Plural Transmitters Patents (Class 340/870.11)
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Publication number: 20040001008Abstract: A dynamic self-configuring system for collecting metering data comprises a collector meter. The collector meter scans for meters that are operable to directly communicate with the collector and registers such meters as level one meters. The collector transmits instructions to the level one meters to scan for meters that are operable to directly communicate with the level one meters. The collector registers meters that respond as level two meters.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 27, 2002Publication date: January 1, 2004Inventors: Kenneth C. Shuey, Rodney C. Hemminger, Robert T. Mason, Eugene W. Hodges
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Patent number: 6657553Abstract: A method and apparatus are provided for collecting and disseminating information regarding a protected space. The method includes the steps of detecting a signal event of the protected space, coding the signal event into a packet message and transferring the coded packet message to a database through an internet connection between the protected space and the database. The method further includes the steps of storing the coded message packet in a secure storage area of the database under a password assigned to a manager of the protected space and providing access to information of the coded message packet through an Internet connection between the manager and the database based upon the password assigned to the manager.Type: GrantFiled: July 27, 2000Date of Patent: December 2, 2003Assignee: Titan Specialized Services, Inc.Inventors: Robert L. Bergman, David M. White
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Patent number: 6653945Abstract: A radio communications network for transmitting data from a plurality of remote stations to a central station is provided. This system is particularly proposed for automatic meter reading systems in which the remote stations are located at utility meters. The system includes an array of receiving stations arranged relative to the remote stations so that the messages from each remote station can be received by at least two and preferably four of the receiving stations providing a high level of duplication of messages. The remote stations transmit utility usage information obtained from a previous time period at a random time subsequent to the time period so that message collisions can occur. High level of duplication provided by the increased number of receiving stations reduces the message loss. A quiet period during which the remote stations are prevented from transmitting can be used for communication between the receiving stations and the central station.Type: GrantFiled: September 21, 2001Date of Patent: November 25, 2003Assignee: Itron, Inc.Inventors: Dennis F. Johnson, Michael Wiebe, Erwin Holowick, Nathan R. Jacob, Michael F. Murhpy, James J. Schellenberg, Michael S. Stasenski
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Patent number: 6650249Abstract: A communications module that permits remote meter reading of a utility meter via a wireless modem that communicates using data packet networks along a communications system, such as ARDIS. The communications module is a microprocessor-based transmitter/receiver which receives data collection requests from a system server, initiates data collection from a utility meter, and reports the data back to a host computer system residing, for example, at a central office. Preferably, session-based communication using the meter protocol is implemented between the communications module and the meter, and packet switching is used between the communications server and the communications module through the network.Type: GrantFiled: July 13, 2001Date of Patent: November 18, 2003Assignee: Elster Electricity, LLCInventors: Peter R. Meyer, Garry M. Loy, David F. Dunn, Rodney C. Hemminger, Charles Cunningham, Jr.
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Publication number: 20030206116Abstract: A medical monitoring system includes a central station adapted to receive vital signs data concerning a plurality of patients, and one or more transmitter/receivers associated with the central station. At least one patient monitor is configured to monitor a particular one of the plurality of patients by collecting vital signs data from the particular patient, and configured to establish communications with the central station and communicate the collected vital signs data to the central station via the one or more transmitter/receivers. The at least one patient monitor is operable by a user to identify the particular patient from the plurality of patients, and to inform the central station of the identity of the particular patient. The central station is configured to associate the vital signs data received from the at least one patient monitor with the particular patient. The system, transmitter/receivers and at least one patient monitor may be wireless or wired.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 18, 2001Publication date: November 6, 2003Inventors: Herbert S. Weiner, James B. Moon, Nhedti L. Colquitt, Eric G. Petersen, William H. Howell, Kenneth G. West
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Publication number: 20030201905Abstract: An electronic control system, such as a field oriented control system, is provided, including a device to be controlled; an application control arrangement including a plurality of functional blocks configured to perform a cascaded computation, the application control arrangement configured to generate control signals to control the device in accordance with the cascaded computation; and a master control arrangement communicatively coupled to the application control arrangement and configured to communicate parameter inputs and an initial start pulse to the application control arrangement, the initial start pulse being operable to initiate the cascaded computation; wherein each of the functional blocks is configured to generate output data and a done pulse in accordance with a predetermined partial computation, the output data being valid and stable at least for a duration of the done pulse, the predetermined partial computation of each of the functional blocks being performed as a function of input data andType: ApplicationFiled: March 21, 2003Publication date: October 30, 2003Inventor: Robert F. Kirstein
