Of Physical Entrance Or Exit Lock Patents (Class 379/102.06)
  • Patent number: 11715339
    Abstract: Disclosed herein are various embodiments of an electronic lockbox for storing keys and key cards. The lockbox may include calendar-based entry rules so that the key codes can differ based on the date and time. The lockbox may be controllable by a mobile device such as a mobile phone, tablet, or other mobile device. The lockbox may include functionality so that key codes for the lockbox can be transmitted via websites such as Airbnb, HomeAway, or other rental websites, so that guests automatically receive their unique lockbox codes when they confirm their reservations. The lockbox may also receive a Bluetooth low energy virtual key which may be transmitted directly from a user's mobile phone to the lockbox, so that no manual code entry through the keypad is required by a user. The lockbox may be capable of accepting multiple passcodes enabled at different times and dates, and for different purposes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2019
    Date of Patent: August 1, 2023
    Assignee: ARMADILLO SYSTEMS, LLC
    Inventors: Aric T. Hilmas, Gary Franklin Skinner, Michael W. Aumock, Joe Bucciaglia
  • Patent number: 11017625
    Abstract: A smart key box includes a key holding element, a housing, a power assembly, sensing units, an authentication module, and a control module. The housing is configured to contain the key holding element. The power assembly is disposed in the housing and configured to drive the key holding element to leave the housing or enter the housing along an access direction. The sensing units are disposed in the housing. When the key holding element leaves the housing or enters the housing, the key holding element is configured to trigger at least one of the sensing units. The authentication module is disposed at the housing. The control module is disposed in the housing and electrically connected with the power assembly, the sensing units, and the authentication module, and is configured to control the power assembly according to the at least one of the sensing units which is triggered.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2020
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2021
    Assignee: LUBN INC.
    Inventors: Shih-Hsun Ou, Chiu-Wan Li, Yuan-Chou Chung
  • Patent number: 10771975
    Abstract: A method includes receiving, by a server, a request to revoke the access rights of a user device to a lock; transmitting, by the server, a revocation command to the user device to remove an access credential from the user device; identifying, by the server, one or more trusted devices that have access rights to the lock in response to unsuccessfully transmitting the revocation command to the user device; transmitting, by the server, a key change command to the one or more trusted devices including an updated key to replace a key on the lock; transmitting, by a first one of the one or more trusted devices to encounter the lock, the key change command to the lock; and replacing, by the lock, the key with the updated key such that the user device is unable to access the lock using the access credential.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2018
    Date of Patent: September 8, 2020
    Assignee: Master Lock Company LLC
    Inventors: Nathan Conrad, Yi Zhang, Nemanja Stefanovic
  • Patent number: 10757266
    Abstract: A terminal device configured to communicate with room parent devices installed in respective rooms is equipped with an input unit enabling input of a dweller name as a call manipulation for calling a room parent device; a storage unit stored with a call table in which a room number, a dweller name, and room parent device identification information assigned to each of the room parent devices are correlated; and a control unit determining a call target room parent device based on an input content of the call manipulation and the call table and performing call control for calling the determined room parent device. In adding a new dweller name for an existing room number to the call table stored in the storage unit, the control unit automatically registers, as room parent device identification information of the new dweller name, the room parent device identification information assigned to the room number.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 25, 2020
    Assignee: AIPHONE CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Seiya Yamakawa, Akira Kai, Kenji Yasukawa
  • Patent number: 10635907
    Abstract: Techniques are described for enhanced interactions for a security automation system using a doorbell camera. One method includes detecting, by the doorbell camera, that a person is located within a distance threshold to an entry of a structure based on received sensor data; identifying, by the doorbell camera, a suggested security action for the security and automation system to perform based on the detecting; transmitting the suggested action to the security and automation system based on the identifying; and broadcasting, via the doorbell camera, in response to the transmitting a message to the person located within the distance threshold.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2017
    Date of Patent: April 28, 2020
    Assignee: Vivint, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael D. Child, Jeremy B. Warren, Alen L. Peacock, Michelle Zundel
  • Patent number: 10636237
