Abstract: A system and method for delivering safety and security information that includes at least one event monitor. Each event monitor has an output. The system also includes apparatus for predetermining criteria for sorting the outputs of respective event monitors, apparatus for predetermining the format of a message related to respective events, apparatus for receiving the respective outputs of each of the event monitors and apparatus for sorting the outputs, based on the predetermining criteria for sorting the outputs, into categories related to distinct channels of communication, in addition to apparatus for delivering messages based on the predetermining criteria and predetermined format. In some forms the invention the apparatus for predetermining criteria for sorting the outputs of respective event monitors includes a web site accessible by an end-user. Similarly, the apparatus for predetermining the format of a message includes a web site accessible by an end user.

Abstract: An emergency hailing device for use by elderly, physically challenged, addicted and medically at-risk users, particularly when living alone. The device periodically interrogates the at-risk user and in absence of a prompt response to the automatic interrogation signal cue, the at-risk user is presumed to need help and an emergency service or prearranged care-provider is automatically beckoned. The device may be worn or set near the at-risk user, available for immediate manual acknowledgment after the interrogation cue signal occurs. Failure to return a prompt response within a presettable time or response absence indicates that a problematic situation may exist and an emergency signal is activated assuring the at-risk user that help will be promptly hailed even if physical or mental incapacitation occurs. Emergency signal may include a bell or siren, a flashing-light to attract neighbors, or a predetermined telephone may be auto-dialed to hail a prearranged care-provider.

Abstract: A telephone security device is built into a telephone unit. The device includes a sensor to detect an intrusion into the area in which the telephone is located. Upon detection of an event, the device places the telephone off hook, and triggers the redial feature of the telephone. This causes the telephone to redial the last number that had been called. The telephone then remains in the off hook condition for a delay interval to allow the recipient of the call to listen, via the telephone, for any sounds indication that an actual intrusion has occurred. In order to arm the security device, the user simply dials the number that is the intended recipient of the call, hang up, and switch on the sensor. Detection of a security event will then cause the last dialed number to be redialed.

Abstract: In conjunction with the dial-up public telephone system, voice quality lines carry videophone signals for monitoring a multitude of locations from at least one central station for use in a variety of applications, such as for security, surveillance, quality control and inspection, regulation of food and/or other standards in food-related and other facilities, market research, remote monitoring of deposit and withdrawal of funds at bank vaults, grocery chains, convenience stores, and the like. At the central station, telephonic interface apparatus is actuated by a control unit to selectively accomplish a telephonic connection with a remote location. Displays include the scene at the remote location and related graphic data. During routine operation, remote locations are displayed in sequence to at least one operator. Such operation may be interrupted either from a remote location or central station in the event of an urgency.

Abstract: A monitoring system includes a host having a plurality of sensor inputs for connection to sensors. A converter is designed to receive input signals from the sensor input and to convert the input signals from the sensors into digital signals. A processing system is configured to receive the digital signals and to generate alarm signals in response to selected ones of the received digital signals. An internally integrated voice/data modem is in operative association with the processing system. A phone connector is placed in operative association with the voice/data modem, to act as a port for transmission of the alarms to an external telephone network. A network connector is in operative association with the processing system and is designed to receive data in the form of alarms from the processing system and to act as a port for transmission of the alarm data to data network.

Abstract: A service node receives an emergency telephone call from a packet network. The service node processes a source packet address for the emergency telephone call based on first packet address characteristics to determine if the caller is at the first location. The service node transfers the emergency telephone call with a first indication that the caller is at the first location if the caller is at the first location and transfers the emergency telephone call with a second indication that the caller is not at the first location if the caller is not at the first location. A location server receives a query for the emergency telephone call indicating the source packet address, processes the source packet address based on packet address characteristics to determine the current location of the caller, and transfers a response indicating the current location.

Abstract: A network-attachable computer system (40) that comprises a network interface for connection to a network (41), a server module address, a secure identifier (ID), and a key k. The computer system (40) generates identity information which comprises the secure identifier ID and which is protected using said key k. This identity information is automatically sent via the network interface to a server module (42) which is reachable via the network (41) by using said server module address where it is used to determine whether the respective computer system (40) is reported lost or stolen.

