Abstract: A pressure sensitive alarm system for solving the problem of arm pump commonly experienced by competitive motocross riders is provided. The system comprises motorcycle grips which incorporate one or more pressure sensors. The pressure sensors provide a signal to a control unit which compares the magnitude of the pressure sensor signal to a predetermined threshold value. When the predetermined threshold value is exceeded the control unit activates an alarm and maintains the alarm until the rider's grip pressure falls below the predetermined threshold value. The predetermined threshold value is a pressure magnitude which when exceeded by a rider is likely to lead the onset of arm pump. Means are provided for individually tailoring the predetermined threshold value to the specific needs of an individual rider.

Abstract: A system for monitoring the state of calibration of a digital x-ray detector having a solid state sensor with a plurality of pixels, a scintillating screen and at least one embedded microprocessor, the system having means for capturing a digital image and a computer operable during normal diagnostic use of the detector, in cooperation with at least one embedded microprocessor, for performing pixelwise computations on the image and calculating a misregistration metric indicative of movement of the solid state sensor relative to the scintillating screen. A defect metric indicative of abnormal properties of pixels in the solid state sensor is calculated. It is then determined whether one or both of the misregistration metric and the defect metric exceeds a respective, preselected threshold value. The user of the system is alerted to conduct a calibration of the detector when either one or both of the respective threshold values have been exceeded.

Abstract: A security device for a closure leaf such as a door or window comprises: a link member extending between a portion of said security device located on said closure leaf to which said link member is attached, in use, and a portion of said security device located adjacent to said closure leaf to which said link member is attached, in use; whereby said link member restrains the opening of said closure leaf beyond a predetermined degree; a canister of pressurised substance; a canister holder for securing said canister on a support structure; whereby said canister is in a position for spraying a subject in the vicinity of said closure leaf; and an actuator which engages said link member and which applies pressure to said canister when pressure is exerted on said closure leaf beyond a predetermined level; whereby said canister sprays.

Abstract: A data carrier (2) comprises a data circuit (4) arranged on a substrate (3) and data transmission unit (10) being connected to the data circuit (4). The data carrier (2) further comprises at least one strain gauge unit (7) being adapted to measure strains exerted on the substrate (3) and to transmit a deactivating signal (DE) to the data circuit (4) if the measured strains exceed a defined deactivating strain threshold. If the data circuit (4) receives the deactivating signal (DE), the data circuit (4) interrupts a data exchange with an external data reader/writer (1) via the data transmission unit (10).

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a brightness controllable LED illumination device using a tactile sensor sensing the intensity of force or the intensity of pressure. The brightness controllable LED illumination device includes at least one LED emitting light based on electric field formed between first and second electrodes; a tactile sensor sensing the intensity of force or pressure applied by a predetermined contact object and generating an output signal corresponding to the sensed intensity; and a controller connected to the tactile sensor and adjusting a variation in the electric field based on the output signal of the tactile sensor to control the brightness of the light emitted from the at least one LED.

Abstract: Systems and method for reliable detection of errors in a pressure control system for a pilot's G-suit. Alarm systems for generating alarm signals in case of malfunctioning of the pressure control system. The systems may prevent the pilot from passing out with a high safeguarding against failure of the system during critical maneuvers.

Abstract: A door announcement system for indicating the presence of a person or on animal outside a door includes at least one transmitting assembly sending an indicator signal when the at least one transmitting assembly is actuated. At least one receiving assembly engages an electrical outlet to provide power to the at least one receiving assembly. The at least one receiving assembly is in electrical communication with a lamp to turn the lamp on and off when the at least one receiving assembly receives the indicator signal.

Abstract: A system comprising a portable, hand-held device having an accelerometer controlled by a new protocol which acts to output accurate and rapid communication concerning one or more predetermined events to a monitoring service and to receive input communications through satellite communication and/or other communication means. In another embodiment, an installed device such as an AVL comprises communication means for short burst communication over satellite. The most preferred embodiments of the present system are also GSM and GPS enabled, thereby providing GSM and GPS positioning information that can be used in conjunction with the accelerometer data to monitor and detect predetermined events and, based upon the specific nature of the event, generate one or more alerts.

