Specified Housing Patents (Class 340/693.5)
  • Patent number: 6628209
    Abstract: A vehicle identifier having a substantially flat carrier with at least one labeling field and an identification to identify a vehicle. The identification is applied on the at least one labeling field. An electronic data carrier carries data associated with the identification and is mounted on the identification carrier. The data are at least readable by a reading device in a contact-free manner. A process for manufacturing a vehicle identifier includes, in a first step, adhering an electronic data carrier carrying data associated with an identification to identify a vehicle to a protective covering. Furthermore, the electronic data carrier is applied onto an identification carrier such that the electronic data carrier is sandwiched between the protective covering and the identification carrier.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2003
    Assignee: Siemens AG
    Inventor: Bernhard Rother
  • Publication number: 20030174053
    Abstract: A light and sensor assembly (22) for use with a land craft, watercraft or aircraft. The assembly includes a shell (28) for mounting to, or that is a part of the body (24) of, the vehicle. Internal to the enclosed space defined by the shell is a socket and bulb assembly (30, 32) for providing light and heat. Also disposed in the shell is a transducer (36) that emits or receives energy as part of a proximity sensing assembly. The transducer is encased in a transducer housing (38). The transducer housing is positioned relatively close to the bulb so that the heat emitted by the bulb warms the transducer housing. This heat fosters the evaporation of water off the exposed face of the transducer housing so as to minimize the extent to which this water can inhibit the utility of the transducer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2002
    Publication date: September 18, 2003
    Inventor: Mark Rennick
  • Publication number: 20030174052
    Abstract: The invader detector has a fixing portion attached and fixed within a vehicle, a sensor containing portion for enclosing an ultrasonic sensor for detecting an invader into the vehicle, and an angular displacement shaft for angularly displacing the sensor containing portion. The sensor containing portion can be driven to a detection position for detecting the invader into the vehicle or a storage position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 14, 2003
    Publication date: September 18, 2003
    Applicant: FUJITSU TEN LIMITED
    Inventors: Kouji Oku, Shinji Yakura, Seiji Akiyama
  • Patent number: 6621416
    Abstract: The entire status of a large volume of products in the form of large sheets of fabric (or other flexible material) each wrapped around a core incorporating an electronic tag can easily and accurately be distinguished via an antenna of an external reading device. Each core includes an inner tube 30 containing an electronic tag 20, and an outer tube 10 within which the inner tube 30 is free to move lengthwise. When the two tubes are viewed in a plane orthogonal to a common longitudinal axis, the cross section of the inner tube is preferably complementary to that of the outer tube such that an outer surface of the inner tube 30 is surrounded by a similarly shaped internal surface of the outer tube 10, and the inner tube is constrained to move inside the outer tube along said common axis. A weight may be provided within the inner tube 30. Alternatively, the inner tube may be filled with a liquid of a slightly high specific gravity so that the electronic tag 20 floats.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2003
    Assignee: Leading Information Technology Institute, Inc.
    Inventor: Eiji Okamura
  • Publication number: 20030169158
    Abstract: A display monitor system for mounting in an automobile, the automobile having an interior and a vehicle status indicator with a changeable state, is provided. The display monitor system comprises a monitor, a motor drivingly coupled to the monitor, and a controller operatively connected to the motor for controlling the motor. The monitor has a screen with a viewing surface, and is configured to be movably coupled to the interior of the automobile such that it is movable between a deployed position, in which the viewing surface is visible to the viewer, and a stowed position. The motor is drivingly coupled to the monitor to move the monitor between the stowed position and the deployed position. The controller is adapted to detect a change in the state of the vehicle status indicator and to signal the motor to move the monitor to a predetermined position corresponding to the detected change in the state.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 31, 2003
    Publication date: September 11, 2003
    Inventor: Charles A. Paul
  • Patent number: 6617968
    Abstract: A novel arrangement of a capacitive oil level and temperature sensor specifically provided to be mounted to a drive axle housing of a motor vehicle, is disclosed. The sensor comprises an L-shaped hollow body allowing for a simple fit in current production axles. The L-shaped hollow housing of the oil level sensor comprises a pair of mutually perpendicular legs. A substantially vertically oriented first leg includes an oil level detecting capacitor and adapted to be at least partially immersed in an oil reservoir of the axle housing. An oil temperature detecting thermistor is also disposed within the sensor housing. A second leg is substantially horizontally extending from the axle housing and contains an electronic sensor circuitry electrically coupled to the oil level detecting capacitor and to the thermistor, and is adapted to generate oil level and temperature output signals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2003
    Assignee: Dana Corporation
    Inventors: William Warda Odisho, Daniel R. Coleman, Jim Ziech, Jim Ridge, Steven Lagerquist, Mark Walton
  • Patent number: 6611199
    Abstract: A portable communication device uses a first electrostatic antenna element and a second electrostatic antenna element and circuitry which is coupled to the first antenna element and to the second antenna element and which derives operating power from an electrostatic field in the vicinity of the first and second antenna elements. The electrostatic field may be provided by an array of exciter elements containing both horizontal and vertical exciter elements so that at some point as a communication device is moved across the exciter antenna array, the device will have sufficient power coupled to it to power up and become operational.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2003
    Assignee: Motorola, Inc.
