Abstract: Disclosed are apparatus and methodology for improving communications among battery operated network endpoints and a central facility. A battery operated endpoint may determine its remaining battery capacity and decide whether is it able to provide message repeating services to other endpoints within the network. The endpoint may make such decision based also on it own communications reliability to a central facility either directly or via other endpoints operating as repeaters.

Abstract: A method is disclosed for collecting information related to a machine component of a mobile machine that is configured to perform work on a worksite. The sensor system may be installed on or within the machine component, and the machine component may be installed with the sensor system on the mobile machine. The information may be collected with the sensor system while the machine is performing work on the worksite, the information relating to a characteristic experienced by the machine component. The information may be transmitted with the sensor system. The sensor system may collect information related to a tracked undercarriage of the mobile machine, or the cutting head of a tunnel boring machine.

Abstract: A moving or rotating body and a stationary body having a wireless communication link with each other. The communication link may involve RF telemetry. The stationary body may provide power in a wireless manner to the rotating body. The moving body may be a rotation sensor for determining torque, speed of rotation, angular position, power and the like. The stationary body may also interact with a processing module via a communication medium. The communication medium may be an Ethernet or an equivalent.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention are generally directed to mobile inventory unit monitoring systems and methods. An exemplary embodiment of the present invention provides a mobile inventory unit monitoring system comprising a computer configured to execute at least one computer program, at least one wireless transmitter located proximate to a mobile inventory unit, a plurality of radio-frequency transceivers dispersed geographically at defined locations, and a gateway connected to a wide area network. Select information can be transmitted from the transmitter proximate to the mobile inventory unit, through a transceiver in the plurality of transceivers, through the gateway, and to the wide area network. Other aspects, features, and embodiments are also claimed and described.

Abstract: A system is provided for transmitting data between a first component and a second component, which rotates relative to the first component. The system includes a first coupling element of limited angular extent mounted to the first component, and a second coupling element of limited angular extent mounted to the second component. The first and second coupling elements come into angular alignment once per revolution of the second component relative to the first component. The system further includes a first transceiver connected to the first coupling element, and a second transceiver connected to the second coupling element. The first and second transceivers are configured to detect the angular alignment of the first and second coupling elements. The first and second transceivers are further configured to transmit data between the first and second transceivers via the first and second coupling elements when the angular alignment is detected.

Abstract: This disclosure relates to network management using visual identifiers. In one of many possible embodiments, a network management system includes a visual identifier device located visibly proximate to a network device. The visual identifier device includes a set of visual identifiers and a selector mechanism configured to be manipulated to select at least one of the visual identifiers to be assigned to the network device. The network management system also includes a display device configured to display a visual representation of said selected visual identifier.

Abstract: A system and method of initiating a vehicle data upload function at a plurality of mobile vehicles. A satellite radio system broadcast channel is monitored for a call center initiated vehicle data upload command signal at the plurality of mobile vehicles. A determination is made, at the plurality of mobile vehicles, whether the vehicle data upload command signal corresponds to a mobile vehicle. The vehicle data upload command signal is extracted from the broadcast channel based on the determination. A vehicle data upload function is performed based on the extracted vehicle data upload command signal. The method further comprises determining the plurality of mobile vehicles at a call center based on a service criterion. A computer usable medium is with suitable computer program code is employed for of initiating a vehicle data upload function at a plurality of mobile vehicles.

Abstract: A method of calibrating a level gauge system using electromagnetic signals to determine a filling level of a product in a tank. The level gauge system comprises a real time sampler for sampling a reflection signal with a sampling period between consecutive samples. The method comprises the steps of: receiving timing signals from a wireless communication network; generating time stamp signals based on the timing signals; registering a number of the sampling periods between a first time stamp signal and a second time stamp signal; and determining the sampling period based on the registered number of sampling periods and a time between the first time stamp signal and the second time stamp signal. Various embodiments of the present invention provide for high accurate determination of the filling level in a tank without the need for a temperature stable and highly accurate clock reference in the level gauge system.