Abstract: An indication clothing being adapted to be worn by an object is provided. The indication clothing comprises an indication sign, a storage module, a G-sensor and a process module. The storage module is configured to store threshold information. The G-sensor is configured to sense an instantaneous moving action of the object and generate a sensed value related to the instantaneous moving action when the object is moving. The process module is electrically connected to the indication sign, the G-sensor and the storage module, and is configured to control the indication sign by comparing the sensed value with the threshold information so that the indication sign indicates the instantaneous moving action of the object.

Abstract: Smart aerospace structures are described herein utilizing a deactivated RFID tag including an IC and an electrical by-pass. The electrical by-pass is conductive and the electrical by-pass is in parallel with the IC such that the deactivated RFID becomes activated upon an abnormal condition, such as an improper clamp installation, a clamp failure, an impact, a thermal event or a crack.

Abstract: A digital display apparatus for a fastener pulling tool to set a fastener (e.g., rivet, blind rivet or blind threaded insert), driven by pneumatic, hydraulic or pneudraulic power, includes a power supply, a CPU, a pressure sensor, position sensors, a display, and an input means; wherein the pressure sensor is operable to sense pressure of hydraulic or pneumatic fluid entering the fastener pulling tool; the CPU includes a pressure and pulling force calculation module an unit conversion module, an over pressure determination module, a cycle times counting module, and an abnormal stroke detecting module; and the display includes a pressure display zone for showing hydraulic or pneumatic pressure and a pulling force display zone for showing pulling force, a non-resettable over pressure display zone showing the highest inlet pressure, and a cycle time display zone for showing non-resettable accumulated working cycles of the tool.

Abstract: A method and apparatus is disclosed for sensing when a person is disposed on or arises from a support that flexes or sags when a person is disposed thereon. Such supports include beds, supports for a mattress or a seat, such as a sling-type seat found on wheelchairs. In one embodiment, an assembly is positioned beneath the support and includes a sensor. The sensor indicates when tension on the assembly exceeds a certain amount which is indicative of sagging of the support. The assembly may be adjustable in length to maintain proper tension in the absence of sag. The sensor may be a switch that includes a plunger which operates against the bias of a biasing member which either completes or interrupts an electrical circuit in response to tension placed on the assembly due to sagging of the support. In another embodiment, the assembly may be at least partially elastic. In yet another embodiment, a strain gauge may be employed to detect stretching of the assembly due to sagging of the support.

Abstract: The invention disclosed herein describes a device allowing even people with severe disabilities (physical and/or mental) to control the generation of sound and music, using controls adapted to their capabilities. The device is to be used primarily in therapeutic, educational and training contexts. The device comprises of pressure-sensitive controls, a programmable control device and a sound/music output mechanism.

Abstract: A system and method for indicating the load condition of a vehicle having suspension components comprising: at least one of an inclinometer or an accelerometer mounted on at least one suspension component to measure the deflection angle of the suspension component; and a controller configured to use deflection angle and generate an output representative of the load condition of the vehicle.

Abstract: An apparatus is provided for detecting the presence of an obstruction with respect to a height-adjustable bed. The apparatus includes sensors coupled to the bed. At least one of the sensors has an output signal which is variable in response to changes in a weight applied to the support surface. The apparatus also includes a controller having inputs configured to receive the output signals from the sensor or sensors. The controller is configured to monitor the output signals, and to provide an indication of the presence of an obstruction with respect to a change in position of the bed.

Abstract: A force-sensitive presence detection system, detector, and detection method are provided. The detector includes a substantially flat water-proof enclosure, having disposed therein an electrically isolating layer disposed between first and second conductive layers, wherein the electrically isolating layer has a plurality of contact regions formed therein to enable the first and second conductive layers to electrically couple in response to an application of a force thereto. A signaling device is configured to output a time-based signal to a receiver when the first and second conductive layers electrically couple. A method of detecting a body using the detector is also provided.

