Abstract: A hand washing alert system includes a housing that is mounted on a wall above a doorway. A motion detector is mounted on the housing and is adapted for detecting motion through the doorway. A processor is mounted in the housing and is electrically coupled to the motion detector. A sound emitter is mounted on the housing and is electrically coupled to the processor. An electronic memory storage is mounted in the housing and is electrically coupled to the processor. A message indicating that a person should wash their hands is recorded on the electronic memory storage. The processor is adapted for playing the message on the sound emitter between 20 seconds and 40 seconds after the motion detector detects motion.

Abstract: Communication systems and apparatus to allow a user to perceive the relative spatial location or present position of other elements of interest in a control space, such as the location of a speaker participating in a telephone conference or that of an aircraft carrier to a remotely piloted vehicle on final approach. The system inserts synthetic sound cues into the communication to the user that represent the relative postion(s). In one embodiment, the user will perceive the communication as though it were communicated through free space to the user from the relative position of the represented source, so that, for example, the squad leader will perceive his wingman to be at his immediate left. Methods of conveying relative position sound cues are also provided.

Abstract: A facility for the purpose of entertainment, education, or monitoring wherein there is provided an acoustic sensor (24) mounted on the outside of a toilet bowl (30) and a simple, inexpensive target (22) mounted to the inside of the toilet (28) thereby keeping the sensitive acoustic sensor and other electronics in a dryer and cleaner location. The sound of a urine stream contacting the target (22) propagates through the toilet (26) and is detected by the acoustic sensor (24). An analysis and feedback unit (32) monitors the sound of the urine stream contacting the target (22) and provides a message to the user indicating their success in hitting the target (22) with the urine stream.

Abstract: Some embodiments of the invention include a television system having an internal microphone for implementing a voice-messaging system. Using the microphone, the television system detects a message spoken by a user of the television system, and records the message to a memory. Some embodiments of the invention may also record metadata about the message. Embodiments of the invention alert an intended recipient of the message using the audio output or video output of the television system, and subsequently reproduce the message using the audio output of the television system. Other embodiments of the invention are described in the specification and the claims.

Abstract: A personal safety device is provided. The personal safety device is comprised of a housing member, which houses a repellant spray member and a sound generating member. A means well known in the art are used for activation of the repellant spray member, wherein upon activation of the repellant spray member a repellant stored inside of the repellant spray member is released from the repellant spray member. Additionally, means well known in the art are used for activation of the sound generating member, wherein upon activation of the sound generating member a sound, such as a loud alarm, is emitted from the sound generating member. In one preferred embodiment of the invention, the personal safety device has means for activating of either the repellant spray member, or the sound generating member, or both.

Abstract: A system for tracking and monitoring at least one item in an environment includes at least one transmitter assigned a unique identification number for the item and attached to the item and at least one receiver for receiving a first data packet which includes the unique identification number from the transmitter. At least one node computer controls the receiver, receives a second data packet which includes said unique identification number and direction-of-travel code from the receiver, and determines a location of the item from the direction-of-travel code. A controller computer controls the node computer, receives the unique identification number and the location of the item from the node computer, and stores the unique identification number and the location of the item. A central computer facility coordinates the controller computer and collects and stores the unique identification number and the location of the item for exportation from the system.

Abstract: A remote key entry system has a key unit and an answerback sound producing device. The key unit transmits a radio signal for remote-controlled locking and unlocking of a vehicle. The answerback sound producing device receives the key signal to indicate completion of correct locking or unlocking of the vehicle. The remote key entry system includes an environmental data sensing devices for obtaining data of an environment around the vehicle for control of the answerback sound. The system also has an answerback sound control device for controlling at least one of sound volume and tone of the answerback sound based on the environment data. The environmental data sensing device is an illumination sensing device for detecting environmental illuminance around the vehicle. The answerback sound control device varies the sound volume proportional to the illuminance.