Abstract: There is provided a device, system, and method for reporting a change in the power status of power supplied through an electric outlet. A power outage notification device detects the change in the power status of the power, such as a power outage or a power restoration, supplied through the electric outlet, places a call to an integrated voice response system (IVR) using a telecommunications network, and transmits power status notification information to the IVR. The power status notification device contains software or computer executable instructions to accomplish the reporting. The power status notification device is programmable and reprogrammable. The device requires no battery and programmed parameters may be used to determine how power in the device is maintained.

Abstract: A message distribution system for distributing a message via a telecommunications network to a plurality of communications terminals comprises: a message unit for contacting each of the terminals and sending the message, memory for storing, for a plurality of said terminals, corresponding terminal address data, and storing also a plurality of geographical element data linking geographical features of a portion of the Earth with location data; input for accepting an input control signal to initiate message distribution; area designation unit to designate a geographical area within the portion of the Earth; terminal derivation unit for outputting the terminal address data of terminals for outputting the terminal address data of terminals recorded as being geographically within the area and supplying the addresses for use by the message unit.

Abstract: An alarm system has an alarm unit in combination with a line seize module. The alarm unit includes a transmitter/receiver, a control panel function, a key pad, an input/output port connected to a telephone line and an auto dialer for normally communicating with a remote monitoring station over the public switched telephone network. The line seize module includes an input communication port connected to the telephone line, a signal transmitter and receiver for communication over telephone wiring with the alarm unit, control logic, a line seize arrangement and an automatic dialer. Control logic processing signals are received by the input port. The line seize module, upon receiving an alarm signal from the alarm unit, reports the signal to a remote monitoring station using the automatic dialer and the public switched telephone network.

Abstract: Captioned telephone are devices intended to provide text captions to persons needing assistance with telephone communications. Captioned telephones provide text by using the services of a relay interposed between the assisted user and the hearing user, the relay providing the captioning for the assisted user. In normal operation, when the assisted user dials a number, the captioned telephone dials the relay which in turn dials the other party to the call. Here a method for operating a captioned telephone is disclosed where the captioned telephone monitors the number being called by the assisted user and, if the user is dialing emergency services (9-1-1 in the U.S.), the call to the relay is terminated and a direct connection to emergency services is initiated. This method is intended to provide the quickest and most error-free connection of the user to emergency services.

Abstract: A home control system for automatic detection and warning of abnormal behavior includes a unit for observing behavior in a predetermined area under surveillance, a unit for processing an output of observed behavior from the unit for observing, and a pattern recognition module for recognizing whether the observed behavior is associated with predefined normal behaviors. The detection of predetermined normal behavior in progress leads to a provision of an anticipatory action. Upon recognition that the observed behavior is abnormal, an alarm signal is triggered to remind the user.

Abstract: A communication system is disclosed having a wireless telephone and a base station. The wireless telephone has a transceiver, a microphone, a speaker and a keyboard. The base station is connectable to the wireless telephone by a radio link and is connected to a switched network. The keyboard of the wireless telephone includes an emergency key which dials a pre-stored number and activates the microphone and speaker for hands-free operation of the wireless telephone.

Abstract: A vending machine is equipped with a short range communication circuit for uploading vending machine data to passing mobile terminals. The mobile terminals subsequently upload the data to a remote location through a wireless communication process, such as through a cellular phone call. Compensation may be provided to the user of the mobile terminal and aggregation between mobile terminals and/or vending machines is contemplated.

Abstract: A remote intrusion detection radio appliance includes a housing having a passive motion detector and related circuitry to monitor and warn of unwanted intrusions, by operating an external radio unit or cellular telephone plugged into the appliance. The appliance, when activated, broadcasts an audio output and then monitors an area in which it is located by audio and/or video for an intruder.

Abstract: The invention concerns a local combined telephone and an alarm system comprising a central base communicating through two-way radio channel, according to a multiple access communication protocol, with telephone stations and detectors adapted to detect an emergency situation. The base transmits at regular intervals of less than 10 minutes, scanning messages addressed to the detectors and determines whether the detectors are operating, depending on whether it receives clearance messages from the detectors.

