Abstract: A method and apparatus for alerting an individual that an appliance has completed a specified event. This invention consists of assigning distinct audio signals to events performed by an appliance and distributing the distinct audio signals throughout a local area network upon the occurrence of an event. Each device would then selectively emit the distinct audio signal received. The devices may communicate which each other over conventional connections such as a home's existing electrical system, radio frequencies, intra red light, local area network wiring, or any combination of connections. The invention may incorporate the use of a device that is specifically placed or carried by a user resulting in the user being informed of all events occurring within the network. The transmission of the signal may be directly from device to device or may incorporate a distribution device to monitor events and control which devices emit the signal.

Abstract: An alarm system for portable chemical monitors comprising a housing configured for attachment to the portable chemical monitor having a twist lock mechanical connector capable of connecting to the portable chemical monitor, at least three pins mounted within the housing that are capable of inserting into the portable chemical monitor, a circuit board electrically connected to the pins and capable of receiving electrical signals from the chemical monitor, and a ceramic disk supported within the housing having an indicator means for generating vibrational movement that provides a audible sound. A method for monitoring for the presence of chemical agents is disclosed.

Abstract: Overhead garage door position monitoring systems including one or more smoke detector sensors, carbon monoxide sensors, thermal sensors and/or magnetic sensors to measure the smoke concentration level, the carbon monoxide level, the temperature and the position of an overhead garage door, respectively. These sensors are controlled by and report the status of parameters to a controller, such as a microcontroller. This controller is programmed to report the status of parameters through, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD) and/or a voice synthesizer and an audio speaker.

Abstract: This invention relates to a novel electronic case for carrying credit cards and the like. More particularly, this invention pertains to a novel electronic case which accounts for the credit cards held in the case and sounds an alarm and activates an alert light if one or more of the cards is missing from the case. A portable electronic card carrying case comprising: (a) a case which can be opened to reveal the interior of the case, and closed to conceal the interior of the case; (b) at least one card receptacle housed in the interior of the case; (c) a power supply associated with the case; (d) a microprocessor associated with the case, the microprocessor being powered by the power supply; (e) an electronic sensor powered by the power supply and monitored by the microprocessor, and adapted to detect the presence or absence of a card in the card receptacle; and (f) an alarm which is activated when a card is not returned to its card receptacle, and the case is closed.

Abstract: A toy that activates an indicator while an end user consumes an edible substance. The toy includes a first electrode and a second electrode that are connected to the indicator. An electrical path is created between the first and second electrodes while the end user is consuming the consumable substance to close an electrical circuit with the indicator. The closed circuit activates the indicator.

Abstract: A programmable sound effects device which utilizes a motion-sensitive mechanism for selecting unique sound effects. The device is comprised of an electronic motion-sensitive actuator, a sound effect storage media for storing a plurality of predetermined sound effects, and a playback mechanism for audibly emitting the motion-activated sound effects. This device is designed to be used with amusement and entertainment type products such as toys, games, dolls, and props, with exemplary uses in toy swords, drumsticks, magic wands, and the like. A preferred embodiment is comprised of a unit which is physically incorporated into the handle of a toy sword. As the user moves the toy sword in a predefined manner, the motion-sensitive actuator senses the motion and plays out a plurality of unique sound effects as a function of the user's movements. The motion-detection algorithm which triggers the different sound effects is programmable.

Abstract: A barrier opening security system is provided for use with a barrier having an opening. Also included is a deterrent device mounted on the barrier adjacent to the opening for maintaining the opening unobstructed and further for deterring the passage of a being therethrough upon the actuation thereof.

Abstract: A door mat includes a mat element disposed on top of a base which includes a bottom portion for engaging with a supporting surface. A sound generating device is secured to the bottom of the base and includes a switch button extended downward for engaging with the supporting surface. A spring may bias the switch button away from the supporting surface for allowing the switch button of the sound generating device to be actuated and depressed to energize the sound generating device when the base is depressed toward the supporting surface against the spring.

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 120 VAC 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 multilingual pre-recorded voice messages.

