Abstract: A method and apparatus is provided for identifying which one of a plurality of first devices, within a wireless communication range of a second device, the second device is to establish substantive communications with. The method includes sensing which particular first device is within a physical range of the second device, and establishing substantive communications with the particular first device.

Abstract: An advanced food and/or drink organization and/or handling system that greatly facilitates food management and handling to help streamline household operations as relate to foods and related functions and events.

Abstract: A string wireless sensor 11 comprising a wireless sensor 13, incorporating the transmitting portion, which transmits electric signals by wireless and a string holder (polymer 12) which holds the wireless sensor at a certain distance.

Abstract: A temperature warning system for a fireplace includes, for example, an arrangement to sense a temperature of at least one area of the fireplace and a signaling device controlled by the arrangement to provide a signal responsive to the temperature of the area. The arrangement may include an electrical circuit including a thermistor positioned outside the viewing area to measure the temperature of an area of the fireplace. The signaling device may include visual or audible signaling devices for signaling to a user when an area of the fireplace is above a threshold temperature.

Abstract: The present invention includes systems and methods using a wireless sensor for wirelessly transmitting a temperature signal to a programmable thermostat without intervening digital storage. A temperature circuit comprises a temperature sensor whose resistance changes with temperature and one or more reactive components. The temperature is inferred at the receiver from the time elapsed between reception of the various coded pulses that indicate activity within the transmitter.

Abstract: When a lead used for taking a pet for a walk or leashing the pet to a place such as a kennel is pulled by the pet or a human during walk or while the pet is leashed, a portable electric power generator connected with the lead generates electricity using mechanical energy obtained by the pulling action. The electricity generated by the portable electric power generator is supplied for the electronic device attached to pet worn by the pet through a charging cable disposed along the lead inside or outside the lead, thereby charging a rechargeable battery inside the electronic device attached to pet. The electronic device attached to pet uses the electrical energy of the integrated battery to perform a predetermined operation (such as wirelessly reporting the current location of the pet, and wirelessly reporting information representing the sound of the pet). The electronic device attached to pet reports that the pet got away from a location where the owner exists and has gotten lost for a number of conditions.

Abstract: An electronic patch thermometer consists of a measuring apparatus attaching to or disposing on a targeted object (such as human body skin or a tongue surface, indoor or outdoor, surfaces of a container, water tanks, and the likes) and a receiving apparatus for receiving signals measured by the measuring apparatus. When the receiving apparatus is moved nearby the measuring apparatus and a measuring switch located on the receiving apparatus is pressed, the receiving apparatus generates a magnetic field transmitting to the measuring apparatus to generate electric power required. The measuring apparatus measures and induces temperature signals of the targeted object and transmits the signals by radio waves to the receiving apparatus which reads and displays the temperature value of the targeted object.

Abstract: This invention relates to an animal collar for locating and tracking animals. The animal collar is provided with a digital video camera that may be remotely controlled transmit real time full motion video signals over a broadband wireless communication network to allow a pet owner to view the immediate surroundings of a lost pet. The animal collar is further provided with a global positioning (GPS) unit that communicates with GPS satellites to determine the geographic coordinates of the animal collar.

Abstract: A system and method are for alerting safety personnel of unsafe air temperature conditions. The system includes a temperature sensor exposed to the ambient environment, a temperature indicator disposed in a field of view of safety gear such as a face mask, and a control unit. The temperature indicator and the control unit may be disposed in a protected location, such as within the face mask. The control unit may produce warnings based on detected temperatures and exposure time thresholds. Detected temperatures may also be recorded, along with positioning information, such as GPS data, to facilitate mapping of temperature gradients. At startup, the system may automatically execute a battery check and produce a warning if insufficient charge remains to provide a predetermined operating time. Various embodiments may use an arm to keep the temperature indicator within the field of view or a single screw attachment to a face piece.

Abstract: An electronic patch thermometer consists of a measuring apparatus attaching to or disposing on a targeted object (such as human body skin or a tongue surface, indoor or outdoor, surfaces of a container, water tanks, and the likes) and a receiving apparatus for receiving signals measured by the measuring apparatus. When the receiving apparatus is moved nearby the measuring apparatus and a measuring switch located on the receiving apparatus is pressed, the receiving apparatus generates a magnetic field transmitting to the measuring apparatus to generate electric power required. The measuring apparatus measures and induces temperature signals of the targeted object and transmits the signals by radio waves to the receiving apparatus which reads and displays the temperature value of the targeted object.

