Sound Reproducer Patents (Class 340/692)
-
Patent number: 5635903Abstract: Based on detected information from a start sensor, a rotational speed sensor (or a vehicle speed sensor), and an accelerator opening sensor, a simulated sound selector device controls a simulated sound source device to generate a simulated sound signal corresponding to an operating condition of an electric vehicle when it starts, runs and is accelerated or decelerated, and also controls a sound level switcher device to adjust the level of the simulated sound signal. The simulated sound signal which is generated by the simulated sound source device and adjusted in level by the sound level switcher device is amplified by amplifiers, which drive respective loudspeakers to produce simulated sounds. The sound level switcher device is also controlled based on an ambient noise level detected by a noise sensor.Type: GrantFiled: December 21, 1994Date of Patent: June 3, 1997Assignee: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Makoto Koike, Masashi Kitagawa, Kazunari Ishiguro
-
Patent number: 5635898Abstract: A fire sound simulator includes a random sequencer which produces random signals. The sequencer is connected to a sound synthesizer which transforms the sequencer's signals into random sounds. The synthesizer is in turn connected to a speaker which receives the sounds from the synthesizer for outputting the sounds. The simulator alternatively includes a recording stored on a ROM chip. The simulator may be activated by a light sensitive switch.Type: GrantFiled: June 7, 1994Date of Patent: June 3, 1997Assignee: American General Products, Inc.Inventors: Jon S. Walters, James Blackford
-
Patent number: 5635925Abstract: An apparatus to facilitate volume control for route aural guidance. When supplying a guidance voice to a loudspeaker 34a, a voice control section 30 disconnects the loudspeaker 34a from audio and outputs the guidance voice through the loudspeaker. A volume control screen is displayed on a display section 28 where the user adjusts the volume by touching the screen. When the voice control section 30 switches a signal to the loudspeaker 34a, a mute circuit 40a is operated to mute the voice output before the voice is output through the loudspeaker 34a. When the user terminates volume adjustment, the voice control section 30 outputs a voice for volume confirmation or check at the adjusted volume through the loudspeaker 34a. The user can check the adjusted volume at this time.Type: GrantFiled: February 9, 1996Date of Patent: June 3, 1997Assignees: Toyota Jidosha K.K., Aisin AW Co., Ltd.Inventors: Hiroshi Kishi, Toru Ito, Shoji Yokoyama, Kyomi Morimoto, Mitsuhiro Nimura, Shigekazu Ohara
-
Patent number: 5635912Abstract: An interface that connects a conventional auto alarm with the audio system of that auto, specifically to the amplifier for the sub-woofer(s), which is connected to low frequency producing speaker(s). Woofer and Sub-woofer bass frequencies are capable of penetrating objects, such as buildings, that high frequency cannot. This sound supplements other alarm signals to increase the chance of alarm status notification. The interface includes a sound generator for producing low frequency signals for output to an external amplifier; an adjustable gain is provided to adjust output levels.Type: GrantFiled: June 30, 1995Date of Patent: June 3, 1997Inventor: Michael S. McCracken
-
Patent number: 5633625Abstract: An exponentially decaying chime sound is generated with a single tri-statable output pin from a microprocessor which is implemented using a single digital output pin line to create states of low, high and disconnect which are input to a control circuit for output to a speaker. Preferably, the control circuit comprises a low pass filter in series with a buffer. Preferably, the buffer is a Darlington transistor. Preferably, the speaker is an electro-mechanical device, alternatively it may be a piezo-resistive device. A method is disclosed for generating a desired audible chime signal with a chime generating circuit regulating a tri-statable output via a single pin of a microprocessor to approximately generate a desired signal frequency, and preferably includes regulating said tri-statable output to produce amplitude decay of the desired signal frequency over time.Type: GrantFiled: March 20, 1995Date of Patent: May 27, 1997Assignee: Saturn Electronics & Engineering, Inc.Inventors: Guy J. Gaub, Ray M. Hallenbeck
-
Patent number: 5626425Abstract: An electronic thermometer for measuring body temperature has a temperature sensor for detecting a sensed temperature and for producing an output indicative of the sensed temperature and a temperature rise detector for detecting whether the sensed temperature is rising. If the sensed temperature is rising, the temperature rise detector produces a temperature rise signal. The thermometer is provided with circuitry for generating an audible signal in response to the temperature rise signal. The device thus audibly indicates that the sensed temperature is rising and that the temperature measurement is proceeding normally. The temperature sensor includes a thermosensitive oscillator, the oscillating frequency of which changes depending on a change in its temperature, and a reference oscillator for generating a reference signal. A temperature counter counts an output signal from the thermosensitive oscillator on the basis of the reference signal.Type: GrantFiled: February 6, 1995Date of Patent: May 6, 1997Assignees: Becton Dickinson and Company, Citizen Watch Company LimitedInventors: Toyoharu Fujikawa, Tim H. Gordon, Louis A. Marcelina