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Publication number: 20030193405Abstract: A system and method for remotely monitoring power usage from a watt-hour meter or power meter. The system may include a sensor, sensor terminal, and data collection unit. The sensor may be disposed external from the power meter and be consumer installable in an unobstructive position for direct viewing of power meter registers. The sensor terminal may be coupled to the sensor and include a receiver and transmitter operable to receive and transmit information indicative of motion of a rotating disk in the power meter sensed by the sensor. A data collection unit in communication with the sensor terminal may include a display to display various information to the consumer, such as current bill and power network notification indicators. The data collection unit further may be communicate with a service center that performs power usage analysis to feedback to the data collection unit to display for the consumer.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 15, 2002Publication date: October 16, 2003Applicant: HUNT POWER, L.P.Inventors: Hunter L. Hunt, Daniel G. Price, Hugh D. Baker, David A. White
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Publication number: 20030189496Abstract: A computer network includes a client computer and a main computer. The client computer includes a client controller coupled to a plurality of sensors. The main computer includes a main controller. The main controller and client controller are coupled to a bus. The plurality of sensors generate operating parameter data about the components, and the client controller receives the operating parameter data and converts it into a simplified protocol.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 8, 2002Publication date: October 9, 2003Inventor: Matthew P. Tran
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Patent number: 6628208Abstract: A measurement device of the present invention includes a measurement portion for acquiring measured data from a sensor; a memory portion for storing the measured data; a radio portion for performing radio transmission/reception of the measured data; a PC interface portion for transmitting the measured data to a host computer via the universal interface; and a control portion for controlling the measurement portion, memory portion, radio portion, and PC interface portion, the control portion has a switching function for setting a mode by selecting between a remote mode and base mode; in the remote mode, the measured data acquired by the measurement portion are stored in the memory portion and transmitted by the radio portion, and in the base mode, the measured data acquired from the radio portion are stored in the memory portion and transmitted to the host computer by the PC interface portion.Type: GrantFiled: July 19, 2000Date of Patent: September 30, 2003Assignee: T & D CorporationInventors: Akio Morozumi, Takashi Sunaba
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Patent number: 6624760Abstract: A wireless monitoring system suitable for a wide range of remote data collection applications. The system includes at least one Electronic Sensor Platform (ESP), an Interrogator Transceiver (IT) and a general purpose host computer. The ESP functions as a remote data collector from a number of digital and analog sensors located therein. The host computer provides for data logging, testing, demonstration, installation checkout, and troubleshooting of the system. The IT transmits signals from one or more ESP's to the host computer to the ESP's. The IT host computer may be powered by a common power supply, and each ESP is individually powered by a battery.Type: GrantFiled: May 30, 2000Date of Patent: September 23, 2003Assignees: Sandia National Laboratories, Honeywell Federal Mfg. & Technologies, LLCInventors: Robert L. Kinzel, Larry R. Sheets
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Patent number: 6617977Abstract: Communication units are each provided with a wireless communication control section, a timing pattern generating section for generating a specified timing pattern, an informing device control section for controlling an informing device in accordance with an arbitrary timing and a timing pattern analyzing section for analyzing the transmitted timing pattern. The communication unit generates a specified timing pattern in the timing pattern generating section, controls its own informing device in accordance with the timing pattern by the informing device control section and transmits the timing pattern from the wireless communication control section to the communication unit. The communication unit analyzes the timing pattern transmitted from the communication unit and controls its own informing device according to the analyzed timing pattern. This allows a person to reliably find his or her own unit to be searched even when a plural number of persons search different devices in an identical place.Type: GrantFiled: March 13, 2000Date of Patent: September 9, 2003Assignee: Sharp Kabushiki KaishaInventor: Atsushi Nakao