Abstract: Systems and methods for providing security to a user of an electronic device are provided. An electronic device can be configured to enter a prevention mode in response to detecting a force that exceeds a predetermined threshold, thereby providing security. Embodiments are described wherein the device, upon entering a prevention mode, may transmit a security transmission, in the form of a telephone call or an e-mail. This security transmission, when received by a security entity, can lead to the security entity dispatching an officer to the device's location, or to the security entity placing a telephone call to the device's owner, thereby providing security. Embodiments are also provided whereby the device, upon entering a prevention mode, may enter a lock-down mode. When in lock-down mode, the device may become inaccessible by any user, or alternatively may be accessed only if a security password is provided by the user.

Abstract: A low-power shock sensing system includes at least one shock sensor physically coupled to a chemical storage tank to be monitored for impacts, and an RF transmitter which is in a low-power idle state in the absence of a triggering signal. The system includes interface circuitry including or activated by the shock sensor, wherein an output of the interface circuitry is coupled to an input of the RF transmitter. The interface circuitry triggers the RF transmitter with the triggering signal to transmit an alarm message to at least one remote location when the sensor senses a shock greater than a predetermined threshold. In one embodiment the shock sensor is a shock switch which provides an open and a closed state, the open state being a low power idle state.

Abstract: A display device is mounted in a working vehicle equipped with a camera that monitors areas around the working vehicle. The display device includes: a monitor screen; first display means for displaying information about the working vehicle; second display means for displaying an image captured by the camera; first switching means for switching displayed image information; malfunction detection means for detecting a malfunction occured in the working vehicle; warning display means for displaying warning information; operation detecting means for detecting whether the working vehicle is working; and second switching means for automatically switching the image information displayed to the image information input by the first display means, where each referenced display is on the monitor screen. Thus, even if a malfunction occurs in the working vehicle, an operator is made aware of the malfunction in the working vehicle without being hindered from undertaking work while checking the safety.

Abstract: Devices and methods are provided for selectively driving a piezo transducer to operate as a pressure pattern detector or an alarm generator. In one embodiment, there is provided a device that includes: a piezo transducer; a comparator coupled to the transducer and a reference voltage; and a pressure pattern recognition circuit coupled to a comparator output of the comparator. The pressure pattern recognition circuit may be configured to: (i) determine whether the pressure pattern satisfies a predetermined condition; and (ii) in response to the pressure pattern satisfying the predetermined condition, generate an output signal.

Abstract: The all-directional fall sensor of the present invention includes a first casing defining a first interior space filled with a liquid and a floater buoyed by the liquid inside the first casing. The floater includes an indicator having indicative materials therein. The indicator includes a body defining a chamber, which is divided into at least a first portion and a second portion with a first sealing member located therebetween. The indicative materials are contained in the second portion of the chamber and are sealed therein with the first sealing member. When the all-directional fall sensor is applied with a force, the first sealing member would be dislocated and thus the indicative materials are dispersed within the chamber.

Abstract: A method of and a system for detecting a person occupying a vehicle seat or a corresponding underlay whereby the underlay is provided with a single dynamic sensor and whereby the measurement signal is compared with a reference signal in comparing means, wherein the system comprises first measuring means for measuring a first measurement signal in a first frequency band representing a signal for human presence, and second measuring means for measuring the reference signal as a second measurement signal in a second frequency band representing a signal for background noise, comparing means for indicating an occupancy, wherein the signal strength in the first measurement signal in the first frequency band of human presence signal domination is compared to the signal strength in the reference signal in the second frequency band where essentially only background noise exists.

Abstract: An automatically operating injection device with an occlusion alarm unit and a method for determining an injection occlusion are disclosed. The method includes generating a plurality of evaluation forces based on a series of force measurements and based on an evaluation time period; determining whether an occlusion exists based on either an evaluation of the plurality of evaluation forces or whether one or more of the series of force measurements exceeds a force threshold; and providing an injection occlusion alarm if an occlusion is determined to exist.

Abstract: Methods and systems for tracking users and providing services are provided. The system comprises a plurality of pressure sensors, a storage unit, at least one service providing unit having a service, and a signal processing unit. The pressure sensors detect pressure applied thereon at a specific time point, and correspondingly generate sensed signals. The signal processing unit receives the sensed signals from the pressure sensors, and stores the sensed signals to the storage unit. The signal processing unit calculates a current state of an object according to the sensed signals and historical sensed signals and historical states of the object in the storage unit, and determines one of the at least one service providing unit according to the current state to activate service thereof.