-
Patent number: 5625347Abstract: A device for delivering an audible message is described. It includes a housing adapted for releasable emplacement on an externally threaded bottle neck. The housing includes a substantially disc-shaped main body, and a downwardly depending skirt around the perimeter thereof. Circuit means are located within the housing and include means for securing thereto a source of electrical energy, and programmable means for encoding an audible message on the circuit means. A speaker is provided within the housing, electrically connected to the circuit means for delivering the audible message. Switch means are associated with the circuit means adapted to maintain the circuit in an open state whilst said housing is in releasable emplacement on a bottle, and to close the circuit upon removal of the housing from the bottle. Removable of the housing from the bottle causes the audible message to be delivered via the speaker.Type: GrantFiled: May 2, 1994Date of Patent: April 29, 1997Assignee: Molson BreweriesInventors: Chris J. MacLean, Richard Dupuis
-
Patent number: 5612670Abstract: An aftermarket mechanical shock detector for mounting to protected property containing an existing alarm system. The shock detector incorporates a piezoelectric transducer detecting mechanical vibration and generating an electrical vibration signal, and circuitry for comparing the vibration signal to thresholds. The shock detector includes two separately adjustable thresholds. If the vibration signal exceeds either threshold, the shock detector creates an electrical connection between two terminals, thereby triggering a previously-installed alarm circuit to create an alarm.Type: GrantFiled: May 30, 1995Date of Patent: March 18, 1997Assignee: Jon Snyder, Inc.Inventors: Douglas D. Snyder, Kevin Lipovsky
-
Patent number: 5610576Abstract: A control device for an alarm system includes a sensor circuit, an amplifier circuit for amplifying a sensor signal from the sensor circuit, a filter circuit for filtering an amplified output of the amplifier circuit, and first and second comparators, each having a reference input and a test input which receives a filtered signal output of the filter circuit. The first reference signal present at the reference input of the first comparator is lower than the second reference signal present at the reference input of the second comparator. The first comparator activates an oscillator circuit to generate an intermittent activating signal when the filtered signal output exceeds the first reference signal. A first alarm signal source presents a first control signal to the alarm system upon reception of the intermittent activating signal from the oscillator circuit.Type: GrantFiled: October 24, 1995Date of Patent: March 11, 1997Assignee: Lite-On Automotive CorporationInventor: Simon Su
-
Patent number: 5606304Abstract: An improved structure of magnet type sounder of an electronic acoustic alarm mounted on the engine of a car, wherein primarily, a sound emitting circuit board is placed on an acoustic pipe of a supporting plate, and a magnet is held in a housing formed by an encircling plate beneath the supporting plate, and a sound transmitting case is formed as a flare on the bottom portion thereof which is convex in the inward direction to form a spherical dome surface of which an acoustic pipe column is telescopically placed over the acoustic pipe of the supporting plate, this assembly is then placed in a main case body, and further an acoustic resonant lid covers a through hole of the acoustic pipe column of the sound transmitting case, so that an object of volume reducing can be achieved,Type: GrantFiled: December 14, 1995Date of Patent: February 25, 1997Inventor: Ki J. Wan
-
Patent number: 5606624Abstract: Audio apparatus demonstrating includes audio apparatus to be demonstrated. A display structure supports the audio apparatus and a digital computer controller. A CD-ROM is coupled to the audio apparatus and the digital computer controller with recorded sound signals for audible reproduction by the audio apparatus in response to selection signals furnished by the digital computer controller. A start demonstration switch is coupled to the digital computer controller. A proximity sensor provides a proximity signal to the digital computer controller when a person enters a predetermined zone around the apparatus to cause the digital computer controller to select a change in the record signal reproduced by the audio system from a first signal to a second signal which second signal encourages the person within the zone to actuated the start demonstration switch and initiate a demonstration of the audio apparatus including audibly reproducing sound signals recorded on the CD-ROM.Type: GrantFiled: September 12, 1994Date of Patent: February 25, 1997Assignee: Bose CorporationInventor: Joseph A. Damato
-
Voice recording and playback apparatus, and alarm system with voice recording and playback apparatus