    Inventors: Theodore D. Geiszler, Larry W. Fort, George L. Lauro, Russel E. Walker, Noel H. Eberhardt, Victor Allen Vega, John H. Rolin, Sebastian Thomas Kakkanad, Richard R. Fletcher
  • Patent number: 6608564
    Abstract: A processor-based device having a plurality of memory cartridges secured within a chassis by a lever system. The processor-based device comprises an indication system to indicate memory system operating conditions. Each memory cartridge has a protective assembly to protect memory elements within the memory cartridge when the memory cartridge is removed from the processor-based device. The processor-based device is operable such that at least one memory cartridge may be removed from the processor-based device without affecting operation of the processor-based device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2003
    Assignee: Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P.
    Inventors: Christian H. Post, George D. Megason, Brett D. Roscoe, Paul Santeler, John M. MacLaren, John E. Larson, Jeffery Galloway, Siamak Tavallaei, Tim W. Majni, Robert Allan Lester, Anisha Anand, Eric Rose
  • Publication number: 20030148636
    Abstract: A sensor head component is configured for use with a monitoring tool assembly in the performance of one or functions as part of a monitoring process. The sensor head component is configured to include at least one electrical component for performing the function as well as a memory device upon which operational information for the component is storable. The sensor head component is further configured to include an elongated body within which the electrical component is positionable and a base portion connectable to the elongated housing which further provides for mechanical and electrical engagement in a port for the tool assembly through application of a linear force.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 6, 2002
    Publication date: August 7, 2003
    Inventors: Kent D. Henry, Mark A. Watson, Shanen Onken-Shaw, Todd Hochwitz
  • Publication number: 20030137422
    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.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 21, 2003
    Publication date: July 24, 2003
    Applicant: NEC Corporation
    Inventor: Takahisa Nishibori
  • Publication number: 20030128130
    Abstract: A solar powered radio transmission security camera for Cameraing and guarding environments includes energy capturing solar cells, an electric heating detector connecting to the solar cells, a microprocessor connecting to the electric heating detector, a camera audio and video device with ON and OFF controlled by the microprocessor and a wireless transmission.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 24, 2003
    Publication date: July 10, 2003
    Applicant: EVERSPRING INDUSTRY CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Eric Kao
  • Publication number: 20030107495
    Abstract: A stand alone detector has two housings which are joined by a multi-conductor, aesthetically acceptable electrical cable. One housing can be plugged, via prongs into an available AC receptacle. The other housing can be located at an appropriate location for sensing the respective condition such as heat, gas, smoke, intrusion or position. The housings are releasably coupled to the cable.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 6, 2001
    Publication date: June 12, 2003
    Inventors: Michael A. Swieboda, Thomas E. Meitl, Andrew J. Ivanecky, Lulzim Osmani
  • Patent number: 6577242
    Abstract: An ambient condition detector incorporates a common radiant energy source to carry out a first, sensing, function and a second, information transmitting function. The source can generate a beam to implement a fire sensing function. In addition, modulated radiant energy emitted from the source can be remotely sensed to determine detector status or internal parameter values. In an alternate embodiment, a source of radiant energy can be configured at an exterior periphery of the detector and information can be wirelessly transmitted therefrom using one or more analog modulation processes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2003
    Assignee: Pittway Corporation
    Inventors: Hsing C. Jen, James S. Slater
  • Publication number: 20030102967
    Abstract: A wireless solar energy burglar-proof device has a power source from the nature source. The wireless solar energy burglar-proof device includes an energy capturing device, a battery, an electric heating detector, a microprocessor, a transmission device, a wireless receiving device, an alarming device, and a CCTV device. The electric heating detector and other external detectors are responsible for monitoring a detecting area. When a trigger signal occurs, the microprocessor will be triggered so that the microprocessor will enter into a working condition. Then, the microprocessor drives the CCTV device and the transmission device. Then the signal is transferred to the receiver end or a control center in a high frequency way for real-time monitoring and recording an image so as to monitoring an area, recording signals or actuating the alarming device for preventing the intrusion of burglar.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 30, 2001
