elements for the electronic article protection. The security elements are exposed to at least one magnetic field produced by one or more coils carrying a line current subjected to sine oscillations. The coils are supplied with current pulses that are shorter than the sine oscillations. The amplitude of the current pulses diminishes as a function of time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2005
    Assignee: Meto International GmbH
    Inventors: Michael Rapp, Pierre Doyelle
  • Patent number: 6958695
    Abstract: A tag has an intelligent function such that when radiation of a burst signal synchronized with a power source frequency from a transmission antenna (20) is detected, it transmits a response burst signal after completion of reception. Then, when a predetermined number of burst signals have been detected, the tag outputs an alarm. Also, an alarm device main body outputs an alarm when a predetermined number of response burst signals have been received. To provide article monitoring apparatus and article monitoring system which determine whether or not an unpaid article is taken out with reliability. According to the present invention, it is possible to provide article monitoring apparatus and article monitoring system which determine whether or not an unpaid article is taken out with reliability.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 29, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 25, 2005
    Assignees: Sensormatic Electronics Corporation, Takachiho Koheki Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Kunihiko Imafuku
  • Patent number: 6954147
    Abstract: Aspects for providing protection against theft and loss of a portable computer system are described. The aspects include establishing boundary conditions within which the portable computer system is authorized for use and tracking a position of the portable computer system with a global position system (GPS) unit in the portable computer system. The position is compared to the boundary conditions to identify whether the portable computer system has violated the boundary conditions, and anti-theft routines are performed when the position has violated the boundary conditions. The anti-theft routines include calling a preset phone number with a cellular calling facility of the portable computer system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2005
    Assignee: Lenovo Pte. Ltd.
    Inventors: Daryl C. Cromer, David B. Rhoades, Howard J. Locker, James P. Ward, Eric R. Kern, Brandon J. Ellison, Richard A. Dayan
  • Patent number: 6952167
    Abstract: An output of a resonant circuit 60 which electromagnetically couples with an external communications apparatus is rectified and taken out, and a resultant output voltage V is monitored by a switch control circuit 61. After the output voltage V has risen to or beyond a threshold Vth1, a switch element SW is turned on and off, and a state of the switch element SW in which the output voltage V becomes higher is determined. While holding the switch element SW in the state thus determined, a power supply switch element PSW is turned on when the output voltage V has further risen. As a result, even when a plurality of noncontact IC cards 6 overlaid with one another are brought close to the communications apparatus, the individual noncontact IC cards 6 can carry out data communication.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 4, 2005
    Assignee: OMRON Corporation
    Inventor: Naoyuki Wakabayashi
  • Patent number: 6946961
    Abstract: A security system having a flexible cord with a length, a housing, and a connector on the cable. The housing is mountable in an operative position on the support. The cord is urged into a stored state into the housing and can be selectively withdrawn therefrom. The connector is attachable to an article to be monitored. At least one of a) a first discrete part of the cord is repositionable relative to a second discrete part of the cord and b) at least a part of the housing is repositionable relative to a support on which the housing is mounted in an operative position to control twisting of the cord about the length of the cord by reason of turning of the connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2005
    Assignee: Se-Kure Controls
    Inventors: Bjarne Frederiksen, Terrance Surma, Roger Leyden
  • Patent number: 6940407
    Abstract: A portable communication device (10) includes a transceiver (12 and 14), an acceleration sensor (20) coupled to the transceiver, and a processor (16) coupled to the acceleration sensor. The processor is programmed to monitor (32) an acceleration profile of the portable communication device and compare (48 and 52) the acceleration profile of the portable communication device with at least one pre-stored acceleration profile (18).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2005
    Assignee: Motorola, Inc.
    Inventors: Carlos A. Miranda-Knapp, Wayne W. Ballantyne, Jaime A. Borras, Joseph L. Dvorak, Sacha B. Holland
  • Patent number: 6937153
    Abstract: A thermal imaging paper having a laminate structure is disclosed. The laminate structure includes a thermal imaging heat sensitive substrate, an adhesive layer, and a polyfoam layer. In addition, a security feature such as an antenna and integrated circuit are provided in a position interposed between said adhesive layer and said thermal imaging heat sensitive substrate. The thermal imaging paper provides the combination of an effective thermal imaging paper product incorporating the benefits of a security feature such as a wireless memory device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2005
    Assignee: Appleton Papers Inc.