Abstract: An alarm device for signaling when an object reaches a specified temperature. The alarm device includes a thermometer for detecting the temperature of the object. The device further includes a switch element which is closed when the thermometer indicates the specified temperature. The closed switch element triggers an alarm, such as a light or a buzzer, which will signal a person monitoring the temperature that the specified temperature has been reached.

Abstract: The invention refers to a method and an apparatus for registering and supervision of the positions and time of storage of articles entered into a cabinet or other delimited space. A preferred fields of application is refrigerators in which one or several cameras (3) at selected occasions take pictures of the interior of the refrigerator (1). These pictures are treated in an image analyser (6) which transfers clear pictures of all articles stored on each shelf (4) in the refrigerator (1) to a computer (5) for registration. In the computer (5) there is stored for each article information on the time of entry in a list containing article denominations. For distance communication the computer (5) can be connected to a central computer (9) having information about all articles marketed on a national basis and including both pictures and denominations.

Abstract: Transport system for the long-term transport of preferably biological material and transport container, preferably for this transport system, containing at least: a measuring device (2), one or more energy stores (3) and an insulating vessel (6), comprising a top (7), a container wall (8) and a base (9). The handling of the transport containers (1) is improved in practice by the top (7) and the base (9) each having at least one thermally insulating component (10) and by the container wall (8) being designed as a high-vacuum superinsulator (13).

Abstract: A system and method are disclosed for alerting safety personnel of unsafe air temperature conditions. The system includes a removable safety system operable to be coupled to safety personnel for detecting ambient temperature conditions is provided. The system further includes a control unit operable to be coupled to the safety personnel having electronics operable to communicate signals associated with the ambient air condition. The system further includes a sensor unit operable to be positioned with an ambient environment and coupled to a substantially centered position of a viewmask. The sensor unit includes a temperature sensor having an temperature dependent operating mode communicatively coupled to the control unit and a first indicator and second indicator operable to display an indication representing an ambient air temperature condition.

Abstract: A portable wireless cellular fire alarm system is completely contained in a single rugged readily transportable suitcase. It is completely wireless and stores all components in the suitcase when not in use and is also completely portable taking only minutes to set up. The detectors of various types are removed from the case and positioned in the structure to be monitored each having its own short range 900 MHZ transmitter to wirelessly send alert signals to the receiver in the case located up to 1000 feet away. A long range cellular radio then transmits the signals wirelessly using the cellular control channel and to an MSC which wirelessly transmits them to the CMS, all using the MicroBurst™ protocol Remote Feature Control Request control channel transaction which effectively gives the unit nationwide roaming capability and functionality without any reprogramming. There is no user interface. The suitcase is watertight and airtight and a conspicuous bright orange color.

Abstract: An alert device for providing a warning of a baby's condition which may lead to the onset of SIDS. The alert device includes a receiver for receiving a signal, which has an element for warning a person proximate to the receiver of the baby's condition. A transmitter for transmitting a signal to the receiver includes a device for connecting the transmitter to a baby and is located remotely from the receiver. A transducer includes a device for connecting the transducer to a baby's chest, with the transducer further including a pressure-sensitive and/or a temperature-sensitive activation element to be located on the baby's chest.

Abstract: A multi-station RF thermometer and alarm system measures temperatures and/or percent relative humidity at remote locations by RF weather stations, and displays received temperature and/or other weather data telemetry on a multi-station base station that provides out-of-bounds alarm signal indications whenever temperatures are outside of user-selectable minimum and maximum values. Randomized transmission times in one embodiment and two-phase unique transmission schedules in another lessen the possibility of on-going collisions between two or more transmitters contending for the base station at the same time. Redundant data transmission lessens the possibility of environmental noise interference.