    Publication date: June 5, 2003
    Inventor: Eric Kao
  • Publication number: 20030102977
    Abstract: An applause device including a sound generator capable of generating at least one applause sound. The sound generator preferably can generate at least one sound which can indicate approval or disapproval, such as clapping, hollering, whistling, booing, and hissing. A switch permits the user to select between each of the sounds. The device also preferably comprises illumination structure so as to illuminate at least a portion of the sound generation device. In a preferred embodiment, the applause device is shaped substantially, at least in part, in the shape of an open hand. A method for generating applause sounds and a system for remotely controlling the applause device is also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 9, 2003
    Publication date: June 5, 2003
    Inventor: Bradley Gotfried
  • Publication number: 20030102978
    Abstract: The invention comprises a transponder moveably implanted into a pocket on an elastomeric spindle sleeve. The pocket comprises a plastic lining which is formed in the sleeve during cure or vulcanization. The transponder is inserted into the pocket once cure or vulcanization of the sleeve is complete. The open ends of the pocket are then sealed closed with an adhesive. Since the transponder is not molded into or otherwise bonded to the pocket during fabrication the transponder may move within the pocket. This minimizes stresses that may otherwise be transmitted to the transponder during flexing of the sleeve, thereby extending a transponder life. The transponder collects, stores and transmits manufacturing data which can be read by hand-held or stationary electronic devices. The transponder comprises a microchip and antenna in addition to a plastic or paper laminate upon which it is mounted. The transponder is activated by RF energy received by the antenna and therefore needs no battery.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 4, 2001
    Publication date: June 5, 2003
    Inventor: Frank Schwandner
  • Publication number: 20030076236
    Abstract: At least one exemplary embodiment of the present invention comprises a system comprising an antenna capable of receiving radiated energy within a frequency range of approximately 1 MHz to approximately 3 GHz, a broadband amplifier circuit electrically coupled to said antenna, a power source electrically connected to said broadband amplifier circuit; and an indicator electrically connected to said broadband amplifier circuit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 18, 2002
    Publication date: April 24, 2003
    Inventors: Heston Cooksey, Carl Herman Tickle
  • Publication number: 20030071180
    Abstract: A security alarm sensor for mounting between two corner walls is described comprising a housing unit having a housing base for attachment to the corner walls and a selectively detachable housing cover; a circuit board sized for engagement within the housing unit; first and second openings on opposite sides of the housing base; first and second mounting pins selectively movable within the first and second openings wherein said mounting pins have a length and a range of movement so as to have a first position wherein the mounting pins are totally retracted within the housing unit and a second position wherein said mounting pins extend outwardly from the housing unit sufficiently to pierce the corner walls and securely hold the security alarm sensor in place. The installation of the alarm sensor is usually accomplished by first removing the housing cover from the housing base and detaching the printed circuit board prior to mounting the housing base to the corner of the wall.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 25, 2002
    Publication date: April 17, 2003
    Inventors: Richard L. Soloway, Frank J. Ioco
  • Publication number: 20030058100
    Abstract: A data communications system includes a data display (3) in a mask or helmet visor (2) to enable the user to display various data as needed. The system has a mask (1) or a helmet with a voice transmitter (4) with a microphone (5) as well as a transmitter unit (6) on the output side. The system has a receiver unit (15) for the data display (3) on the input side. An evaluating unit (8) is equipped with a receiver unit (7) and a transmitter unit (14) for data communication with the transmitter and receiver units (6, 15) of the mask (1) or of the helmet. The evaluating unit (8) receives the measured data from at least one measuring device (21, 22, 23) via associated transmitter units (11, 12, 13).