    Abstract: An embodiment herein provides a system for preventing pilferage and tampering of a lock from a vehicle 112. The system includes at least one electromechanical padlock (EMPL) 116, a secure key housing 114, a tunnel transport layer security (TTLS) application server 108. The at least EMPL 116 is adapted to attach to a container of a vehicle 112 to lock or unlock the container of the vehicle 112. The secure key housing 114 includes at least one key to lock or unlock the at least one EMPL 116. The TTLS application server 108 generates unique codes for operating the at least one key corresponding to the at least one EMPL 116. The TTLS application server 108 generates a onetime password and communicates the onetime password to a computing device 104 of the authorized personnel 102 when the vehicle 112 reaches the receiving office.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2017
    Date of Patent: April 28, 2020
    Inventor: Sujit Kanoria
  • Patent number: 10554823
    Abstract: In an intercom system to be used in an apartment complex configured by residential buildings and a centralized building that can communicate with the residential buildings, the residential buildings includes: residential room master devices disposed in residential rooms collective entrance devices—which can communicate with the residential room master devices; and a building controller. The building controller has: a building controller ID that, when one of the residential room master devices is called from the centralized building via the building controller, is used in recognition in which the centralized building recognizes the building controller; and a collective entrance device ID that, when the one residential room master device is called from the centralized building via the building controller, is used in recognition in which the one residential room master device recognizes the building controller as a virtual collective entrance device that is different from the collective entrance devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2020
    Assignee: AIPHONE CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Akira Kai, Hayato Takeya
  • Patent number: 10187527
    Abstract: A resident information box system incorporating the installation of call boxes within each apartment structured and arranged to be linked to a single phone number for delivering messages from management, without having to waste natural resources, like paper and electricity, as well as the time and effort of the management staff.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2017
    Date of Patent: January 22, 2019
    Inventor: LaTricia Winston
  • Patent number: 10133935
    Abstract: Systems and methods for visitor detection using security and/or automation systems include detecting an event at a doorway, capturing an image at the doorway associated with the event, capturing a video at the doorway associated with the event, delivering the image with a notice of the event to a recipient for viewing, and automatically uploading the video for viewing upon capturing the video. The video is available for selective viewing by the recipient upon being uploaded.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2015
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2018
    Assignee: Vivint, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael D. Child, Craig Matsuura, Dean Brederson, JonPaul Vega
  • Patent number: 9802789
    Abstract: An elevator security procedure is performed according to a security level of an elevator of a building including a plurality of residence units through an elevator security system. The elevator security system includes home gateways respectively installed at the plurality of residence units and a server coupled to the home gateways. The server may analyze a comparison result of passenger information of passengers in the elevator and member information of members of residence units associated with floors selected by the passengers in the elevator. The server may determine a security level of the elevator based on the analysis result. The server may perform a security procedure designated for the determined security level by controlling at least one of constituent elements of the elevator and smart devices coupled to the at least one of home gateways.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2014
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2017
    Assignee: KT CORPORATION
    Inventors: Yu-Seon Kim, Eui-Seung Son, Ho-Sung Yoon
  • Patent number: 9800737
    Abstract: Various implementations include systems and methods for unlocking a door to a building on behalf of a tenant of the building that addresses the shortcomings of legacy telephone entry systems and allows for more efficient and safer management of building entry requests from third parties. In some implementations, the system taps into the legacy telephone entry systems to communicate with third parties seeking entry into the building. In some implementations, the system communicates with third party computing devices (e.g., stationary or mobile devices) to process entry requests. And, in some implementations, the system communicates entry preferences (or parameters) associated with a tenant with a door lock system to allow for entry during certain time windows or under certain conditions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2017
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2017
    Assignee: DropBy, Inc.