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Patent number: 6608566Abstract: A real-time, or synchronous, sensor data acquisition system acquires physical characteristics or properties associated with a structure or physical system using a plurality of sensors coupled in series to a single cable. The sensors may sense vibration, noise, temperature, acceleration, pressure, strain, force, etc. The sensors transmit data along the cable at greater than 100 dB dynamic range, with a bandwidth between about 5 to 20 KHz, and in a digital, single bit wide data stream. The sensors include modulators to code the data signals with distinct codes. A receiver has a demodulator to decode and separate the data signals.Type: GrantFiled: February 7, 2000Date of Patent: August 19, 2003Assignee: Larson Davis, IncInventor: Larry J. Davis
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Publication number: 20030137431Abstract: An enhanced electronic identification device is attached to the ear of a female animal. The EEID identifies the animal and records internal body temperature at key times. A transponder is attached to a male animal and detects proximity of the male animal to the female animal. When an interaction event of sufficient duration occurs, the female identity and temperature information is received by the transponder and relayed to an analysis network for determining critical times, dates, and other breeding efficiency factors.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 24, 2002Publication date: July 24, 2003Inventor: Thomas Hogan
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Patent number: 6567661Abstract: A distributed telemetry method is effected by coordinating the taking of readings of a parameter by mobile phone users, the parameter readings being then sent to a service system together with location information on the users. Collating the readings and location information enables a representation to be generated of the geographic variation of the measured parameter. Incentives can be offered to encourage cell phone users to participate in the telemetry method.Type: GrantFiled: March 7, 2001Date of Patent: May 20, 2003Assignee: Hewlett-Packard CompanyInventors: James Thomas Edward McDonnell, Michael P. Spratt, John Deryk Waters, Simon E. Crouch
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Patent number: 6556630Abstract: A dual band telemetry system useful for monitoring patients in a care unit of a health care facility. The system includes an antenna system with a first antenna tuned to receive a signal in a first frequency band, a second antenna tuned to receive a signal in a second frequency band, a down converter for producing a frequency translation signal, and a mixer coupled to the second antenna. The mixer combines the signal received by the second antenna with the frequency translation signal to produce a signal having a frequency in the first frequency band. A combiner coupled to the mixer and the first antenna combines the signal generated by the mixer with the signal received by the first antenna. The combined signals are ultimately delivered to a central station for processing.Type: GrantFiled: December 29, 1999Date of Patent: April 29, 2003Assignee: GE Medical Systems Information TechnologiesInventors: James W. Brinsfield, Michael F. Steinike, Jeffrey S. Wells
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Patent number: 6556124Abstract: A knocking activated device and method for operating an electromechanical device responsive to a control signal. The knocking activated device has a vibration transducer for generating a signal in response to knockings on a solid object. It also has a storing system for storing data representative of a predetermined sequence of knocks. The device further comprises a user operable interface for changing the data stored in the storing system. The device also has a comparing system for comparing the signal generated by the vibration transducer with the data stored in the storing system to produce the control signal when the signal generated by the vibration transducer matches the predetermined sequence of knocks.Type: GrantFiled: February 29, 2000Date of Patent: April 29, 2003Assignee: 9068-7005 Quebec, Inc.Inventor: André Laroche
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Publication number: 20030071742Abstract: A system and method for monitoring vehicle tire pressure. A tire monitor for each tire includes a pressure sensor for sensing tire pressure and a transmitter for transmitting a signal representative of the sensed tire pressure. A receiver for mounting on the vehicle receives the tire pressure signals. The transmitters and the receiver utilize code division multiple access (CDMA) for the tire pressure signals so that tire pressure signals transmitted simultaneously by the transmitters can be received by the receiver. A controller for mounting on the vehicle communicates with the receiver and collects and processes the tire pressure signals, and generates control signals for use in conveying tire pressure information to a vehicle occupant.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 12, 2001Publication date: April 17, 2003Inventors: Qingfeng Tang, John S. Nantz, Riad Ghabra, Salman Khreizat, Ronald O. King
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Patent number: 6535544Abstract: A radio transmission system including many radio transmitters using frequency hopping carriers to intermittently transmit very short messages indicative of status of sensors associated with the transmitters. In operation, a time interval generator included in a transmitter generates pulses activating the transmitter at time intervals according to a predetermined algorithm. When activated, the transmitter transmits a message at one or several different frequencies. The frequencies are changed according to a predetermined algorithm and preferably differ for each subsequent transmission. Alternatively, when an abnormal sensor status is detected, the transmitter transmits repeated messages at a plurality of predetermined alarm frequencies for a predetermined time regardless of the time interval generator.Type: GrantFiled: August 31, 1999Date of Patent: March 18, 2003Inventor: Andrzej Partyka