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 20, 2002
    Publication date: March 27, 2003
    Inventor: Werner Jumpertz
  • Publication number: 20030058115
    Abstract: An alarm device for signaling when an object reaches a specified temperature. The alarm device includes a thermometer for detecting the temperature of the object. The device further includes a switch element which is closed when the thermometer indicates the specified temperature. The closed switch element triggers an alarm, such as a light or a buzzer, which will signal a person monitoring the temperature that the specified temperature has been reached.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 26, 2001
    Publication date: March 27, 2003
    Inventor: John Keller
  • Publication number: 20030052792
    Abstract: Disclosed is a portable gas alarm device easy to be fabricated as a small-sized one handy to carry and high in convenience for use. The portable gas alarm device comprises a gas alarm device body having a casing flat in whole and a fitting member provided on the casing to fit it to the human body. The gas alarm device body has a control circuit board extending to the direction of the flat plane of the casing, a display mechanism is arranged in a central area on the front surface side of the control circuit board, a gas sensor and an alarm buzzer are arranged on the right and left sides of the display mechanism, and a battery fitting chamber is provided on the back surface side of the circuit board. A vibration generator for alarm may be provided in the gas alarm device body. The fitting member may be one suitable for use in fitting the gas alarm device body to a person's wrist or a person's wear.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 25, 2002
    Publication date: March 20, 2003
    Applicant: Riken Keiki Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Junichi Koyano, Shuji Tajima, Yoshiharu Ao, Masahide Kitamura
  • Publication number: 20030038723
    Abstract: An electrical circuit tracing device comprising a transmitter that includes a pocket for storing the receiver is disclosed. The transmitter further comprises a storage compartment for maintaining a plurality of pre-wired connectors, and a clip which can be used to attach the transmitter to a pocket, a belt, or another carrying device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 22, 2001
    Publication date: February 27, 2003
    Inventors: Thomas M. Luebke, David L. Wiesemann, George R. Steber, Raymond H. Klein
  • Patent number: 6525663
    Abstract: Briefly, an alarm system monitors the entry and exit of a fitting room. Various devices, including cameras for imaging, are used to scan customers as they enter and leave. Using image analysis, analysis of the audio signature of footfalls, and other criteria, the system attempts to match the images of customers leaving with stored images of customers entering. If no match can be found, an alarm signal is generated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2003
    Assignee: Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V.
    Inventors: Antonio Colmenarez, Srinivas Gutta, Miroslav Trajkovic
  • Patent number: 6522253
    Abstract: A locating device for aiding a user in finding an object. The locating device includes a remote unit and a tag unit. The remote unit is retained by the user and includes a first processor for generating an alarm activation signal; a transmitter for transmitting the alarm activation signal; a sound alarm button and a light alarm button. The sound and light alarm buttons are manually activated for controlling the processor to generate the alarm activation signal. The tag unit is releasably secured to the object and includes a tag section and a locking section. The tag section includes identification information concerning the user and a cover for providing selective access to the information. The locking section includes a lock for releasably securing the tag unit to the object; a second processor; an alarm signal generator; and a receiver for receiving the alarm activation signal and activating the alarm generator to generate at least one of a visual and audible alarm signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2003
    Inventor: Kermit Anthony Saltus
  • Patent number: 6522254
    Abstract: A smoke detector is provided with a light emission section holder having a light-emission element and a light receiving section holder having a light-receiving element. The light emission section holder and the light-receiving element are provided in a smoke detection section constituting a smoke detection space. The light emitted from the light-emission element is scattered by smoke entered the smoke detection space. The thus-scattered light is received by the light-receiving element,thereby detecting occurrence of fire. An insect screen is formed from soft fiber having a mesh pattern and is arranged so as to cover the entirety of the smoke detection section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2003