    Inventors: Camille Gaspard, Nabeel Samad, John McQueen
  • Patent number: 9654632
    Abstract: An apparatus, method and non-transitory computer readable medium for generating a graphical representation to motivate a plurality of employees in a call center are disclosed. For example, the apparatus includes a display comprising a plurality of pixels, wherein each one of the plurality of pixels represents one or more of the plurality of employees, a computer-readable medium storing the graphical representation and a processor in communication with the display and the computer-readable medium, wherein the processor receives an indication from an endpoint device of one of the plurality of employees when the one of the plurality of employees achieves a call center objective and the processor causes a pixel of the plurality of pixels associated with the one of the plurality of employees to turn on in accordance with the graphical representation, wherein the graphical representation comprises a pixel art shape.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2017
    Assignee: Conduent Business Services, LLC
    Inventors: Francois Ragnet, Yves Hoppenot, Benjamin Vincent Hanrahan, Stefania Castellani, Frederic Somat
  • Patent number: 9613522
    Abstract: A security system includes a central control and a number of security controllers, each of which includes a removable and replaceable security control module. Each module is interchangeable with other modules. Each controller includes a housing within which the module is contained. Cables from security-controlled components extend into the interior of the housing and are removably connected to the module. Each module includes a first connector for connection in a communication system and a second connector for receiving inputs from and providing outputs to a security component controlled by the controller. Each module further includes a third connector for receiving inputs from or providing outputs to an auxiliary device other than the security component. The auxiliary device provides an input to the controller or receives an output from a controller independent of the security component. Each controller also includes an accelerometer for providing a tamper evident feature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2017
    Assignee: Kelly Research Corp.
    Inventor: Alan T. Doyle
  • Patent number: 9584775
    Abstract: A device for communicating including a housing including a camera, a microphone, a speaker, a button, a battery, a sensor, non-volatile memory, a processor, and a wireless communications module, wherein the non-volatile memory stores code operable by the processor for switching the processor from low-power mode to active mode in response to an activation trigger, receiving, from the one of the microphone and the camera, outbound audio and video signals, then sending a signal to a server via the wireless communications module during active mode, the signal including one or more of an alert signal, a signal based on the outbound audio signal, and a signal based on the outbound video signal, receiving from the server an inbound audio signal and outputting a signal based on the inbound audio signal via the speaker, and switching the processor from active mode to low-power mode in response to a deactivation trigger.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2017
    Assignee: BOT HOME AUTOMATION, INC.
    Inventors: James Siminoff, Mark Siminoff
  • Patent number: 9563991
    Abstract: A dynamic access server engine on a server may be configured to receive a request for access to a restricted area during a specific time period. If there is no scheduling conflict the engine can schedule the access period. Additionally, the request may be associated with one or more invitees. For each invitee, the engine determines whether the invitee is authorized to temporarily access the restricted area. If authorized, the engine automatically grants to the invitee temporary access to the restricted area during the scheduled period.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 7, 2017
    Assignee: Apple Inc.
    Inventor: Martin M. Menzel
  • Patent number: 9514585
    Abstract: A electronic lock system and method including an electronic lock, a mobile device and/or a wireless device. The electronic lock is capable of sending a message to the mobile device via wireless communication and/or to the wireless device based on a triggering event. The mobile device and/or the wireless device may in turn perform an action based on the received message. In one embodiment, the electronic lock, the mobile device the wireless device communicate with one another wirelessly via Bluetooth communication.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2016
    Assignee: Schlage Lock Company LLC
    Inventors: John Robert Ahearn, Joseph Wayne Baumgarte, Gabriel Daniel Focke, Michael Scott Henney
  • Patent number: 9338551
    Abstract: Methods, systems, and apparatuses are described for improved multi-microphone source tracking and noise suppression. In multi-microphone devices and systems, frequency domain acoustic echo cancellation is performed on each microphone input, and microphone levels and sensitivity are normalized. Methods, systems, and apparatuses are also described for improved acoustic scene analysis and source tracking using steered null error transforms, on-line adaptive acoustic scene modeling, and speaker-dependent information. Switched super-directive beamforming reinforces desired audio sources and closed-form blocking matrices suppress desired audio sources based on spatial information derived from microphone pairings. Underlying statistics are tracked and used to updated filters and models. Automatic detection of single-user and multi-user scenarios, and single-channel suppression using spatial information, non-spatial information, and residual echo are also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 10, 2016
    Assignee: Broadcom Corporation
    Inventors: Jes Thyssen, Ashutosh Pandey, Bengt J. Borgstrom, Daniele Giacobello, Juin-Hwey Chen
  • Patent number: 8831190
    Abstract: Methods, systems, and apparatus, including computer program products, in which a first telephone number is associated with a second telephone number, and a web-based advertisement is served for an advertiser that includes the first telephone number. A call placed to the first telephone number is received, and the call is routed to the second telephone number based on the association of the second telephone number with the first telephone number. A determination as to whether a call-through event in response to receiving the call placed to the first telephone number has occurred, and an advertiser associated with the second telephone number is charged a cost-per-call amount if the call-through event is determined to have occurred.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2014
    Assignee: Google Inc.