Abstract: Pictorially adorned drinking container (10) having integral audio playback, including a two-part structure with an upper part forming a drinking cup (12) and a lower or base part forming a chamber (16) for containing electronically recorded data (38) and means for using the data (18) to generate an audible message and/or music segment. The two parts are removably connected together to form a single unit. Affixed to the exterior of the unit by painting, silk-screening or other graphics replication process is the depiction f a memorable sports event or the related to the depicted event and an electronic mechanism which, upon user actuation (54, 48), plays back (50) the sound track so as to enable the cup user to relive the experience or event depicted (60).

Abstract: A bag with sound emitting device including a bag portion defined by an open upper end and a closed lower end. The open upper end has a pair of handles extending upwardly therefrom in a spaced relationship on opposing sides of the bag. A pair of metal plates are secured to interior surfaces of the handles. One of the metal plates has a pair of contacts extending outwardly therefrom whereby engagement of the metal plate and the pair of contacts together creates a closed circuit and separation of the metal plate from the pair of contacts creates an open circuit. A sound emitting device is secured within an interior of the bag. The sound emitting device has a wire extending outwardly therefrom and coupling with the metal plate having the pair of contacts. The sound emitting device transmits an audible signal upon the separation of the metal plates.

Abstract: An audio signaling device designed for mounting on spring-loaded rodent traps. The device audibly signals when its associated trap has been triggered. Upon reliable detection of triggering, an audio signal is emitted as an initial audio tone sequence followed by an audio beacon mode; wherein operation alternates between long periods of very low-power silent operation and short audio tone sequences. The device may be reliably attached to traps of various sizes and designs, while the power provided by the battery powers it for extended periods. Additionally the signaling device can be programmed to generate unique audio tunes while being easily manufactured from low-cost parts.

Abstract: An audible traffic signal adding apparatus for visually impaired persons includes two speakers and a control section. The two speakers are disposed at two ends of a crosswalk. The control section navigates a visually impaired person crossing the crosswalk by alternately outputting different sounds as in "back and forth call" operation from the two speakers disposed at the two ends of the crosswalk to the visually impaired person for a period during which crossing is permitted.

Abstract: An apparatus for and a method of providing a visual and/or audible indication of a numerical quantity. The quantity may be derived from any source such as an analog or digital quantity. The invention has utility in any application wherein it is desirable to visually and/or audibly display the magnitude of a quantity. An example system is described which provides a visual and/or audible indication of the received signal strength (RSSI) in an RF receiver. A visual indicator such as an LED is flashed a number of times corresponding to the magnitude of an input signal. Alternatively, or in combination, an audible indicator such as a buzzer can be beeped a number of times corresponding to the magnitude of the input signal. A digitized quantity to be indicated can be calculated by or input to a microcontroller or other processor that is suitably programmed to convert the magnitude of the digitized quantity to a number representing the number of flashes or beeps.

Abstract: Intended for use in law enforcement vehicles; an invention composed of a medium to store and means to playback, through a speaker, audio message reminders concerning responsibilities, proper conduct, protection of personal and citizens rights and esprit de corps.The invention contains control circuitry so that the announcements are timed to prompt an optimum response from the officers.

Abstract: A baby bottle attachment has a cylindrical housing containing electronic integrated circuitry that removably attaches to a baby bottle. The bottle attachment functions as a room monitor for monitoring the sounds of an infant, as an educational device that plays custom-recorded or pre-recorded educational messages and sounds, and as an amusement device that plays various sounds to educate and amuse the infant. A base unit containing a battery charger and an FM receiver may also be provided for holding the bottle attachment, recharging its battery, and serving as a remote receiver for monitoring sounds transmitted by the bottle attachment when in use.

Abstract: An audio system is provided for reminding a person exiting a building to possess a key. Included is a speaker for emitting audible audio signals. Also provided is a detection mechanism for indicating that a door of a doorway has been opened. Control circuitry is connected between the speaker and the detection mechanism. The control circuitry is adapted to emit audio signals via the speaker reminding a person exiting a building to possess a key only upon the detection mechanism indicating that the door of the doorway has been opened.