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Publication number: 20030048199Abstract: A one-way direct sequence spread spectrum (DSSS) communications wide-area network is used as the data collection channel (uplink) of an automatic meter reading (AMR) application and a paging network, or other suitable downlink network, is used as an optional forward (downlink) channel in a cost-effective manner. The network is simple to deploy, highly scalable and modular. It offers a wide range of service options, from basic daily meter readings to advanced applications based on interval consumption data, to full two-way applications, while keeping the system's deployment and ongoing costs proportional to the service options and capacity requirements selected for various segments of the meter population. A high-output-power meter module is introduced, which provides significant benefits when operating on the network.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 13, 2001Publication date: March 13, 2003Inventors: Shimon Zigdon, Carmel Heth
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Publication number: 20030016142Abstract: A method and apparatus for two-way telemetry is provided. For one embodiment, a telemetry interface module may receive data regarding the strength of transmitted signals. The telemetry interface module may transmit a query message to another telemetry interface module and receive a reply message containing received signal strength indicator (RSSI) data for the query message as received by the other telemetry interface module. For one embodiment, a telemetry interface module may adjust a transmission power level. For one embodiment, a telemetry interface module may select between a plurality of antennae for reception and transmission.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 31, 2002Publication date: January 23, 2003Inventors: John K. Holmes, Steven D. Bragg
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Patent number: 6509841Abstract: A communication system transmits data between a plurality of locations. The communication system is suitable for use by a utility provider to monitor a plurality of metering devices from a remote location. The communication system in accordance with use by a utility provider to monitor metering devices comprises a control for at least receiving data, a plurality of metering devices arranged in a defined number of metering groups for transmitting data associated with an amount of usage of a utility, and a defined number of concentrators, each operably connected to the control and one metering group for transmission of data between the control and plurality of metering devices.Type: GrantFiled: November 1, 2000Date of Patent: January 21, 2003Assignee: CIC Global, LLCInventors: Laurence Jay Colton, Douglas D. Faith, Richard David Rioboli, Jonathan Peter Worman
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Publication number: 20030011491Abstract: To develop a method according to WO 01/45232 in such a manner that it supplies good results in every case, in a method for detecting and digitally transmitting measured analog output values of a number of transducers to a protection or field device, the measured analog output values of each transducer (ECT1 . . . EVTBB) are converted into measured digital values (Md) at a sampling rate which is higher by a factor (m) than the minimum sampling rate, and are transmitted, the factor (m) being an integer divider of the number (n) of the filter coefficients of in each case one FIR filter (FIR) with filter coefficients of the value 1 in a data concentrator (26) for each transducer (ECT1 . . . EVTBB). The measured digital values (Md) are transmitted as a message to a data concentrator and from buffers (Buf1) associated with each transducer (ECT1 . . .Type: ApplicationFiled: July 10, 2002Publication date: January 16, 2003Inventor: Bert Winkler
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Patent number: 6494616Abstract: A sensor array includes a plurality of sensors connected to two or more groups of wires such that individual sensors can be addressed. No two sensors are connected to the same two wires. The groups of wires are connected to multiplexers or the like to address particular wires connecting a unique sensor. Dramatically improved accuracy is obtained by connecting rectifiers in series with the sensors to significantly reduce reverse current through a sensor that can lead to significant errors.Type: GrantFiled: August 4, 2000Date of Patent: December 17, 2002Assignee: Regents of the University of MinnesotaInventors: Eugene Tokhtuev, Robert M. Carlson, Christopher J. Owen, Anatoly Skirda, Viktor Slobodyan, Alexander Tokhtuev
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Patent number: 6492897Abstract: A system for communicating information to and from untethered subscriber devices and tethered devices by the use of a power transmission line communication system interfacing to a conventional electric power distribution network. Untethered subscriber devices and tethered devices will be able to send and receive impulse or modulated signals. The coupling system to and from a power transmission line is a tethered device housed entirely in an enclosure able to replace a sunlight detector affixed to a street pole, or to plug into an outlet, or to attach around a transmission line, or screw into a light socket. A battery supplies energy to the tethered device screwed into a light socket when no electricity flows to the socket. A tethered device attached around a transmission line is powered by magnetic induction and interfaces through a power transmission communication system. The tethered device interfaces directly to the electrical lines by means of a power transmission communication system.Type: GrantFiled: August 4, 2000Date of Patent: December 10, 2002Inventor: Richard A. Mowery, Jr.