Abstract: This invention provides a cooking utensil, particularly in the form of a fork. A temperature sensor is provided on a tine of the fork to provide information to a processing unit within the handle. The processing unit contains information on the desired temperatures for specific levels of cooking for a variety of products. A user may select a particular product being cooked and a desired level of cooking so that the processing unit may compare results from the temperature sensor with the desired predetermined level. The processing unit may then output a result to a display and/or alarm function to indicate when the desired level of cooking has achieved.

Abstract: An electronic wine thermometer comprises a housing having a temperature probe extending from the housing. A display panel is associated with the housing and interactive with operational circuitry contained within the housing. A heat sensor is located in the probe, and is in electronic communication with the operational circuitry completing the device is a cork extractor mounted on the housing.

Abstract: A multi-station RF thermometer and alarm system measures temperatures and/or percent relative humidity at remote locations by RF weather stations, and displays received temperature and/or other weather data telemetry on a multi-station base station that provides out-of-bounds alarm signal indications whenever temperatures are outside of user-selectable minimum and maximum values. Randomized transmission times in one embodiment and two-phase unique transmission schedules in another lessen the possibility of on-going collisions between two or more transmitters contending for the base station at the same time. Redundant data transmission lessens the possibility of environmental noise interference.

Abstract: A smoke detection system comprises a manifold (4) connected to a series of sampling pipes (2). A fan (6) which draws a large volume of sampling air through the sampling pipes is connected to the inlet manifold and a small proportion of that air is directed to the inlet of a smoke detector (12), the outlet of which is connected to the manifold. The configuration obtained by the connection of the outlet from the detector into the inlet manifold provides a large pressure drop across the flow path through the detector. As a result of the large pressure drop, a filter (10) for removing dust and other contaminants can be incorporated in the flow path and the filter can also incorporate a fine filtering stage to produce a secondary clear air flow which can be directed into the detector to prevent smoke particles from settling on critical components of the detector.

Abstract: A method for preserving the temperature integrity of cryogenically preserved biological samples is presented, involving initiating a countdown sequence upon removal of a sample from a controlled portable or bulk storage environment, requiring operator action to terminate the countdown on restoration of the sample to a controlled environment. Audible and visual warnings are provided to an operator prior to attainment of a critical temperature, beyond which damage may accrue to the sample. A portable device facilitating execution of the method is described.

Abstract: A double-layer container equipped with temperature warning device comprises a double-layer container and a temperature sensor device, wherein the temperature sensor device is disposed in a segregated store space formed at the bottom end of the double-layer container for detecting temperature of food or soup loaded in the container. A detected signal is transmitted from a temperature sensor to a microprocessor for judging to lighten a specified LED and meanwhile drive a speaker to play a corresponding song or rhythm for easy discrimination of the temperature range of the food or the soup and thereby to protect a user against being scalded.

Abstract: A humidity sensing device dimensioned to be received in a humidor for detecting an out of range ambient moisture condition and transmitting a signal to a remote monitor. The sensing device establishes an acceptable range of period for a humidity sensitive oscillator. The out of range condition causes a signal to be transmitted to the decoding monitor which provides an alarm signal.

Abstract: This invention relates to a programmable alarm system designed for an airtight container such as a cooler or the like. More specifically, the alarm system includes embedded motion and tilt responsive devices that are actuated upon movement of the container or opening of the container cover. The alarm computer and associated motion and tilt responsive devices are embedded within the (container to prevent potential deactivation of the alarm by unauthorized parties as well as to preserve the sealed integrity of the container.

Abstract: A system and method are disclosed for alerting safety personnel of unsafe air temperature conditions. The system includes a temperature sensor formed to be exposed to an ambient environment and operable to provide a signal representing a measured ambient temperature. The system also includes electronics formed to be attached within protection provided by safety equipment. The electronics are coupled to receive the signal from the temperature sensor. The electronics are then operable to process the signal, to detect an unsafe temperature condition and to provide an indicator signal responsive to the unsafe temperature condition. The system further includes an indicator coupled to receive the indicator signal from the electronics. The indicator then responds to the indicator signal by providing a visible indication of the unsafe temperature condition.