Abstract: A method and system of operating a utility node to communicate in a wireless utility network are provided. A utility node in the wireless utility network discovers at least two access points each respectively constituting an interface between a wide area network and the wireless utility network. The node discovers at least two access points constituting an interface between the two networks, registers with the discovered access points, and obtains at least two unique network addresses each respectively associated with a corresponding one of the access points with which the node has registered. The node provides the at least two addresses to a back office server which is communication with the wide area network to provide the back office server with at least two routes to reach the node. The at least two routes are respectively associated with a corresponding one of the access points with which the node registered.

Abstract: The invention relates to a recording device that is associated with an operating medium specially protected from explosions, at a minimum for the collection, recording, and transmission of device parameters, having at least one data collection device, a memory device connected to said data collection device, and a data communication interface for transmission of the stored data to an external remote station. As a result, it is possible to determine corresponding device parameters in a simpler manner and at the same time to eliminate the need for time- and cost-intensive measures for accessing the operating medium on site.

Abstract: The present application is directed to a system and method of providing flexible real-time two-way energy control and monitoring between utility providers and consumers. Consumer friendly nodes permit communication of targeted information and control, while permitting the utility provider to remotely communicate and control in a real-time environment. Data collection of and accessibility by a community of utility consumers provides social feedback through comparative usage statistics.

Abstract: Disclosed are apparatus and methodology subject matters for providing improved functionality of a meter in a 2-way communications arrangement, such as an Advanced Metering System (AMS) or Infrastructure (AMI). More particularly, the present technology relates to methodologies and apparatus for providing load sensing for utility meters which preferably are operable with remote disconnect features in an Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) open operational framework. Meters per the present subject matter utilize a detection circuit, and separately utilize certain remote disconnect functionality. In particular, disconnect functionality is coupled with consideration of electric load information, such as load current as determined by the metering functionality.

Abstract: A hydration system comprising a dispenser portion adapted to allow a drinking fluid to flow therethrough, a sensor unit positioned to take a measurement of a flow of the drinking fluid through said dispenser portion and to output said measurement, a logic unit in communication with the sensor portion to receive said measurement output, to set a target consumption over time based on a multidimensional profile of a user's physical body information, and to determine if the user's consumption meets the target consumption based upon the measurement.

Abstract: A pit mount interface device includes a body having a head and an elongate stem extending from a bottom surface of the head. The elongate stem is sized and configured to be received in and extend through a hole formed in a cover of a pit. A nut defines a central aperture that is sized and configured to receive the elongate stem of the body. A passive radiator is disposed within the body and configured receive a radio frequency (RF) signal transmitted by an automatic meter reading (AMR) device located below the cover through inductive coupling and to radiate the RF signal from a position located above the cover of the pit.

Abstract: A telematics system in an asset network is provided. The telematics system includes one or more sensors configured to acquire data from multiple assets at different locations in the asset network. The telematics system also includes a transceiver configured to receive the data acquired from the one or more sensors. The telematics system further includes a data analysis system. The data analysis system includes a central data server configured to receive the data transmitted from the transceiver. The data analysis system also includes a processing circuitry configured to combine data, analyze combined data to detect trends, generate value added services based on the detected trends and distribute the value added services to multiple end users.

Abstract: In an embodiment, a device characterization system includes a sensor to sense an attribute of a device, a processor, and an algorithm executable on the processor to collect time series data of the attribute from the sensor, detect edges in the data, identify clusters from the edges, label the clusters based on input from a supervisor, and estimate device characterization parameters from the clusters.

Abstract: A distributed medical sensing system including a first body sensing device configured to sense medical characteristics, the first body sensing device being located in a first sterile field and a second body sensing device configured to sense medical characteristics, the second body sensing device being located in a second sterile field, the second sterile field being spaced from the first sterile field. The syJostem also includes a computing device outside of the first and second sterile fields and communicatively coupled to the first and second body sensing devices, the computing device configured to respectively receive first and second medical characteristic data from the first and second body sensing devices, process the first and second medical characteristic data, and transmit the processed first and second medical characteristic data to respective first and second user interface devices.

Abstract: A safety station for use in a process plant includes one or more leverless limit switches to detect activation of one or more parts of the safety station. The safety station further includes a wireless transmitter coupled to the leverless limit switches to transmit signals associated with the safety station to a base station device, which is communicatively coupled to one or more control and/or monitoring devices.

