Abstract: Methods and apparatus for providing a monitoring service using a speakerphone and monitoring device coupled by a telephone line are described. A call is placed to the monitoring device and the speakerphone is then left off the hook. The monitoring device records received sounds and monitors for signals indicating an attempt to place a call. If DTMF tones corresponding to a phone number are received, the monitoring device initiates a call to the received phone number and bridges the initiated call with the call from the speakerphone. A call can be placed to the monitoring device to access recordings of audio from the speakerphone, monitor sounds from the speakerphone in real time and/or select stories, music or messages to be supplied by the monitoring device to the speakerphone at times specified by the caller.

Abstract: A personal intelligence network that actively delivers highly personalized and timely informational and transactional data from an OLAP based channel database system to individuals via e-mail, spreadsheet programs (over e-mail), pager, telephone, mobile phone, fax, personal digital assistants, HTML e-mail and other formats.

Abstract: A method is disclosed for remote monitoring of a premises, comprising the steps of operatively coupling a geographically remote client to a security system server which is capable of authenticating a user of the remote client, operatively coupling the remote client to a security gateway which is capable of managing the monitoring of the premises, activating a signal at the premises for notifying an occupant at the premises that remote monitoring is occurring, and transferring information between the security gateway and the remote client. The transfer of information between the security gateway and the remote client is controlled by the user of the remote client. The security gateway may be operably coupled to at least one camera at the premises and to at least one audio station at the premises.

Abstract: A medical video-teleconferencing and treatment system, having a central video-conferencing station and one or more remote video-conferencing stations and a communications link establishing video-conferencing communication therebetween. A central video monitor and audio system is located at the central video-conferencing station, and a controller unit is coupled with the communications link. The remote video-conferencing stations each have a mobile emergency center cart including a remote video monitor and audio system and a video-conferencing camera controlled by the controller unit via the communications link and capable of responding to control signals of the controller unit for panning and zoom movement of said video-conferencing camera by a medical practitioner located at the central video-conferencing station.

Abstract: A monitoring and communication system for monitoring a supervised person is provided. The system includes a preferably portable personal communication device (PCD), e.g., a portable telephone, and further includes a computer system which stores a contact plan for the supervised person and which is in two-way communication with the PCD. The computer system, using an automated phone call routine, automatically initiates the transmission of electronic voice messages or inquiries to the supervised person's PCD. The computer system records responses transmitted by the supervised person's PCD back to the computer system. The system can contact the supervised person anywhere within a service area. The supervised person responds to one or more questions or requests from the computer system by pressing appropriate keys on the PCD, thereby transmitting responses. The responses are recorded by the computer system.

Abstract: The invention provides a stethoscope device comprising a chest piece, an amplifier and a mixer compatible with a conventional voice quality telephone system. Electrical signals are generated that are representative of physiological sounds such as breath sounds, heart sounds and bowel sounds. The electrical signals can be combined with voice communications at the remote site and transmitted over the telephone system. The invention also provides a system and method for diagnosis by a trained health care professional with the patient being located at a remote site. In another embodiment, the invention also provides a system and method for training students to interpret stethoscope sounds. In addition, the system allows for simultaneous listening by the health care professional and another individual at the remote location of the stethoscope.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for detecting the occurrence of an event and notifying a user of the event as well as the nature of the event. The user can be in practically any local or remote location relative to the location of the event. The user can establish criteria in accordance with which an alerting message is routed to any of various destinations which can be various types of communication devices monitored by the user. The user can also establish criteria in accordance with which the mode of the alerting message is presented to the user.

Abstract: A device and system for locating, positioning and monitoring an object or an individual comprising a transmitter member attached to the object or individual having a preset encryption code, radio frequency and preset range for the radio frequency, a power source and a process timer for programming the frequency interval for transmission, at least one transceiver member positioned within range of the transmitter and in communication with a host central processing unit having database software capability and mapping software capability. The system may further include an automatic shutdown module for initiating a sleep mode in response to either an absence of motion or continuous motion, a transmit counter for automated tracking of transmitter battery life, and an automatic peripheral data interface for communicating peripheral data with the location transmissions.

Abstract: In ordinary telephones, a communication partner is called without considering the location of the communication partner and whether or not the communication partner is busy. In the present invention, it is determined whether or not the communication partner is to be called at least based on information relating the position of a communication apparatus possessed by the communication partner.