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Patent number: 6492910Abstract: A metering system provides a measuring level with multiple meters and a collection level with multiple collectors. Each meter periodically measures a parameter, such as electricity consumption, and stores measurement information. Each meter periodically transmits its stored measurement information to a collector by a wireless signal. When a collector receives a transmission, it determines which meter sent the transmission, and then extracts unprocessed measurement information. The collector then processes the measurement information to generate a metered function, such as a load profile, a time-of-use profile, or a demand profile. The collector can compensate for missed transmissions and power failures. The metered functions for each meter are transmitted from the collectors to a monitoring station.Type: GrantFiled: May 3, 2000Date of Patent: December 10, 2002Assignee: Schlumberger Resources Management Systems, Inc.Inventors: Steven J. Ragle, Robert A. Hayes, Christopher S. King, Larsh M. Johnson
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Patent number: 6476729Abstract: A power monitoring module with a display unit configured to be mounted on an electrical power source device, such as uninterrupted power supply or a power strip, for indicating a plurality of electrical parameters is disclosed. The power monitoring module includes a casing provided with a central open area and a plurality of through holes thereon, and a printed circuit board are mounted to the casing. A control circuit is arranged on the printed circuit board and electrically coupled to the power source device for detecting the electrical parameters of the electric appliance plugged on the power source device. A plurality of operation keys are arranged on the printed circuit board, corresponding to the through holes formed on the casing. A display unit arranged on the printed circuit board, corresponding to the central open area of the casing for displaying at least one of the plurality of electrical parameters detected by the control circuit.Type: GrantFiled: August 22, 2000Date of Patent: November 5, 2002Inventor: Daniel Liu
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Patent number: 6466138Abstract: A plurality of cooperative telemetry systems is disclosed in which each telemetry system comprises a plurality of remote telemetry transmitters to intermittently transmit short duration messages indicative of the status of sensors associated with the remote telemetry transmitters and at least one telemetry collection unit including a radio transceiver. Each telemetry collection unit forms a node in a wireless network in which telemetry collection units cooperate with each other in order to increase reliability and lower the average cost of each telemetry system. Such network can communicate with a remote central monitoring station via one or more network interface units connected to a private or public wired or wireless network.Type: GrantFiled: January 15, 2000Date of Patent: October 15, 2002Inventor: Andrzej Partyka
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Patent number: 6462673Abstract: An asymmetric-rate communication method and system for remote data collection using a processor-operated modem at a respective data collection site is provided. The modem processor used at the data collection site may be rated to have a predetermined relatively low processing power. The method includes a first selecting step that allow for selecting a first protocol for transmitting data at a predetermined rate. The selected first protocol uses a predetermined percentage of the processing power of the processor. The method includes a second selecting step that allows for selecting a second protocol for receiving data at another predetermined rate. The selected second protocol uses another predetermined percentage of the processing power of the processor.Type: GrantFiled: December 21, 1999Date of Patent: October 8, 2002Assignee: General Electric CompanyInventors: Glen W. Brooksby, Daniel Arthur Staver
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Publication number: 20020135495Abstract: A radio system for use in a building within a range of an over-the-air radio broadcast timing signal that indicates a reference time includes a central radio device located at the building and having a radio receiver configured to receive the timing signal. The central radio device produces an output signal based on the timing signal. Each appliance has a clock, and receives the output signal. Each appliance sets the clock based on the central radio device output signal.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 26, 2001Publication date: September 26, 2002Inventors: Luiz Lei, Chi Biu Wong
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Patent number: 6441747Abstract: A wireless, programmable system for medical monitoring includes a base unit and a plurality of individual wireless, remotely programmable biosensor transceivers. The base unit manages the transceivers by issuing registration, configuration, data acquisition, and transmission commands using wireless techniques. Physiologic data from the wireless transceivers is demultiplexed and supplied via a standard interface to a conventional monitor for display. Initialization, configuration, registration, and management routines for the wireless transceivers and the base unit are also described.Type: GrantFiled: April 18, 2000Date of Patent: August 27, 2002Assignee: Motorola, Inc.Inventors: Mohammad Khair, Salvador Lopez, Richard Ng, Sanjar Ghaem, William L. Olson
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Patent number: 6429786Abstract: The invention relates to a sensor and evaluation system for capturing data at a measuring station (3), in particular for use in double sensors for determining end positions and limit values. The individual sensors (1, 1′, 2, 2′, 16, 16′) are operated as sensor pairs (1″, 2″, 16″) by a largely shared control circuit consisting of two connecting lines (5, 6) with an electric current or voltage of alternate polarity. A state of a sensor (1, 1′, 2, 2′, 16, 16′) is transmitted on the corresponding half-wave of the sensor current and evaluated by a switching amplifier (13) in relation to polarity and amplitude. Said sensor and evaluation system reduces the number of connecting lines required. In addition, interference from neighboring sensors is largely excluded, so that sensors can be mounted more closely together in a system. Said sensor and evaluation system is especially suited for equipment required to comply with the DIN 19234 (NAMUR) standard.Type: GrantFiled: August 20, 1999Date of Patent: August 6, 2002Assignee: Pepperl + Fuchs GmbHInventors: Werner Bansemir, Gerhard Jung