    Assignee: Hochiki Corporation
    Inventor: Naoto Yamano
  • Patent number: 6522261
    Abstract: A multi-candela output device for indicating alarm conditions has an output section, visible after installation, and a mounting section not visible after installation. A candela output level can be set by positioning a manually adjustable member on the mounting section. An indicator of the setting is visible on the output section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2003
    Assignee: Pittway Corporation
    Inventors: Daniel C. Scheffler, Curtis R. Davidson, Joel D. Kwasny
  • Patent number: 6515588
    Abstract: A monitoring and alerting system for luggage including a master unit and a plurality of slave units. Each slave unit has a unique identity. The master unit and slave units each have a status display having numbered indicia which normally displays the numbered indicia for the slave units in a first color, and has an annunciator. When the master unit and slave units are separated by a predetermined distance, an alert condition is established whereby the numbered indicia for that slave unit changes to a second color and both the master unit and slave unit sound an alert with their annunciators. A wire loop may be used to attach the slave units to luggage, which normally maintains a closed circuit, such that if the wire loop is removed from the luggage and becomes open circuited while the slave unit is on, the alert condition is established.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2003
    Inventor: Ricardo Sarabia
  • Patent number: 6515591
    Abstract: The invention encompasses an electrical apparatus. Such apparatus includes RFID circuitry on a first substrate, and sensor circuitry on a second substrate. A receiving structure is associated with one of the RFID circuitry and the sensor circuitry, and at least one connecting structure is associated with the other of the RFID circuitry and the sensor circuitry. The at least one connecting structure is removable received within the receiving structure. The invention also encompasses a method of forming an electrical apparatus. A first substrate and a second substrate are provided. The first substrate has RFID circuitry thereon, and the second substrate has sensing circuitry thereon. A receptacle is joined with one of the RFID circuitry and the sensor circuitry, and has at least one orifice extending therein. At least one prong is joined with the other of the RFID circuitry and the sensor circuitry.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2003
    Assignee: Micron Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: Rickie C. Lake, Mark E. Tuttle
  • Publication number: 20030020603
    Abstract: A digital sound processor is provided to enhance the vocal to non-vocal noise ratio of the signal processed by a vehicle audio system such as a cellular telephone, emergency communication device, or other audio device. Optionally, an indicator is provided for use with the vehicular audio system in order to provide a user of the audio system with a status signal relating to a reception quality of a vocal signal from the user. The microphone of the audio system may be mounted within an accessory module, which may be mounted to an interior surface of a vehicle windshield. The accessory module provides a fixed orientation of the microphone and is easily installed to the vehicle as it is manufactured or as an aftermarket device. The indicator may be mounted at the accessory module or elsewhere at the mirror assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 8, 2002
    Publication date: January 30, 2003
    Applicant: Donnelly Corporation
    Inventors: Jonathan E. DeLine, Niall R. Lynam, Ralph A. Spooner, Phillip A. March
  • Publication number: 20030020638
    Abstract: A locator device includes a pocket-sized casing that contains a keyless remote entry circuit for remotely operating a vehicle security system. A GPS receiver circuit is located in the casing and automatically identifies a vehicle waypoint whenever the vehicle is turned off. The locator device then determines from any current location and with a single button press the direction and/or distance back to the vehicle waypoint. Many other novel applications are also performed by the locator device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 17, 2001
    Publication date: January 30, 2003
    Inventors: Philip D. Sari, Mark Kuning, Lester D. Hutter, Adam Hamer
  • Publication number: 20030011476
    Abstract: There is provided a medicament dispenser comprising a housing (150), a medicament container (140), a dispensing mechanism for dispensing medicament from the medicament container and a radiofrequency identifier (110). The radiofrequency identifier comprises an antenna (105) for transmitting or receiving radiofrequency energy and an integrated circuit chip (101) connecting with said antenna. The radiofrequency identifier connects to said housing or said medicament container.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 23, 2002