    Inventor: Gregory George Redlin
  • Patent number: 6930592
    Abstract: A system for protecting the loading space of vehicles, in particular passenger cars, with sensors for sensing loaded material in the loading space, detectors for sensing the state of protective devices in the loading space and being configured for signal generation indicative of the state of the loaded material and as a function of the sensing of loaded material and the sensing of the state of the protective devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2005
    Assignee: BOS GmbH & Co., KG
    Inventors: Werner P. Schlecht, Andreas Kobiela, Klaus Haspel, Thomas Laudenbach, Thomas Seeg
  • Patent number: 6927689
    Abstract: A lasso for securing an object to be monitored. The lasso has a flexible cord with a length and first and second free ends, and a connector having a body with at least one opening therethrough. The portion of the flexible cord between the first and second free ends is directed through the at least one opening so that the connector and the portion of the flexible cord define a closed first loop with an effective diameter. The portion of the flexible cord is configurable to be generally U-shaped with a base and first and second legs which each project through the at least one opening. At least one of the first and second legs is movable relative to the fitting so that the effective diameter of the closed first loop is variable. The first free end of the flexible cord is directed through the closed first loop so as to define a closed second loop with an effective diameter that is variable by selectively oppositely moving the flexible cord through the closed first loop.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2005
    Assignee: Se-Kure Controls, Inc.
    Inventors: Bjarne Frederiksen, Roger Leyden, Terrance Surma
  • Patent number: 6919805
    Abstract: A wallet is disclosed in which a theft prevention device is installed. If the wallet departs from the pocket, a melody is generated so that the owner can recognize the departure of the wallet from the pocket, thereby preventing the theft of the wallet. An oscillation plate is installed between the outer cover and the inner layer of the wallet, and a photo sensor is installed to respond to the visible light so as to activate the oscillation plate. Further a manual switch is installed to make it possible to turn the power source on or off.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2005
    Inventors: Bae Ho Song, Chul Soo Kim
  • Patent number: 6916968
    Abstract: A urine detection system and method. According to one aspect of the invention, the method includes generating a magnetic field within an effective distance of a potentially wetted area, and conducting a plurality of measurements to construct a magnetic energy distribution function corresponding to the potentially wetted area. The method further includes comparing at least one parameter of the magnetic energy distribution function to a set of stored parameters corresponding to known wetness conditions to identify a wetness condition of the potentially wetted area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2005
    Assignee: Sysmore, Inc.
    Inventors: Shmuel Shapira, Ron A. Tsur
  • Patent number: 6911910
    Abstract: Radio frequency identification tags are placed on mail contained in trays or tubs to locate and reroute mail that is misdirected, i.e., being routed to the incorrect destination. The method involves the carrier reading the identifying information contained in the radio frequency identification tags on each mail piece while each mail piece is in the trays or tubs and removing one or more mail pieces in the tray or tub that are to be routed differently than that routing information contained on the outside of the trays or tubs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2005
    Assignee: Pitney Bowes Inc.
    Inventors: Ronald P. Sansone, Leon A. Pintsov, Robert A. Cordery, Marc Morelli, Arthur Parkos, Ronald Reichman, Claude Zeller
  • Patent number: 6911908
    Abstract: A security system for protecting articles (8), the system comprising at least one Electronic Article Surveillance (EAS) loop (1) , one Emitting Unit (7) and one Detecting Unit (9) attached to each article (8) to be protected, the Detecting Unit (9) having a detector to detect electromagnetic fields emitted by the EAS loop (4) and the Emitting Unit (7) and to distinguish between them, and an alarm generator for generating an alarm if a predetermined sequence of fields is detected. The system combines existing EAS loops (4) normally present in a retail store with Emitting Units (7) and Detecting Units (9) so as to monitor movement of articles (8), especially supermarket trolleys, around the retail store.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2005
    Assignee: Activerf Limited
    Inventor: Pilgrim Beart
  • Patent number: 6911909
    Abstract: An object locating system for automatically locating a hidden or lost wireless object. This is applicable to objects such as remote controls for TVs and VCRs and the like. An ambient light photosensor is located on the object. The object locating system also includes an alarm located on the wireless object, which is electrically connected to the ambient light photosensor. The ambient light photosensor senses ambient lighting conditions. The alarm is actuated when the ambient light photosensor detects ambient light below a predetermined level.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2005
    Assignee: Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P.
    Inventor: Ravi Chandar
  • Patent number: 6903655
    Abstract: A remote control device including a housing, a processor located in the housing, and a motion detector in communication with the processor. The device also includes at least one input device in communication with the processor and a light source attached to a top side of the housing and in communication with the processor, wherein the motion detector communicates a signal to the processor upon detection of motion, and wherein the processor effects the light source to be lit upon receipt of the signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2005
    Assignee: BellSouth Intellectual Property Corp.