    Inventor: Vinay Goel
  • Patent number: 8731156
    Abstract: Methods, systems, and products are disclosed for operating an electronically activated mechanism. In an exemplary embodiment, the method comprises receiving, via a first communications network, a first electronic communication directed to remotely activating the mechanism. The first electronic communication may include at least one of a telephone call, a telephone call containing data, and a data message. The method further comprises determining whether a party from whom the first electronic communication is received is authorized to remotely activate the mechanism. When it is determined that the party from whom the first electronic communication is received is authorized to remotely activate the electronically activated mechanism, a second electronic communication is provided via a second communications network. The second electronic communication is directed to activating the electronically activated mechanism. The first and second communications networks may each include a wireless network.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2014
    Assignee: Open Invention Network, LLC
    Inventors: Isaac D. M. White, James Dickens
  • Patent number: 8675838
    Abstract: An access control system is provided for a movable barrier. A main communication unit grants access to a movable barrier operator. The movable barrier operator controls movement of the movable barrier. A remote communication unit has an input device to receive an access request and to transmit a corresponding access signal to the main communication unit and to transmit a status indication to the main communication unit in response to detecting a predetermined event.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2014
    Assignee: The Chamberlain Group, Inc.
    Inventors: William G. Gioia, Robert Rainey
  • Patent number: 8503631
    Abstract: Methods, systems, and products are disclosed for locking and unlocking a lock. A lock service manager module stores in memory, and a processor communicates with the memory. The lock service manager module includes executable code for receiving a communication from a calling telephone number. A database is queried for at least one of i) a called telephone number and ii) a calling telephone number. The database stores telephone numbers of subscribers to a lock service. The lock service allows remote locking and unlocking of the lock. If the query is successful, the communication is processed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2013
    Assignee: Open Invention Network LLC
    Inventors: Isaac D. M. White, James Dickens
  • Patent number: 8437740
    Abstract: A key control system includes at least one premise, a lockbox capable of securing a key to the premise and at least one mobile telephone associated with a user and having a stored access device program capable of communicating an access request to the lockbox. The premise is subject to authorized access by others, such as the user, based on preferences of an approval party established with the system. If specified by these preferences, the mobile telephone automatically initiates a communication to a selected destination to request approval of the access request.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2013
    Assignee: UTC Fire & Security Americas Corporation, Inc.
    Inventors: Jay Despain, James Petrizzi, Casey Fale, Jonathan G. Hays, Wayne F. Larson
  • Patent number: 8335488
    Abstract: A key control system includes at least one premise, a lockbox capable of securing a key to the premise and at least one mobile telephone associated with a user and having a stored access device program capable of communicating an access request to the lockbox. The premise is subject to authorized access by others, such as the user, based on preferences of an approval party established with the system. If specified by these preferences, the mobile telephone automatically initiates a communication to a selected destination to request approval of the access request.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 18, 2012
    Assignee: UTC Fire & Security Americas Corporation, Inc.
    Inventors: Jay Despain, James Petrizzi, Casey Fale, Jonathan G. Hays
  • Patent number: 8218734
    Abstract: A communication device supports leaving a message using a communication device input interface when the device is in a locked state. The communication device may be a network telephone having a display interface and a user input interface. The communication device may be configured to transition to a locked state, store a message based on input received at the locked communication device, and present the message to an intended recipient. The message may be presented to the intended recipient upon unlocking the device (e.g., stored locally and presented when the phone is unlocked), presented to the intended recipient in accordance with communication settings (e.g., delivered to an email account, cell phone, etc.), or otherwise delivered.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Assignee: Microsoft Corporation
    Inventor: Dhirendra Kumar Bhupati
  • Patent number: 8218739
    Abstract: An apparatus and methods for implementing a garage door monitoring system coupled to a garage door opener. The door monitoring system allow a user to actuate the door under control via a network connection. In at least one embodiment, the door monitoring system is controlled by a cell phone or networked appliance capable of transmitting information and data via a cellular telephone network. The door monitoring system provides the added advantage of allowing a remote user to view the areas or regions near to the door under control prior to actuating the door. At least one embodiment comprises a method to validate reception of the pictures or video clips of the areas or regions near to the door prior to enabling the system to actuate the door. In another embodiment a pass code is embedded into the pictures or video provided to the remote user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Inventors: Justin R. Styers, Ryan H. McDowell
  • Patent number: 8164614
    Abstract: An audio-video communication system comprises a wireless exterior module located proximate an entrance, a computerized controller running a software application, and a remote peripheral device. The wireless exterior module includes a proximity sensor for detecting a person at the entrance, a video camera for recording an image of the person at the entrance, a microphone for recording the person at the entrance, a speaker for playing audio to the person at the entrance, a transmitter for communicating sounds and images of the person at the entrance, and a receiver for receiving communications at the wireless exterior module. The computerized controller is disposed in wireless electronic communication with the wireless exterior module via the transmitter and the receiver of the wireless exterior module. The remote peripheral device is configured to electronically communicate with the computerized controller for viewing an image from the video camera communicated from the wireless exterior module.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2012
    Assignee: Revolutionary Concepts, Inc.
