Connected Or Disconnected Patents (Class 340/687)
  • Patent number: 6294995
    Abstract: A laptop computer is supplied with special-purpose software that detects when the cover is being closed by an unauthorized person. When the cover is closed, an alarm sounds using the speaker integral the laptop. The closed-cover condition is detected. The software operates on either interrupt-driven devices or polled devices which have some means for detecting that the cover is closed. The software includes a password feature and a hot-key feature for overriding the alarm so that an authorized person may close the cover without disturbing other persons or to stop the alarm if the authorized person forgets to disable the alarm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2001
    Inventor: Jennifer Patterson
  • Patent number: 6285293
    Abstract: A patch cord tracing system and method for tracing patch cords in a telecommunications patching system. The system includes a plurality of tracing interface modules that attach to the patch panels in a telecommunications closet. On the patch panels in a telecommunications closet are located a plurality of connector ports that receive the terminated ends of patch cords. The tracing interface modules mount to the patch panels and provide a sensor, an LED and a tracing button to each of the connector ports. The sensor detects whenever a patch cord is connected to, or removed from, a connector port. Accordingly, by connecting a computer controller to the various sensors, the computer controller can monitor and log all changes to the patch cord interconnections in an automated fashion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2001
    Assignee: Avaya Technology Corp.
    Inventors: Michael Gregory German, Frank S. Leone, Daniel Warren Macauley, Lawrence Marc Paul
  • Publication number: 20010015696
    Abstract: In order to improve a monitoring device for checking for a predefined position of a body or for checking for the presence of a body, comprising a pivotal checking element, a motor for driving the checking element and a control device for controlling the pivotal movement of the checking element, in such a manner that it is universally employable and, in particular, the exertion of too high a force on a body is prevented, it is proposed that the checking element be adapted to be pivoted commencing from a starting position through a transition region into a monitoring region in which the predefined position of the body lies or in which the presence of a body should be monitored, and that the control device limit the torque of the checking element in such a manner that the maximum possible torque in the monitoring region is reduced relative to that in the transition region. The present disclosure relates to the subject matter disclosed in German patent application No. 100 00 954.9 of Jan.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 10, 2001
    Publication date: August 23, 2001
    Inventor: Rainer Ludwig
  • Patent number: 6268800
    Abstract: A jack-knife alarm device comprises a pivotable first plate and a first switch operably associated with one end of the first plate, the first plate being biased against the first switch to maintain the first switch in an open position; a pivotable second plate and a second switch operably associated with one end of the second plate, the second plate being biased against the second switch to maintain the second switch in an open position; and a circuit operably connected to the first and second switches, the circuit being configured to be connected to an indicator that is activated when one of the first and second switches is in a closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2001
    Inventor: Donald Howard
  • Patent number: 6265983
    Abstract: Disclosed is a machinery operator protection system and method, which inhibits the use of machinery unless the operator of the machinery is properly secured with a lanyard and/or body harness to the machinery. The disclosed system includes a lanyard connection detector for detecting proper attachment of at least one lanyard to a machinery operator and a lanyard interlock control for controlling a switch to selectively enable activation of the machinery when the lanyard connection detector indicates that the operator is properly attached to the machinery with the lanyard. The disclosed method includes the steps of: detecting when at least one safety lanyard is properly attached to a between a machinery operator and a piece of machinery; and inhibiting operation of the machinery unless proper operator safety lanyard attachment is detected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2001
    Inventor: Paul D. Baillargeon
  • Patent number: 6239704
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a simple alarm system that is activated when an actuator pin is pulled from a base. Unlike prior art personal alarm devices, the present invention does not require the user to activate the alarm manually. Therefore, the present invention may generate a signal for help when, for example, a patient has fallen and become unconscious or a patient at risk attempts to leave a safe, confined space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2001
    Assignee: Professional Security Corporation
    Inventor: Richard T. Olson
  • Patent number: 6239714