Patent number: 5604479Abstract: A voice recording and playback apparatus includes a memory unit having addressable memory regions, a voice input unit for converting a user voice input into an electrical signal, and a processor for storing the electrical signal from the voice input unit as a voice message in the memory unit. A recording address generator, which includes a recording address decoder and a plurality of recording switches for connecting a respective input of the recording address decoder to a voltage source, provides a corresponding recording address to the processor to enable the latter to store the voice message in a corresponding one of the memory regions of the memory unit when one of the recording switches is closed.Type: GrantFiled: March 22, 1996Date of Patent: February 18, 1997Inventor: Yen-Pin Chang -
Patent number: 5598143Abstract: A system for changing the function of a television set through a fixedly positioned signal box and a hand held remote beeper and for locating a plurality of beepers if lost including a remote control signal box located at a television set for changing the functions of the television set; a plurality of hand held beepers operatively coupled to the signal box for allowing the functions of a television set to be remotely changed; an emitter in the signal box for sending out a corresponding electrical signal to each of the beepers; a receiver in each beeper for receiving such a corresponding electrical signal, whereupon beeping noises are produced for locating each beeper.Type: GrantFiled: January 22, 1996Date of Patent: January 28, 1997Inventor: Jeff D. Wentz
-
Patent number: 5578991Abstract: The system includes (1) a sensor for detecting a separation of the portable computer from an object, the sensor transitioning from an inactivated state to an activated state when the portable computer is separated and (2) an alarm circuit coupled to the sensor and having a disarmed state and an armed state, the alarm circuit detecting when the sensor is in the activated state and issuing a notification when the alarm circuit is in the armed state and the sensor is in the activated state.Type: GrantFiled: December 2, 1994Date of Patent: November 26, 1996Assignee: Dell USA, L.P.Inventor: Erica J. Scholder
-
Patent number: 5576690Abstract: Push button controlled wireless transmitters send digitally encoded signals to a plug-in receiver/signaling device. The receiver/signaling device has a microprocessor suitably programmed to respond to signals from a transmitter bearing the discrete address of the receiver, and to decode a transmitter identification code. Thereupon the microprocessor supplies an audio output circuit with signals to simulate selectively mechanical front or back door chimes, and supplies signals to energize a strobe lamp to emit bursts of multiple flashes, the number of flashes in a burst identifying the specific transmitter, whereby a person with a hearing deficiency is informed as to which transmitter is being actuated.Type: GrantFiled: August 7, 1995Date of Patent: November 19, 1996Assignee: Fred M. Schildwachter & Sons, Inc.Inventors: David Waugh, Leslie M. Orloff
-
Patent number: 5572185Abstract: An electronic anti-theft system for vehicles having a common signal generator and speaker for both the alarm siren and the arming chirp, in which the volume of the arming or disarming chirp can be set to a desired level. A control circuit is detailed which allows the volume of the arming chirp to be attenuated.Type: GrantFiled: March 6, 1995Date of Patent: November 5, 1996Assignee: Nutek CorporationInventors: Chau-ho Chen, Chih-hung Shee
-
Patent number: 5570083Abstract: A door bell system presents a normal door bell alarm with an alternative speech record/playback assembly. Upon depression of the exterior button extending through an exterior housing adjacent a building entrance the system with either energize the door bell or urge the visitor to leave a recorded message for subsequent playback. The door bell and/or record modes are selected by the user by a switch located within an interior housing mounted adjacent a building entrance. The housings include the appropriate components and wiring to provide the door bell and record/playback functions.Type: GrantFiled: May 2, 1995Date of Patent: October 29, 1996Inventor: Lee A. Johnson
-
Patent number: 5532680Abstract: An automatically actuated voice message delivery system is provided. At least one motion sensor (40) and one or more optional presence detectors (45) are strategically placed within an enclosed area so as to monitor delineated zones thereof for entering individuals. When an entering individual is detected by one of the sensors (40) or detectors (45), a pre-recorded voice message pertaining to the entered zone is automatically delivered to that individual. When the entering individual exits a given zone and subsequently enters a different zone, delivery of the pre-recorded voice message pertaining to that zone is triggered by the monitoring sensor (40) or detector (45) thereof. A plurality of logically related messages may thereby be progressively delivered as an individual makes his or her way through an enclosed area monitored by the subject automatic message delivery system.Type: GrantFiled: March 27, 1995Date of Patent: July 2, 1996Inventor: Jeffrey Ousborne
-