Abstract: In an emergency notification and rescue request system having an answer detector for detecting a call receiving party's answer to a telephone call, the answer detector comprises a level detector for outputting a first signal when a level of an audio signal on a telephone line is greater than a prescribed level and otherwise outputting a second signal which is different from the first signal, wherein an interval between adjacent prescribed state changes in the output signal from the level detector is computed every time the prescribed state change is detected, and the current and previous intervals are compared so that if such an event that the current and previous intervals do not substantially correspond to each other has occurred prescribed times consecutively, it is determined that no regular signals such as the busy signal or ring signal exist on the telephone line, i.e., the call receiving party has answered the telephone call.

Abstract: A personal communications system which may be used for a variety of emergency and non-emergency situations using two-way communication devices and a bidirectional communication network. In one application two-way pagers are adapted for use in the system. In one application cellular devices are adapted for use in the system. In one application an assisted living response center is established using various embodiments of the present personal communications system. The system provides multiple levels of prioritization. One embodiment provides a method for receiving, evaluating and responding to calls received from a subscriber.

Abstract: Systems, methods and devices for the communication of emergency information are disclosed. A subscriber to an emergency information data base places an emergency call. The communication device used by the subscriber sends an identifying message in a variety of formats, allowing an emergency response system to access the emergency information data base through a variety of means to obtain, for example, the medical history of the subscriber. Alternatively, the communications device has direct access to the data base. The communication device has a variety of features to enhance the communication of emergency information.

Abstract: A graphical user interface is used for tracking the operation of emergency call systems at different properties, each having a plurality of residences and an emergency call system for each property. The graphical user interface includes a report window and at least one statistical report contained within the report window and comprising one of at least a summary of emergency calls in a time, a chart displaying the number of alarms and time of day, a chart displaying an alarm type, and a chart displaying an average response time based on time of day. An emergency call system is also disclosed and includes an internet module operative with one of at least a wireless, direct connect or telephone subsystem for forwarding alarm data over the internet to be accessed by a client computer, such as operated by a manager. The internet module could be connected to a data bus and bus controller as part of the system.

Abstract: A surveillance system utilizing a plurality of communication devices that are operative with portable telephones to permit an easily reconfigurable remote surveillance area. The portable telephones can have audio and imaging transmitting functions and at least one has an audio and imaging receiving function. An image sensor can sense images within a predetermined area and is operatively connected to a portable telephone for providing an output signal upon detection of a predetermined amount of change in the image area. An auto-dialing section is connected to a first telephone for calling a second remote telephone automatically based on the output signal. Infrared detecting sensors can also image within the surveillance area and be utilized to activate the auto-dialing function. The portable telephones can further include an image sensor for providing an image of the surveillance area.

Abstract: The personal security and tracking system that enables an individual in distress to initiate an alarm to alert appropriate personnel combined with a locating and tracking system that enables the alerted personnel to monitor the location of the individual in distress. The system comprises a portable signaling unit includes a locating system and a manual trigger switch to provide the priority alarm levels. The central processing station receiving signals from the portable signaling unit to process and analyze the signal of interpreting the geographical location and the priority alarm signal.

Abstract: A system and method of servicing a mobile magnet by wireless monitoring is provided. The mobile magnet has a sensor configured to sense a characteristic of the mobile magnet and a computer coupled to the sensor configured to receive sensor data representative of the sensed characteristic. The method includes receiving the sensor data at a remote monitoring station via a wireless communication link with the computer; determining whether the mobile magnet needs service based on the sensor data; and dispatching a service technician to the mobile magnet when the mobile magnet needs service.

Abstract: An improved method and system for receiving, processing and responding to emergency medical calls by emergency dispatchers is described. A consistent, standard and systematic process is provided which in combination with adequate training, supervision and quality assurance serves to provide a method for gathering emergency medical information, categorizing such information into various determinant levels for appropriate response, and for giving qualified emergency medical information to callers thereby permitting “zero-time” response by those at the scene. By using this invention properly a dispatcher is guided through the interrogation of callers, gathering the critical information, dispatching the appropriate mobile care rapidly when needed and giving the appropriate guidance to the caller. This invention specifically guides the dispatcher through the universal entry protocol, paying particular attention to medical complaints related to respiratory arrest.

