Abstract: A server includes slots for adding peripheral devices, and a server chassis having a openings corresponding to the slots. A display mounted on the server chassis proximate the opening displays slot characteristics, slot status information, or user defined information corresponding to the slots.

Abstract: A method for assembling the fingerprint identification module is provided. Firstly, a protective cover and a fingerprint sensing element are combined together. Then, the fingerprint sensing element is placed on the circuit board. Then, a triggering element is placed on the circuit board. Then, an adhesive thickness is obtained according to a predetermined thickness and the thicknesses of the protective cover, the fingerprint sensing element, the triggering element and the circuit board. Then, an adhesive film corresponding to the adhesive thickness is placed on the circuit board. Since the appropriate adhesive film is selected according to the demand, the thickness of the fingerprint identification module is substantially identical to the predetermined thickness.

Abstract: A security system includes a plurality of motion sensor units for positioning at desired locations of a building structure, in which each motion sensor unit comprises a motion sensor adapted for detecting motion external to the building structure. The system includes a mobile alarm display unit operatively connected to the plurality of motion sensor units that comprises a plurality of alarm indicators corresponding to the plurality of motion sensor units. Each alarm indicator is operatively linked to a particular one of the plurality of the motion sensor units, and detection of motion by the particular motion sensor unit activates the corresponding alarm indicator linked to the particular motion sensor unit.

Abstract: A portable communications device, such as a mobile phone, includes a novel tactile alerting mechanism capable of alerting the user of an incoming communication or other event. In some embodiments, a mechanical actuator causes a rod or lever to pulsate, rotate, or protrude out of a static housing for the communications device. In other embodiments, a pneumatic actuator inflates a bladder that protrudes out of the housing. The alerting mechanism may be configured as a movable part of a decorative fanciful housing for the communications device.

Abstract: There is provided a lightweight, slim and compact haptic feedback device due to an actuator module constituted of a piezoelectric element and a vibration plate, and an electronic device having the same. The haptic feedback device includes a haptic device receiving contact pressure applied thereto, and an actuator module being in contact with a lower surface of the haptic device and excited according to variations in contact pressure with the haptic device to thereby generate vibrations.

Abstract: An apparatus that enables indication of power utilization from an electrical outlet to be visually provided to a user, comprising receptacles, an illumination means, and a toggle switch. When an electrical power cord is plugged into the apparatus and is drawing any amount of current above zero (0) amps, the illumination means will activate, thereby alerting the user that the device is drawing power, even if the device is turned off, and allowing the user to take corrective action if necessary. The integral toggle switch deactivates the power to the device while leaving it plugged in.

Abstract: A portable communications device, such as a mobile phone, includes a novel tactile alerting mechanism capable of alerting the user of an incoming communication or other event. In some embodiments, a mechanical actuator causes a rod or lever to pulsate, rotate, or protrude out of a static housing for the communications device. In other embodiments, a pneumatic actuator inflates a bladder that protrudes out of the housing. The alerting mechanism may be configured as a movable part of a decorative fanciful housing for the communications device.

Abstract: A magnetic circuit including a pole piece, a magnet, and a yoke is supported by using a suspension where outer and inner circumferential portions thereof are connected to each other with a supporting member, and the outer circumferential portion of the suspension is fixed to protrude from a housing or an inner wall of a cover provided with a stepped portion in a direction passing over the magnetic circuit toward an inner portion, so that it is possible to limit a movable range of the magnetic circuit by using the outer circumferential portion of the suspension and to prevent inner components of a main body of the multi-function vibration actuator from being destructed at the time of being impacted due to falling.

Abstract: A mobile apparatus includes a casing; a first force-sense generating mechanism which selectively imparts, to the user who is carrying the casing; a force-sense of a first translation force directed toward one side in a first direction, and a force-sense of a second translational force directed toward the other side in the first direction; and a second force-sense generating mechanism which is arranged in the casing, at an opposite side of the first force-sense generating mechanism with respect to a straight line passing through a center of gravity of the mobile apparatus, and which selectively imparts a force-sense of a third translational force directed toward one side in a second direction which is substantially parallel to the first direction, and a force-sense of a fourth translational force directed toward the other side in the second direction.