    Publication date: January 16, 2003
    Inventor: James William Godfrey
  • Patent number: 6507284
    Abstract: The present invention provides an enclosure sign apparatus for unavoidable viewing of a sign before manipulation of an entryway opening device. The enclosure sign apparatus includes at least one side surface extending out as least as far as the entryway opening device, a back surface interconnected to the side surface, wherein the back surface comprises an opening to accommodate the entryway opening device therethrough, and a front surface having a sign. The front surface is capable of preventing access to the entryway opening device and is interconnected to the side surface. When in use, access is obtained to an entryway opening device by physically removing the enclosure sign apparatus so that there is unavoidable viewing of a sign before manipulation of the entryway opening device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2003
    Assignee: Roche Colorado Corporation
    Inventor: Marc Thomas Rothney
  • Patent number: 6507275
    Abstract: A pill dispensing reminder for assisting a patient to remember to take one or more pills at a preferred time. A microprocessor is held in a case and the microprocessor includes a 24 hour clock and outputs information to both a warning indicator and a data display window at programmed times. The microprocessor is connected to a data link interface which is capable of receiving programming information. A programming information sending unit exists separately from the case and is located at a pharmacy, doctor's office, health food store, or with the user. It includes a data link interface which mates with the data link interface held by the case. The case may include one or more pill compartments. A warning signal transmission unit may also be provided separately from the case and may transmit a warning signal generated from the case to a mobile or stationary receiver via wireless or wired output.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2003
    Inventors: Irit Romano, Reuben Bahar
  • Publication number: 20030001741
    Abstract: Disclosed is a stimuli providing indicator (107) that is responsive to nearby transmitted radio signals. Fixed and mobile stations may produce such signals. In addition a cellular telephone operating at a high transmit power may be detected. Indicator (107) may be supported by a lens (103) which itself may be supported by at least one head mount (101).
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 28, 2001
    Publication date: January 2, 2003
    Inventor: Douglas Deeds
  • Publication number: 20030001734
    Abstract: A vehicular tire inflation monitoring system is provided for a vehicle that includes at least one tire inflation indicator assembly, visible or audible exterior of the vehicle or experienced by tactile feedback, preferably positioned at a vehicle portion outside the interior cabin of the vehicle, such as at an exterior rearview mirror assembly. The at least one tire inflation indicator assembly provides an indication of the inflation condition of at least one of the vehicle tires. The tire inflation monitoring system includes a control receiving at least one input from at least one tire pressure sensor sensing pressure of at least one vehicle tire. The control produces an output to illuminate the at least one tire inflation indicator assembly or cause it to make a sound audible outside the interior cabin of the vehicle and indicative of a tire pressure condition.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 30, 2002
    Publication date: January 2, 2003
    Applicant: Donnelly Corporation
    Inventors: Kenneth Schofield, Niall R. Lynam
  • Publication number: 20030001742
    Abstract: An electronic assistant, incorporates electronic functions in a personal object that the user finds indispensable. Examples of personal objects include a cane, a walking stick, a walker, a wheelchair, a personal transportation vehicle, a purse, a key holder, a watch, a pendant, a hearing aid, an eyeglass frame, or a crutch. Electronics may include a PDA, a cell phone, a navigation module, a biosensor module, and an emergency alert module. The navigation module might include a GPS, an altimeter, an electronic compass, and/or a stored map. Biosensors may be directly incorporated into the personal device or communicate with a receiver therein if the biosensor is required to be attached directly to the user's body or surgically implanted. The emergency alert module may include an emergency button, and an emergency notification sequence stored in the electronic assistant capable of calling for assistance through the cell phone.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 30, 2001
    Publication date: January 2, 2003
    Applicant: Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V.