Abstract: A speaker controller for a fire alarm system including a control panel and at least one speaker to broadcast tone and/or voice signals during a fire alarm condition acts between the control panel and the at least one speaker. The speaker controller includes a signal recognizer to monitor tone and/or voice signals conveyed to the speaker. Manually actuable switching means are provided to disable the speaker. A reset circuit is responsive to the signal recognizer and resets the switching means thereby to enable the speaker upon a predetermined signal condition being detected by the signal recognizer.

Abstract: An expandable and modular intercom and annunciation system includes a plurality of signal sources, such as smoke detectors, breakage detectors, intrusion detectors, telecommunication detectors (such as ringers), and gas detectors. The system further includes a plurality of originating interface modules, each respectively coupled to a signal source for receiving signals from the corresponding plurality of signal sources and for converting the signals to common communication protocol signals. The system also includes a receiving interface module coupled to the plurality of originating interface modules for communication via the common communication protocol, and an intercom and annunciation unit coupled to the receiving interface module to receive the common communication protocol signals. The intercom unit has a processor, a memory, and a user interface including an audio output.

Abstract: A device and method for monitoring a vehicle storage compartment for the presence of a confined individual includes at least one sensor adapted for sensing the presence of a living being confined in a vehicle storage compartment and generating a sensor signal in response thereto and a controller coupled to the at least one sensor and generating an actuation signal in response to the sensor signal. The actuation signal may be used to automatically open the vehicle storage compartment and/or to cause an audible warning device coupled to the controller to produce a predetermined warning in response to the actuation signal. The actuation signal may also be used to produce a visual signal which draws attention to the vehicle.

Abstract: A container for a beverage or other foods or household goods includes a wall with a display generating digital images. A controller is also provided associated with a memory, said memory storing digital imaging data. The controller selectively retrieves the data from the memory and generates electrical signals to the display. Switches, sensors and other selector elements may be provided to activate the display and to select the images to be shown. Additionally miniature speakers may also be provided which cooperate with the display to show multimedia presentations.

Abstract: The living condition of a resident is prehended by a sensor disposed in a room. Identification information and vital information transmitted from a portable transreceiver carried by the resident are monitored. An audio signal favored by the resident is sequentially reproduced while the level is adjusted in accordance with the current living condition and physical condition of the resident.

Abstract: The distress call emitting device comprises an earthquake sensor for detecting an earthquake of a prescribed intensity or greater and/or a receiver for receiving a radio signal from a remote transmitter. Therefore, even when the user is unable to call for a help, the distress call emitting device of the present invention produces a distress call in his behalf by sound and/or light. The distress call can be initiated either by detecting the intensity of the earthquake or by operating a remote transmitter which may be carried by the user. If the device is linked to a telephone line, the distress call can be made also through a telephone line. Thus, even when the user is too weak to call for a help by his own effort, the device is either automatically activated by an earthquake or remotely activated by pressing a switch on a portable transmitter.

Abstract: An electronic intrusion detection system for monitoring environments having at least one electronic sensor responsive to movements occurring in the environment and adapted to modify at least one characteristic of its electrical output in response to the presence of a moving body in the environment. An alarm is signaled when the modification meets a predetermined condition. A transducer is provided for continuously converting the modification of the output from the electric sensor into a signal that can be perceived by a human being. An alarm control unit connected to the alarm and transducer forwards the signals to the surveillance personnel through a telephone line.

Abstract: A monitoring system for a patient in a bed having a room number that provides a signal to a nurses station when the patient exits the bed including a sensor pad positioned on the bed responsive to the weight of a patient, a control unit adjacent the bed to which the sensor pad is connected, a display unit positioned adjacent the nurses station having a room number visual display and an audio signal generator and a radio signal transmitter in the control unit that transmits a radio signal upon actuation of the sensor pad and a radio receiver in the display unit that responds to sound an audio alarm and to visually display the patients room number.