Abstract: A distributed medical sensing system including a first hub configured to receive first medical characteristic data from a first body sensing device, the first body sensing device being located in a first sterile field and a second hub configured to receive second medical characteristic data from a second body sensing device, the second body sensing device being located in a second sterile field spaced from the first sterile field. The system also includes a computing device outside of the first and second sterile fields and communicatively coupled to the first and second hubs, the computing device configured to receive the first and second medical characteristic data from the respective first and second hubs, process the first and second medical characteristic data, and transmit the processed first and second medical characteristic data to the respective first and second hubs.

Abstract: An automated remote water quality monitoring system with wireless communication capability and the method thereof is provided. A water quality monitoring system is provided, including: a plurality of monitoring apparatuses, each of which has a radio communication module transmitting at least one environmental parameter; a server receiving the at least one environmental parameter via a base station; and a gateway being one selected from a group consisting of the plurality of monitoring apparatuses, being geographically the closest one to the base station, receiving the at least one environmental parameter and transmitting the at least one environmental parameter to the base station.

Abstract: Apparatus and method for a warning system for an automated door capable of moving between open and closed positions, the door having engagement ends adjacent to a peripheral edge when the door is closed. Audio and visual warning indicators attached to engagement ends of the door, frame and header indicate when the door is opened, closed, opening and closing, or about to open or close, thus keeping the door ADA compliant. A hand-held wireless communicator transmits automated door safety check, test, and inspection requests to a server which records test requests, results, date, time, door identification and unique hand-held wireless communicator identification. The hand-held wireless communicator includes GPS capabilities enabling the server to record the specific location of the hand-held wireless communicator while performing tests. The server sends default emails or texts if scheduled safety checks, tests or inspections have expired after a predetermined time.

Abstract: An ambulatory monitoring device includes a sensor to monitor a physiological signal and a battery power source. The device also includes a wireless receiver adapted to monitor a first frequency band having frequencies below 1 MHz and configured to detect and receive, using less than 10 micro-amps of current from the battery power source when operating, wireless communications within the first frequency band from a remote device at least one meter away. The device further includes a wireless transmitter adapted to transmit—after receipt from the remote device of a first wireless communication within the first frequency band that includes an invitation for further communication—a second wireless communication in a second frequency band having frequencies above 10 MHz, the second wireless communication comprising data indicative of the physiological signal as sensed by the sensor.

Abstract: A method and a system for recognizing power consumption behaviors of electric appliances in a loop are provided. When a variation value of a power consumption information of the loop exceeds a threshold, a current value of the power consumption information is served as a main loop factor value of the loop, and a similar combinative factor value close to the main loop factor value is looked up in a behavior-factor mapping table. If the similar combinative factor value is not found, the main loop factor value corresponding to a new power consumption behavior is obtained according to the variation value of the power consumption information to reconstruct the behavior-factor mapping table. After obtaining the similar combinative factor value from the behavior-factor mapping table, a current electric appliance power consumption behavior of the loop is determined according to a power consumption behavior combination corresponding to the similar combinative factor value.

Abstract: A process variable transmitter for use in measuring a process variable of an industrial process includes a display. The transmitter comprises a housing, a process variable sensor configured to sense the process variable of the industrial process, transmitter circuitry coupled to the process variable sensor configured to provide a transmitter output and a connection member in the housing configured to couple to the transmitter circuitry. A first rotatable connector on the connection member includes a plurality of first conductors. A module includes a second rotatable connector having a plurality of second conductors. The plurality of first and second conductors are configured to electrically connect together.

Abstract: Methods and systems for real-time monitoring of environments are disclosed. The methods include receiving a measurement by a sensor unit, and transmitting a signal to a monitoring station if the measurement is approximately between a lower and an upper threshold. Based on a number of signals received, the monitoring station will broadcast a signal indicating to stop transmission of measurements or to update the lower and the upper threshold and continue transmission of measurements. Transmission of measurements may occur during a given time slot.