Abstract: A monitoring and communication system for monitoring a supervised person is provided. The system includes a preferably portable personal communication device (PCD), e.g., a portable telephone, and further includes a computer system which stores a contact plan for the supervised person and which is in two-way communication with the PCD. The computer system, using an automated phone call routine, automatically initiates the transmission of electronic voice messages or inquiries to the supervised person's PCD. The computer system records responses transmitted by the supervised person's PCD back to the computer system. The system can contact the supervised person anywhere within a service area. The supervised person responds to one or more questions or requests from the computer system by pressing appropriate keys on the PCD, thereby transmitting responses. The responses are recorded by the computer system.

Abstract: Systems, methods and devices for the communication of emergency information are disclosed. A subscriber to an emergency information data base places an emergency call. The communication device used by the subscriber sends an identifying message in a variety of formats, allowing an emergency response system to access the emergency information data base through a variety of means to obtain, for example, the medical history of the subscriber. Alternatively, the communications device has direct access to the data base. The communication device has a variety of features to enhance the communication of emergency information.

Abstract: A wireless communication handset with a sensor and detection circuitry to detect user proximity to the handset is disclosed. The detection circuitry is connected to the control unit of the handset to implement ring volume control. When a user comes into close proximity of the sensor, the detection circuitry signals the control unit to lower the ring volume. Alternatively, the control unit will initiate an automatic answering service when the user comes into close proximity of the sensor.

Abstract: A portable locator system for tracking movement of persons or objects within a facility and listing information relating to visits by persons or objects at different locations. The locator system includes portable wireless transmitters for transmitting identification codes and portable wireless transceivers for collecting the identification codes. The identification codes are forwarded to a central processor to determine and list the places visited and times of the visits.

Abstract: A high frequency bypass circuit is advantageously used in combination with a security system control panel. The bypass circuit divides telephone signals provided to the circuit into a low frequency DC signal and a high frequency AC signal, typically used for data transfer. The DC signal is provided to the security system alarm control panel and the high frequency AC signal bypasses the control panel, and is connected to the private telephone system. Conventional phones on the private telephone system can be disconnected by the control panel while any high frequency signal continues uninterrupted.

Abstract: The present invention provides a personal emergency response system having a home communicator with fully integrated capabilities to provide messages and reminders on a timed basis for the well being, safety and comfort of the subscriber as well as providing the emergency response capabilities of present systems. The invention may be embodied in a small tabletop device which can include a speakerphone and other telephone functions and which is plugged into the telephone line at the subscriber's home or other facility. The unit includes microprocessor-based circuitry including an internal clock and data storage for containing control and message information. Data storage can be via a digital storage chip such as an EPROM. The invention serves as an interactive attendant for the subscriber by which the subscriber can have an increased sense of security in the ability to summon help in the event of an emergency, and in being provided with timely reminders in the course of daily activities.

Abstract: A monitoring system includes a remote monitoring unit with a sensor unit in bidirectional wireless communication with a monitor unit. Information is transmitted bidirectionally between the sensor unit and the monitor unit. The monitor unit may inform the sensor unit that transmitted data has been corrupted, that the distance between the units is becoming too large, that transmission signal strength may be altered, that interference requires a change in transmitting frequency, or that attention is needed by the patient to the monitor unit.

Abstract: A remote care service system comprises the care center (attended by a care worker), a first-aid center, and the plurality of home subsystems, each comprising a relay terminal and at least one wireless care recipient monitoring terminal disguised as an attachment-arousing and/or familiar article. The care and first-aid centers and the wireless terminals are accessible to a communication network such as the Internet. The relay terminal relays a communication between an associated wireless terminal and the center equipment. The wireless terminal tries an interactive communication with the care recipient by using a predetermined phrase to judge whether the care recipient is normal. If not, then the wireless terminal sends an abnormality report to the first-aid center, which responsively dispatches emergency men to the care recipient's home. Judgment the care recipient's health condition interactively with the care recipient enhances the reliability of the judgment.

Abstract: A method and system for determining whether at least one telephone subscriber participating in a communication session is marked for monitoring by a Law Enforcement Agency (LEA) and, if so, for automatically marking for monitoring all remaining participants in the communication session. In a presently preferred exemplary embodiment, the subscribers are marked for monitoring their communications for a selected period of time by a starting the timer each time a new subscriber is marked. In another preferred exemplary embodiment, the subscribers marking level is detected and verified to determine if the marking level satisfies a pre-defined condition associated therewith. If so, the corresponding subscriber is marked for monitoring and the subscriber's subsequent communications are monitored.