    Abstract: An exemplary embodiment of the invention is a controller for use in an interconnection system having a primary connector and a variable number of secondary connectors. The primary connector includes a first detection contact and a second detection contact. The controller includes a first detection port connected to the first detection contact and a second detection port connected to the second detection contact. The controller also includes a processor for monitoring a first signal at the first detection port and a second signal at the second detection port and determining a number of secondary connectors in response to the first signal and the second signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2001
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Scott J. Hadderman, William F. Relyea
  • Patent number: 6222457
    Abstract: A trailer hitching system (10) and method is provided for facilitating an operator's maneuvering of a towing vehicle hitch component (16) into alignment with a towed vehicle hitch component (18) to enable mechanical interconnection of the hitch components. The trailer hitching system (10) includes an alignment sensor (24) attached to either the towing vehicle (12) or the towed vehicle (14) for emitting a light beam over a field of view. A reflector (32) attached to the other of the towing vehicle (12) or the towed vehicle (14) is mounted at a predetermined location relative to the alignment sensor (24). The reflector (32) reflects a portion of the light beam emitted from the alignment sensor (24). An alarm (46) in the alignment sensor (24) emits an audible alarm in response to detecting a portion of the reflected light beam.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2001
    Inventors: Gregory Taylor Mills, Stephen Scott Keneally
  • Patent number: 6191690
    Abstract: The distance between a cash cassette and the person who is handling the cassette is measured automatically in case that there is a risk that a cash cassette may be stolen during a burglary. When the distance equals or exceeds a predetermined distance, it is concluded that a burglary has occurred, and various burglary alarm devices are activated. Accordingly, even when only one person performs a cash cassette exchange at a location which is easily accessible to other people, the commission of a crime can be immediately detected, so that the theft of a cash cassette during a burglary can be prevented. Therefore, the number of persons required for a cash cassette exchange can be reduced, which results to a reduction of operating costs. Further, since extra space is not required for a cash cassette exchange, restriction of a choice of an installation location for an automatic transaction apparatus can be considerably reduced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2001
    Assignee: Fujitsu Limited
    Inventor: Satoshi Mukogawa
  • Patent number: 6188324
    Abstract: An untied shoelace warning system with a shoelace receiver and first and second sensors coupled to an indicator that activates when the system senses a shoelace segment, but senses it in an untied condition. The first and second sensors couple the indicator to a battery, and may all be contained within a housing. The first sensor is normally closed, but opens when a shoelace segment rests against it in a tied condition, and closes if the shoelace segment falls off the sensor, activating the indicator by coupling it to the battery. The second sensor is normally open, closing when it detects a shoelace segment. The system activates the indicator when a shoelace segment is not sensed by the first sensor, but is sensed by the second sensor. The system does not activate the indicator when a shoelace segment is not in the system, because neither the first nor the second sensor senses the shoelace. This way, the untied shoelace warning system does not activate the indicator when the shoe is not being worn.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2001
    Inventors: Sasha H. Meschkow, Jordan M. Meschkow
  • Patent number: 6184787
    Abstract: Overhead garage door position monitoring systems including one or more smoke detector sensors, carbon monoxide sensors, thermal sensors and/or magnetic sensors to measure the smoke concentration level, the carbon monoxide level, the temperature and the position of an overhead garage door, respectively. These sensors are controlled by and report the status of parameters to a controller, such as a microcontroller. This controller is programmed to report the status of parameters through, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD) and/or a voice synthesizer and an audio speaker.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 6, 2001
    Inventor: Duane A. Morris
  • Patent number: 6150925
    Abstract: An in-car personal computer system facilitates the addition of peripheral devices using device bays. Components can be removably plugged into the device bay. The device components operate immediately. When components are removed, the user is prompted to determine whether or not all files have been closed. In addition, the user can be prompted for a removal authorization. If the code is not forthcoming, an alarm can be activated, for example by operating the horns or lights of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2000
    Assignee: Intel Corporation
    Inventor: Jeffrey P. Casazza
  • Patent number: 6150940