Patent number: 5506578Abstract: An apparatus to facilitate volume control for route aural guidance. When supplying a guidance voice to a loudspeaker 34a, a voice control section 30 disconnects the loudspeaker 34a from audio and outputs the guidance voice through the loudspeaker. A volume control screen is displayed on a display section 28 where the user adjusts the volume by touching the screen. When the voice control section 30 switches a signal to the loudspeaker 34a, a mute circuit 40a is operated to mute the voice output before the voice is output through the loudspeaker 34a. When the user terminates volume adjustment, the voice control section 30 outputs a voice for volume confirmation or check at the adjusted volume through the loudspeaker 34a. The user can check the adjusted volume at this time.Type: GrantFiled: July 23, 1993Date of Patent: April 9, 1996Assignees: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha, Aisin AW Co., Ltd.Inventors: Hiroshi Kishi, Toru Ito, Shoji Yokoyama, Kyomi Morimoto, Mitsuhiro Nimura, Shigekazu Ohara
-
Patent number: 5500636Abstract: Luggage, having an audio recording and playing device within the luggage, housed in a pouch. The device is removable by the owner so that a message indicating where the owner is in his travels can be recorded on the recorder/player. An external plate includes indicia directing a luggage handler how to play the identifying message.Type: GrantFiled: June 20, 1995Date of Patent: March 19, 1996Inventor: John D. Mitchell
-
Patent number: 5499008Abstract: An apparatus is provided for providing artificial sounds in the vicinity of a toilet. It includes a housing attachable in the vicinity of a toilet and an electronic sound system which is contained within the housing and is activatable by a user of the toilet so as to block out the noise of eliminating. The sound system includes a speech processing microprocessor for providing an electronic signal representing a desired sound. A memory storage device is connected to the speech processing microprocessor for electronically storing a digital representation of the desired sound to be processed by the speech processing microprocessor. A counter is connected to the memory storage device. The counter has a clock for generating an address for the speech processing microprocessor. A variable resister is attached to the speech processing microprocessor for controlling a rate of the clock, and thereby controlling the quality of the desired sound.Type: GrantFiled: April 11, 1994Date of Patent: March 12, 1996Assignee: Evelyn RosenkrantzInventors: Evelyn Rosenkrantz, Richard Wu
-
Patent number: 5493269Abstract: A safety sensor and warning system, for use in combination with a motor vehicle, has sensors for determining if personnel are present in one or more predetermined danger zones proximate to the vehicle, during times when the vehicle is undergoing the loading and/or unloading of personnel; if the presence of such personnel is determined within any one or more of such danger zones related warning apparatus creates a sensory warning signal whereby the driver of the vehicle is made aware of such presence by the personnel; Microwave Doppler Shift Radar detects objects by reacting to a reflected radio signal of controlled strength and frequency which shifts off its original frequency when reflected off of an object of adequate density moving into, or changing position, within the range of the radiated radio signal and its consequent reflection; the sensors for determining if personnel are present in one or more predetermined danger zones utilize this known Microwave Doppler Shift Radar Technology and are electronicaType: GrantFiled: January 21, 1994Date of Patent: February 20, 1996Assignee: C.A.R.E., Inc.Inventors: Clarence W. Durley, Jerry A. Robson
-
Patent number: 5489893Abstract: The present invention provides a recording/playback circuit able to record voice or sound. The device is installed in the inside of a cylindrical case in which a speaker and a recording microphone are installed on the lower surface thereof. A press button-type switch is installed on an upper surface of the case and used as a playback button when a bottle is fitted in the inside of the cylindrical case and the press button type playback button turns on. Audio signals stored in a memory element are played back and necessary information is recorded by a recording button installed at the lower section. In particular, the cylindrical case is formed so as to accommodate the lower part of the bottle in use.Type: GrantFiled: January 18, 1994Date of Patent: February 6, 1996Inventors: Young Sun Jo, Myung Won Ahn, Sang Ki Lee
-
Patent number: 5485139Abstract: A system for presenting automatic verbal announcement by means of active infrared detection in conjunction with a digital voice recorder/playback unit includes a modulated infrared signal generator for generating a signal of given frequency at a target when in a sensing range, a detector for detecting a modulated infrared signal of the given frequency reflected from a target within the sensing range, a digital voice recorder/playback unit for recording and then providing announcements, when a target is within the sensing range, a speaker to provide an audible output from a signal generated by the digital unit and a microprocessor operatively connected to the generator to periodically output a modulated signal from the generator, to the detector for receiving a signal of the given frequency when a target is within the sensing range and to the digital unit for sending a signal to same and initiate an announcement when a signal is received from the detector.Type: GrantFiled: March 28, 1995Date of Patent: January 16, 1996Inventor: George V. Tarnovsky
-