Abstract: A method for minimum supervision of an offender required to report in to an electronic supervision system. The method includes pre-enrolling the offender in the electronic supervision system and assigning an authorized telephone number. A telephone call is placed by an individual from a telephone located at a remote location, the remote location telephone having an originating telephone number. The telephone call from the remote location is accepted and it is determined whether an ANI of the originating telephone number is available. If available, the ANI of the originating phone number is captured. An enrollee ID number assigned to the offender is entered. The originating telephone number is validated against the authorized telephone number assigned to the offender to verify the location of the remote telephone. It is determined whether a voice template is on file for the offender. The individual is prompted to respond to a plurality of user definable inquiries regarding the status of the offender.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for communicating between Customer Premises Equipment, (CPE) alarm sensing devices, and alarm monitoring stations. The sensing devices communicate with an end office switch by transmitting a message, such as a string of Dual-Tone Multi-Frequency, (DTMF) digits to that switch. At the switch, the message is processed and a determination is made which of a plurality of alarm monitoring stations should receive the alarm indication. One or more data packets are sent to the selected alarm monitoring stations with the packets identifying the source of the alarm indication, and the type of alarm indication. Advantageously, the packetized communication between the end office switch and the alarm monitoring system allows a high volume of alarm indications to be sent to an alarm monitoring station, because individual telephone connections are not required for each such alarm message.

Abstract: This invention is a mobile communication terminal apparatus capable of radio communication with a base station, in a videophone mode for communication on video and speech or in a speech communication mode for communication on speech, comprising means for detecting input of a predetermined number, and means, when the means for detecting detects the predetermined number while the speech communication mode is set, for changing the speech communication mode to the videophone mode.

Abstract: A system for remotely monitoring the medical condition of a number of individual patients from a centralized location. The system includes a plurality of remote monitoring units that each include both a wireless transmission device and a conventional modem for communicating over voice telephone lines. The dual modes of transmission allow the remote monitoring unit to communicate either over a wireless communication network, if available or over conventional telephone wires. The remote monitoring unit includes a voice processing system that provides audio prompts and directions to the patient to direct the patient through the vital sign data gathering sequence. The audio prompts instruct the patient on the particular steps and timing for the vital sign data gathering sequence. Once the vital sign data has been acquired, the control unit of the remote monitoring unit determines whether a wireless transmission network is available.

Abstract: A wireline based location registration system for wireless devices includes a wireless device having a tag with a tag identity, and a terminal connected to a wireline loop that defines a terminal location for the terminal. The terminal receives a signal from the tag that indicates the tag identity. The terminal operatives to send a signal over the wireline loop that indicates the tag identity and the terminal location. An authentication center receives the signal from the terminal.

Abstract: An emergency call initiated from a wireline or wireless device is recognized at a point along a network path and an alert signal is generated. Additional information including real-time incident and response information is collected in response to the alert signal. The emergency call is associated with the additional information separate from information in the emergency call. A call is then automatically placed to a telephone number designated by the subscriber, the call including the additional information. The real-time incident and response information includes the location of the calling device, and one or more of incident specific information, person specific information, and vehicle specific information.

Abstract: Telephone Device for the Deaf (TDD transitive) for a computing system and method of encoding and decoding TDD signals are described. The apparatus includes a sound card enabled to transmit and receive TDD coded Frequency Keying modulated audio signals. In extracting characters from a received audio signal, the sound card is used to sample the received audio signal. In extracting data bits from the received audio signal, groups of samples representing portions of the received signal are correlated against two frequencies.

Abstract: A system and method for aiding emergency service providers in locating an incapacitated individual by use of a wireless communications device. The invention has two major modes of operation based upon whether the line of communication between the handset and call destination is open or closed. If the connection between the handset and the call destination is open, the audible beacon periodically generates a preselected tone through the built-in speaker of the telephone. The audible beacon may be initiated from the call destination location, after there has been an established link between the telephone and the call destination, whether the connection is open or closed. Once the audible beacon is initiated, the stored volume settings of the handset are replaced by the volume settings of the audible beacon system and the preselected tone of a telephone ringer or a beep. The tone remains activated until manually turned off.