    Abstract: An anti-theft power cord for use with electrical devices has sensors for detecting removal of the cord from an electrical receptacle and for detecting the removal of the cord from the device sought to be protected. Control systems associated with each of the sensors activate alarms when receiving signals from the sensors. The control systems, comprising microcontrollers, also communicate with one another along the power cord and will sound an alarm if the cord is cut. A battery backup system is provided to allow the power cord to function as an anti-theft device even during a power failure without sounding false alarms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2000
    Inventors: Glenn H. Chapman, Mark Zaacks
  • Patent number: 6144305
    Abstract: An electronic apparatus is provided that can eliminate unlawful cartridges while preventing a malfunction by checking whether there is a short-circuit of pin terminals at the time of turning on the power source and conducting further improved security checks. The electronic apparatus has an electronic apparatus body 2 and a cartridge 5 to be detachably mounted to the electronic apparatus body 2. The cartridge 5 is equipped with a connector having a plurality of terminals and is connected to the electronic apparatus body 2 via the connector. The electronic apparatus body 2 outputs a first and a second short-circuit detecting signal for conducting a short-circuit detection of a circuit portion connected via the plurality of terminals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2000
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Bandai
    Inventors: Noriyasu Kakuda, Kousei Kazeto, Satoshi Oshita
  • Patent number: 6137419
    Abstract: The pickup truck tailgate monitor includes a control panel mounted adjacent to an operator station in the cab of the truck. The control panel is connected to the master switch for the vehicle. A monitor switch on the control panel is closed to activate the monitor. If the monitor is operational, an indicator light of a first circuit is illuminated. A second circuit with an audible indicator is energized by a sensor switch that is closed. The sensor switch is closed when the tailgate is open. When the tailgate is closed, the sensor switch is open.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2000
    Inventors: Christina M. Lennox, Bradford M. Lennox, Paul J. Huber
  • Patent number: 6114952
    Abstract: A remote fault indicating unit (12) for an electronic system, such as a vehicle adaptive braking system, includes a series of visual indicators, such as light emitting diodes (50-59), on one surface of the housing and a computer serial port connector (13) for use when troubleshooting is done with a PC (18) equipped with the appropriate software. Each of the indicators (50-59) is activated in response to a predetermined malfunction sensed in the system, such as a defective speed sensor, defective modulator, or a defect in the electronic circuitry. The indicators (50-59) are reset with a switch (15) when the system is repaired. When the reset switch (15) is activated, all of the indicators (50-59) flash on and are then turned off. The reset switch (15) can also be activated for a longer period of time changing the ECU (14) configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2000
    Assignee: AlliedSignal Truck Brake Systems Co.
    Inventors: James E. Francesangeli, Craig S. Haehn, Alfred L. Lancki, Marv Hamdan, Tim Frashure
  • Patent number: 6107929
    Abstract: A center cluster module which checks connection failures of connectors and for problems in electronic components after electronic components have been inserted into connection slot portions and informs the worker of connection status of the individual electronic components, thus improving work efficiency. A center cluster module includes a connection slot portion which removably receives a plurality of electronic components to be mounted on a vehicle. Component detection sections provided so as to correspond to individual electric components detect whether or not electronic components are inserted into the connection slot portion. From a detection signal output from each of the plurality of component detection sections, an inserted component determination section determines the state of the electronic component inserted into the connection slot portion. A display section indicates the result of the determination made by the inserted component determination section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2000
    Assignee: Yazaki Corporation
    Inventor: Takeyuki Amari
  • Patent number: 6107942
    Abstract: A parking guidance and management system. The system provides graphical information regarding the relative availability of parking spaces within a parking garage or other large facility. The system relies on a video image sensing system wherein each space in the facility is monitored by a camera to determine whether or not it is occupied. A single camera may be used to determine the status of a plurality of spaces. The information is displayed at strategically located displays along the way to available spaces. The displays contain advertising messages adjacent to the information about space availability. Revenues generated by the sale of advertising can be used by the facility operator to defray the purchase and/or maintenance cost of the guidance and management system. The information obtained from the sensors at each parking space may be used to provide information to the manager of the facility regarding space utilization.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2000
    Assignee: Premier Management Partners, Inc.