    Inventors: Larry J. Eshelman, Srinivas Gutta, Hugo J. Strubbe
  • Publication number: 20020190866
    Abstract: A respirator system (10; 100) for a worker in an environment with hazardous airborne contaminants comprises a respirator (12, 112), a helmet (14, 114), a camera (40, 140), and a gas sample analyser (16, 116) capable of analysing samples of gas from within the respirator and in the immediate area near the user. An RF emitter (20, 120) sends a signal to a remote receiver (24, 124). The emitted signal is a real time view through the camera (40, 140) and overlaid on that is a graphical representation of the protection factor being achieved by the respirator. The system (100) may also have a data storage device (162, 170) to store data such as how protection factor varies with time and may have a position sensor (160). The provision of the position sensor (160) allows a map of contamination levels with position to be built up as a user moves around a site.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 17, 2002
    Publication date: December 19, 2002
    Inventor: Grant Stuart Richardson
  • Publication number: 20020190859
    Abstract: A theft deterrent outdoor lighting, comprising in combination a light housing for housing a light, a battery for storing electrical energy, an alarm and a motion detector electrically connecting the alarm to the battery to actuate the alarm when motion is detected, whereby theft of the theft deterrent outdoor lighting is deterred by the alarm.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 15, 2002
    Publication date: December 19, 2002
    Inventors: John C. Bucher, Charles E. Bucher
  • Publication number: 20020193964
    Abstract: A tape measurer includes a housing, a flexible measuring tape rule received in the housing in a coiled position, and a device including an integrated circuit or a processing unit for recording and displaying purposes. The measured data may be easily and quickly recorded in the recording circuit or the integrated circuit or in the processing unit and may be displayed after all the required data have been measured and recorded, such that the measuring operations may thus be quickly conducted or proceeded. A laser device may generate a laser beam to indicate far away points.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 13, 2001
    Publication date: December 19, 2002
    Inventor: Chao Fa Hsu
  • Publication number: 20020190867
    Abstract: Transport system for the long-term transport of preferably biological material and transport container, preferably for this transport system, containing at least: a measuring device (2), one or more energy stores (3) and an insulating vessel (6), comprising a top (7), a container wall (8) and a base (9). The handling of the transport containers (1) is improved in practice by the top (7) and the base (9) each having at least one thermally insulating component (10) and by the container wall (8) being designed as a high-vacuum superinsulator (13).
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 6, 2002
    Publication date: December 19, 2002
    Inventors: Werner Sommer, Eberhard Lampeter
  • Patent number: 6494425
    Abstract: A security alarm sensor for mounting between two corner walls is described comprising a housing unit having a housing base for attachment to the corner walls and a selectively detachable housing cover; a circuit board sized for engagement within the housing unit; first and second openings on opposite sides of the housing base; first and second mounting pins selectively movable within the first and second openings wherein said mounting pins have a length and a range of movement so as to have a first position wherein the mounting pins are totally retracted within the housing unit and a second position wherein said mounting pins extend outwardly from the housing unit sufficiently to pierce the corner walls and securely hold the security alarm sensor in place. The installation of the alarm sensor is usually accomplished by first removing the housing cover from the housing base and detaching the printed circuit board prior to mounting the housing base to the corner of the wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2002
    Assignee: Napco Security Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard L. Soloway, Frank J. Ioco
  • Publication number: 20020186131
    Abstract: A card security device for cards which have coded information on or within the cards has a mechanically closeable and releasably lockable card vault for releasable locking enclosure of cards within the card vault, the card vault releasably lockable by a releasable lock. The lock is releasable by a recognition processor upon recognition of a user's biometric sample by the recognition processor. An incorrect recognition sample by a user, or forcible entry into the card vault either by forced releasing of the vault door or disruption of the vault casing results in a triggering of a destruction device for rendering useless and unrecoverable by disfigurement or destruction by the destruction device of the coded information on the information carrying medium.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 3, 2002
    Publication date: December 12, 2002
    Inventor: Brad Fettis
  • Publication number: 20020186141
    Abstract: An ambient condition detector incorporates a common radiant energy source to carry out a first, sensing, function and a second, information transmitting function. The source can generate a beam to implement a fire sensing function. In addition, modulated radiant energy emitted from the source can be remotely sensed to determine detector status or internal parameter values. In an alternate embodiment, a source of radiant energy can be configured at an exterior periphery of the detector and information can be wirelessly transmitted therefrom using one or more analog modulation processes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 4, 2001