Abstract: A remote recording unit, which is worn by a child, monitors the ambient sounds in a day care center (for example) and records selected sound bytes that are played back on a docking unit. The time duration between sound bytes is periodic and re-programmable. The remote recording unit is "childproof" and tamper-evident to generate an internal "flag" which will be displayed on the docking unit, indicating that the remote recording unit was removed by an unauthorized person. The device is equally applicable to a patient, older person or pet left in the care of a third person or persons or placed in a facility or institution.

Abstract: A vehicle remote control system includes a remote transmitter to be carried by a user, a receiver at the vehicle for receiving signals from the remote transmitter, an audible signal generator at the vehicle, and a controller connected to the receiver and being operable in response to a received signal. Moreover, the controller is also preferably connected to the audible signal generator for-causing generation of an audible signal based upon a received signal, and wherein the audible signal has at least one characteristic based on the transmission distance so that the audible signal is less intrusive for a shorter transmission distance. For example, the controller may determine the transmission distance based upon the received signal strength. In addition, the at least one characteristic may comprise one or more of a volume, duration, or frequency of the audible signal. The audible signal generation may be used for a vehicle security system, a remote keyless entry system, and/or a remote start system.

Abstract: A protective device for storage and transport containers comprises, in accordance with the present invention, a housing or frame carrying a sensor for detecting orientation, an attachment element for securing the housing or frame to a container, an alarm mounted to the housing or frame and operatively coupled to the sensor for generating a cognizable alert signal upon detection by the sensor that the container is in an orientation other than a predetermined preferred orientation, and an activation element mounted to the housing or frame and operatively connected to the sensor and/or the alarm for enabling operation of that component after securing of the housing or frame to the container. The activation element preferably includes a switching component for enabling operation of the alarm only after securing of the housing or frame to the container.

Abstract: An angle measurement tool having several components that are assembled to form two moving parts wherein one of the parts is a straight edged member combined with angle measurement means and the other is a straight edged member with both straight edge members sharing a common pivot axis with the angle measurement means and simultaneously providing readings of the miter joint angle, the actual angle formed by the legs, the complementary angle of the actual angle and the supplementary angle of the actual angle.

Abstract: A baby bottle includes one or more removably attached handles with a integral voice chips received therein. The integral voice chips is in communication with a mechanical thermostat received within an arcuate portion of the handle that is grasped by a user. Upon the thermostat sensing a preselected temperature, a pair of timer circuits in communication therewith activate the voice chip. When the thermostat detects a temperature below the predetermined value, the timer circuits disable the voice chip after a predetermined duration. Accordingly, when a baby or other user grasps the handle, music or other sound recordings will be automatically emitted. When the baby releases the handle, the voice chip will be deactivated within a predetermined duration thereafter.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for use in wireless alarm systems is provided which enable the simultaneous sounding of any or all alarm devices in the system upon sensing of an alarm condition by at least one of the alarm devices. The alarm devices are battery powered and include a reduced power transmitter which transmits an alarm signal, with an optional address corresponding to the initiating alarm device. The alarm signal is received by a central receiver in communication with a central control unit. The central control unit transmits a broadcast signal to any or all alarm devices in the system via the central transmitter. The broadcast signal optionally includes address information regarding the alarm devices to be activated. Reduced power receivers in the alarm devices receive the broadcast signal, determine if the address corresponds to its own and activates alarm notification and illumination systems accordingly.

Abstract: The present invention provides a decorative door chime particularly well suited to festive occasions. The chime includes a speaker which is suspended on one side of the door by a strap, and a door-knocker actuated trigger switch suspended on the other side of the door by the strap. The strap encloses the electrical connections between the speaker and the trigger. The sound generator plays songs, tone sequences, recorded voice messages, etc., in response to actuation of the trigger switch.

Abstract: An annunciator for training individuals in toilet etiquette and sanitation. The annunciator has a small housing that hangs on the side of the toilet tank, is incorporated into the seat of the toilet or hangs from the flush handle of the toilet. The housing is preferably plastic and can be animal shaped, for example, like a frog. A sound module, batteries, internal sensors, controller and speaker are mounted in the housing and the controller is connected to the external sensors by electrical wires. A small light such as an LED can be included to indicate that the unit is working. The sensors detect a person near the toilet, the position of the toilet seat (lowered or raised), a person sitting on the seat, and operation of the flush handle. The controller decides what messages to play based on the sensed conditions. Additionally, the housing may contain a small separate tape player for music or prerecorded humorous sounds. The tape player is controlled by the annunciator to coordinate with any played messages.