    Inventors: Chul Jin Yoo, Sang Gook Kim, Daniel Yongsuk Pahng
  • Patent number: 6104292
    Abstract: A baby bottle attachment has a cylindrical housing containing electronic integrated circuitry that removably attaches to a baby bottle. The bottle attachment functions as a room monitor for monitoring the sounds of an infant, as an educational device that plays custom-recorded or pre-recorded educational messages and sounds, and as an amusement device that plays various sounds to educate and amuse the infant. A base unit containing a battery charger and an FM receiver may also be provided for holding the bottle attachment, recharging its battery, and serving as a remote receiver for monitoring sounds transmitted by the bottle attachment when in use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2000
    Inventors: Herman Rombom, Judi Shepard Rombom, Sarah Shepard Rombom
  • Patent number: 6100794
    Abstract: A fifth wheel coupling safety system for indicating when a king pin is properly locked into a fifth wheel assembly. The system includes a fifth wheel assembly having a slot for receiving a king pin of a trailer and a locking mechanism for coupling the king pin to the fifth wheel assembly. The locking mechanism has a locking jaw adapted for coupling the king pin to the fifth wheel assembly, and a pull handle for positioning the locking jaw between locked and unlocked positions. The locking jaw couples the king pin to the fifth wheel assembly when in the locked position and permits separation of the king pin from the fifth wheel assembly when in the unlocked position. The pull handle is positionable between a locking position and an unlocking position. The pull handle positions the locking jaw in the locked position when the pull handle is in the locking position and the pull handle positions the locking jaw in the unlocked position when the pull handle is in the unlocking position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2000
    Inventor: Terrence E. Hillier
  • Patent number: 6087939
    Abstract: A security assembly for an article to be monitored has a housing to be mounted to an article to be monitored, a fastener that extends into the housing and that is capable of being secured to an article to be monitored to maintain the housing in an operative position on an article to be monitored, and a switch on the housing and having first and second states. The fastener is movable relative to the housing between first and second positions. The switch is in the first state with the fastener in the first position. The switch is changed from the first state into the second state as an incident of the fastener being moved from the first position into the second position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2000
    Assignee: Se-Kure Controls, Inc.
    Inventors: Roger Leyden, Michael Parent
  • Patent number: 6067014
    Abstract: The present invention pertains to a security system. The system comprises a detector for producing an alarm signal. The system comprises a cord connected to the detector along which the alarm signal is transmitted. The system comprises a mechanism for securing the cord to a communication jack which produces an alarm when the cord is separated from the communication jack.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 1996
    Date of Patent: May 23, 2000
    Inventor: Edwin P. Wilson
  • Patent number: 6067027
    Abstract: A circuit on a detachable device, such as a plug-in card, determines when the detachable device has been disconnected from a host device. The circuit includes a node, a power source, a switch and a control circuit. The node is connected to ground when the detachable device is connected to the host device. The node is disconnected from ground when the detachable device is disconnected from the host device. The switch is for connecting and disconnecting the node to the power source. The control circuit is for, repeatedly at a predetermined interval of time while the detachable device remains connected to the host device, causing the switch to connect the node to the power source for a first length of time. The control circuit, at the end of the first length of time, checks a voltage level of the node in order to detect whether the detachable device has been disconnected from the host device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 23, 2000
    Assignee: VSLI Technology, Inc.
    Inventor: Mark Leonard Buer
  • Patent number: 6049286
    Abstract: A system having an attachable sensor for collecting television program data is provided. A first plate is attached to a surface, such as the side of a television set. A second plate, attached to the first plate, is part of the sensor and is attached to an actuator which activates a switch upon detachment of the plates from one another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 11, 2000
    Assignee: Statistical Research, Inc.
    Inventor: David P. Forr
  • Patent number: 6041644
    Abstract: A device for detection of a defined relative position of a first, movable means, relatively a second, fixed means and including a sensor (1) arranged at least at one of the first and second means which sensor is provided with a pressure sensing means (CC.sub.M). The sensor (1) gives rise to an electric detector signal, which indicates whether the defined relative position has been taken. The sensor (1) is also provided with a closed cavity (13) which communicates with a pressure sensing means (C.sub.M) and with means (14/36/45) to momentarily limit the volume of the cavity and thereby create a pressure pulse adapted to activate the pressure sensing means of the sensor. The detector device includes means to convert the pressure pulse to a detection signal to detect the defined relative position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2000
    Assignee: AB Volvo
    Inventor: Bo Harde
  • Patent number: 6037867
    Abstract: A device for supervising movable articles or objects has a supervising member which can be attached thereto. The device includes a connector disposed in a housing. The housing includes an aperture and a rotary blocking member positionable between the connector and the aperture of the housing. The supervising member is coupled to the connector. The blocking member prevents the supervising member from being recoupled to the connector after it has been removed from the housing. An alarm system is also provided. The alarm system includes ambient condition detectors in communication with a control unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 14, 2000
    Assignee: Pittway Corporation
    Inventors: Rony K. Joseph, Scott E. Robillard
  • Patent number: 6026492
    Abstract: Described is a computer system which is coupled to a remote computer via a network cable. The computer system has a normally closed enclosure and is capable of securing data retained within the system against unauthorized access. The computer system includes an erasable memory element mounted within the enclosure for selective activation to active and inactive states and for receiving and storing a security password when in the active state. A manually operable option switch is mounted within the enclosure. The option switch is operatively connected with the erasable memory element and manually settable by a user of the computer system for setting the erasable memory element to the active and inactive states.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2000
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Daryl C. Cromer, Howard J. Locker, Ernest Nelson Mandese, James Peter Ward
  • Patent number: 6025783
    Abstract: A wireless switch detection system (10, 100) includes central transmitter (22, 109) for transmitting a transmitter signal. The system (10, 110) also includes a remote switch (28, 128) spaced apart from the central transmitter (22, 109) and having at least two states. A tag circuit (32, 136) is responsive to and powered by the transmitter signal. The tag circuit (32, 136) detects the state of the remote switch (28, 128) and, in response to the transmitter signal, provides a tag signal indicative of the state of the switch (28, 128). A central receiver (26, 111) receives the tag signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2000
    Assignee: TRW Vehicle Safety Systems Inc.