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Patent number: 6424270Abstract: A meter interface unit (MIU) for use in sending, via RF or other suitable type of transmission, utility consumption information from a utility meter to a remote location. The MIU includes an antenna electrically coupled to a transmitter device. A microprocessor is operative to initiate reading of usage information from the meter encoder associated with the meter and control transmission of that information at selected times. The microprocessor implements functions to determine which of several known types of meter encoders is present. The meter encoder data is then read and converted to the desired transmission protocol. Power management circuitry is provided to limit application of power to the encoder, except when usage information is being obtained. The power management circuitry may also include step-up circuitry to convert a lower voltage level supplied by a power source to a higher voltage level needed by the encoder.Type: GrantFiled: October 30, 1998Date of Patent: July 23, 2002Assignee: Schlumberger Resource Management Services, Inc.Inventor: Mohammed S. Ali
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Publication number: 20020089429Abstract: The invention consists of an apparatus and an operative method with which a transponder is detected and read in a controlled passageway. The detection and reading apparatus is programmed to control its transmitter coil (Tx) so as to repeatedly emit a detecting electromagnetic field only for a brief interval of the transmission signal period, of a sufficient duration to allow the transponder to emit its presence signal. When the detection and reading apparatus receive the transponder's first presence signal, the transmission coil (Tx) is instructed to emit an electromagnetic field of longer duration, sufficient to activate the transponder so that it emits its own complete coded signal so that it can be read and decoded.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 27, 1998Publication date: July 11, 2002Inventor: MANNESCHI ALESSANDRO
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Publication number: 20020067285Abstract: A method and system for monitoring and reporting vehicle tire pressure information. The system includes tire pressure monitors mounted to the tires of a vehicle. The tire pressure monitors detect tire pressure information from their respective tires and transmit that information to transponders that are fixedly-mounted to the vehicle. Each tire pressure monitor corresponds to a single transponder. When a tire pressure monitor transmits tire pressure information, the corresponding transponder receives the signal and transmits the tire pressure signal along with a unique transponder identification code to a vehicle central system controller. Based upon the transponder identification code, the central controller associates the tire pressure information with a particular tire location. However, under certain conditions, a transmitted tire pressure signal is received by one or more of the non-corresponding transponders as well as the corresponding transponder.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 9, 2002Publication date: June 6, 2002Inventor: Thomas M. Lill
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Patent number: 6396839Abstract: An electronic meter incorporates a TCP/IP protocol suite and an HTTP server to provide two-way access to the meter data. Alternatively, the TCP/IP protocol suite may be incorporated into a gateway serving multiple meters connected through a power line or wireless two-way network. The gateway may incorporate an HTTP server for accessing data from multiple meters and for transmission of data to individual meters. Other aspects of the disclosed system include the use of a common gateway interface for remote access to meter data and to set meter parameters using HTML forms in HTTP browsers; remote reading and setting of multiple meter parameters using a TCP/IP protocol suite; a TCP/IP protocol suite implemented in designated nodes in a CEBus LAN with remote access through TCP/IP to routers and brouters and to individual meters on the LAN; and an SLIP-PPP enabled gateway for remote TCP/IP access through a serial interface to a single or multiple meter parameters.Type: GrantFiled: February 12, 1998Date of Patent: May 28, 2002Assignee: ABB Automation Inc.Inventors: Sasan H. Ardalan, David E. Van den Bout
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Patent number: 6377189Abstract: A well servicing system includes a vehicle that travels to perform a service operation at several well sites while monitoring and recording data that reflects the performance of the operation at each site, and then associates that data with unique well site identifiers. The information is stored and secured against tampering to provide a reliable record of what work was done at each particular well site.Type: GrantFiled: March 31, 1999Date of Patent: April 23, 2002Inventor: Frederic M. Newman
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Patent number: 6377203Abstract: A method for simultaneously reading a serial number and/or other information from multiple colliding RF signals from RF identification tags requires minimal additional logic in the tag's processor and provides for a powerful and rapid sorting and identification scheme. This technique employs a primary communication channel and multiple secondary channels. A locator or reader unit interrogates the tags, which respond with an RF signal. Upon receiving multiple signals, the locator or reader unit commands the RFID tags and requires them to transmit another response, which is transmitted in one of the secondary channels based on a portion of their unique serial identification number, thereby forcing the tags to sort in the secondary channels. These secondary channels are assigned using a portion of the unique serial identification numbers for the tags. The reader then detects an acknowledgment in the occupied secondary channels and commands a tag in a particular channel to move to the primary channel.Type: GrantFiled: February 1, 2000Date of Patent: April 23, 2002Assignee: 3M Innovative Properties CompanyInventor: Ziyad Hanna Doany