Abstract: A group selected from a plurality of portable subscriber units (122) is defined (402), and a plurality of locations corresponding to members of the group are identified (404) by a controller (112) in cooperation with a base station and the group members. The controller determines (406) from the plurality of locations at least one distance between selected ones of the members, and sends (408) a notification when the at least one distance satisfies a predetermined set of rules.

Abstract: 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.

Abstract: A strobe light and emergency call warning device with remote activator includes, a telephone; a telephone service line; a portable strobe light having means for enabling at least of a remote signal activation and deactivation thereof; a remote activator capable of generating at least one of an activation and deactivation signal; and controller operably interconnecting a telephone line and a telephone for controlling connection therebetween, and further having a processor and memory operably associated therewith and for storing a predetermined number therein, a receiver for receiving the signal from the remote activator and for transmitting a signal to the portable strobe to cause one of activation or deactivation thereof, and further including a detector for detecting use of the telephone service line and responsive to the signal from the remote activator for assuring clearance of the telephone service line from said telephone and call generator for one of generating and terminating a call to the predetermine

Abstract: A telephone intercept device interposed between a telephone company network and telecommunications equipment in a consumer unit. The telephone intercept device monitors outgoing telephone numbers and disconnects the telecommunications equipment from the telephone company network, when necessary to redirect the telephone call to a different telephone number. An electrically-controlled switching circuit disconnects the equipment from the network. A first circuit determines off-hook condition to latch power for the device from the telephone company network. A second circuit mimics an off-hook state to the telephone company to allow the device to dial out the substitute number. A memory contains the target telephone numbers for redirection, as well as the associated redirected telephone number. The intercept device may also be used to communicate to remote monitoring stations the occurrence of an event associated with the consumer unit. A method for intercepting telephone numbers is also disclosed.

Abstract: A communication system for providing communication between a first party and second party. A first party message input receives first party messages from the first party, and a first party message output delivers the first party messages to the second party in an unattended manner. A second party message input receives second party messages from the second party in response to the first party messages, and a second party message output delivers the second party messages to the first party in an unattended manner. A pass-through message channel receives and delivers in an attended manner pass-through messages between the second party and the first party. A memory records, stores, and indexes the first party messages, the second party messages, and the pass-through messages.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for activating a telephone so as to automatically connect to another telephone wherein the activation of the telephone is by means of electrical power delivered by the action of an electrical impact switch upon receiving an impact and particularly wherein the telephone is a cordless telephone handset concealed in another object with the impact switch activation means such the object may be jolted by dropping it or otherwise causing the telephone to go off-hook with immediate automatic dialing of another telephone number.

Abstract: An automated and interactive system that allows a physician, counselor, teacher, employer or trainer to produce and send information, messages and/or questions to, or to elicit responses or information from, a client, patient, employee or student. The system consists of a client database and a client program that includes for each client individual information. The database and program are operated by a central computer that has the capability to, at preselected or delayed time periods, send messages, information and/or questions to the client through the use of a variety of transmission means. The client is provided a message retrieval system having a visual indication that a message is waiting to be retrieved.

Abstract: The subject of the invention is a communications device connected in parallel with at least one item of communications apparatus on a transmission line (L1, L2). The device and the apparatus conform to a given template in terms of DC components. The device in accordance with the invention is characterized in that it comprises means (18, R1, R2, R3, D5, DZ) setting the operating point (X) in terms of DC component of the said device alone outside regions of the said template where the DC component of the current may be zero, means (R2, D6, D7, R4, 19, 20) of determining the DC component of the current flowing in the said device, means (20) of detecting a variation in the said DC current component. The invention applies particularly in the field of communication via the switched telephone network.

Abstract: Cooperation between a monitored person device and a companion device allow for a relatively accurate determination of a locational reference for the monitored person device and therefore, a monitored person. This is accomplished while minimizing the weight of the monitored person device which is constantly transported by the monitored person during movement of the monitored person. The companion device may be either a fixed position type or, more preferred, a transportable type which may be moved about by the monitored person. These components of the companion device include those required to receive a signal, or signals, sufficient to allow for a determining of a locational reference of the companion device and those required to transmit a signal for eventual transfer to a central location. The monitored person device must have components which provide for transmitting a signal to the companion device, if within a communication range.