Abstract: Environmental sensing devices, systems and methods are provided. In one embodiment, an environmental sensing device includes an environmental sensor and an internal signal generator. The environmental sensing device may be configured to be mechanically coupled to one or more interior surfaces of an enclosure. The environmental sensor may be operable to detect one or more substances within the enclosure and provide a status signal to the internal signal generator corresponding to the presence of the one or more substances. The internal signal generator may be operable to generate a mechanical report sequence corresponding to the status signal. The mechanical report sequence may be a series of mechanical pulses applied to an interior surface of the enclosure.

Abstract: A liquid dispenser has a liquid filled container which is attached to a pump for dispensing. The pump has at least two sensors, a first sensor that identifies whether a person's hand is present and activates the pump, and a second sensor that identifies when the pump has been fully actuated which then switches the direction of the pump's actuation back to its starting point. The dispensing nozzle serves as the pump's actuator and is moved by a motor powered gear system and a toothed rack to move the nozzle.

Abstract: Embodiments described herein relate to a methods and apparatus for optimizing and calibrating a magnetic field generator. In various embodiments, the magnetic field generator includes a signal generator for outputting a voltage and a magnetic field generating circuit including a shunt that may be used to change a value of inductance in the magnetic field generating circuit.

Abstract: A mine roof monitoring apparatus has at least two contact members. At least one contact member maintains contact with the roof of a mine shaft. At least one contact member maintains contact with a floor of the same mine shaft. A motion monitoring apparatus monitors the relative motion between the two contact members, and a flag on the motion monitoring apparatus changes position, when a predetermined amount of motion occurs between the two contact members. This indicates that the roof of the mine shaft has subsided enough to move the respective contact member.

Abstract: Disclosed is a method, system and apparatus for use in remotely and internally tapping a conduit. The method is performed, at least partially, by an automatic mechanism or robot configured to effectively perform the tasks and various steps of the method. The method includes the steps of: (a) lining a conduit with a liner; and (b) inserting an automatic mechanism into an internal portion of the liner, wherein the automatic mechanism (i) locates a service tap connection point; and (ii) at least partially engages a fitting device within an internal surface of the service tap entry portion, thereby providing fluid communication between a service tap internal passageway and an internal portion of the liner. An automatic mechanism, a fitting device and an insert element are also disclosed.

Abstract: Provided is an indicator display device displaying information by using an indicator, and more particularly, provided is an indicator display device having a simplified configuration and including a small module. The indicator display device includes a stepping motor; an indicator which is connected to the stepping motor and rotates by a driving force provided by the stepping motor; and an indicator position detector which detects a relative position of the indicator with regard to the stepping motor.

Abstract: A wireless breakage indicator for a shear pin having an axial bore. The indicator (10) comprises a stem (20) having a head (22) and a foot (24) at opposite ends thereof; a sleeve (32) around a portion of the stem between a first (28) and second (30) axial positions, the stem (20) and sleeve (32) adapted to be broken by the shear pin (12) in the event of its breakage; a spring (26) compressed between the head (22) of the stem (20) and a first end (34) of the sleeve (32); the foot (24) of the stem (20) being retained to the second end (36) of the sleeve (32). The breakage of the stem (20) frees the head (22) to be displaced by the spring (26) and indicate breakage of the shear pin (12). The indication can be direct, by visual inspection of the displaced head, or indirect by the displacement of the head activating a transmitter.

Abstract: A vibration device is provided. The vibration device includes a case, a vibrator, a coil, and a spring. The vibrator is disposed inside the case and including a magnet, a yoke, and a weight. The coil is supported by the case. The spring allows the vibrator to be elastically supported by the case. The spring includes a first coupling portion coupled to the vibrator, a second coupling portion coupled to the case, and a connecting portion connecting the first coupling portion to the second coupling portion. The second coupling portion is disposed on a concentric circle with respect to a center of the first coupling portion. A region in which the second coupling portion is disposed on the concentric circle ranges from 40% or more to less than 100% of a total region of the concentric circle.

Abstract: A personal alert device for use with a wireless communications device is provided. In at least one embodiment, the personal includes: a housing configured for discreet, inconspicuous use by a wearer; a vibrator mechanism disposed within the housing; a processor disposed within the housing, the processor configured to pair uniquely and wirelessly communicate with a mobile communications device within a defined distance to the mobile communications device, operative to receive a mobile communications signal from the mobile communications device, and further configured to activate the vibrator mechanism to alert the wearer discreetly to the presence of the mobile communications signal; and a power source disposed within the housing. In at least one embodiment, the personal alert device is a fashion accessory article that is worn under an item of apparel and directly adjacent to the body of the wearer to remain unseen.