    Inventor: John R. Stefanik
  • Patent number: 6897778
    Abstract: A personal item (3), such as an item of clothing, an accessory or a portable device, is fitted with an identification tag (2) having memory means (11) for recording an individual code assigned to the tag (2), and emitting means (12) for emitting a signal representing the individual code; a portable detecting device (4) has enabling means (16) for enabling the emitting means (12) and for transmitting an inquiry signal to the tag (2) and receiving, in response, the signal representing the individual code and emitted by the emitting means (12) of the tag (2); and the individual code so detected may then be used as an E-mail box address on a dedicated internet web site to contact the owner of the tag (2), thus providing a straightforward, effective way of establishing interpersonal relationships between strangers, while at the same time ensuring their anonymity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2005
    Inventor: Paolo Borlenghi
  • Patent number: 6888509
    Abstract: A tamper indicating label is provided. The label may include RFID components and a tamper track coupled to the RFID components. The tamper track should be constructed from a destructible conducting path. Additionally, the tamper track can be formed such that it is damaged when the label is tampered. In one embodiment, adhesion characteristics of the tamper track are adapted to break apart the tamper track when the label is tampered, for example, by removal from an object. The RFID components may retain their RF capability and detect when the tamper track has been damaged to indicate that the label has been tampered. Alternatively, the RFID capability of the RFID components may be disabled when the tamper track is damaged, indicating tampering.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2005
    Assignee: Mikoh Corporation
    Inventor: Peter S. Atherton
  • Patent number: 6888463
    Abstract: An motor vehicle theft detection device, for warning a property owner that an motor vehicle has been brought beyond a predetermined acceptable distance, comprising a plurality of transmitters and a receiver. Each transmitter continuously transmits a unique signal. The receiver monitors the signals from the transmitters, and determines when the signal strength therefrom drops below a predetermined threshold level or is missing altogether. When the motor vehicle is moved from the owner beyond an acceptable distance, the signal strength will drop below the threshold level and will not be detected, indicating an alert condition. Once an alert condition is established by the receiver, a beeping unit is activated to provide an audible warning to the owner that the motor vehicle has been stolen, so that the authorities can be immediately notified.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2005
    Inventors: Frank Mengrone, Deborah Mengrone
  • Patent number: 6876301
    Abstract: The present invention is a flexible non-bulky, metal-minimizing card holder for credit cards, debit cards and identification cards, including an alarm for identifying removal of a card from a holder after a predetermined duration using flexible contact points, comprising a holder for a card; non-rigid flexible electrical contact means located in the interior of the holder for triggering an alarm adapted to be held apart by a card in the holder; an intrinsic power source and an audible alarm after a predetermined delay after removal of the card from the holder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2005
    Inventors: Coleman Ray, Cruise P. Berrio
  • Patent number: 6870483
    Abstract: A locator apparatus for locating a lost wallet, pocketbook, or a purse is disclosed. Other embodiments of the apparatus could be incorporated into other commonly used items such as purses, sunglasses, keys, etc. The apparatus would be a phone chip and speaker combination that would be incorporated into any one of a wide variety of items that are both frequently used and frequently misplaced, such as wallets, pocketbooks, purses, keys, sunglasses or regular glasses, and other such items. The phone chip would be capable of “receiving” a telephone call, at which time, it would activate the speaker, which would begin to make noise. This noise would allow an individual to find the appropriate “lost” or misplaced item quickly and efficiently.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2005
    Inventor: Everton Davis
  • Patent number: 6870464
    Abstract: The disclosed inventory control system is well suited for many types of small-volume products. A plurality of electronic tags 1 are installed in a floor 3 in which data on installation locations is stored, a storage shelf 8 for storing inventory, and a movable reader 23 that reads location data from the electronic tags 1 and carries a product that moves along the aisle. Data stored in an electronic tag, from among a plurality of electronic tags 3, installed near the storage shelf 8 on which inventory is stored contains data on a product stored on the storage shelf 8. The movable reader 23 comprises a communications antenna 4 that communicates in a wireless fashion with the electronic tags, a transceiver connected to the communications antenna 4, a data processor that sends and receives data via the transceiver, and a database 7 that provides data to the data processor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2005
    Assignee: Leading Information Technology Institute, Inc.