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Patent number: 6373399Abstract: A radio communications network for transmitting data from a plurality of remote stations to a central station is provided. This system is particularly proposed for automatic meter reading systems in which the remote stations are located at utility meters. The system includes an array of receiving stations arranged relative to the remote stations so that the messages from each remote station can be received by at least two and preferably four of the receiving stations providing a high level of duplication of messages. The remote stations transmit utility usage information obtained from a previous time period at a random time subsequent to the time period so that message collisions can occur. High level of duplication provided by the increased number of receiving stations reduces the message loss. A quiet period during which the remote stations are prevented from transmitting can be used for communication between the receiving stations and the central station.Type: GrantFiled: October 13, 2000Date of Patent: April 16, 2002Assignee: Itron, Inc.Inventors: Dennis F. Johnson, Michael Wiebe, Erwin Holowick, Nathan R. Jacob, Michael F. Murphy, James J. Schellenberg, Michael S. Stasenski
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Publication number: 20020039069Abstract: A system and method for remote monitoring of a cathodic protection system are disclosed. In one embodiment of a system incorporating teachings of the present disclosure, a remote telemetry device may be communicatively coupled to at least one cathodic protection device operable to provide direct current to a metallic object, the telemetry device may be programmable to communicate with a central station, and the telemetry device may incorporate a transmitter and a processor. The processor may include memory and programming code to control operation of the telemetry device, and the transmitter may be operable to communicate information to a central station.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 29, 2001Publication date: April 4, 2002Inventors: Randall H. Chance, David X. Young, Donald J. Davis, Thomas A. Garner, Michael A. Young, Michael P. Devine, Spencer Nimberger, Kevin J. Cessac, Richard J. Smalling, Kejun Chen
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Publication number: 20020030604Abstract: A system comprising a remote telemetry device to monitor at least one sensor input, a central station, responsive to the remote telemetry device, a central database to store and organize information communicated by the telemetry device, and a computer network user interface that provides a user with remote access to the information stored at the central database. The telemetry device may be programmable to communicate with a central station upon at least one of an alarm condition and a regular time interval. The central station may include a central station computer server and software embedded therein to provide connection with a wide area network communications module, a database hosting module hosting a central database, and a notification module to issue alarm notification messages.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 29, 2001Publication date: March 14, 2002Inventors: Randall H. Chance, David X. Young, Donald J. Davis, Thomas A. Garner, Michael A. Young, Michael P. Devine, Spencer Nimberger, Kevin J. Cessac, Richard J. Smalling, Kejun Chen
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Patent number: 6353397Abstract: A method and a device for switching between different types of output signals, wherein it is possible to generate at least two different types of output signals by the position measuring system which are transmitted to an evaluating unit. Switching between the different types of output signals takes place by one or several switching signals transmitted by the evaluating unit, which are transmitted over a supply line of the position measuring system.Type: GrantFiled: March 6, 1998Date of Patent: March 5, 2002Assignee: Johannes Heidenhain GmbHInventors: Steffen Bielski, Helmut Huber
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Publication number: 20020011937Abstract: A method and apparatus for low-power sensing and processing are provided. A method preferably includes collecting a plurality of sensor signals. The plurality of sensors include sensed data representative of at least shock and vibration. The method also includes converting the plurality of sensor signals into digital data, processing the digital data, generating a data communications protocol for communicating the digital data, and simultaneously and remotely detecting the generated communications protocol having the processed data to determined the occurrence of at least one predetermined condition. An apparatus preferably includes a low-power, data acquisition processing circuit responsive to a plurality of sensor signals representative of at least shock and vibration for acquiring and processing the sensed data.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 2, 2001Publication date: January 31, 2002Inventors: Martin Tanenhaus, Robert McDowell, Tom Nelson
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Patent number: 6329928Abstract: A communication system which utilizes the building metal frame as a communication medium is described. More particularly, and in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, a wire coil is located near to one of the frame pieces so that the coil lays flat in the plane of the building face. A time varying current in the coil creates a time varying magnetic dipole field. This field changes the flux within a “flux window” which is defined as one of the rectangular sections formed by the frame steel members. This changing flux creates a time varying potential around the window, which creates a time varying current that acts in opposition to the induced flux. This current also excites a time varying flux in the neighboring flux windows, which induces time varying fluxes in their neighbors and so on.Type: GrantFiled: December 21, 1998Date of Patent: December 11, 2001Assignee: General Electric CompanyInventor: John Erik Hershey