Abstract: Disclosed is a method, system and apparatus for use in remotely and internally tapping a conduit. The method is performed, at least partially, by an automatic mechanism or robot configured to effectively perform the tasks and various steps of the method. The method includes the steps of: (a) lining a conduit with a liner; and (b) inserting an automatic mechanism into an internal portion of the liner, wherein the automatic mechanism (i) locates a service tap connection point; and (ii) at least partially engages a fitting device within an internal surface of the service tap entry portion, thereby providing fluid communication between a service tap internal passageway and an internal portion of the liner. An automatic mechanism, a fitting device and an insert element are also disclosed.

Abstract: Environmental sensing devices, systems and methods are provided. In one embodiment, an environmental sensing device includes an environmental sensor and an internal signal generator. The environmental sensing device may be configured to be mechanically coupled to one or more interior surfaces of an enclosure. The environmental sensor may be operable to detect one or more substances within the enclosure and provide a status signal to the internal signal generator corresponding to the presence of the one or more substances. The internal signal generator may be operable to generate a mechanical report sequence corresponding to the status signal. The mechanical report sequence may be a series of mechanical pulses applied to an interior surface of the enclosure.

Abstract: An engine of a hybrid electric vehicle is started following a determination that the vehicle is not moving, the ignition system is in a run state, a door is open, and the engine is not running to alert a driver that the vehicle is in a drive state.

Abstract: An emergency/hazard warning system which provides a warning of a dangerous roadside condition to oncoming traffic by means of an elevated flare, reflector, emergency light, or other safety signal, but which also meets an essential safety need by utilizing a position-responsive switch or other means for energizing a battery powered audible alarm. The battery powered audible alarm is energized when a predetermined perimeter around the roadside dangerous condition is breached. This provides a system for warning those individuals involved in a roadside dangerous condition, such as a disabled vehicle, road work, and the like, that the perimeter has been breached so that evasive action can be taken to prevent personal injury or property damage. Either a single unit can be deployed to established the required perimeter or multiple units may be daisy chained together with a retractable cord to provide a more comprehensive barrier. The emergency/hazard warning system is light weight and compact.

Abstract: A system having a support that supports a child seat and a controller that outputs motion, sound, and/or image signals to be experienced by a child in the child. An actuator connected to the support moves the support responsive to the motion signal, and the corresponding sounds and image signal may be synchronized therewith. A recorder may be used to record motions and sounds from an actual vehicle. A method includes providing a support for the child seat, and producing a motion signal substantially corresponding to the motions experienced by the child in the child seat in the vehicle. The method further includes moving the support responsive to the motion signal for simulating the motions experienced by the child in the child seat when in the vehicle.

Abstract: In some embodiments, a rotary shaft position indicating and display apparatus for use with a device having a rotatable shaft may include one or more of the following features: (a) a housing having a base with a cover secured to said base and defining a hollow sealed chamber, (b) an actuator shaft journaled for rotation in said base and extending through said base into said sealed chamber, (c) at least one electromechanical actuating element mounted on said actuator shaft, (d) a frusto-conical member having graphics information representative of said actuator shaft position viewable through a window area, (e) said cover having a frusto-conical base, (f) female threads on the interior of the frusto-conical base, and (g) male threads on the base housing to accept the female threads on the interior of the frusto-conical base.

Abstract: A motion producing motion-based notification/alert device to be used in and for attachment to mobile electronic equipment or devices, where the motion producing motion-based notification/alert device, upon receipt of an electronic signal from the mobile electronic equipment or device, reacts to set the mobile electronic equipment or device into various elevations and motions. The motion producing motion-based notification/alert device is designed to receive electronic signals from the mobile electronic equipment or device, whereby producing various motions resulting in the owner or user of the mobile electronic equipment or device being notified/alerted that the mobile electronic equipment or device has received an incoming signal or a desired event of the mobile electronic equipment or device has taken place. The motion producing motion-based notification/alert device includes a housing containing a power spring/electric motor which can be used in or attached to the mobile electronic equipment or device.