    Inventor: Ronald Carter
  • Patent number: 8154581
    Abstract: An audio-video communication system comprises a wireless exterior module located proximate an entrance, a computerized controller running a software application, and a remote peripheral device. The wireless exterior module includes a proximity sensor for detecting a person at the entrance, a video camera for recording an image of the person at the entrance, a microphone for recording the person at the entrance, a speaker for playing audio to the person at the entrance, a transmitter for communicating sounds and images of the person at the entrance, and a receiver for receiving communications at the wireless exterior module. The computerized controller is disposed in wireless electronic communication with the wireless exterior module via the transmitter and the receiver of the wireless exterior module. The remote peripheral device is configured to electronically communicate with the computerized controller for viewing an image from the video camera communicated from the wireless exterior module.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2012
    Assignee: Revolutionary Concepts, Inc.
    Inventor: Ronald Carter
  • Patent number: 8144184
    Abstract: An audio-video communication system comprises a wireless exterior module located proximate an entrance, a computerized controller running a software application, and a remote peripheral device. The wireless exterior module includes a proximity sensor for detecting a person at the entrance, a video camera for recording an image of the person at the entrance, a microphone for recording the person at the entrance, a speaker for playing audio to the person at the entrance, a transmitter for communicating sounds and images of the person at the entrance, and a receiver for receiving communications at the wireless exterior module. The computerized controller is disposed in wireless electronic communication with the wireless exterior module via the transmitter and the receiver of the wireless exterior module. The remote peripheral device is configured to electronically communicate with the computerized controller for viewing an image from the video camera communicated from the wireless exterior module.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2012
    Assignee: Revolutionary Concepts, Inc.
    Inventor: Ronald Carter
  • Patent number: 8144183
    Abstract: A method for two-way audio-video communications between a first person at an entrance and a second person comprises the steps of detecting, with a proximity sensor located proximate an entrance, the presence of a first person at the entrance and providing real time audio-video communications between the first person at the entrance and a second person using a wireless handheld device. The method includes transmitting video of the first person to the wireless handheld device of the second person, transmitting audio of the first person to the wireless handheld device of the second person, and transmitting audio of the second person to the first person at the entrance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2012
    Assignee: Revolutionary Concepts, Inc.
    Inventor: Ronald Carter
  • Patent number: 8139098
    Abstract: A method for receiving a person at an entrance comprises the steps of detecting the presence of a person at the entrance with a proximity sensor located proximate the entrance, transmitting video of the person at the entrance recorded using a camera located proximate the entrance to a computerized controller running a software application, and providing a graphic user interface to a remote peripheral device by which a user of the remote peripheral device may view the video of the person at the entrance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2012
    Assignee: Revolutionary Concepts, Inc.