Abstract: An apparatus for leaving a message on a refrigerator is disclosed. The apparatus can be mounted on the refrigerator so as to broadcast a voice upon opening a door of the refrigerator. A control unit for processing and controlling the voice is mounted on the main body of the present invention, wherein the control unit is a signal processing control center. A sensor is mounted on the inner side of the door of the refrigerator and is connected to the control unit of the main body. When the door of the refrigerator is open, the sensor is triggered to transmit a sensor signal to the control unit to broadcast the voice. A timer is also connected to the control unit to active the apparatus at a predetermined time. In other words, a predetermined voice content is broadcasted. Thus, the reminding, warning, and encouraging effects are accomplished so as to act an interactive communication medium for family members.

Abstract: A user-friendly article identifying device capable of retaining voice data associated with a tag. The device contains a tag reading section; a voice data input section; a storage section; a determining section; a voice data replay section; and a controller for governing all the sections above. First, the tag reading section reads a tag having a specific identifier, and then the voice data input section accepts voice data. Storage section, which contains a voice data table, a tag/address table, and a memo data table, stores voice data from the input section so as to associate with the specific identifier of a tag. The determining section judges whether the tag identifier read by tag reading section is retained in the storage section. Voice data replay section replays the voice data associated with the identifier according to the judgment by the determining section.

Abstract: Due to the presence of various environmental condition detectors in the home and businesses such as smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, natural gas detectors, etc., each having individual but similar sounding alarm patterns, it can be difficult for occupants of such dwellings to immediately determine the specific type of environmental condition that exists during an alarm condition. The present invention comprises an environmental condition detector using both tonal pattern alarms and pre-recorded voice messages to indicate information about the environmental condition being sensed. Single-station battery-powered and 120VAC detectors are described as are multiple-station interconnected 120 VAC powered detectors. The pre-recorded voice messages describe the type of environmental condition detected or the location of the environmental condition detector sensing the condition, or both, in addition to the tonal pattern alarm. Provisions are made for multi-lingual pre-recorded voice messages.

Abstract: An evacuation system, which provides enhanced operational control to an operator. In an embodiment, each voice point module capable of playing evacuation messages is implemented as an addressable unit, and an operator can cause different messages to be played on different voice point modules using a central station. The central station enables the operator to play live messages by capturing the voice of the operator and forwarding the voice in the form of voice data. Protocols such as H.323 may be supported on both voice point modules and the central station such that control data can be sent from the central station to the voice point modules. The control data can be used as a basis to provide features such as changing the volume level, storing messages locally in the voice point modules, specifying specific stored message to be played, etc.

Abstract: Disclosed is a cargo container having an audio system, which is capable of broadcasting music and safety regulations for workers when they load or unload freight in or from the cargo container. An audio system is fixed to an inner surface of a corrugated wall of the cargo container. The audio system becomes operated so as to broadcast a radio station when a door of the cargo container is opened. The audio system has a sensor which detects the opening of the door, an automatic power supply switch which automatically supplies electric power from the battery to a printed circuit board when the opening of the door is detected by the sensor, a voice chip which reproduces voice data stored in it when the electric power is supplies through the automatic power supply switch, an a radio signal receiving section which is turned on and receives a radio broadcast signal when data reproductions by the voice chip is completed.

Abstract: A vehicle security system comprises a security module adapted to detect an event, a memory for storing a composition, and a processor coupled to the security module, wherein upon detecting the event the processor selects the composition from the memory and triggers a modulated signal representing the composition, wherein the modulated signal is received by a speaker.

Abstract: To provide a loudspeaker broadcasting system and a loudspeaker broadcasting apparatus which can perform a loudspeaker broadcasting of appropriate contents at each block without reducing sound clearness. Bi-directional speakers 1 which performs sound-reinforcement having high intelligibility, and fire detecting sensors 3 which detect fire occurrence in a tunnel 10a, 10b and send fire occurrence signals are placed in the tunnel 10a, 10b in the tunnel extending direction. In an emergency such as a fire, emergency broadcasting is performed through each bi-directional speaker 1 at each of the predetermined blocks 5 in the tunnel 10a, 10b. The emergency broadcasting is different in contents at each block, and it is alternately performed at the adjacent blocks 5. Further, the frequency components having a long reverberation time is removed from the loudspeaker broadcasting through the bi-directional speaker 1.