Abstract: A system and method for activating one or more lights or other devices using one or more activation devices including electronic circuitry. The electronic circuitry of the activation devices includes an activation sensor, based on which the lights or other devices are activated. Activation sensors include motion, sound or light sensors. With transmitters the activation devices can activate remote lights or other devices including receivers. Activation devices can be coupled with or apart form the lights or other devices.

Abstract: An intelligent shelving system integrates touch sensors, displays, lighting, and other components into shelves. Touch sensors can be used as limit switches to control shelf motion, to monitor items borne on shelves, to detect spills, and to control lighting and other devices and functions. Displays can provide information relating to objects stored in the shelving system and the operation and status of the shelving system.

Abstract: An occupant-detecting apparatus includes a plurality of load sensors configured to detect a load imparted on a vehicle seat, and an occupant-sitting determination device configured to determine whether or not an occupant is seated on the vehicle seat, based on detected result of the load sensors. The load sensors are configured to detect loads at different positions on the vehicle seat, and the occupant-sitting determination device is configured not to perform occupant-sitting determination if an absolute value (?W) of a variable amount in a sum of detected result of the load sensors is lesser than a predetermined threshold value (TH/L).

Abstract: A method is provided that includes determining whether a fastener of a child seat is fastened, determining whether a person is seated in a vehicle seat, and if it is determined that the fastener is fastened and the person is not seated in the vehicle seat: enabling a first notification signal of the alarm system, enabling a delay of the alarm system for a period of time, enabling a second notification signal of the alarm system if a door of the vehicle is locked within the period of time, and enabling the second notification signal after expiration of the period of time. If it is determined that the fastener is not fastened or the person is seated in the vehicle seat, the method includes resetting the alarm system.

Abstract: A method of monitoring pressure inside a fluid line and a system for implementing the method. The method is applicable to syringe pump systems.

Abstract: A device and a method for detecting seat occupancy, with the device including first and second sensor elements associated with a respective seat surface. First and second weight-dependent sensor signals are electrically obtainable from the sensor elements. The seat occupancy is determined by taking either the first or the second sensor signals in dependence on an ambient temperature.

Abstract: A method for setting a safety threshold that triggers the sending, by an acceleration or movement sensor device (20), of a safety signal that causes a safety movement of a motorized screen (11) used as a closure or as a sunshade or for privacy, said method comprising the following steps: manual shaking of the screen, recording of a signal produced by a sensor means (33) during the manual shaking step, and determination of the safety threshold from this recording.

Abstract: An apparatus is provided for holding articles, such as keys, which is attachable to a person's clothing, handbag or a purse, and wherein a physical or electronic tether is used to allow the user to use the articles stored thereupon without removing them from the holder or from their clothing, handbag, purse, briefcase or other hand carried item. The tension on the tether is manageable by the use of a tension management system, so that the tension of the tether will not damage the article or the mechanism that the article is used with and the article is tracked by use of the tether so that the user does not lose the article. Infrared, radio frequency, and transponder and polling versions of the invention are also disclosed.

Abstract: A printer, a printer control method and control program, a POS terminal device, and a cash drawer drive device detect when a non-standard cash drawer is connected, and prevents a non-recoverable overcurrent protection device from operating (such as a fuse blowing) by preventing an overcurrent from flowing to the cash drawer. A printer 10 that can be connected to and drive a cash drawer 20 has a cash drawer drive circuit unit 12 that supplies drive current for driving a lock release coil 21 to open/close the cash drawer 20, a coil resistance detection unit 14 that detects the resistance of the lock release coil 21, and a drive switching unit 15 that connects the cash drawer drive circuit unit 12 or connects the coil resistance detection unit 14 to the lock release coil 21.

Abstract: Disclosed is an electric toothbrush for use with wireless devices. A pressure sensor coupled to a wireless transmitting device determines whether the electric toothbrush is being utilized correctly. When the toothbrush is utilized correctly, the wireless transmitter sends a signal to a receiving device which displays an appropriate output. When the toothbrush is not utilized correctly, the transmitter ceases transmitting a signal and the output from the receiver ceases to be displayed.