    Inventor: Ronald Carter
  • Patent number: 8077845
    Abstract: System and method for remotely controlling at least one local security system from a telephone device. The system includes a reception section for receiving a telephone call, a decoding section for decoding input from a caller and a controller for receiving the information and authenticating the caller based upon the detected information. The system also includes a voice server controlled by the controller for interfacing between the system and the caller. The voice server prompts the caller for information used to authenticate the caller, reports a status of each local security system and prompts the caller to select a particular local security system to control. Furthermore, the system includes a central database that contains subscriber information separated into subscriber records. The subscriber record includes at least one subscriber identifier authorized to control each local security system. The control instruction is transmitted to a selected local security system by a transmission section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2011
    Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventor: Christopher D. Martin
  • Publication number: 20110150195
    Abstract: An interactive building entry control system serves as an “electronic doorman.” The system includes an interactive intercom system that acts as an intermediary between visitors to a building and residents of the building. The system allows a resident to identify a visitor without directly talking to the visitor. The system records a message from the visitor and relays the message to a communication device of the selected resident of the building. The resident can then make a decision to grant or deny entry without talking directly to the visitor. When the resident grants entry, the system signals an entry door to the building to unlock. When the resident denies entry, the entry door remains locked, and the system informs the visitor that entry has been denied, without informing the visitor of the cause of the denial.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 29, 2010
    Publication date: June 23, 2011
    Inventor: David L. Oblad
  • Patent number: 7945032
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for connecting and operating plurality of lockers in a multi apartment or multi office building connected via an interface to a video interphone system and via a local guardman or a virtual guardman over a network, for providing access to the building and opening a locker for a deliveryman to deliver packages, parcels and ordered goods. The tenants receiving a message through their video interphone monitor can retrieve the deliveries by opening the specific locker from their video interphone monitor, through the entry panel and through associated accessories.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2011
    Assignee: Elbex Video Ltd.
    Inventor: David Elberbaum
  • Patent number: 7885272
    Abstract: A communication device, such as a telephone or a personal computer, controls one or more remotely controlled devices solely over a signaling path, without necessarily establishing an audio path, thus eliminating the need for the remotely controlled device, or its controller, to include DTMF detection hardware or software or an RTP stack. The communication device can include authentication information, which the communication device uses to authenticate itself to the remotely controlled device, so a user of the communication device can remotely control the device without necessarily entering additional authentication information, such as a passcode. The remotely controlled device (or a controller that controls the device) can register with an element that detects user interactions, such as keypad button presses, with the communication device. The registration can identify one or more patterns of user input.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2011
    Assignee: Dialogic Corporation
    Inventors: Eric W. Burger, Ophir Frieder
  • Patent number: 7873158
    Abstract: The apparatus may have: a telecommunication network having a tracking calling terminal and a tracked called terminal; a polled geofencing system associated with at least one predetermined area having a predetermined boundary, the tracked called terminal having a location relative to the predetermined boundary; and at least first and second predetermined ring-back tones having a functional relationship with the at least one predetermined boundary, the first predetermined ring-back tone being utilized when the tracked called terminal is within the predetermined boundary, and the second predetermined ring-back tone being utilized when the tracked called terminal is outside of the predetermined boundary; wherein the at least first and second predetermined ring-back tones alert the tracking calling terminal to a location, relative to the predetermined boundary as determined by the polled geofencing system, of tracked called terminal during a call setup between the designated tracked called terminal and the trackin
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 18, 2011
    Assignee: Alcatel-Lucent USA Inc.