Patent number: 5482078Abstract: A water faucet fitting seat capable of producing a musical tone or animal howl comprises a base and a sound producing device. The hollow base is provided therein with a channel having one end serving as a water outlet and another end which serves as a water inlet and can be fastened to the outlet of a water faucet. The base is further provided therein with a recessed seat having a round hole in communication with the channel. The sound producing device is disposed in the recessed seat and is provided with a speaker, a sound control circuit board and a conducting switch which is connected with the sound control circuit board and is provided with two terminals spaced at an interval and located in the channel via the round hole of the recessed seat.Type: GrantFiled: October 28, 1994Date of Patent: January 9, 1996Inventor: Thomas Yeh
-
Patent number: 5473307Abstract: Transducer apparatus (10) responsive to external perturbations is disclosed having an electrically responsive transducer circuit (12) energized when a display member (18) and an elongate member (20) move from a gravity determined quiescent orientation (30A) therebetween to an external perturbation driven activate orientation (30B) therebetween. In various embodiments, the members are respectively responsive to air movement and acceleration. In one embodiment, the elongate member carries a first electrical contact (21) to abut a second electrical contact (22) carried by the display member.Type: GrantFiled: March 17, 1995Date of Patent: December 5, 1995Inventor: Peter A. Lam
-
Patent number: 5469132Abstract: Transducer apparatus (10) responsive to external perturbations is disclosed having an electrically responsive transducer circuit (12) energized when a display member (18) and an elongate member (20) move from a gravity determined quiescent orientation (30A) therebetween to an external perturbation driven activate orientation (30B therebetween. In various embodiments, the members are respectively responsive to air movement and acceleration. In one embodiment, the elongate member carries a first electrical contact (21) to abut a second electrical contact (22) carried by the display member.Type: GrantFiled: December 31, 1992Date of Patent: November 21, 1995Inventor: Peter A.-F. Lam
-
Patent number: 5467071Abstract: An audiovisual safety warning kit for use with a vehicle includes lighting for mounting to the vehicle to produce a visual safety warning and to illuminate the ground adjacent to the vehicle. The kit further includes a device which stores audio safety prompting messages and an associated audio speaker which emits the messages to vehicle passengers. The storage device relays safety messages to the speaker in response to receiving an electrical signal provided by an activating device or by a vehicle driver. The activating device is mounted adjacent to steps of the vehicle such that it is activated by persons boarding or exiting the vehicle. The driver can select a stored audio message, or can create a supplemental audio message which is directly emitted by the speaker system.Type: GrantFiled: December 15, 1993Date of Patent: November 14, 1995Assignee: Gerald J. ChurchillInventor: Don M. Koenig
-
Patent number: 5463369Abstract: The message emitting device comprises: a flexible sheet of material; sound emitting circuitry mounted to the sheet of material and comprising an electronic circuit which includes a sound synthesizer, a sound producing device and a power supply coupled together; a switching structure for actuating the electronic circuit; and structure for attaching the message emitting device to a living body or to structure adjacent a living body.Type: GrantFiled: October 8, 1993Date of Patent: October 31, 1995Inventor: George Lamping
-
Patent number: 5460228Abstract: A fire extinguisher is provided with a voice synthesizer attached thereto that is activated by a position sensitive switch such that upon the fire extinguisher being tilted the voice synthesizer broadcasts instructions on use of the fire extinguisher. The voice synthesizer may be activated in response to other situation sensitive sensors to produce messages appropriate to the situation sensed.Type: GrantFiled: July 20, 1993Date of Patent: October 24, 1995Inventor: Marty Butler
-
Patent number: 5459447Abstract: An aftermarket mechanical shock detector for mounting to protected property containing an existing alarm system. The shock detector incorporates a piezoelectric transducer detecting mechanical vibration and generating an electrical vibration signal, and circuitry for comparing the vibration signal to thresholds. The shock detector includes two separately adjustable thresholds. If the vibration signal exceeds either threshold, the shock detector creates an electrical connection between two terminals, thereby triggering a previously-installed alarm circuit to create an alarm.Type: GrantFiled: June 20, 1994Date of Patent: October 17, 1995Assignee: John Snyder, Inc.Inventors: Douglas D. Snyder, Kevin Lipovsky
-
Patent number: 5455566Abstract: A modular personal security device is described which includes a body having an interior battery receiving cavity, a handgrip and at least one module mounting surface whereby electronic and mechanical modules are mounted to the body. A first power supply circuit connects the battery receiving cavity with a first power switch connector on the body and a first power connector on the module mounting surface. A second power supply circuit connects the battery receiving cavity with a second power switch connector on the body and a second power connector on the module mounting surface. A multi-position trigger activated switch module is connected to the first power switch connector and the second power switch connector. Upon the trigger being pressed to one position the first power switch connector completes the first power supply circuit. By continuing to press the trigger to another position the second power switch connector completes the second power supply circuit.Type: GrantFiled: June 23, 1994Date of Patent: October 3, 1995Inventor: Brian Conway