Abstract: A method (1000) for automatically opening a closeable communications device and a closeable communications device (100). The closeable communications device (100) has a housing having two biased housing portions (210,220) movably mounted to each other to allow relative movement of the two portions between a closed position and an opened position, the two biased housing portions (210,220) being biased to the opened position. There is an electrically operable latch (270) retaining the two biased housing portions (210,220) in the closed position and a radio frequency communications unit (102) is located in the housing. A processor (103) is located in the housing and is coupled to both the radio frequency communications unit (102) and the electrically operable latch (270).

Abstract: An anti-theft device includes a sensing device for attaching to an entrance of a house building and for sensing whether the entrance of the house building is pried by an unauthorized person or not, and a counterattacking device for counterattacking the unauthorized person when the unauthorized person breaking the entrance of the house building. One or more containers may receive an attacking agent and a pumping device may pump the attacking agent out of the container via one or more nozzles which may be rotated by a rotating device, an agitating device may agitate the attacking agent received in the container. A receptacle may be attached to the house building for supporting the container.

Abstract: A monitoring system includes a porthole in a tank or conduit that includes threads on an end thereof. A piece of processing equipment is mounted within the porthole by a threaded coupling collar. The threads of the coupling collar engage the threads of the porthole. A sensor collar is mounted in fixed relationship to the porthole at a predetermined distance from an end of the porthole and includes a status sensor mounted thereto. The status sensor detects a position of the threaded coupling collar to ensure that the piece of processing equipment is properly mounted in the porthole.

Abstract: A rugged, miniature, waterproof and lightweight magnetic latching indicator with an auxiliary switch. The indicator includes a solenoid, an elongated plunger mounted in the solenoid, the plunger supporting a first permanent magnet with the magnet being surrounded by specially dimensioned non-magnetic spacers. The plunger and solenoid are packaged in a non-magnetic housing with a solenoid locator, a top cap and a bottom cap maintaining the indicator in a compact waterproof package. An indicator button is mounted to the plunger and a reed switch biasing spring and second permanent magnet are located between the bottom cap and the solenoid. The plunger moves from a retracted latching position to an extended position. In the retracted position, the indicator button is retracted and not readily visible and the second permanent magnet maintains the reed switch in a closed position.

Abstract: An ergonomically designed handle or angled attachment for use with a tool or implement. The ergonomically designed handle includes an elongate member having distal and proximate ends, plural angular portions along the elongated member positioned intermediate the distal and proximate ends, and is configured to emit an audible and/or visual signal. The ergonomically designed handle or angled attachment may include a power source, memory, a central processing unit (CPU), sensor(s), audible indicator(s), light source(s), switch(es), camera(s), a transceiver, a microphone, notch(es), and aromatic element(s). The power source may be one or more batteries (rechargeable or non-rechargeable), and may be removable or non-removable. The ergonomically designed handle or angled attachment may also be configured to withstand a predetermined blast limit.

Abstract: The invention comprises a micromechanical shock sensor that is formed on the surface of a micro-substrate. A moveable proof mass is formed on the surface with at least one spring connected to the proof mass and the surface. The spring allows the proof mass to move a predetermined distance. Latching means are formed on the surface the predetermined distance from the proof mass. When the sensor is subjected to a sufficient shock, the proof mass moves and contacts the latching means. An indicator means is provided to allow this contact to be readily known by the user.

Abstract: A circuit arrangement for the controlled return of a pointer driven by a stepping motor in the event of failure of the supply voltage includes a control circuit for actuating the stepping motor. The supply voltage at least for the control circuit for the stepping motor is buffered with at least one buffer capacitor, the capacitance of the at least one buffer capacitor being such that the buffer capacitor supplies the control circuit for the stepping motor with electrical power at least until the control circuit has moved the pointer driven by the stepping motor to a default position. The default position is a zero position in relation to the scale on the display apparatus or to another indicated value which is noncritical in relation to the scaling on the display apparatus.

Abstract: An electrical safety monitor (20) includes a housing (50) with a display face (70) and a securing section (54) that connects with an electrical panel (62). Electrical circuitry (30) is contained in the housing (50). The electrical circuitry (30) communicates with electrical lines (L1, L2, L3, GND) of the panel (62), and defines high impedance electrical paths between pairs of electrical lines (L1, L2, L3, GND). Each high impedance path includes a positive light emitting diode (D1, D2, D3, D4) arranged to draw current from a line carrying a positive electrical energy potential and a negative light emitting diode (D5, D6, D7, D8) arranged to draw current from a line carrying a negative electrical energy potential relative to the positive electrical energy potential. The positive and negative light emitting diodes are disposed on the display face (70) of the housing (50). Each light emitting diode produces light responsive to current flow in a high impedance path that includes the light emitting diode.