Abstract: The present invention is a method and system for controlling a RC device via a secure radio link. In one embodiment of the invention, spread spectrum modulation may be employed which may provide a digital radio frequency (RF) link between a controller and a RC device. A controller may be coupled with a transmitter module and a radio controlled device may be coupled with a receiver module in accordance with the present invention to provide an add-on upgrade capability. The method and system for controlling a RC device may also include error detection and correction, interpolation of lost packets, failsafe technology and force-feedback telemetric technology to further enhance the user experience with radio controlled devices.

Abstract: Meter nodes in a power line carrier (PLC) network may reliably communicate with an access point by alternate routes using additional media where available. A utility network may include one or more subnetworks. Each subnetwork may include one or more meter nodes and an access point configured to communicate with the meter nodes using PLC. Meter nodes operate as relays for other meter nodes to communicate with the access point. Some or all meter nodes may be configured to communicate using a power line carrier communications link and another communications link. The network may also include a node external to the subnetwork, e.g., a utility server. The access point may be configured to communicate with the node external to the subnetwork in addition to the meter nodes.

Abstract: A sensor array, comprising: a plurality of sensors electrically connected in series or in parallel, each of the plurality of sensors operable to generate an individual electrical signal; a multiplexing scheme generator operable to generate a multiplexing scheme; a modulation system connected to the multiplexing scheme generator and operable to selectively reverse the polarity of each of the plurality of sensors for each of a plurality of samples; a readout device operable to sequentially read a plurality of output signals of the plurality of electrically connected sensors, wherein the number of samples is greater than or equal to the number of sensors and wherein one or more electrical signals of the plurality of sensors are readout as one electrical signal; and a demultiplexer operable to receive the output electrical signals and to determine the individual electrical signals of each of the plurality of sensors based on the multiplexing scheme.

Abstract: A process, device and system for mapping usage data from a plurality of utility usage nodes, such as electricity usage meters, to one or more utility distribution nodes, such as a transformer, in which utility usage data collected at a collection device from the plurality of utility usage nodes at predetermined intervals is received, and utility distribution data collected at the collection device from the utility distribution node at the predetermined intervals is likewise received. Aggregate usage data from one or more of the plurality of utility usage nodes is compared to distribution data from the utility distribution node during one or more of the same predetermined intervals to determine, using a computer, which of the plurality of utility usage nodes is connected to the utility distribution node.

Abstract: A peritoneal dialysis system includes an automated peritoneal dialysis (“APD”) machine including a logic implementer and a wireless interface receiver. The system also includes at least one of a scale or a blood pressure monitor including a wireless interface transmitter. The scale or blood pressure monitor is operable to send at least one of patient blood pressure data and patient weight data wirelessly, respectively, to the wireless interface receiver. The logic implementer is configured to store the patient blood pressure data or patient weight data. A server computer is configured to communicate with the logic implementer to receive the stored at least one patient blood pressure data and patient weight data.

Abstract: Disclosed are systems and methods for preventing unauthorized persons from using an electronic device within a facility. In such an embodiment, the system may include a RFID tag having unique identification information associated with a wearer of the RFID tag. The RFID tag may be comprised in a non-removable item worn by the wearer, such as a bracelet. This system may also include an RFID reader associated with the electronic device and having an RFID coverage zone for detecting RFID tags within the coverage zone. A device management system may be connected to the reader and configured to determine whether a wearer in the coverage zone is authorized to use the electronic device based at least in part on detected RFID tag's unique identification information. In such an embodiment, the device management system is configured to activate the electronic device if it determines the authorized wearer is detected in the coverage zone.

Abstract: A telemetry system is disclosed herein. The telemetry system includes a transmitter/monitor configured to provide tracking data and monitoring data, and a receiver adapted to define a coverage area. The receiver is configured to receive the tracking data and the monitoring data from the transmitter/monitor when the transmitter/monitor is within the coverage area. The telemetry system also includes a processor configured to receive the tracking data and the monitoring data from the receiver, analyze the tracking data and the monitoring data, and identify an alarm condition based on the analysis of the tracking data and the monitoring data.

Abstract: A portable time transfer device is provided to transfer accurate date/time to reader devices and, thus, the reader devices do not have to be connected to a source of accurate time. A host computing system is configured to synchronize the portable time transfer device to a network, GPS, or other source of precise (accurate) time. Once the portable time transfer device is synchronized to the accurate date/time by the host computing system, the portable time transfer device is ready to be used by reader devices or any other devices (e.g., laptops, etc.) which need to maintain accurate time regardless of the connectivity to a network or GPS.