Abstract: An emergency call system includes an emergency call unit having a memory for storing a plurality of telephone numbers to be called and an emergency message, a record/call switch for connecting the emergency call unit to a telephone line, and for switching between a record mode in which the plurality of telephone numbers to be called and the emergency message can be recorded and stored in the memory, and a call mode in which the telephone numbers can be dialed in sequence and the emergency message supplied over the telephone line to the dialed telephone numbers to automatically advise of an emergency, a keypad including at least one emergency key, a plurality of numeric keys for keying in the telephone numbers to be called and a plurality of recording keys, a microprocessor controlling storage of the telephone numbers to be called and the emergency message in the memory, reading out the telephone numbers in sequence from the memory upon activation of at least one emergency key, then dialing the telephone numbe

Abstract: An impedance blocking filter circuit is provided for use in telecommunication systems for interconnecting between incoming telephone lines and customer's terminal equipment so as to unconditionally block impedances above 20 KHz due to the customer's terminal equipment from an ADSL network unit and/or home networking interface unit. The filter circuit includes first, second, and third inductors connected in series between a first input terminal and a first common point. A first resistor has its one end connected also to the first common point and its other end connected to a first output terminal. Fourth, fifth and sixth inductors are connected in series between a second input terminal and a second common point. A second resistor has its one end also connected to the second common point and its other end connected to a second output terminal. A capacitor has its ends connected across the first and second common points.

Abstract: A communication device combined with a portable radio telephone operates upon communication media and transceives signals representative of the communication media between the communication device and a remote station. The communication device includes a docking port into which a proximal end-side portion of the portable radio telephone is insertable to be positioned at a docking position. Once positioned at the docking position, the portable radio telephone is used as a hand-hold to support the communication device engaged together with the radio telephone.

Abstract: Method and apparatus for monitoring the present location of a person (“confinee”) who is to be confined to a designated site, which site can have a diameter as small as a few meters or as large as several kilometers. The present location of the confinee is checked at selected time intervals with time periods ranging from one second to thousands of seconds, as desired. The confinee wears a location-determining (“LD”) unit that receives electromagnetic signals that contain information allowing determination of the present location of the LD unit, and thus of the confinee, from three or more non-collinear outdoor LD signal sources and from three or more non-collinear indoor LD signal sources. The indoor LD signal sources may be radiowave transmitters. The outdoor LD signal sources may be transmitters for a Loran, Omega, Decca, Tacan, JTIDS Relnav or PLRS or similar ground-based system, or transmitters for a satellite positioning system, such as OPS or GLONASS.

Abstract: A monitoring and location system comprising a service center from which movement to and from a prescribed local area and a prescribed wide area is to be monitored. Each member of a class being monitored is provided with a personal RF transponder unit (RFTU). Each RF transponder unit has a digital electronic identification number (DEIN) embedded therein for transmission by RF upon request. RF transceiver interrogation units define specific egress/ingress zones for the prescribed areas. Each interrogation unit being connected to the service center to god signal (1) when an RFTU has egressed or ingressed a prescribed area and (2) the DEIN embedded therein. The RF transceiver interrogation units can determine distance and bearing to a given RFTU and DEIN. When there are a plurality of cell sites encompassing the prescribed areas, an RF transceiver interrogation unit at each of the cell sites, respectively, are connected to the service center.

Abstract: An objection location system for locating and communicating with personnel or objects within a facility. Remote badges are coupled to respective objects or personnel to be located. The badges include transmission means for transmitting identification information associated with their respective objects or personnel. Operational parameters are stored in the badges and are monitored for controlling the operation of the badges. The badge may be in the form of a wristband.

Abstract: The present invention defines a method and system for identifying and locating a lost person or lost personal property. The invention makes use of a subscription service wherein individuals desiring the locating service may pre-register the individual or property. At registration, the subscribing individual provides personal information relevant to the individual or property to be tracked which is stored in a data base. The subscribing individual is provided a photo identification card, unique to the individual, which includes a toll-free telephone number and unique Personal Identification Number (PIN) imprinted thereon. If the individual or property to be tracked becomes lost or misplaced, the lost individual or members of his family, or the subscribing individual who has lost his property, may call the toll-free number to report the individual or property as lost or misplaced.