Abstract: A doorbell having interchangeable chimes and interchangeable decorative covers is displayed for sale to the retail public such that a customer may easily choose a specific chime sound and combine it with a specific decorative cover enabling the customer to buy a doorbell meeting the customer's aesthetic requirement. The interchangeable bases and covers may include complimentary attachment parts that allow any cover to be mounted to any of a plurality of bases of differing size and in different orientations.

Abstract: A device to audibly verify the activation of a solid state relay. The device includes an audio output device that is coupled to the solid state relay to produce a sound when the solid state relay is activated. The sound produced by the audio output devices emulates the sound of an electromechanical relay when switched.

Abstract: A system for monitoring movement of a person. The system includes a mobile transmitter that is affixed to the person to be monitored. The transmitter transmits radio signals to a receiver that may be used to track the person. The receiver may include an indicator that shows when the receiver is proximate the person. The indicator changes intensity as the distance between the transmitter and receiver changes.

Abstract: A portable security alarm system including a movement detecting and signal transmitting member for mounting on or proximate to the object whose movement is to be detected, a signal receiving and alarm generating member for receiving a signal from the movement detecting and signal transmitting member and producing a security response, a remote control for actuating and deactuating the signal receiving and alarm generating member, an environmental monitoring member for sensing an environmental condition and providing a signal to the signal receiving and alarm generating member, a visual information gathering member for gathering visual information and providing a signal to the signal receiving and alarm generating member, an audio output member for receiving a signal from the signal receiving and alarm generating member and generating an audio output, and components for delivering a security notification to remote recipients. A security network that includes the alarm system is also disclosed.

Abstract: A brake early warning system for a vehicle is disclosed. The vehicle has (1) a steering column assembly (500) having a plurality of components, and (2) a vehicle broadcast system, which includes brake lights, a horn, and headlights. The brake early warning system includes a movement sensor (20) which is connected to the steering column assembly (500), and senses relative movement between two of the steering column assembly (500) components when a driver braces against the steering wheel (508) in an urgent braking situation. In such cases, movement sensor (20) senses relative movement, and generates a signal which activates the brake lights, horn, and headlights, thereby alerting any following driver, as well as others in the vicinity, that the vehicle has commenced rapid braking. In a second embodiment the brake early warning system includes inputs of both the weight of the driver and the force applied to the steering wheel, both of which affect the behavior of the system.

Abstract: A light-to-speech transforming circuit is coupled to an indicator light of a legacy security system. The transforming circuit detects flashes of the indicator light, interprets sequences of the flashes, and correlates the sequences to specific events monitored by the security system. The events are then correlated to speech segment data of various audible announcements. The segment data is used to drive a speaker, so that the user can hear the announcements. The transforming circuit can include a learning feature, whereby it prompts the user to cause specific events of the security system, such as zone violations, and then prompts the user to speak the announcements corresponding to the events. The transforming circuit records the flashing sequences and the announcements corresponding to the sequences, and delivers the announcements when the corresponding events occur during operation of the security system.

Abstract: A sound variation indication apparatus includes a comparison element, an interval checker, and an indication generator. The comparison element receives an audio signal and compares it to a check value to provide a status signal indicating a presence and absence of an expected sound input. The interval checker detects the status signal at predetermined intervals, to provide an interval output. The indication generator generates an indication if the interval output is an absence representation. A process of generating an indication on absence of a sound input includes providing an audio signal based on a sound input and comparing the audio signal to a check value, providing a status signal indicating a presence and absence of the sound input. A status signal value is determined at predetermined intervals, to provide an interval output. An indication is generated if the interval output is an absence representation.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a system and method for the deactivation of an alarm system situated within a home or business environment by the use of a sound-activated wireless key device. This present invention describes a wireless key that “hears” a pulsing, warning tone, identifies the tone and automatically sends out a signal to disarm the alarm system thus allowing for the automatic hands-free deactivation of the alarm system. The invention comprises “listening” circuitry that is able to identify the sound of the audio warning, even when the invention is located within clothing or a handbag.