    Inventors: Ranjan Sharma, Shengqiang Wang
  • Patent number: 7869582
    Abstract: An apparatus and methods for implementing a garage door monitoring system coupled to a garage door opener. The door monitoring system allow a user to actuate the door under control via a network connection. In at least one embodiment, the door monitoring system is controlled by a cell phone or networked appliance capable of transmitting information and data via a cellular telephone network. The door monitoring system provides the added advantage of allowing a remote user to view the areas or regions near to the door under control prior to actuating the door. At least one embodiment comprises a method to validate reception of the pictures or video clips of the areas or regions near to the door prior to enabling the system to actuate the door. In another embodiment a pass code is embedded into the pictures or video provided to the remote user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2011
    Inventors: Justin R. Styers, Ryan H. McDowell
  • Patent number: 7839985
    Abstract: The present invention discloses a system and a method for a visitor reception service in absence. The present invention is applied to the system including a central server (HNSN) controlling devices and delivering their control statuses in being connected to the mobile network, and a gateway which interconnects with said HNSN through network and has connections with a plurality of devices, characterized in that the above gateway includes a Tel-Box (7) including a ring signal detection part detecting the number of sounding times of ring signal in the case that a call connection is requested from outside for a call path switching, an on/off hook detection part detecting on/off hook with an indoor telephone (12, 13, 14). According to the present invention, the convenience capable of doing reception for a visitor everywhere at once, irrespective of the place where the user having mobile station is can be provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 23, 2010
    Assignee: SK Telecom Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Young-Sik Shin
  • Patent number: 7783018
    Abstract: A directory display and configurable entry system having a user interface providing an intuitive multi-page graphical user interface useful for enabling a user to readily access occupant related information that is contained in a database of the system. The system may also include a relay interface module, which may be remotely located from a computer unit of the system. The relay interface module enables either new and or legacy devices to be coupled to the hardware of the system, including the computer unit. This abstract is provided to comply with rules requiring an abstract, and is submitted with the intention that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope and meaning of the claims.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 24, 2010
    Inventor: Mark S. Goldberg
  • Patent number: 7733213
    Abstract: Methods, systems and computer program products provide time-restricted passcode access to a restricted access area by: (a) electronically generating a time-limited visitor access passcode that is operational for a security system for a limited time duration; then (b) electronically accepting the visitor access passcode in a security entry control access device in communication with the security system to allow a user with the visitor access passcode a time-limited entry to a restricted area; then (c) automatically electronically preventing user access to the restricted area using the visitor access passcode with the security entry control access device after a certain time or expiration of a certain time period. Embodiments of the invention may be particularly useful for allowing visiting meeting participants physical access to a restricted area in a building to attend a scheduled meeting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 8, 2010
    Assignee: AT&T Intellectual Property I, L.P.
    Inventor: David Levine
  • Patent number: 7623640
    Abstract: Disclosed is a door intercom system, which is installed on a door of a community for communicating with and identifying a visitor and opening/closing the door through a network by an inhabitant among a plurality of inhabitants of the community and capable of transferring data to a system provider through the network. The door intercom system has a central processing unit (CPU) connected to a database, a dialing key module, a display module, a video and audio processing module and a network interface, respectively. In the database, inhabitant codes, network logon numbers and identification numbers of the plurality of inhabitants are stored. When the visitor inputs an inhabitant code through the dialing key module, the CPU acquires the network logon number corresponding to the inhabitant and is communicatively connected to the network through the network interface, the network being connected at the other end to the inhabitant end or the system provider through a public switched telephone network (PSTN).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 24, 2009
    Assignee: HOA Telecom Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Tsung Chiang Lee
  • Patent number: 7606558
    Abstract: A key control system includes at least one premise, a lockbox capable of securing a key to the premise and at least one mobile telephone associated with a user and having a stored access device program capable of communicating an access request to the lockbox. The premise is subject to authorized access by others, such as the user, based on preferences of an approval party established with the system. If specified by these preferences, the mobile telephone automatically initiates a communication to a selected destination to request approval of the access request.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 20, 2009
    Assignee: GE Security, Inc.
    Inventors: Jay Despain, James Petrizzi, Casey Fale, Jonathon G. Hays
  • Patent number: 7409711
    Abstract: A system and method for troubleshooting the installation, operation and troubleshooting software on a remote security system computer is disclosed. The system by the installation of special software components on a remote and host computer allows a centrally located host computer to emulate the operation of a remotely located security computer that is operating special security system software, which software on the remote computer in turn controls the function of other remotely located security units running companion software and hardware.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 24, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2008
    Assignee: The Chamberlain Group, Inc.
    Inventor: Hagop Sakadjian
  • Publication number: 20070248219
    Abstract: A system and method for wirelessly actuating a moveable structure are disclosed. In one embodiment, a cellular device is utilized to send a command signal to a server, which, in turn verifies the command signal and, upon verification, transmits a control signal over a cellular network. The control signal is received by a local access device that is electromechanically coupled to a control unit for actuating the moveable structure from a first position to a second position in response to receiving the control signal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 23, 2007
    Publication date: October 25, 2007
    Inventors: W. Dale Foster, E. Noel Gouldin, Stuart W. Stevenson
  • Patent number: 7193644
    Abstract: The invention is an audio-video communication and answering system that synergistically improves communication between an exterior and an interior of a business or residence and a remote location, enables messages to be stored and accessed from both locally and remotely, and enables viewing, listening, and recording from a remote location. The system's properties make it particularly suitable as a sophisticated door answering-messaging system. The system has a DVMS module on the exterior. The DVMS module has a proximity sensor, a video camera, a microphone, a speaker, an RF transmitter, and an RF receiver. The system also has a computerized controller with a graphic user interface DVMS database application. The computerized controller is in communication with a public switching telephone network, and an RF switching device. The RF switching device enables communication between the DVMS module and the computerized controller.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2007
    Assignee: Revolutionary Concepts, Inc.