    Inventor: Charles E. Steffens, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6005700
    Abstract: A peripheral device for a computer, including a first portion including electronic circuitry and a light source for emitting light; a second portion selectively detachable from the first portion, the second portion including a light transfer medium for directing light from one end of the light transfer medium to another end; and wherein the one end of the light transfer medium is optically aligned with the light source when the second portion is attached to the first portion, and the light transfer medium directs at least a fraction of the light emitted from the light source from the one end to the another end for display from the second portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 21, 1999
    Assignee: Aironet Wireless Communications, Inc.
    Inventors: Stephen M. Pressler, Brian W. Casto
  • Patent number: 5990788
    Abstract: The tester includes mating electrical connectors which permit the tester to be positioned between the respective plugs of the respective electrical cables running between a towing vehicle and from a trailer. The container for the tester preferably has magnetic strips along its bottom surface to permit temporary attachment to either the tongue of the trailer or the rear of the towing vehicle. The essential features of the tester are limited to only two simple single-pole/double-throw switches, positioned in tandem, and three diodes arranged as a simple "OR" gate in combination with an audio signal device. This simple circuitry permits a single operator to check (a) the integrity of the wiring harness connected to the towing vehicle's lighting circuits, without leaving the driver's seat of the towing vehicle, and (b) the integrity of the trailer lighting with two simple switch adjustments.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 23, 1999
    Inventor: Carmelo R. Syracuse
  • Patent number: 5984705
    Abstract: Connector housings are provided that are easily lockable, but hard to be unlocked. The housings include a male connector housing 10 with an elastic portion 14, and a female connector housing 20 with a receptacle 21 and a lock projection 24. While the connector housings 10, 20 are being engaged, the elastic portion 14 and the lock projection 24 are engaged with each other when the connector housings 10, 20 are properly engaged after the elastic portion 14 undergoes an elastic deformation. As a result, the connector housings 10, 20 are locked. In this state, the elastic portion 14 and the lock projection 24 are concealed inside the receptacle 21 and the unlocking cannot be performed by directly operating the elastic portion 14 by hand or finger. Accordingly, the connector housings 10, 20 are not inadvertently unlocked.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 16, 1999
    Assignee: Sumitomo Wiring Systems, Ltd.
    Inventors: Sho Miyazaki, Shuichi Kanagawa
  • Patent number: 5966080
    Abstract: A drain plug warning system includes a first member that can be attached to a transom or other wall of a watercraft and a second member that is shaped to be received within an aperture that is formed through the first member. To drain water from the watercraft, the drain plug or second member is removed from the aperture of the first member, and water is allowed to drain through the aperture. If the second member is not replaced within the aperture to a predetermined location relative to the first member, a magnetically sensitive component near the aperture assumes a state that will cause an alarm under certain predefined conditions such as when an operator activates a key switch mechanism of the watercraft. The magnetically sensitive component can be a Hall effect element or other magnetically sensitive component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 12, 1999
    Assignee: Brunswick Corporation
    Inventor: Bryan D. Bigsby
  • Patent number: 5949329
    Abstract: A boat loading guidance device including an array of indicator lamps which signals the boat operator when a boat has been maneuvered into correct longitudinal alignment with a submerged boat trailer. In the preferred embodiment a pair of actuating arms are angularly disposed to form a V-shape and adapted to engage the bow of a boat at the forward end of the boat trailer. Upon contact with the bow of a boat, the actuating arms close an associated switch passing electrical current by a plurality of circuits to either a port or starboard indicator lamp informing the boat operator of the direction in which the boat must be maneuvered into correct alignment with the trailer. In one embodiment, the boat loading guidance device is adapted to receive power from the battery of a towing vehicle by way of an existing trailer wiring harness. In an alternative embodiment, the device is self-powered by a plurality of dry cell batteries for supplying electric power to the lamp circuits.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 7, 1999
    Inventor: Willie J. Woodard
  • Patent number: 5945915
    Abstract: Described is a computer system which is coupled to a remote computer via a network cable. The computer system has a normally closed enclosure and is capable of securing data retained within the system against unauthorized access and notifying the remote computer when an unauthorized access has occurred. The computer system includes an erasable memory element mounted within the enclosure for selective activation to active and inactive states and for receiving and storing a security password when in the active state. A manually operable option switch is mounted within the enclosure. The option switch is manually settable by a user of the computer system for setting the memory element to the active and inactive states.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 31, 1999