Abstract: Patient monitoring systems can include a display unit and a patient parameter module. The patient parameter module can be connected to a docking region so as to communicate with the display unit in two or more orientations.

Abstract: A patient handling device communication system enables patient handling devices, such as bed, cots, stretchers, and the like, to communicate with other patient handling devices. Communication from one or more patient handling devices may thereby be forwarded to other patient handling devices. Such information may also be forwarded to a healthcare communication network. The patient handling devices may form a mesh network for communicating information amongst themselves and/or to the healthcare communications network.

Abstract: A one-way direct sequence spread spectrum (DSSS) communications wide-area network is the data collection channel (uplink) of an automatic meter reading (AMR) system, and a paging network, or other suitable communication channel is the optional forward (downlink) channel. The communications network may include one-way meter modules (transmitters) each communicatively coupled to a corresponding electric, gas or water utility meter, and may include two-way meter modules (transceivers) each coupled to such a corresponding utility meter. The meter modules monitor, store, encode and periodically transmit metering data via radio signals (air messages) in an appropriate RF channel. Metering data air messages are collected by a network of receiver Base Stations (BS) and forwarded to a Data Operations Center (DOC), which acts as a metering data gateway.

Abstract: A system for communicating device specific data over a network includes a smart power device that includes a meter, a controller and an advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) network connection coupled to the meter and the controller. The system also includes an AMI terminator device configured to receive information from a virtual device server and provide it according to an AMI communication protocol to the AMI network connection via an AMI network, the AMI terminator device is further configured to receive information from the meter via the AMI network connection and provide it to a utility.

Abstract: An automation component configured for wireless communication within a building automation system includes a wireless communications component, a processor in communication with the wireless communications component, and a memory in communication with the processor. The memory configured to store computer readable instructions which are executable by the processor to process a change-of-value message received via the wireless communications component, generate a change-of-value update in response to the change-of-value message, and communicate the change-of-value update via the wireless communication component. This change-of-value can occur in a polled (pull) fashion, or in a pushed (when it occurs) fashions.

Abstract: A system for endoscope data management of an endoscopic image of a body acquired by an endoscope is provided. An image filing apparatus retrieves the image from the endoscope, and records data of the image and scope ID assigned to the endoscope in association with one another. A washer washes the endoscope. A memory is incorporated in the washer, for storing log information of washing of the endoscope. A data manager retrieves the log information on line with the washer, to record the scope ID and the log information in association with one another. A server device records the data of the image, the scope ID and the log information on line with the image filing apparatus and the data manager. Furthermore, the data manager includes an editor for editing the log information of the washer.

Abstract: A transponder that may be used as an RFID tag includes a passive circuit to eliminate the need for an “always on” active RF receiving element to anticipate a wake-up signal for the balance of the transponder electronics. This solution allows the entire active transponder to have all circuit elements in a sleep (standby) state, thus drastically extending battery life or other charge storage device life. Also, a wake-up solution that reduces total energy consumption of an active transponder system by allowing all non-addressed transponders to remain in a sleep (standby) state, thereby reducing total system or collection energy. Also, the transponder and wake-up solution are employed in an asset tracking system.

Abstract: Multifunctional meter measures voltage, current, demand, factor, power consumption also water, natural gas, fuel and other items. The design has a 16 bit micro-programmed processing unit, and manages interaction with different hardware components and realizes the functions of communication, data registry and operation control. Composed of a modular form and includes capacities for network connection and inclusion as a module within multi-point measurement systems.

Abstract: A two-way vehicle communication system has been developed that includes at least one vehicle, at least one vehicle data collection point, at least one operations data supply system, and at least one data communication system, wherein the data communication system is operatively coupled to the at least one vehicle, the at least one vehicle data collection point, the at least one operations data supply system or a combination thereof. A method of monitoring a vehicle using a two-way vehicle communication system has been developed that includes: providing at least one vehicle, providing at least one vehicle data collection point, providing at least one operations data supply system, and providing at least one data communication system, wherein the data communication system is operatively coupled to and communicates with the at least one vehicle, the at least one vehicle data collection point, the at least one operations data supply system or a combination thereof.