Abstract: A self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) with a personal alert safety system (PASS) having a tank of breathing gas serving a first stage regulator connected to a mask having a demand regulator. A PASS is provided with a first audio alarm within the PASS and a circuit in the PASS which senses movement of a user of the SCBA. The PASS sounds an audio alarm after a pre-established time of non-movement of a user. A remote personal safety system (R-PASS) is attached to a location remote from the PASS, and a communication link connects the PASS to the R-PASS for sounding the audio alarm at the remote location.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for preventing an accident or a fault of a device due to heat generation by calculating a temperature of a device expected after data transmission is finished to predict a temperature of the device is provided. In this method and apparatus, first, transmission data is applied, data transmission time and the expected device temperature when transmission is finished are calculated. And data transmission is started when the calculated temperature is lower than a set value and an alarm is generated for a user and transmission remains on standby when the calculated temperature is higher than the set value. Whether or not the data transmission is performed is selected with a user interface such as a display section and dial keys. When performing the data transmission is selected, a data transmission speed is decreased and the step of calculating the transmission time and the expected device temperature is repeated.

Abstract: A cold temperature alarm system comprising a cabinet having a rectangular lower floor with four rubber foot pads adjacent to the corners for support purposes and parallel front and rear faces and parallel side faces and a top. The floor of the system has at least one aperture with an associated screw therethrough for coupling the floor to the remainder of the cabinet to selectively attain access to the interior of the cabinet. Also provided is a plurality of lights with distinctively different colors and with associated indicia on the front face of the cabinet to indicate "warm" temperature, "low" temperature and "freezing" temperature. A battery and associated electrical components couple the temperature sensor and lights to indicate the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor. Lastly provided is a cover plate that is located in the rear face of the cabinet to selectively allow access to the interior of the cabinet by a user.

Abstract: A high-temperature warning indicator is provided for attachment to a firefighter's helmet. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the indicator is in the form of a dual-color LED mounted in the tip of a highly insulated, lightweight housing. A microprocessor located within the housing and coupled to a temperature sensor activates the light, changes it from solid to flashing modes, and changes the color of the light as various temperature/time thresholds are reached. A clamp or similar mounting device is provided for securing the device to the brim of the firefighter's helmet.

Abstract: A device for measuring and signaling the internal temperature of a container. The device includes an energy source, an informing device electrically connected to the energy source, and a bimetallic element electrically connected to the energy source. The bimetallic element is configured to deform based upon a variation in the internal temperature of the container. The device further includes a selector configured to provide for the selection of a predetermined temperature valve and having a conductive portion electrically connected to the informing device. The bimetallic element is configured to contact the conductive portion when the internal temperature of the container reaches the predetermined temperature value, thereby creating a closed electrical loop that actuates the informing device.

Abstract: A quality control apparatus for a beverage held in a beverage container. The apparatus includes a sensor configured to be in thermal communication with the beverage and detect attainment of a first predetermined temperature. The apparatus also includes a timer coupled with the sensor. The timer is configured to commence timing in response to detection of the attainment of the first predetermined temperature by the sensor. The apparatus also typically includes an indicator coupled to the timer and configured to indicate to a user a status of the timer.

Abstract: A multi-station RF thermometer and alarm system measures temperatures at remote locations by RF thermometers, and displays received temperature telemetry on a multi-station base station that provides out-of-bounds alarm signal indications whenever temperatures are outside of user-selectable minimum and maximum values. Randomized transmission times lessen the possibility of on-going collisions between two or more transmitters contending for the base station at the same time. Redundant data transmission lessens the possibility of environmental noise interference. The redundant data transmitted at random times includes a unique channel ID code, house-keeping data, the current temperature and/or time-to-next-transmission data. The temperature sensing transmitters operate at a low duty cycle with low peak current consumption resulting in long battery life. The multi-station base station may be AC- or battery-powered.

Abstract: A baby bottle includes one or more removably attached handles with a integral voice chips received therein. The integral voice chips is in communication with a mechanical thermostat received within an arcuate portion of the handle that is grasped by a user. Upon the thermostat sensing a preselected temperature, a pair of timer circuits in communication therewith activate the voice chip. When the thermostat detects a temperature below the predetermined value, the timer circuits disable the voice chip after a predetermined duration. Accordingly, when a baby or other user grasps the handle, music or other sound recordings will be automatically emitted. When the baby releases the handle, the voice chip will be deactivated within a predetermined duration thereafter.