    Publication date: December 12, 2002
    Inventors: Hsing C. Jen, James S. Slater
  • Patent number: 6492907
    Abstract: A smoke detector apparatus that provides a generally continuous supply of electrical power to a smoke detector unit. The apparatus provides flexibility in locating the detector unit while still generally maintaining uninterrupted access to electrical power. In various forms, the apparatus allows for mounting of a smoke detector unit remote from an electrical wall outlet. Generally uninterrupted power from the electrical system of a home or building to the smoke detector unit may be provided by way of an integral mounting plate, blocking member, and/or outlet covers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 1, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2002
    Inventor: Robert E. McCracken
  • Publication number: 20020180598
    Abstract: A danger detecting system has a danger detecting control center, at least one detector, at least one conductor connecting the danger detecting control center with the at least one detector, the danger detecting control center producing an output signal depending on a signal of the detector, the danger detecting control center being composed of a plurality of modules, a bus through which the modules are connected, the danger detecting control center and the modules being formed so that the modules are mountable and/or dismountable during an operation of the danger detecting control center.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 30, 2002
    Publication date: December 5, 2002
    Inventors: Anton Pfefferseder, Torsten Meyer-Staufenbiel, Bernd Siber, Andreas Hensel, Ulrich Oppelt
  • Publication number: 20020180597
    Abstract: A back-up warning system for a vehicle having a back-up lighting circuit includes a license plate holder including a housing, and a proximity sensor and external audible indicator carried by the housing. The back-up warning system also includes an internal indicator for providing an internal indication of proximity to an object based upon the proximity sensor. The back-up warning system may be connected to the back-up lighting circuit so that the proximity sensor is powered and operable to detect proximity of the object adjacent the license plate holder when a reverse transmission position is selected.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 4, 2002
    Publication date: December 5, 2002
    Inventor: Kenneth E. Flick
  • Publication number: 20020180591
    Abstract: A small self contained programmable reminder timer having an attachment means (16) by which the device can be attached to items within a household or attached to a pet's collar or cage (28). Audio (18) and visual (12) indicators alert a pet owner when to administer grooming, exercise, feedings, and other routine or special pet care maintenance requirements. The timer and associated electronic circuitry is packaged in a decorative housing (10) that provides the pet owner the ability to visually distinguish the type of pet the timer is to be used for.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 4, 2001
    Publication date: December 5, 2002
    Inventors: Edward Alan Berstling, Charles Edmund Murphy
  • Publication number: 20020175811
    Abstract: An alarm system includes at least one wireless alarm transmitter, at least one wireless activate transmitter, and at least one wireless signal receiver. The signal receiver becomes sensitized to recognize an alarm code from the alarm transmitter after recognizing an activate code from the activate transmitter. The signal receiver can include an alarm generator that provides a first alarm after recognizing the alarm code. An alarm device can include a wireless hazard signal receiver that becomes sensitized to recognize a wireless transmitted hazard alarm code only after recognizing a wireless transmitted activate code. An alarm generator can provide a hazard alarm after recognizing the alarm code. The device can further include an alarm code and activate code decryption device. Instead of or in addition to the activate transmitter and sensitizing feature, the system can be equipped to display a location name in the alarm generator as a text alarm.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 23, 2002
    Publication date: November 28, 2002
    Inventors: Daniel B. Merrell, Joseph R. Goetz
  • Publication number: 20020175817
    Abstract: There is provided a receptacle system for detecting at least one metallic object entering therein and alerting a user in response to the detection. The system of the preferred embodiment comprises a receptacle body forming an interior cavity. Moreover, a cover may be engaged to the receptacle body, in which the cover may define an opening for providing access to the interior cavity. A metal detector may be attached to the cover to detect the at least one metallic object entering through the opening of the cover. Thereafter, the metal detector may alert the user in response to the detection of the at least one metallic object.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 25, 2001
    Publication date: November 28, 2002
    Inventors: Richard E. Edwards, Brad Peeters
  • Patent number: 6486797
    Abstract: A highway hazard marker is housed within a disc shaped high impact plastic housing, an upper portion of which is transparent. A plurality of LEDs are circularly disposed proximal to the side of the upper portion. A ring counter provides signals to transistors that sequentially drive the LEDs. Excitation provided to the ring counter is controlled to cause a desired current through the LEDs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2002
    Assignee: Lighting and Electronic Design
    Inventor: Jerry Laidman