    Inventor: Eiji Okamura
  • Patent number: 6867698
    Abstract: A system and method for automatically logging data pertaining to a particular use of an article, in particular the use of a boning or carving knife in a meat works. The knife having identifying means incorporated therein to identify a unique code for the particular knife. A reader is provided at a reading station to automatically read the unique code of a knife passed adjacent the reader. Data logging means is associated with the reader to log the unique code and the time at which the unique code was read by the reader. The data logging means is associated with one or more readers and reading stations located in an area where the knife is to be used. The area has reading stations associated with one or more treatment or storage locations for the knife at which a reader is disposed in a manner so that any passage of a knife from or to the treatment or storage location requires the article to be passed adjacent to the reader to enable the unique code of the knife to be automatically read by the reader.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2005
    Assignee: Herbert McIvor Holdings Pty Ltd.
    Inventors: David Russell Herbert, Shane McIvor
  • Patent number: 6862188
    Abstract: A computer uses an optical reflective optical sensor to detect the removal of a cover of the computer housing. The reflective optical sensor includes a light emitter and a light detector, and is mounted adjacent a reflective surface on the inner side of the cover when the cover is in place such that the light emitter is reflected by the reflective surface and received by the light detector. When the cover is removed, the intensity of the reflected light received by the light detector drops. The change in the output of the light detector triggers the operating system of the computer to power down the computer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2005
    Assignee: Microsoft Corporation
    Inventor: John C. Calhoon
  • Patent number: 6853301
    Abstract: An electro-mechanical motion sensor for detecting the unauthorized movement of an object and which responds to motion in all axes is disclosed. The sensor comprises a housing having a base, cap and peripheral wall defining the interior of the housing wherein the base and cap have internal and external surfaces with a mid-point thereon and a series of radially extending electrical contacts on the internal surfaces of the base and cap. The contacts extend from about the mid point of the base and cap. A metallic post is located between the mid points on the base and cap respectively and a metallic ball is provided within the housing and is of sufficient size that it can roll freely within the interior of the housing always in contact with the radially extending contacts peripheral wall or metallic post.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2005
    Inventor: James Brian Paul Devine
  • Patent number: 6850158
    Abstract: A key locating system for includes a base unit including a housing having a back wall, a front wall and a peripheral wall extending between the front and back walls. The front wall has a plurality of docking stations therein. A plurality of actuators is mounted on the front wall. Each of the actuators is relatively adjacent to one of the docking stations and is operationally coupled thereto. Each of a plurality transmitters is adapted for transmitting a different wireless signal. Each of the transmitters includes a second mating member adapted for coupling with one of the first mating members. Each of a plurality of receiving devices is adapted for receiving a wireless signal transmitted from a corresponding one of the transmitters.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2005
    Inventor: Judy L. Williams
  • Patent number: 6844815
    Abstract: A retractable handle bar assembly incorporated with a traveling container includes a hand bar having a receiving cavity, a retractable arm for slidably folding the hand bar between a folded position and an unfolded position, locking device for locking the hand bar at the folded position, and a safety alert system, which is received in the receiving cavity of the hand bar, including an alert signal generator arranged in such a manner that when the hand bar is unlocked to slid from the folded position, the alert signal generator is activated to produce alert signals for aiding an attention of the container body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 18, 2005
    Inventor: John Nia You Chang
  • Patent number: 6842114
    Abstract: An electronic wire-based safety device for the detection of a theft of an object to be protected, the device including at least one detector connected by a wire-based electric link to a signalling unit, the detector being arranged in relation with an object to be protected, the detector exhibiting at least a first electrical status in relation with the object and a second status when the object is detached from the detector, the unit including at least one threshold voltage comparator with inputs/outputs whereof one input is connected to the detector by the link and whereof at least one output indicates by signals at least the presence or the absence of the object in relation to the status of the detector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2005
    Assignee: SAAA-Systemes d'Automatismes d'Alarmes Automiques
    Inventor: Jean-Pierre Billiard
  • Patent number: 6836214
    Abstract: An alarm apparatus attached to an electronic device, activated by unplugging AC power cord of the apparatus device from a power outlet, irrespective to the states of the main switch and the device switch. If the power cord is unplugged from the outlet, it disconnects DC continuity component from the alarm circuit, breaks a voltage divider circuit, changes the voltage level high, and activates the alarm system. The DC continuity component could be either an external component, the power transformer winding, or a device power input DC impedance. Which element is utilized is determined by the position of the main switch and the device switch. The alarm system can be turned on either by remote control or by a local switch. The alarm system is battery powered for its own circuit operation and can be charged by a battery charger.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2004
    Inventor: Sang J. Choi
  • Patent number: 6831567
    Abstract: A clamping device having loss-guard function includes a shell body, a circuit unit, and a connection component. The shell body has a receiving space therein. A clamping sheet is disposed on the outer wall of the shell body. The circuit unit is disposed in the receiving space, and can receive signals emitted by an emission component disposed on a portable electronic device. The circuit unit has alarming components. The connection component is connected on the portable electronic device. The connection component also is connected with the shell body in a detachable way. The clamping device can clamp the portable electronic device onto a users waistband. When the portable electronic device is away from the circuit unit a certain distance, the circuit unit will be immediately driven to give out alarming lights or sounds, thereby preventing the portable electronic device from being lost or stolen by thieves.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2004
    Inventor: Sheng Hsin Liao
  • Patent number: 6822568
    Abstract: A system and method for automatically maintaining the security of an area. In one embodiment of the invention, several space area network elements may be placed near or in a circular pattern around an area to be kept space, such as a school. The space area network elements are devices including sensors to sense the presence of an unwanted object such as a gun. The space area network elements may also include a wireless communication unit so that when the presence of an unwanted object or gun is sensed, a third party entity such as a the police may be alerted. The space area network elements also include inter-element communication units that allow the space area network elements to share information and form a space area network. Additionally, the space area network elements may include a positioning system unit that obtains data related to the position of the space area network. By way of the positioning system unit, position information may also be communicated to the third party entity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 23, 2004
    Assignee: Lucent Technologies Inc.