-
Patent number: 5418520Abstract: An alert system reminds a credit card owner to collect his card after making payment. After a predetermined period of time the device will sound voices so as to attract the card owner to the absence of his card. Collecting the card and putting it back into its storage place will stop the voices, thus preventing the forgetting of the card after it was used.The device comprises a voice programmable chip connected to a tiny loudspeaker and a switch which is operated when the credit card is removed from its place thus closing an electrical circuit which triggers a recorded period of silence after which the recording produces a voice to attract the owner's attention to his credit card.The voice can be of any kind such as: human voice words, or a melody.Type: GrantFiled: November 6, 1992Date of Patent: May 23, 1995Inventor: Israel Hirshberg
-
Patent number: 5416463Abstract: A portable electronic bar code reader having an improved mechanism for producing sounds. The mechanism includes two piezoelectric disks, each positioned in a separate Helmholtz resonator tuned to a predetermined acoustic frequency at which the piezoelectric disks resonate. The mechanism also includes electronic circuitry for exciting the two piezoelectric disks at the predetermined frequency. The Helmholtz resonators are placed within the bar code reader and drive separate sound channels that are connected to opposite laterally directed sides of the bar code reader. When the piezoelectric disks are driven in phase at the predetermined frequency, the acoustic energy emitted from the two Helmholtz resonator combines in phase in the place where the user is located.Type: GrantFiled: November 18, 1992Date of Patent: May 16, 1995Assignee: Intermec CorporationInventors: Paul D. Higgins, Jr., Gary P. Gray, Herbert T. Chaudiere
-
Patent number: 5400011Abstract: A remotely-monitored stored-audio security system has a local control unit at a monitored premises that communicates with a remotely located central control unit for alerting personnel of an alarm at the premises. Microphones located on the monitored premises receive sounds that are recorded on a recording device in the local control unit. When the alarm occurs the recording device ceases recording, thereby preserving any sounds that occurred prior to and immediately after the activation of the security system. A detector monitors the input to the recording device and detects the occurrence of a discrete sound, i.e., a sound exceeding the level of ambient noise. When the local control unit transmits the alarm indication it also transmits an indication to the central control unit for informing personnel whether any discrete sounds have been recorded.Type: GrantFiled: January 18, 1994Date of Patent: March 21, 1995Assignee: Knight Protective Industries, Inc.Inventor: Gary E. Sutton
-
Patent number: 5379028Abstract: A mechanical slide carrying a measuring arm is movable in relation to a vertical scale, in association with voice commands and/or other novelty audio signals to position the measuring arm on top of a person's head, at a position representing the person's height. Depression of a readout button then activates a voice readout of the measured height.Type: GrantFiled: March 11, 1993Date of Patent: January 3, 1995Assignee: With Design In MindInventor: Caleb Chung
-
Patent number: 5379029Abstract: A sensing decorative tree includes a pot provided with a raised annular member on the bottom and a plurality of protuberances on the inner side, a trunk having a lower end engaged with the raised annular member of the pot, a partition plate mounted on the protuberances of the pot, an artificial lawn mounted on the partition plate, a voice producer mounted on the bottom of the partition plate, an amplifier mounted on the pot and electrically connected with the voice producer, a sleeve inserted in the upper outlet of a passage of the trunk, a sensing wire provided at one end with a plug connected with the voice producer and at the other end with a sensor received in sleeve, a volume control mounted in the pot and electrically connected with the amplifier for controlling volume of the amplifier, and a plurality of flexible canes twisted on the trunk and provided at one end with a plug electrically connected with the voice producer and at the other end with a sensor.Type: GrantFiled: November 16, 1993Date of Patent: January 3, 1995Inventors: Cheng Kuo-Tang, Hung Ching-Ho
-