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Daryl C. Cromer, Thi N. Dang, Jan M. Janick, Howard J. Locker, David Rhoades
  • Patent number: 5936538
    Abstract: An untied shoelace warning system with first and second conductive shoelace segments coupled to an indicator that activates when the shoelace segments do not touch, and does not activate when the shoelace segments do touch. The first and second conductive shoelace segments and the indicator are coupled to a battery and a switch. The switch activates the indicator when the shoelace segments are not touching, and does not activate the indicator when the shoelace segments are touching. The untied shoelace warning system further includes a pressure sensor so that when the pressure sensor does not sense pressure and the first and second conductive shoelace segments coupled to an indicator are not touching, the indicator does not activate. The untied shoelace warning system does not activate the indicator when the shoe that is tied with the first and second shoelace segments is not being worn. The indicator may be a sound device, e.g., a piezoelectric buzzer, a light or a series of lights, e.g.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 10, 1999
    Inventors: Sasha H. Meschkow, Jordan M. Meschkow
  • Patent number: 5917419
    Abstract: A jumper rack system for keeping track of jumpers for a railroad includes a current conducting rack, a plurality of electrical current conducting members attached to and spaced along a support member which is fastened to a housing of the current conducting rack and having protruding portions for supporting jumpers used by a signalman. The current conducting rack is connected to an alarm unit having an alarm sounding member and light indicators, the alarm unit being connected to a power supply such as the ignition of a motor vehicle which is connected to a battery. Each current conducting member defines a jumper support. A complete circuit is formed through the current conducting rack when each jumper support is connected to an end of a respective jumper.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 29, 1999
    Inventor: Keith Beuchler
  • Patent number: 5909603
    Abstract: An image forming apparatus including a process cartridge detachably attached to a main body the apparatus, the process cartridge having an image bearing member, a processor device acting on the image bearing member, and, storage device for electrically connecting the main body to the process cartridge through a connector, biasing device for biasing the process cartridge in a connecting direction of the connector, and presence/absence detection device for detecting whether the process cartridge is mounted onto the main body, the detection device detecting the presence/absence of the process cartridge after the biasing device operates.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 1, 1999
    Assignee: Canon Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Jun Suzuki, Masahide Kinoshita
  • Patent number: 5886633
    Abstract: A security apparatus for selectively releasable secured coupling of a displayed product to a multiconductor cord to preclude unauthorized uncoupling of the displayed product from the multiconductor cord, comprises a housing having a base portion with an adhesive product facing surface, and a cover portion mounted on the base portion. A product detector on the housing is responsive to the secure attachment of the displayed product to produce a first signal, and to detachment of the displayed product, corresponding to the unauthorized uncoupling of the displayed product from the multiconductor cord, to produce a second signal. The multiconductor cord terminates in a connector member connectable to a co-operating receptacle portion within the housing, thereby electrically interconnecting in signal conducting relation the product detector and an alarm system, such that the alarm system is quiescent in response to the first signal and produces the warning in response to the second signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 23, 1999
    Assignee: I.S.P.A. Woodworking Limited
    Inventor: Peter J. Adams
  • Patent number: 5886642
    Abstract: A hand-held interface couples fill level detection switch terminals on a tank barge with current source terminals of a dockside facility. The interface includes a dockside connector adapted to be connected to the dockside terminals and a barge connector adapted to be connected to the barge terminals and test circuits for respectively testing the lading level detection switches. Each test circuit includes a battery connected in series with the light source of an optocoupler across a pair of terminals of the barge connector. Also connected across the battery are the light-sensitive switching element of the optocoupler, the coil of a normally-open relay and an indicator LED, the contacts of the relay being connected across a pair of terminals of the dockside connector. When the interface connectors are respectively connected to the barge and dockside terminals, the level detection switch under test completes the circuit across the battery through the optocoupler light source so that the optocoupler is energized.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 23, 1999
    Assignee: Midland Manufacturing Corp.