    Inventors: Narayan L. Gehlot, Victor B. Lawrence
  • Patent number: 6813487
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for protecting data in a remote electronic device serviced by a network provider and used by a subscriber. Initially, a communication from the subscriber indicating loss of the remote electronic device by the subscriber is received at a site operated by the network provider. Next, an attempt is made, from the site operated by the network provider, to contact the remote electronic device via a wireless link. If the initial attempt to contact the remote electronic device is unsuccessful, further attempts are then made at regular intervals from the site operated by the network provider to contact the remote electronic device via the wireless link, until contact is made between the site operated by the network provider and the remote electronic device. After contact is made with the remote electronic device from the site operated by the network provider, the site operated by the network provider transmits at least one data recovery signal to the remote electronic device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2004
    Inventor: David Alan Trommelen
  • Publication number: 20040201477
    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.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 7, 2003
    Publication date: October 14, 2004
    Inventors: Kazuaki Matoba, Yoshinori Sawata
  • Patent number: 6788216
    Abstract: Accessory alarm device of computer lock, including a housing in which an alarm system is installed and a connecting plate extending from the housing. The connecting plate is formed with at least one perforation adapted to a locking bolt of a computer lock. The locking bolt of the computer lock can be passed through the perforation and inserted into a socket of the computer to lock the alarm device on the computer. The alarm device is controllably set in a standby state. In case the computer is unauthorizedly moved, the shake will trigger the alarm device to emit alarm sound so as to achieve a burglarproof effect.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 7, 2004
    Inventor: Chung-Yang M. Chen
  • Patent number: 6774782
    Abstract: A system for reducing security risks in, for example, an enclosed area where there are documents, computer discs, and other items which may contain security sensitive information. Each security sensitive item has an RFID tag attached thereto, and during non-working hours these items are placed in locked file cabinets, a safe or a vault. The area is periodically interrogated by an RF interrogator to ascertain whether the items are in their locked secured position or are in an open area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2004
    Assignee: Battelle Memorial Institute
    Inventors: Larry Runyon, Wayne M. Gunter, Ronald W. Gilbert
  • Patent number: 6762681
    Abstract: An identification arrangement for an order fulfillment system includes an identification input associated with each location in an order fulfillment system at which items are handled, such as by removal or placement, for filling an order. Each item storage location includes a switch that is actuated by a user after items have been handled, such as by removing the items for placement into an order receptacle, as in a conventional pick-to-light order fulfillment system. The identification input includes a unique signal emitter carried by the user, such as an infrared transmitter which emits a signal having a unique frequency corresponding to the identity of the user. The signal is received by a signal receiver located adjacent the switch, and which is interconnected with a central controller that stores information on the signals used as identification for each user. The user can remove items from any location in the order fulfillment area to fill any order.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 13, 2004
    Assignee: Innovative Picking Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Darin L. Danelski
  • Patent number: 6759958
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for locating an object. In one embodiment, the occurrence of a plurality of transitions between a first light level and a second light level is detected. If a time period between at least some of the transitions is determined to be less than a predetermined value, an alert signal is emitted. In another embodiment, the alert signal is emitted if an ambient light level is detected to be below a predetermined threshold and the object is detected to not be in a predetermined axial orientation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 6, 2004
    Inventor: Philip R. Hall