Abstract: A package wrap for decoratively covering a container having side walls defining an interior space for carrying a product therein, includes a flexible thin sheet of polymeric material adapted to be shrink-wrapped onto the exterior of the container. An illuminating or a sound producing device is positioned between the flexible thin sheet of polymeric material and the exterior of the container so that when the flexible sheet of polymeric material is shrink-wrapped onto the container, the illuminating device or the sound device will be held securely in place. The illuminating device is adapted to be illuminated upon activation by a pressure, motion, or acoustically sensitive switch. The sound device is adapted to produce an audible signal upon activation by a pressure or motion sensitive switch. When the illuminating device is activated, illumination therefrom will be visible through the flexible thin sheet of polymeric material to enhance and highlight a printed pattern on the exterior of the package wrap.

Abstract: An apparatus for monitoring the positional status of a moveable gate in an entryway and capable of providing a warning when that status is altered with a programmable audio voice message.

Abstract: A voice message system for motor vehicles includes an audio reproduction and recording system, and a control that interfaces the audio system with the vehicle function controls. Preferably, an ignition switch sensor signal received at the control initiates a command for playback of current time or periodic time designated messages. The control may also interface with a sensor signal responsive to an air bag diagnostic switch for actuating the recording of vocalized instructions or comments. In addition, a single actuator for immediate recording capability, as well as a microphone for receiving vocalized messages are conveniently packaged in the steering control mechanism.

Abstract: A light-activated, sound-providing device (122) is slideably received in a cavity (64) formed in an insert (52) of a size and shape for receipt in the hollow volume of a container (10) with a friction fit. The insert (52) has a volume generally corresponding to the volume of consumer food product which would normally be received in the container (10). The provisions (50) for retaining the sound-providing device (122) includes a paperboard medallion (60) secured to the insert (52) including text and graphics (62). In a preferred form, the sound-providing device (122) is not activated while in the interior of the closed container (10) but when the container (10) is opened by removal of its closure layer (13), the sound-providing device (122) is activated providing a sound for prize announcement, attention getting, or a similar function.

Abstract: The invention is a base unit that may be used in combination with beverage container holders. The base unit is connected to the beverage container holder by a press or friction fit, or by an adhesive, so that different theme beverage container holders may be used with the same base. The base may include electronic circuitry to control such functions as sound, light and motion which may be actuated by a ON-OFF switch, or a switch that actuates when the base and beverage container holder are placed on, or lifted from a surface.

Abstract: A flash and voice warning system generally comprises a power supply with charging circuit, a smoke sensor power supply and auto reset circuit, a smoke sensor (or manual operation), a circuit for converting current to voltage, a single-chip microprocessor, a 60 Hz square wave generator, a control circuit, a buffer, a current amplifier, a high-voltage circuit, N-discharge tube circuits, N-triggering circuits, a flash lamp direction control circuit, and a voice circuit. The smoke sensor is arranged in an appropriate position of a building and the other circuits are mounted within a control box made of fire-proof material. Hence, the flash and voice warning system for fire accidents can direct people where to flee from the fire in case of fire accidents.

Abstract: An alarm system circuit comprises a logic array comprising a piezoelectric transducer driven by one or more Schmitt triggers. The logic array operates at substantially resonant frequency, and the circuit provides a feedback loop to sustain the oscillations of the logic array to drive the transducer. In one preferred embodiment, the array includes an additional Schmitt trigger causing the circuit to toggle on and off, thus making a pulsating tone.