Abstract: A locating and tracking system is provided. The locating and tracking system includes plural pressure sensing modules, each of which includes at least one pressure sensing unit detecting a pressure source and generating a signal; a data processing unit connected with the at least one pressure sensing unit, and processing the signal to generate a module information; a storage unit connected with the data processing unit, and storing the module information and an user information; a communication unit connected with the data processing unit, transmitting the module information, and receiving an outer information; and a power managing unit managing a power needed by the at least one pressure sensing unit, the data processing unit, the storage unit and the communication unit; a bottom board configured on a floor, and bearing the mentioned units; and a top board covering the mentioned units, and transferring the pressure source to the pressure sensing unit.

Abstract: An article of clothing includes a sensor attached to a fabric body for detecting forces applied to the fabric body. A processor is attached to the fabric body and is communicatively coupled to the sensor. The processor receives signals from the sensor, analyzes the signals, and discerns therefrom whether a physical attack is occurring on a wearer of the fabric body. The processor emits a distress signal if it is discerned that an attack is occurring.

Abstract: An OSD control system is provided and includes a display device. The display device includes a panel for displaying image data, a touch pad disposed around the panel, a display controller and a touch sensor controller. The touch pad includes touchable keys for sensing touch movements thereon and transferring interrupt signals upon sensing the touch movements. The display controller receives key status signals and controls display properties of the panel according to the key status signals. The touch sensor controller receives the interrupt signals, recognizes types and corresponding positions of the touch movements in response to the interrupt signals, and generates the key status signals according to the type and the positions of the touch movements.

Abstract: A piece of resting furniture such as a bed or chair comprising a least one actuator (4,5) and a control unit (11) and at least one control panel (9,10) to bring about an adjustment of the piece of furniture, and further comprising at least one strain gauge (18,19) connected to an alarm to detect whether a person is occupying the piece of furniture or not wherein the strain gauge (18,19) is located in connection with the actuator (4,5). The function is based on relative changes in the load on the strain gauge (18, 19) from a preset reference thereby allowing use of sensors with low resolution, which thereby are comparatively cheap. Moreover, when placing the strain gauge (18,19) in connection with the actuator (4,5) this simplifies the incorporation thereof in the piece of furniture. Not least the construction also renders it possible in an easy manner to upgrade existing hospital and care beds with an egress function.

Abstract: Two sensors (20, 30) which cooperate with one another are used in the interior of an activator (10) in order to trigger functions in a vehicle, said sensors (20, 30) being a proximity sensor (20) with a capacitive electrode (21) and a pressure sensor (30) with a pressure measuring element (31). The intention is that the pressure measuring element (31) will be acted on when pressure is applied manually (44) to an application point (43) on the outside of the actuator (10). It is proposed that in order to improve the method of functioning that the electrode (21) of the proximity sensor (20) be provided with a breakthrough (22) and that the pressure transmission between the application point (43) on the actuator (10) and the pressure measuring element (31) be lead through the breakthrough (22) in the electrode (21). The space between the application point (43) and the pressure measuring element (31) is spanned by a pressure transmitting means (50) which passes through the breakthrough (22).

Abstract: A portable electronic device comprises at least one force sensor configured to generate a force signal based at least in part on a force applied to a touch-sensitive display and a processor configured to receive the force signal and to provide a feedback signal when the force exceeds a force threshold. The at least one force sensor may be integrated into the touch-sensitive display.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are apparatus, method, and computer program whereby a signal generated by a touch screen device is received in response to a tactile input from a user on an input surface of the touch screen panel. In response, presenting information to a user, the information comprising a warning that the user is exerting an excessive amount of force on a surface of the touch screen panel.

Abstract: A portable electronics distress detection system includes at least one strain gage and an alarm circuit. The strain gage is mountable to an element of the portable electronic device. The alarm circuit includes a Wheatstone bridge associated with each strain gage, with each strain gage providing a resistance input to an arm of the associated Wheatstone bridge. When a mechanical stress is imposed on the portable electronic device, the strain gage changes the resistance input to the arm of the associated Wheatstone bridge, producing a nonzero voltage output from the Wheatstone bridge. The alarm circuit activates the portable electronic device user interface if the Wheatstone bridge voltage output exceeds a predetermined set point.