Abstract: Techniques and systems are described that assist in predicting, diagnosing, and/or managing an incident in a utility service area. A communication system is provided in the service area to communicate with nodes of the service area. Nodes of the service area may communicate with the communication system using a variety of different communication technologies and/or communication protocols. In some instances, nodes of the communication are capable of two-way communication with the communication system.

Abstract: A method and a system for recognizing the statuses of electric appliances are provided. In the present method, a loop is taking as a unit for recognition, and a power consumption factor sensor which is capable of measuring a single power consumption factor is used such that the current status of each electric appliance in the loop can be recognized by comparing the probability distribution of the power consumption factor. Since it is not needed to dispose an extra measuring device on each electric appliance, the cost of recognizing the statuses of the electric appliances is significantly reduced.

Abstract: A continuously-arranged sensor system is provided that can eliminate a shift in timing between a determination signal of each sensor unit and sensor information relating to the determination signal. The continuously-arranged sensor system includes a network unit and a plurality of sensor units, which are connected by a serial transmission line and a parallel transmission line. In accordance with a command sent from the network unit, each sensor unit transmits the determination signal and the sensor information, provided at the same time as the determination signal, to the network unit via the serial transmission line. Therefore, the network unit can obtain the determination signal and the sensor information exhibited at the same time.

Abstract: A survey system for acquiring survey data representative of a subterranean structure includes a plurality of sensor modules. Each of at least some of the plurality of sensor modules includes a wireless transceiver to communicate wireless signals with another component in the survey system, and a plurality of parts. A first of the plurality of parts is detachably attached to a second of the plurality of parts, with the first part including a sensor, and the second part including a power source and a non-volatile storage.

Abstract: The invention relates to a proximity detection system. The invention provides a proximity detection system comprising a generator that generates a magnetic field that establishes a boundary, where the generator is capable of receiving radio frequency signals. Also provided is a radio frequency device that sends radio frequency signals, the radio frequency device being capable of sensing the magnetic field and generating a radio frequency response. In the proximity detection system, the generator generates the magnetic field for a first predefined time period, and thereafter senses for a radio frequency response signal from the radio frequency device within a second predefined time period. The invention also provides for shaping proximity detection zones by overlaying magnetic field boundaries to produce a different boundary. The invention also provides for varying the strength of magnetic fields by adjusting a width of a timed pulse.

Abstract: A mounting assembly for an automatic meter reading (AMR) unit includes a body having a head and an elongate stem extending from a bottom surface of the head. The elongate stem is sized and configured to be received in and extend through a hole formed in a cover of a pit, and the head has a size greater than a size of the hole formed in the cover of the pit. A nut defines a central aperture sized and configured to receive the elongate stem of the body, and a support channel has a pair of spaced apart arms each including a ledge configured to be received in a slot formed in the elongate stem of the body. The support channel defines an opening that is sized and configured to receive at least a portion of the AMR unit therein.

Abstract: A method, a system, and portable terminal display electric field information. The method includes collecting a sensor signal including location information and direction information of a portable terminal, transmitting the collected sensor signal to an information providing server, and receiving and outputting electric field information indicating an electric field intensity between the portable terminal and at least one base station located within a predetermined range of a direction in which the portable terminal is arranged among the at least one base station arranged around the portable terminal based on the sensor signal by the portable terminal.

Abstract: A wireless network is provided, that may comprise wireless sensor units organized in chains of wireless sensor units. Each wireless sensor unit may comprise plural sensors and at least a wireless transceiver connected to communicate by wires or wirelessly with the plural sensors. Each chain of wireless sensor units may include a terminal wireless sensor unit and intermediate wireless sensor units, each intermediate wireless sensor unit being configured to relay data along the chain of intermediate wireless sensor units towards the terminal wireless sensor unit. The terminal wireless sensor unit in each chain of wireless sensor units is adapted to communicate wirelessly with at least one backhaul unit of plural backhaul units; and the backhaul units are adapted to communicate with a central computer.