Abstract: A temperature monitoring system incorporated in a firefighter's turnout coat, vest or self-contained breathing apparatus to provide protective garments or equipment that can determine the rate of increase of the temperatures in the environment and compare the rate of temperature increase to at least one predetermined threshold and provide a warning when the rate of temperature increase exceeds the predetermined threshold.

Abstract: A indicating power cord system including a housing and an elongated extension cord having a first end connected to the housing and a second end having a plug coupled thereto for being releasably inserted in a standard electrical receptacle to receive power therefrom. Next provided is an electrical outlet positioned on the housing for being electrically connected to a block heater of a vehicle. The electrical outlet is electrically connected to the extension cord with a relay contact and associated relay coil connected therebetween. The relay contact has a closed unbiased orientation upon the lack of receipt of current by the relay coil and an open biased orientation upon the receipt of current by the relay coil. Also included is a thermistor positioned on the heater block of the vehicle. The thermistor can be connected to the relay coil for providing current thereto upon the engine block reaching a predetermined temperature.

Abstract: A smoke detector that comprises three different power sources. First one is the 110/220 volt AC house current, through a step down transformer or that can be hard wired into the home or factory. Second one is a moveable 9 volts rechargeable backup battery. Third one is a solar cell array with a plastic lens that provides up to 9 volts of current through a trickle charger/voltage regulator. The trickle charger also used to recharge the backup battery. With the trickle charger, the solar cell array can cause the smoke detector to alarm with only enough ambient light. The instant invention of the smoke detector unit overcomes the limits of the now market available smoke detectors, by being adjustable, moveable providing more current via the solar cell array to provide a complete recharge to the backup battery. Any voltage lower than 9 volts will lower the charge of the 9 volt rechargeable battery to the current 8 volts to 8 volts and so on up to 9 volts.

Abstract: The present invention provides a self-contained breathing apparatus ("SCBA") having a personal alert safety system ("PASS") fully integrated therewith. The PASS is structurally integrated with the SCBA such that it is protected from damage by both the air cylinder and the frame. The integrated PASS device is not only automatically activated when the SCBA is being used but can still be activated manually if the SCBA is not in service. Additionally, the integrated PASS device utilizes a unique electrical/mechanical connection assembly between its various parts which greatly increases its ruggedness and durability.

Abstract: A system which allows the firefighter to monitor a variety of safety related parameters during firefighting activities through audible and/or visual means. The system of the present invention monitors the pressure in the firefighter's breathing system and also monitors ambient temperature and motion of the firefighter. An audible alarm is activated to indicate a potential emergency situation relating to low remaining air time, impending thermal breakthrough or lack of motion of the firefighter.

Abstract: A temperature sensing circuit, a temperature sensor and a speaker are incorporated in a protective garment having an exterior heat resistant shell and an interior lining to provide a garment that can indicate that the exterior heat resistant shell has exceeded a predetermined temperature limit.

Abstract: A waterproof housing encases a radio and/or a television and/or a compact disc and/or a tape cassette player and speaker or other signaling and entertainment apparatus actuated by a programmable temperature actuated control and temperature indicator. A temperature probe senses the temperature in a heated environment. The control activates the signaling and entertainment device when the temperature is within a preset temperature limit range. The housing is floatable for a spa, whirlpool, hot tub, bathtub, flotation chamber, or other heated water environment.

Abstract: A device is attached to various portions of the human body for detecting body temperature and includes a sensor for sensing body temperature, and a converter for converting the body temperature into a reference value. The reference value is transmitted into a comparator which compares the reference value with another reference value. When the body temperature is increased for more than a predetermined value, an alarm will generate an alarm signal for alarming that the body temperature is too high.

Abstract: An air cleaner with a smoke alarm unit for a forced air recirculating system is disclosed. The smoke alarm unit is housed within a module that fits within the frame of the air cleaner with minimal impact on the cleaning ability of the cleaner. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, a battery capacity tester and air cleaner functionality detector are included in the module. Signals from the battery tester and functionality detector are used by the smoke alarm unit to drive an alarm generator with different signals to produce distinguishable alarms for a smoke condition, low battery condition, and an air cleaner failure. A control unit may receive any of the alarm conditions to execute different control actions in the forced air system.