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Publication number: 20010048375Abstract: A data acquisition and transmitting unit samples the signal indicating the apparatus state quantity from a sensor provided on an apparatus, converts the signal into absolute-time-tagged monitoring data S(t), stores the data S(t), and transmits the data S(t) to a network. A digital protection and control unit takes in the quantity data E about the system of the apparatus and the operating state data P about the apparatus, converts these data into absolute-time-tagged data E(t) and operating state data P(t), stores these converted data, and transmits these data E(t) and P(t) to the network. A data display unit receives the data S(t), E(t), and P(t) from the data acquisition and transmitting unit and digital protective and control unit via the network and displays the state of the apparatus on the basis of the data S(t), E(t), and P(t).Type: ApplicationFiled: May 22, 2001Publication date: December 6, 2001Applicant: KABUSHIKI KAISHA TOSHIBAInventors: Shiro Maruyama, Takaaki Sakakibara, Kyoichi Uehara, Masayuki Akazaki
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Publication number: 20010048374Abstract: There is provided a system for remotely monitoring coin-operated machines. Data from the machines is collected and transmitted by the machine to a remote server. In alternate embodiments, several machines may be interconnected via a LAN to a local CPU which transmits data to the remote server, typically using the internet. The combination of one or more remote machines and the central monitoring site form a Virtual Private Network (VPN). An optional feature allows for e-mail or other type of alert messages to be sent from the remote server in response to the identification of one or more predetermined events for which a customer should immediately be notified. Browse and query tools working against a database of machine information are provided so that authorized customers or other interested parties may view data for individual or groups of coin-operated machines by means of a web page accessed via the internet.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 9, 2001Publication date: December 6, 2001Inventor: Steven J. Blad
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Publication number: 20010045892Abstract: A wireless gauge alert system including a near empty sensor, a near full sensor, a transmitter, a receiver, and an alert device used to monitor the fuel level status of a liquid fuel or pressure (vessel) tank having a measuring device with an output member and gauge. Upon detection of a predetermined near empty condition, the transmitter sends an encoded wireless alarm signal to the receiver. The alert device then generates a user notification signal. The receiver and alert device, which preferably comprise an LED, are held in a housing having a plug extending therefrom to mount the housing to an electrical socket in a high traffic area. An alternate alert system includes a receiver unit coupled with a computer that allows either the user or a vendor computer to monitor the status of the sensor and respond accordingly. Another alternate alert system includes multiple zone remote assemblies for installation on separate fuel tanks to be monitored.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 20, 1999Publication date: November 29, 2001Inventors: KEITH A. THOMAS, TIMOTHY A. KEARNS, BRUCE R. DAVIS
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Publication number: 20010043147Abstract: The display accuracy of an outside air temperature detected by a temperature sensor is to be enhanced. A CPU generates a signal for displaying an outside air temperature on a display panel P wherein the temperature is detected by an outside air temperature sensor. At this time, temperature information Tr is detected by the sensor and is corrected taking into account the vehicle speed detected by a vehicle speed sensor and an engine temperature detected by an engine temperature sensor. The CPU has a memory member for storing a correction function corresponding to the vehicle speed or the engine temperature and makes the above correction on the basis of a correction function corresponding to the vehicle speed or the engine temperature.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 29, 2001Publication date: November 22, 2001Inventors: Katsuhisa Yamada, Koji Kano, Koichi Shimamura, Koji Suzuki
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Patent number: 6310560Abstract: The communication device comprises a central unit and at least one station connected by a network. The station comprises a checking circuit and a storage circuit connected to the checking circuit. The storage circuit stores data representative of information which the station has to transmit to the central unit and transmission condition parameters associated to said information. In a parameter setting phase, the station receives the data and parameters to be stored. Then, in an operating phase, the checking circuit transmits information according to the stored transmission condition parameters.Type: GrantFiled: July 24, 1998Date of Patent: October 30, 2001Assignee: Scheider Electric SAInventor: Luc Weynachter
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Patent number: 6307483Abstract: Conversion circuitry for use in a process control system is adapted for coupling to a primary process control loop. Digital receiver circuitry in the conversion circuitry receives a digital signal transmitted over the primary process control loop from a field transmitter and responsively provides a digital output. A microprocessor receives the digital output and responsively provides a secondary loop control output. Secondary loop control circuitry for coupling to a secondary process control loop receives the secondary loop control output from the microprocessor and responsively controls current flowing through the secondary process control loop. The current flowing through the secondary process control loop is related to the digital signal transmitted by the field transmitter.Type: GrantFiled: April 7, 1999Date of Patent: October 23, 2001Assignee: Rosemount Inc.Inventors: Brian L. Westfield, Stephen D. Anderson, Bennett L. Louwagie, Todd A. Piechowski, Gregory C. Brown
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Patent number: 6304788Abstract: An article including a computer readable medium having instructions stored thereon, which when executed, causes receipt of a control request for a medical-monitoring device located on a client and determining if the control request is serviceable by the medical-monitoring device. In addition, the instructions also include sending the control request unaltered to the client if the control request is serviceable by the medical-monitoring device, and modifying the control request to a serviceable control request if the control request is not serviceable by the medical-monitoring device.Type: GrantFiled: August 12, 1999Date of Patent: October 16, 2001Assignee: United Internet Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Robert Eady, Brian Shuster