Abstract: A hazard alarm includes: a detector for detecting a hazard parameter; trigger logic; and reset logic. The trigger logic triggers an alarm state when the measured parameter reaches a predetermined trigger threshold. The alarm state is maintained until a reset is successfully performed. The reset logic, upon a reset command, resets the alarm state if the measured parameter is below a predetermined reset threshold, and inhibits resetting of the alarm state if the measured parameter is above the predetermined reset threshold.

Abstract: When an emergency push-button is depressed, an alarm sound output part in a portable telephone set outputs a high volume level alarm sound, and a flashlight part 8 emits light or flickered light. Furthermore, at the time of the light emission from the flashlight part 8, a camera 7 picks up an evidence photograph and causes the picked-up photograph to be automatically transmitted to a predetermined mail address of police or a guard company.

Abstract: A wireless communications device that alerts a user to a predetermined event includes a transceiver, a speaker, memory, and a controller. First and second pre-recorded audio files are stored in the memory, and may be, for example, pre-recorded music and the user's pre-recorded voice. When the device receives an incoming call, for example, the controller combines the first and second audio files to form a combined audio signal. The controller then plays the combined audio signal through the speaker for the user as a personalized ring tone.

Abstract: A modular intrusion detection system that includes a base unit having a primary intrusion detection device and a housing. The primary housing includes a base housing section and an outer cover. The base housing section includes a first mounting interface. A plurality of different secondary housing sections having a second mounting interface which can be attached to the first mounting interface of the base housing section are provided. The secondary housing sections may have a functional device, such as a CCD camera or a microphone, associated therewith. The camera or microphone may be activated to an alarm signal generated by the intrusion detection device. A plurality of different base units, each having an intrusion detection device, may also be provided wherein each of the base units is attachable to each of the secondary housings, and secondary devices associated therewith, to provide flexibility in assembling individual devices.

Abstract: A method and system for warning an operator of a vehicle of a vehicular task that is being performed beyond a pre-determined time for execution of the task involving incrementally increasing audio and visual warnings as the task continues to be performed past the pre-determined time.

Abstract: An identification system including at least one transmitter configured to transmit a signal comprising an associated identification code. A receiver is configured to receive the signal and establish a comparison indication based on comparison of the identification code with a reference code. The comparison indication is positive if the identification code matches the reference code. A method of transmitting an identification code, receiving the identification code, and comparing it to a reference code is also provided.

Abstract: A smoke detector having a sound quality enhancement chamber for increasing the sound quality of alarms produced by a sound producing device in the smoke detector. In at least one embodiment, the sound quality enhancement chamber is formed by a housing and a plate such that the chamber is in communication with a sound producing device, which may be a speaker, for producing sounds, such as a human voice, with enhanced quality. The sound quality enhancement chamber acts as a spring and increases the quality of the sounds produced by the sound producing device of the smoke detector. In at least one embodiment, the sound quality enhancement chamber enables a smoke detector to emit a parent's voice that is clear and easily understandable.

Abstract: An apparatus to enhance command communication in a high-noise environment between a user and user vehicle mobile data computer system, program product, and associated methods are provided. The apparatus includes a vehicle computer adapted to be positioned within a user vehicle and a vehicle computer application program stored in memory of the vehicle computer adapted to communicate with a remote host computer. A voice command interface program product is also stored in the memory and is in communication with the mobile data communications application program.

Abstract: A system for tracking and monitoring at least one item in an environment includes at least one transmitter assigned a unique identification number for the item and attached to the item and at least one receiver for receiving a first data packet which includes the unique identification number from the transmitter. At least one node computer controls the receiver, receives a second data packet which includes said unique identification number and direction-of-travel code from the receiver, and determines a location of the item from the direction-of-travel code. A controller computer controls the node computer, receives the unique identification number and the location of the item from the node computer, and stores the unique identification number and the location of the item. A central computer facility coordinates the controller computer and collects and stores the unique identification number and the location of the item for exportation from the system.