Abstract: The invention relates to a closing system comprising at least one door provided with at least one displaceable closure element and a closure element receiving member. The at least one closing element of the door lock projects into the closing element receiving member when the closing system is in the closed state. The invention also relates to a keyless entry system for controlling the access of a chamber door, and to a method for controlling the closing state of the closing system comprising at least one door provided with a displaceable closing element and a closing element receiving member, whereby the at least one closing element of the door lock projects into closing element receiving member when the closing system is in the closed state, a force sensor and an evaluation unit. The closing system can be switched, in the closed state, from a first operational state to a second operational state.

Abstract: A vehicle warning system uses a switch placed on a vehicle childseat to determine occupancy of the seat, and a temperature detector to determine if an unsafe temperature exists in the vehicle interior. The system alarms if both these conditions exist to warn of a hazard to a child. The system installation in the vehicle is simply to place the switch on the childseat connect it into the system and provide power to the system. The system also provides a reminder if the alarm is turned off.

Abstract: A system includes, but is not limited to one and one or more display control modules configured to direct control of display of one or more portions of the flexible display containing electronic device regarding display of second information having one or more classifications in response to the first information associated with the one or more conformations of the one or more portions of the one or more regions of the flexible display containing electronic device. In addition to the foregoing, other related method/system aspects are described in the claims, drawings, and text forming a part of the present disclosure.

Abstract: A method includes, but is not limited to: obtaining and controlling display of one or more portions of the flexible interface containing electronic device regarding display of second information having one or more classifications in response to the first information associated with the one or more changes in the one or more conformations of the one or more portions of the one or more regions of the flexible interface containing electronic device. In addition to the foregoing, other related method/system aspects are described in the claims, drawings, and text forming a part of the present disclosure.

Abstract: An electronic device fastener (EDF) to protect a portable device that is placed in a holder which may be a case, belt clip, holster, cradle, or the like worn or carried by the user that uses a release sensor, proximity sensor, shock sensor, and clip sensor to protect a portable device such as a cell phone, portable media player, personal digital assistant (PDA), two-way radio, GPS device, headset, or earpiece from loss and misplacement. The system can provide up to five modes of protection against loss and misplacement of a portable device.

Abstract: A method and an arrangement to monitor localization, movement, and properties of an object, such as human body. An excitation signal is connected to a first division of selected conductors of a transducer which includes a distribution of conductors such as a matrix. A first signal including information about coupling impedance between a first and a second selected division of conductors is derived from a coupling of the excitation signal between the first and the second selected divisions of conductors of said transducer. The object is monitored by studying changes of the coupling impedance caused by the object to be monitored during subsequent repeated cycles of the above mentioned steps.

Abstract: An ergonomic, self contained hand-held thread inspection tool is power driven, which uses current draw as a surrogate for torque to initiate automatic reversal and gage withdrawal in case of jamming. The distal end carries the thread gage attached to a motor-driven spindle. A thread depth collar sleeve, adjustable by manual turning, concentrically surrounds the thread gage. When threaded into a blind hole or onto a protruding stud and operated, the distal end of the thread depth collar sleeve comes in contact with a part, pushing it against spring force. This movement is internally sensed, causing an indicator to flash, signaling “test OK”, while automatically reversing the spindle to withdraw the thread gage. If during the forward excursion of the thread gage a torque exceeding the pre-set torque limit is encountered, a buzzer is sounded signaling an over-torque problem and the spindle is simultaneously reversed for automatic gage withdrawal.

Abstract: There is disclosed a monitoring system for monitoring alignment of a piston rod assembly of a reciprocating pump, such as those used to pump drilling mud in the oil and gas exploration and production industry. In one embodiment, a monitoring system is disclosed which is for a reciprocating pump (10) of a type comprising a fluid end component (20), a power end component (18), and a piston rod assembly (12) extending between the fluid and power end components. The monitoring system includes a number of sensors (52, 74) coupled to the piston rod assembly, for providing an output indicative that the piston rod assembly is experiencing bending stress, which occurs in the event that the piston rod assembly becomes misaligned, in use of the pump.