    Inventor: Gaston C. Barmore, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5861807
    Abstract: A monitoring assembly has a body which is capable of being attached to an article to be monitored, a first sensor having a secured state and an unsecured state and capable of being attached to an article to be monitored, and a first elongate cord extending between the first sensor and body and having at least one conductor and a) mechanically connecting the first sensor to the body and b) defining a conductive path between the first sensor and the body. The first sensor is in the unsecured state with the conductive path between the first sensor and the body interrupted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 1997
    Date of Patent: January 19, 1999
    Assignee: Se-Kure Controls, Inc.
    Inventors: Roger J. Leyden, Michael A. Parent
  • Patent number: 5861814
    Abstract: A new trailer hitch with sensor system for allowing for easier alignment for coupling with a trailer. The inventive device includes a hitch portion secured to a rear portion of a towing vehicle. The hitch portion has an upper ball portion. The upper ball portion has a pair of sensors disposed therein. Each of the sensors are connected to a central wire. The central wire extends interiorly of the vehicle. A trailer tongue extends outwardly from a trailer. The trailer tongue has a ball socket formed within a free end thereof. The ball socket is dimensioned for receiving the upper ball portion of the hitch portion therein. The ball socket has a magnet disposed therein for being sensed by the sensors of the upper ball portion. A display box is positioned interiorly of the vehicle. The display box is in communication with the central wire of the pair of sensors. The display box provides signals related to a proximity of the trailer tongue to the hitch portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 1998
    Date of Patent: January 19, 1999
    Inventor: Melvin Clayton
  • Patent number: 5850184
    Abstract: A tool detection system combines a sensor nozzle with an ultrasonic transducer capable of propagating and detecting ultrasonic waves. A wave is propagated in a coolant fluid stream directed at a tool to be monitored. A control unit powers the ultrasonic transducer and contains circuits for analyzing the ultrasonic waves detected by the ultrasonic transducer. The control compares the actual time between the propagation of an ultrasonic wave and detection of an echo wave reflected from the tool, to an expected time. An alarm is generated when the tool is not present as indicated by the actual time exceeding the expected time. An alarm signal generated by the alarm generator either stops the tool or signals an operator that the tool is absent.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 15, 1998
    Assignee: Cobra Machine Tool Co., Inc.
    Inventors: Trevor Bailey, Doug Renton, Richard Teltz, M. Elbestawi, Aly Shawky, Stephen Veldhuis, Garfield R. Lunn
  • Patent number: 5831535
    Abstract: An electronic monitoring device to be attached to a subject for monitoring, at a remote location, movement and/or other activities of the subject, includes a closure member incorporating an identification tag having a unique identification number stored therein. The monitoring device further includes an electronic data processor programmed to read and store the identification number of the electronic tag when the closure member is applied, and periodically thereafter, to make a determination of whether a closure member is currently attached to the subject having an identification number matching the stored identification number, and to transmit to the remote location an identification signal corresponding to such determination.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 3, 1998
    Assignee: Elmo-Tech Ltd.