Abstract: The present invention offers a baby bottle combined with a musical teddy bear. The item comprises two elements: a baby bottle and a holder. The holder includes two parts: a toy—a stuffed teddy bear and a plastic ring on the top of the head of the teddy bear. Teddy bear would play music and flash eyes while being held in a drinking position. Inside a teddy bear there is installed a totally new kind of device for playing music and flashing eyes. This item can solve many problems aroused during the process of feeding a child and can improve comfort in a child and caregiver's daily life.

Abstract: A speech or phrase emitting celebration device, in the nature of a piñata, includes a longitudinal axial channel within which is placed a complementally sized integrated circuit (“IC”) including a library of pre-programmed voice chips having phrases selected by random. The circuit is responsive to impacts or shocks upon a fanciful housing of the device sufficient to actuate a shock sensor switch thereof. A speaker, in electrical communication with the circuit board of the integrated circuit, is in mechanical communication with a speaker at an end of the channel so that the emitted phrase may be heard by those in the vicinity of the device. A hollow cylindrical sensor may be disposed within the interior channel to provide appropriate input to the shock sensor switch, or a more sensitive discrete element sensor may be used.

Abstract: A personal rescue signal system (PRSS) for quickly finding a transmitting target. More specifically, the PRSS includes as a personal rescue signal device (PRSD), worn on a person and emitting a radio frequency signal in an emergency condition. The PRSD is radio frequency coupled to a receiver within a handheld device and/or base unit. The handheld device would serve in directionally locating the PRSD source signal and also for range finding of the PRSD. One main intention of the PRSS is for rescue of firefighters down, or other operations where human life can quickly be put into harm's way.

Abstract: A surveillance system featuring a camera that is directed to focus on a location where a noise has been generated and display an image of the location. The system includes an omnidirectional camera having a lens for viewing a 360° field of view, a visual memory for storing visual data at addresses representing the field of view, an omnidirectional audial detector for detecting the direction of location of a source of a signal, a display selection means for selecting visual data from one of said addresses in said visual memory corresponding to said direction of location and a monitor for displaying said selected visual data. In one embodiment, the audial detector is a plurality of detectors arranged on a circle. A register stores the address of the detector closest to the source and this address is transmitted to the display controller which conditions a system monitor to display an image representing the selected visual data.

Abstract: This invention relates to a mobile communication device (200) having a functional cover (202) for controlling sound applications by means of measuring motion of said functional cover (202). In particular, the present invention relates to a functional cover (202) for a mobile communication device (200) measuring motion and providing a control signal to the mobile communication device (200) in accordance herewith.

Abstract: An audio safety apparatus for vehicles and equipment that operate in a reverse mode using Electro-mechanical or mechanical means adaptable to various electro-mechanical applications. The apparatus is used for cars, buses, trucks, planes or any other vehicle that moves and has a battery as part of its power supply. The audio safety apparatus has a backing safety system, a school bus stop sign arm safety system, and a driver information safety system. Through a system of hardware connected to a CPU (central processing unit), a sound chip and a waterproof speaker, the apparatus is programmed to recognize dangerous vehicle situations and alert the operator of a vehicle in an audible manner before accidents occur. The audio safety apparatus includes a driver inspection program for use before the vehicle is put in operation or put to motion.

Abstract: The invention is an modified audible signal, such as a piezoelectric noise-making and audible signaling device, which further includes a hydrophobic covering material, such as polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). The hydrophobic covering material is known to be water resistant, but does not effect the sound of the audible signaling device, thereby delaying or preventing the failure of the audible signaling device from water corrosion.

Abstract: The present invention deals with a plurality of transceivers which are programmable. The plurality of transceivers functions to permit, for example, a hearing impaired individual or a visually impaired individual to receive communications which indicate the source of the communication through the programming of one or more of the transceivers.

Abstract: A testing device is operative to sense or monitor a radiated field emitted by an igniter for heating equipment such as an oil burner and to indicate the detection corresponding to a normal operating state of the igniter.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a wheelchair and an underseat alarm system therefor.