Patent number: 5367294Abstract: An inflatable member sits on a motor vehicle seat and can be seen from outside through a vehicle window. The inflatable member is in the form of a simulated living creature. An electrically powered air pump is provided for inflating the inflatable member. A switch, under operator control, is provided for activating the air pump. An electrically powered device is provided for emitting sound, and, under operator control, a switch is provided for activating the sound-emitting device. The air pump and the sound-emitting device include a plug which is adapted to fit into a cigarette lighter in a motor vehicle. The sound-emitting device includes recorded-sound media, such as a cassette tape, a cassette player, and a speaker. The speaker is housed in the inflatable member, and the cassette tape player is housed in a box separate from the inflatable member. More specifically, the box houses the air pump, the cassette player, and the operator-controlled switches for the air pump and the cassette player.Type: GrantFiled: February 12, 1993Date of Patent: November 22, 1994Inventor: Edwin B. Brown
-
Patent number: 5357560Abstract: An interface unit adapts an existing alarm system, e.g., an existing automobile alarm system, so that it selectively provides additional alarm features not previously available. Such features are made available, at least in part, through use of the components of the existing alarm system. Thus, there is no need to remove the existing alarm system, or (in one embodiment) to even cut or relocate any of the wires used with the existing alarm system. All that is required is to install the interface unit and couple it in an appropriate manner to the existing system. The features made available through the interface unit selectively include voice messages that are triggered: whenever the alarm system senses a violation event, to indicate the arming or disarming of the system, or to report to the owner the violation events that have occurred since the system was last armed.Type: GrantFiled: April 14, 1994Date of Patent: October 18, 1994Assignee: Electronic Security Products of California, Inc.Inventor: Michael Nykerk
-
Patent number: 5349338Abstract: A fire alarm system having recorded vocal warning messages and/or instructions is provided. The fire alarm system has a microphone by which a user can record a vocal message specifically suited for a small child or adult in need of verbal instructions. This allows the person hearing the warning message to respond correctly and quickly to a fire alarm. This recorded vocal message can be transmitted in combination with a fixed alarm signal in response to the detection of a fire condition. In a preferred embodiment a fire condition detector 10 is controlled by a CPU 65. Upon initial power-up, the combined watch-dog timer and power-on-reset circuitry 80 resets CPU 65 permitting it to execute machine instructions stored in ROM 95. User commands are issued via switch 75.Type: GrantFiled: February 2, 1993Date of Patent: September 20, 1994Inventors: Brent E. Routman, Larry W. Stults
-
Patent number: 5347273Abstract: An ultrasonic detection system for signaling the presence of an object in one of n linear fields in the path of motion of a person or vehicle. Ultrasonic signals are transmitted by transducers. The linear distance in the path of motion is divided into n linear fields. A unique warning signal such as a voice message, informs the operator of the system of the field in which the object is positioned. The operator of the system may select one or any combination of the fields and may alter the length of any or all fields.Type: GrantFiled: January 14, 1993Date of Patent: September 13, 1994Inventor: Kamyar Katiraie
-
Patent number: 5337041Abstract: A personal safety guard system enables a guardian or caretaker of a person or pet to transmit an alarm condition signal from a hand-held unit carried by the guardian. When the alarm condition signal is received by a portable alarm unit adapted to be worn by the person or pet under the guardian's supervision, the alarm unit operates to alert the wearer that its guardian is looking for them, and to alert others nearby that the wearer is in need of assistance by producing a number of different alarm indicators. The alarm indicators produced by the portable alarm unit include an intelligible voice message such as "Help, I'm lost" which is alternately sounded with a loud alarm sound, and flashing strobe lights. These alarm indicators, together with a confirmation signal transmitted from the alarm unit to the guardian's unit, enable the guardian to track and find their charge.Type: GrantFiled: September 28, 1993Date of Patent: August 9, 1994Inventor: Lorri Friedman
-
Patent number: 5315285Abstract: An alarm system senses the presence of a person sufficiently near a protected object, such as an automobile, to inflict damage thereto, and provides verbal warnings to the person. The alarm system includes a proximity detector that senses the proximity of a person to the protected object and means for generating vocal signals using electronic speech generation circuits. Such vocal signals typically instruct the person to back away from the protected object, thereby preventing the person from inflicting any damage to the object. The user may select various operating modes and performance options in how the system is used.Type: GrantFiled: April 28, 1992Date of Patent: May 24, 1994Assignee: Electronic Security Products of California, Inc.Inventor: Michael Nykerk
-
Patent number: 5315288Abstract: Two volume levels may be produced in a backup alarm merely by reversing polarity of the DC power connections to the circuit of the present invention. The magnitude of output power produced by any device powered by a DC source may be switched between two levels merely by reversing polarity of the power source connected to the device when used with a circuit of the present invention.Type: GrantFiled: May 24, 1991Date of Patent: May 24, 1994Assignee: Electronic Controls CompanyInventor: Mark T. Coward