    Inventors: Yoav Reisman, Guy Greitser, Gil Gemer, Tzahi Itzhak Pilli
  • Patent number: 5821870
    Abstract: A monitored security switch assembly includes a switching system, a transmission line, and a monitoring system. The switching system has a load element. The security switch assembly uses an oscillatory voltage to determine if the monitoring system, the switching system and the transmission line are impedance matched. The security switch system can function in a transmission mode or a reflection mode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 13, 1998
    Inventor: John T. Jackson, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5786769
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for detecting the presence/absence of adapter cards such as memory modules and alike. The method and apparatus utilize adapter cards which have wrap around pins for coupling grounds thereto. This coupled ground is then used by a Ground Detection Circuit and combined with different signals emanating from the memory modules such that when one or more of the adapter cards are absent, a default value resulting from the absence of ground is used to indicate the missing adapter(s).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 28, 1998
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Paul William Coteus, Daniel Willaim John Johnson
  • Patent number: 5768147
    Abstract: A power detection and control unit detects the acceptable power voltage requirements of a removable system resource and either provides the acceptable power voltage to the removable system resource or provides no voltage to the removable system resource if no acceptable power voltage is available. The power detection and control unit has a detection circuitry and a logic circuitry to translate the acceptable power requirement signal into control signals that control the system power supply. In a first embodiment the detection circuitry consists of an A/D converter analog to digital converter, a resistor coupled to a predetermined power supply voltage, a resistor in the removable system resource coupled to ground, and a filtering capacitor coupled to ground. In a second embodiment, the detection circuitry includes a pattern imprinted on the casing of the removable system resource, a wiper circuit for applying onto the pattern and detecting from the pattern a power requirement signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 1995
    Date of Patent: June 16, 1998
    Assignee: Intel Corporation
    Inventor: Bruce Young
  • Patent number: 5754112
    Abstract: The present invention signals the power on, mated, and activity status of storage units in a console rack-mounted memory system. The status is signalled using parallel-coupled LEDs activated by logically combined signals provided by a logic circuit using signals available from SCA connector pins that connect the storage units to the console rack. The SCA connector provides MATED1 (pin 44), MATED2 (pin 74), and LED ACTIVE (pin 77) signals that are logically ANDed by the logic circuits. A logic circuit lights an associated parallel-coupled LED pair for a storage unit when LIT=MATED.multidot.ACTIVE LED, where MATED=0 denotes grounded pins 74 and (optionally) 44, and ACTIVE LED=0 denotes grounded pin 77, and LIT=l denotes lit LEDs. A steadily lit LED pair denotes that a storage unit is mated into the console rack and is inactive. An intermittent LED pair denotes that the storage unit is mated into the console rack and is presently active (and thus should not be removed).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 1995
    Date of Patent: May 19, 1998
    Assignee: Sun Microsystems, Inc.
    Inventor: Vit F. Novak
  • Patent number: 5754108
    Abstract: A universal alarm system includes a first main component and a second main component. The first main component contains an internally-disposed continuous loop alarm circuit and is attachable to a first object that is to be protected against an unauthorized removal thereof. The second main component replaceably engages the first main component, by non-magnetic means, and contains an internally-disposed circuit and is attachable to a second object. The internally-disposed continuous loop alarm circuit of the first main component is in electrical communication with the internally-disposed circuit of the second main component when the first main component is engaged with the second main component, so that when the first main component and the second main component are separated from each other the internally-disposed continuous loop alarm circuit of the first main component activates an alarm and since the first main component remains with the first object, location of the first object is facilitated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 1996
    Date of Patent: May 19, 1998
    Inventor: Benjamin I. Ungarsohn
  • Patent number: 5751214
    Abstract: A portable multi-purpose device for monitoring patient movement in a number of different ways. The device includes a data processor programmed to respond to signals from multiple different external sensors that easily connect to the device through a jack in the device housing. If patient movement beyond a limit is sensed, the device generates an alarm for an attendant. To sense the different types of patient movement, one sensor is simply substituted for another. Examples of sensors include tether, door monitoring, and weight sensors. The device protects against unauthorized disabling of the sensors by sounding an alarm if a sensor is unplugged from the device impermissibly. The device provides power to sensors that require power to operate, reducing the need for additional power sources. The device also stores patient data (e.g., number of alarms, time before attendance response, etc.) during a given time period for evaluating a patient's care.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 1995
    Date of Patent: May 12, 1998
    Assignee: AlertCare, Inc.
    Inventors: Tom J. Cowley, Larry O. Bower, Philip S. Egan
  • Patent number: 5748083
    Abstract: An advanced asset protection system (APS) includes a small, battery-powered, Asset Protection Device (APD) having circuits for detecting motion and tampering and intrusion of a protected asset or the APD itself. The APD includes a an internal wireless battery-powered transmitter that transmits security system status information such as information that an alarm condition was sensed, or that a tamper condition was sensed, and an APD identifier to a wire-less receiver. It includes a switch configurable multi-port connector module that provides a plurality of asset coupling ports for electrically coupling assets to the APD modular telephone wire. Ports present but not used, are disabled (to prevent false tamper or alarm reports) by port by-pass circuitry. The APD effectively extends the tamper and alarm circuits to remotely connected assets via the multi-port connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 1996
    Date of Patent: May 5, 1998
    Assignee: Security Solutions Plus
    Inventor: Anthony J. Rietkerk