Abstract: A safety system for entering and exiting garage doors and entrances comprises a warning sign adapted to be placed by an attachment cable at a primary line of sight of a driver of a truck during lowering and raising movement of the door. A delay circuit is provided to facilitate a movement of the sign in such a manner that the sign will always appear first in the primary line of sight of the driver to eliminate a possibility of collision between the truck and the door. A moving mechanism is adapted to lower the sign into an operational position and provided to keep the sign in non-operational retracted position when the door is completely open to ensure clearance for moving truck. The warning sign is activated by a warning sign activating device such as a motor-driven assembly. The door is activated by a door detector adapted to transmit signal to a door control panel operating the movement of the door by a door motor.

Abstract: A device for indicating a multi-position state and having one or more sensors, one or more bi-stable, magnetic switches, and a control unit. The switches are provided with an electromagnet arranged in connection with each individual switch thereby enabling the switches to be switched between two or more indicating positions by sending an electric pulse through the electromagnet. The sensors are connected to the control unit, which is in turn connected to the switches. The sensors are arranged to sense which of the two or more positions is the current state of a measured object, and transmit a signal corresponding to the position of the measured object to the control unit. The control unit is arranged to transmit a signal to the electromagnet of the corresponding switch in order to update the indicated state of the switch.

Abstract: A multiple hazard marker system consists of at least one multiple hazard marker, a deployment vehicle, a deployment surface and a deployment device for deploying the multiple hazard marker. The multiple hazard marker comprises a ground engaging portion, an upper portion and a central portion. The multiple hazard marker will remain erect when deployed and includes a visible marker for marking a position upon a field where deployed. The multiple hazard marker further has collapsible elements that expand upon deployment, a signaling device, a receiver for activating the signaling device and transmitter associated with the signaling device. The deployment device for deploying the multiple hazard marker collapses and retains the multiple hazard marker in the deployment device until a releasing mechanism releases the multiple hazard marker from the deployment device at deployment.

Abstract: The alarm system is capable of detecting both conductive and non-conductive liquid level increases, designed for indoor operation, and ideally suited for detecting basement flooding or leaky domestic steel oil tanks or other fluid containment devices. A float, positioned above any surface such as a contained area (sump or drip pan), rises with the presence of a liquid, allowing a spring-loaded switch to rise, triggering a 9-volt powered battery electric circuit. The electric circuit, enclosed in a plastic enclosure, activates an audible pulsating alarm when triggered. A battery voltage monitor incorporated in the electric circuit, tests the battery voltage on a continuous bases, and will trigger the unit into the alarm mode when the battery voltage is insufficient to sustain continuous operation. A simple convenient self check feature allows the user to simply check the unit at any time.

Abstract: A water sprinkler based deterrent system is used to deter entry into landscaped areas by undesirable intruders. The system incorporates an infrared detector combined with a control circuit that is adapted to be powered from a wide range of power supplies. In this manner, the system can be easily integrated into a variety of landscape environments, including those that may or may not include a preexisting sprinkler controls system.

Abstract: The present invention is a rescue device including a casing having a hollow interior area. The casing includes an opened top and enclosed bottom. Removably secured to the opened top is a lid. Located within the casing is a gas cylinder, having a gas that is lighter than air. This gas cylinder is coupled to a collapsible and inflatable balloon. A sensing mechanism is coupled to a valve. This valve is coupled to the gas cylinder. Once a change in the electrical potential is detected via the sensing mechanism, it triggers the valve. This will cause the valve to open and hence allow for the gas to enter and fill the balloon. During the inflation process, the balloon expands and inherently causes the top to be lifted and remove for allowing the balloon to float and travel upwards. The balloon is maintained to the device via a tether.

Abstract: The bases of an audible alarm unit and an audible/visible alarm unit are configured to be used interchangeably with a single cover. The cover has an opening that receives a projecting wall portion on the base of the audible alarm unit and a receptacle for a strobe lamp unit on the base of the audible/visible alarm unit. The bases have mounting holes that enable the alarm units to be mounted on several types of standard backboxes, the cover concealing the screw holes for good appearance of the installed units.