-
Patent number: 5311166Abstract: A security system for a vestibule and, more specifically, a security vestibule is equipped with monitoring devices to monitor the presence of an intruder. The monitoring devices transmit signals to warning devices, such as a speaker which broadcasts an audible message as well as a siren and a flashing light which produce audible and visual signals, respectively, to attract attention exteriorly of the vestibule. The monitoring devices further transmit signals to deterrent devices which disturb or offend the perpetrator. The devices are of the type which disperse foul scents, dispense dyes to mark the perpetrator, disperse water at varying temperatures, and discharge electrical shock.Type: GrantFiled: August 18, 1992Date of Patent: May 10, 1994Inventor: Filmore O. Frye
-
Patent number: 5307047Abstract: This is a ring fitted with a device that sounds an alarm during times of emergencies. The special features of the ring are a transmission circuit and alarm device that emits a sound enclosed in the setting of the ring. The switches are at the top of the setting forming a connection between the transmission circuit and the battery when pressed.Type: GrantFiled: March 13, 1992Date of Patent: April 26, 1994Inventor: Haruyo Morioka
-
Patent number: 5307051Abstract: A night light apparatus and method alters the environment of a room, particularly a darkened room, in response to an audio input such as a child's voice. The apparatus and method is adapted to provide a sense of security to a child in a room in order to improve the child's sleeping habits and reduce or eliminate the child's fear of the dark or the child's fear of being left alone. A predetermined audio level in the darkened room is sensed. If the audio level exceeds a background noise level, a signal is generated and an audio output and a light output are activated. The audio output may include a bedtime story or a soothing song. The light output may include an image such as a cartoon character that is lit. A fire and smoke detector may also be included to activate audio instructions to a child in the event of a fire. The apparatus may be suitably programmed to transmit a signal to a remote location and activate an object warning device and/or a motion generating device.Type: GrantFiled: September 24, 1991Date of Patent: April 26, 1994Inventor: Steven R. Sedlmayr
-
Patent number: 5304984Abstract: A posture improvement device is provided, in which a predetermined amount of tension in a belt around the wearer's waist closes a switch and activates a buzzer, vibration motor, or other indicating means in a belt buckle of said belt. Means are provided to adjust the amount of tension required to achieve said closing of said switch. By maintaining sufficient tautness in his or her abdominal and lower back muscles, the wearer can maintain the tension in the belt below the predetermined threshold level, and correspondingly maintain desired improved posture. Conversely, slouching or relaxation of said muscles closes said switch and signals the wearer to improve his or her posture.Type: GrantFiled: April 2, 1990Date of Patent: April 19, 1994Inventor: Eduardo L. Roldan
-
Patent number: 5294915Abstract: A remote control locating device is disclosed which comprises a transmitter built into and hard wired into the circuitry of a remotely controlled electronic device and a receiver which is built into and hard wired into a remote control device which is capable of controlling the electronic device. The transmitter is adapted to operate on low power and is also adapted to transmit an FM signal upon operation of a switch. The receiver receives the FM signal transmitted from the transmitter and the receiver is also adapted to receive power from a battery contained in and adapted to power the remote control device. The receiver contains an audible signaling device adapted to be actuated upon receipt of the FM signal transmitted from the transmitter and the receiver further contains a timer adapted to deactivate the audible device upon expiration of a predetermined period of time for the purpose of saving battery usage.Type: GrantFiled: June 30, 1993Date of Patent: March 15, 1994Inventor: C. Randal Owen
-
Patent number: 5293155Abstract: An interface for a supervised multiple input, audible warning system is disclosed. The interface continuously monitors or supervises a plurality of circuits between a control unit and an alarm unit for electrical faults. Each circuit represents a separate alarming condition. All the circuits are coupled to but normally isolated from each other and a common circuit for driving a piezoelectric device. The isolation is accomplished by means of a semiconductor switch normally reverse biased. The semiconductor switch prevents the supervising current of one circuit from driving the piezo by isolating all possible flow paths to all circuits without current flow in the alarming direction. Upon sensing an alarming condition, the direction of the current in the alarming circuit reverses resulting in forward biasing the semiconductor switch. The current in the alarming circuit, no longer isolated from the common circuit, actuates the common circuitry necessary for generating the audible warning.Type: GrantFiled: April 10, 1991Date of Patent: March 8, 1994Assignee: Wheelock Inc.Inventors: John J. Nicol, Bart Falzarano, Jr., Joseph Kosich