Abstract: An apparatus is provided for the automatic advance warning of imminent automatic door closure to passengers of public transportation vehicles. Comprised of a panel mounted above the automatic door, comprising an alarm light, a message display area, and a speaker capable of producing audible alarm warnings as well as audible verbal warning messages, it is capable of warning incoming passengers that automatic door closure is imminent. When a door close signal is received from existing door control circuitry, the apparatus is activated and it produces the audible and visual warning messages. After an appropriate delay period the audible and visual warning devices are deactivated and a door close signal is issued to the existing automatic doors and associated door safety guard circuitry.

Abstract: A sound signal generating device capable of generating an alarm sound signal and voice signal for a prolonged period of time having a power supply, a memory for storing data in relation to a help sound signal digitally, a D/A converting circuit for converting the stored data into an analog signal, a sound output circuit for outputting the help sound signal in response to the analog signal and a switching circuit for selectively applying the power supply to the sound output circuit when being activated by a control signal. The sound signal generating device also has a control circuit for generating a first control signal to enable a successive reading of the stored data and activate the switching circuit at the same time of the reading and for generating a second control signal when the reading is completed to deactivate the first control signal for a predetermined interval and then reset the same.

Abstract: Described are novel passenger conveyance vehicles and passenger transit systems which are configured to transmit signals which, when properly received and converted, provide intelligible non-visual communication to current and/or prospective passengers.

Abstract: A motor driven bell for producing a sound of a bell in a manner that a hammer member hits a gong through the use of a driving force of a motor. The motor driven bell comprises a supporting shaft A1 born on a front side between a pair of opposed frames, a forward and backward swingable shaft A2 suspended by a suspending arm A3 under the supporting arm A1, a supporting shaft B1 born at a rear portion between the pair of frames, and a forward and backward swingable shaft B2 suspended by a suspending arm B3 under the supporting shaft B1, a forward and backward swingable hammer member held by the swingable shafts A2, B2, and a gong to be hit with the hammer member. A crank mechanism is provided for converting rotation of a shaft of the drive motor into a swinging motion of the swingable shaft B2, thereby hitting the gong by the hammer member to produce the bell sound.

Abstract: An object detecting apparatus includes at least one transmitter and receiver pair having a transmitter for transmitting waves and a receiver for detecting reflected waves caused by objects reflecting the transmitted waves. The receiver outputs reflected wave detected signals in response to detecting reflected waves. A control unit is connected to the at least one transmitter and receiver pair for providing transmit control signals to the transmitter and for receiving and evaluating the reflected wave detected signals from the receiver. The control unit also determines a distance between the receiver and the object. There is also provided at least one speaker connected to the control unit for providing an audible signal.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for detecting drowsiness and awakening the user. The load on a piezo-ceramic eye blinking detection unit changes upon blinking activity resulting in an electrical output. This electrical output is then processed and compared to a predetermined time interval for blinking. An alarm is sounded if the processed electrical output is less than the predetermined time interval.

Abstract: There is provided a building emergency simulator which can graphically and operationally reproduce various building fire alarm/voice communication/smoke control and other systems and provide means for training personnel to successfully operate systems and manage emergency situations. The emergency simulator includes a computer, screen and projection unit for viewing images received from the computer, software for creating an image of various building emergency systems and programmable for creating a simulation of a response of the building emergency systems to a desired emergency situation, microphone and handset and a trackball pointing device for interacting with the software program.

Abstract: A beverage cover includes an insulating sleeve receiving an insert and supporting a sound generating device. The sound generating device is protected from moisture such as condensation and the like, is selectively operable, and may contain a melody or other preprogrammed audio track. The beverage container may thus be used for amusement or entertainment as well as to reinforce promotional messages associated with distribution of the beverage cover.

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.

Abstract: An electronic tag comprising a controller having a microprocessor, RAM, ROM, line drivers and receivers to interface with a main computer terminal. The electronic tag also has a plurality of switches that are connected to the controller so as to allow the input of data. Data may include selling price, description of the item, designer or brand name. Part of the data may be displayed on a display that is connected to the controller. The tag may be equipped with a receiver so that it may receive signals from another location that is connected to a micro-converter that converts the signals into a format recognized by the controller. A transmitter may also be connected to the controller so that information may be transferred from the controller to another location in the system.