Abstract: A heat-sensitive alarm trigger is used to set off a fire alarm system. The alarm circuit is triggered either when a resistance across two sensor leads, between which the alarm trigger is connected, falls below the rated trigger resistance or when an emf of a certain strength is produced between two electrodes of the trigger. The heat-sensitive alarm trigger comprises a laminate structure which includes an optionally perforated first electrode layer and a second electrode layer. A hydrated material layer is disposed between the two electrode layers. When the hydrated material is heated above a given alarm trigger temperature, moisture is given off and the barrier layer becomes sufficiently conductive so as to trigger the alarm. This is either caused by lowering the resistance of the hydrated material to below the rated trigger resistance or by producing a sufficient emf between the electrodes which have different electrode potentials.

Abstract: A heat-sensitive alarm trigger is used to set off a fire alarm system having an alarm circuit with a rated trigger resistance. The alarm circuit is triggered when a resistance across two sensor leads, between which the alarm trigger is connected, falls below the rated trigger resistance. The heat-sensitive alarm trigger comprises a laminate structure which includes an optionally perforated first electrode layer and a second electrode layer. A barrier material layer which is disposed between the two electrode layers has a resistance above the rated trigger resistance. A layer of hydrated material is disposed on the perforated electrode layer. When the hydrated material is heated above a given alarm trigger temperature, moisture is given off through the holes in the first electrode and, as a result, the barrier layer becomes sufficiently conductive so as to lower a resistance across the electrodes to below the rated trigger resistance.

Abstract: A thermometer housing of a generally cylindrical configuration is arranged for floating reception within a bathtub, with the thermometer housing including a top wall divided into a first and second semi-annular indicator surface, with an indicator arrow operative through a bi-metallic spring arranged for deflection from the first to the second indicator surface upon bathtub water elevated to a second zone of temperature to be classified as inappropriate for bathing. A stabilizer weight member is mounted to the bottom wall to maintain alignment and emergence of the housing side wall within the associated bathtub body of water.

Abstract: A portable unit indicates the precise time to close a fireplace damper door. The unit comprises a housing including a power source, and an electronic circuit, and an external heat sensor. The arrangement is such that the heat sensor is placed near the firebox and senses that a fire has been lit by the heat given off. The electronic circuit then stores this information and waits until the heat is no longer present. At this time, a fire extinguished indication is displayed, and a time delay circuit activated. If a fire is restarted before the delay circuit times out, the fire extinguished status is cleared and the process started over. If a fire is not restarted, and the delay circuit does time out, then a audible indication warns that the fireplace damper can now be manually closed to save energy.

Abstract: An assembly is disposed on a helmet for monitoring predetermined thresholds of ambient thermal condition of the helmet. Such assembly includes at least one thermistor for sensing the status of an ambient thermal condition and a signal comparator for detecting each predetermined threshold. Individual LED's visually indicate when each predetermined threshold is reached, while an audible alarm indicates when a hazardous predetermined threshold is reached. The audible alarm is further utilized to indicate if the battery voltage is under a predetermined threshold which is predicated on the breakdown voltage of a reference diode when a test switch is closed. A temperature responsive switch is also included to conserve the life of the battery by activating and deactivating the assembly about a predetermined temperature level.

Abstract: An air cleaner with a smoke alarm unit for a forced air recirculating system is disclosed. The smoke alarm unit is housed within a module that fits within the frame of the air cleaner with minimal impact on the cleaning ability of the cleaner. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, a battery capacity tester and air cleaner functionality detector are included in the module. Signals from the battery tester and functionality detector are used by the smoke alarm unit to drive an alarm generator with different signals to produce distinguishable alarms for a smoke condition, low battery condition, and an air cleaner failure. A control unit may receive any of the alarm conditions to execute different control actions in the forced air system.

Abstract: A monitoring and alarm system allows a firefighter to monitor a variety of safety related parameters during firefighting activities through audible and/or visual means. The system monitors the pressure in the firefighter's breathing system and also monitors ambient temperature and motion of the firefighter. An audible alarm is activated to indicate a potential emergency situation relating to low remaining air time, impending thermal breakthrough or lack of motion of the firefighter.