    Inventor: Ronald Carter
  • Patent number: 7174003
    Abstract: A system and method of troubleshooting a communication connection for a remotely located security system is disclosed. A communication line test unit is incorporated into the remote security system and its communication unit. A central control unit can then contact the remote security system communication unit, enable the communication line test unit and perform tests on various operational parameters of the communication unit located in the remote unit and the communication connection of the local unit. The tests conducted can include loop current, tip to ring voltage, ring to ground current, circuit loss, circuit noise, power influence as well as other tests. Based on the results of these tests a determination can be made if the problem is an extraneous influence, such as a poor local telephone line connection, or some problem with the security system communication unit itself.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 6, 2007
    Assignee: The Chamberlain Group, Inc.
    Inventor: Wayne C. Hom
  • Patent number: 7129820
    Abstract: The respective sections between a power source unit 4 and a room master station 1, between the room master station 1 and an entrance door station 2, and between the entrance door station 2 and an electric lock 3 are connected by transmission lines of two-wire system 6 for transmitting signals and electric power.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2006
    Assignee: Aiphone Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Koji Noma, Tomohito Abe
  • Patent number: 7109860
    Abstract: The present invention is to provide a surveillance apparatus for monitoring the situation of a visitor through a mobile phone, which comprises a monitor assembly including a microprocessor, a digital/analog converter connected to the microprocessor, an electric bell, a microphone, and a speaker. If the electric bell is pressed, a visit signal will be sent to the microprocessor. After the microprocessor has received the visit signal, a notice signal is sent immediately from a switchboard through at least one base station to a mobile phone. After the mobile phone is connected, a bidirectional signal communication can be made between the mobile phone and the microphone and the speaker.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2006
    Assignee: Inventec Appliances Corporation
    Inventor: Shun-Ping Wang
  • Patent number: 7092500
    Abstract: A method for implementing a remote receiver connected to a telephony network can include a call authorizer that can access remote receiver specific information, wherein the remote receiver specific information can include an authorization requirement. The call authorizer can receive a digitally encoded signal specifying an authorization code. Prior to a telephony connection being established between the remote receiver and an originating device, the call authorizer can determine whether the authorization code satisfies the authorization requirement. Responsive to this determination, the call authorizer can send a ringing signal via the telephone line to the remote receiver. The remote receiver can power an actuator within the remote receiver with a voltage from the ringing signal. The actuator can activate a device controlled by the remote receiver.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2006
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Thomas E. Creamer, Peeyush Jaiswal, Neil A. Katz, Victor S. Moore
  • Patent number: 7068765
    Abstract: An external bilateral phone interface remote control system is disclosed. The external bilateral phone interface remote control system includes an external remote control host and a separate external addition-type remote control extension. The external remote control host having an input terminal coupled to a phone line. The separate external addition-type remote control extension is coupled to a wire or wireless switch for forming a remote control network as to control the wire or wireless switch by a phone. The separate external addition-type remote control extension includes a feedback module, adapted for feeding back an identified signal to the original super via the network and the phone line for achieving the bilateral control.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2006
    Inventor: Tseng-Yao Chen
  • Patent number: 7065196
    Abstract: An entrance intercom system comprises the following elements. A data base is applied to store the resident codes, the phone numbers and the identity recognizing codes of the residents. A communication module is coupled with public switch telephone networks to provide the communicating function between the visitors and the residents, and to receive the incoming phone calls. A CPU responsive to the resident codes input by the visitors can select the phone numbers of the resident stored in the database, and drive the communication module automatically to phone the resident. An incoming phone numbers collecting module is applied to collect the incoming phone numbers. The CPU can compare the incoming phone numbers and the numbers stored in the database. When the incoming phone number is identical to one stored in the data base, the CPU can unlock the gate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 20, 2006
    Inventor: Tsung-Chiang Lee