Abstract: An apparatus for taking an electronic message from a user and actively notifying a receiver is disclosed. The apparatus includes a message input device for receiving the electronic message from the user, a message storing device for storing the electronic message therein, a message playing device for playing the electronic message, a vibration detector for detecting a certain level of vibration, a controller electrically connected to the message input device, the message storing device, the message playing device and the vibration detector, and a case accommodating the message input device, the message storing device, the message playing device, the vibration detector and the controller therein. The vibration detector sends out a trigger signal in response to the vibration, and the controller allows the electronic message to be read out from the message storing device and played by the message playing device in response to the trigger signal.

Abstract: A safety device, comprising at least one sensor for sensing the presence of an object and a warning system that emits at least one precreated verbal warning message after the sensor senses an object. The warning system includes a control system that allows a user to select at least one of a plurality of precreated verbal warning messages for emission. In another embodiment, a safety device comprises a safety cone, a sensor disposed on the safety cone and that senses an object, and a warning system disposed at the top of the safety cone and that emits at least one warning signal after the sensor senses an object.

Abstract: An apparatus for communicating with law enforcement during vehicle travel and associated methods are provided. The apparatus preferably includes a department server in communication with a vehicle computer and also in communication with a plurality of law enforcement databases. The vehicle computer includes mobile data communications software and officer communications enhancing software. The officer communications enhancing software preferably includes one or more of an audio communicator to transmit enhanced audio law enforcement data received from the mobile data communications software to the officer, an incident form completing enhancer to generate and populate incident forms, and a quick mapper to quickly generate and display a site overview map such as a top plan street view to an officer.

Abstract: A method and system for identifying individuals, accessing and updating background information and directing appropriate personal interactions through use of an automatically readable tag, such as an RFID tag. Information encoded on the tag is communicated to a computer system that has a database, wherein identification information encoded on the tag is used as a key to retrieve the relevant background information and communicate that information to a portable display device. The system also takes a photograph of the individual being identified and automatically sends the photograph to the portable display device.

Abstract: This invention allows for an electronic doll-house to be constructed at a reasonable cost that provides the ability to identify the location of a number of figures that a child may manipulate in a play space. By use of IR communications and the characteristics of such a communications link, a doll-house is provided that combines the ability to be built at a relatively low cost with the advantages of not requiring physical contacts, special purpose RFID chips and transceiving arrangements, or other expensive sensing methods. In brief, the invention makes use of an IR transmitter that sends a unique ID code upon user activation which allows for power savings, the elimination of contact points or RF components, the localization of the signal to a room in a doll-house, and by use of reflecting paths, allows relative independence of orientation.

Abstract: A system and method for controlling onboard equipments, which can make a driver certainly understand operations of alarms corresponding to various functions of a vehicle, and which can make the functions of the vehicle give full effects. When drive guide data corresponding to a set vehicle condition and simulated vehicle condition data concerning the set vehicle condition are stored in a memory (700), and a navigation device (400) plays the drive guide data stored in the memory (700), a system control unit (100) makes a vehicle condition advise unit (200) warn a driver of the set vehicle condition by a simulation on the basis of the simulated vehicle condition data. Accordingly, the driver can know an alarm operation of the vehicle condition advise unit corresponding to the set vehicle condition by the simulation.

Abstract: An image and audio processing system includes a housing, a storage medium, a non-contact audio storage device installed inside the housing for storing audio data in the storage medium by wireless communication technology, and a print device installed inside the housing for printing an image on the storage medium.

Abstract: Messages can be sent to a pet using a hand-held remote transmitter and a receiver that is attached to the pet. The receiver can record voice commands. When the transmitter sends a signal, the receiver picks up the signal and plays the recorded command to the pet. The receiver can also have one or more lights mounted on it that can be turned on by pushing buttons on the transmitter.

Abstract: A refrigerator adapted for playing and recording voice messages is disclosed. The refrigerator includes a cabinet for enclosing a refrigerating compartment, the cabinet having a door for providing access to the refrigerating compartment, a message center operatively connected to the cabinet. The message center includes a speaker, a microphone, and a display.