Abstract: A novel technique and system for improved monitoring of the storage security of firearms (and other objects) and, through a microprocessor radio-controlled transceiver embedded within the firearm, enabling detection of theft or removal, and then radio-tracking of the stolen firearm by police or others with continual identification of that firearm, and also with the further feature of providing automatic warning to schools or other public buildings or locations of the intrusion in their vicinity of a bearer carrying the stolen firearm.

Abstract: An electronic assistant, incorporates electronic functions in a personal object that the user finds indispensable. Examples of personal objects include a cane, a walking stick, a walker, a wheelchair, a personal transportation vehicle, a purse, a key holder, a watch, a pendant, a hearing aid, an eyeglass frame, or a crutch. Electronics may include a PDA, a cell phone, a navigation module, a biosensor module, and an emergency alert module. The navigation module might include a GPS, an altimeter, an electronic compass, and/or a stored map. Biosensors may be directly incorporated into the personal device or communicate with a receiver therein if the biosensor is required to be attached directly to the user's body or surgically implanted. The emergency alert module may include an emergency button, and an emergency notification sequence stored in the electronic assistant capable of calling for assistance through the cell phone.

Abstract: A locator that is mounted to, or integrated into, an outlet box. The outlet box is mounted to a wall that has a physical address. The locator contains a stored locator address that corresponds to the physical address of the box. The locator can receive a wireless communication from a wireless communication location device such as a cell phone. The communication includes a device identification for the wireless device. The locator transmits the stored locator address and the device identification to a server. The server contains a relational database that correlates the device identification with the physical address. The database provides location information that allows a 9-1-1 operator to locate a caller who is placing a 9-1-1 call through the wireless device.

Abstract: An emergency call system includes at least one wireless receiver located at a property having a plurality of residences for receiving wireless alarm signals from resident wireless devices and reset signals from attendant wireless devices, such as pendants. The wireless device module is operatively connected to the at least one wireless receiver for determining identity of respective resident devices and determining the response time in which an attendant has responded to an alarm signal from the resident device and which the attendant resets the alarm. The “staff reset” pendant contains a unique code identifying which staff pendant was used for a reset.

Abstract: An emergency telecommunications device that works with existing telephone lines to provide continuous hands-free two-way communication using a remote speaker with built-in microphone sensitivity that allows rescuers to use the device from a far distance. The device is activated with a pull or push of a single button activation mechanism, which instantly contacts emergency personnel who provide potentially life saving instruction to rescuers.

Abstract: An information gathering system for remotely monitoring and diagnosing the condition of equipment includes at least one sensor, electronic controller, electronic module and data processor unit. The electronic controller is connected to monitored equipment and operable to sense and electronically store an indication of the equipment condition. The electronic module is removably connectible with the electronic controller and operable to electronically record the indication of equipment condition, removably connectible with a telephone outlet and capable of sensing connection therewith, and preprogrammed to dial the telephone number of a data processor unit at a remote service provider location. The data processor unit responds to the dialed telephone number, downloads the electronic indication, analyzes it and outputs a recommended course of action.

Abstract: The wireless home security detector monitors fire, smoke, and home security to protect the home. The wireless home security detector dials the proper authorities in the event of an emergency. An alarm will come on in seconds after the smoke or fire is detected. When the fire alarm is activated, it will emit a special code that will activate the passive infrared motion detector that will check for any body heat inside the home. If body heat is detected, the infrared motion detector will activate an alarm responsive to detecting the location of a person; and include a human voice response. This alarm will keep sounding if body heat is detected and it will also monitor the body heat location as the person moves from one room to the other. The motion detector will stay on in the occupied room as an indication that a person has been located inside the room, to aid authorities in an emergency.

Abstract: A house intercom security system includes a main unit connected between the exchange line of a telecommunication office and a telephone set, an indoor intercom and an outdoor intercom respectively connected to the main unit, and an alarm connected to the main unit. The main unit is driven to dial a pre-set telephone number when a visitor presses on the outdoor intercom, as the host of the house in which the house intercom security system is installed is absent. The indoor intercom is driven to trigger the alarm and to dial a pre-set telephone number for help when the user presses on an alarm button of the indoor intercom.

Abstract: Captioned telephone are devices intended to provide text captions to persons needing assistance with telephone communications. Captioned telephones provide text by using the services of a relay interposed between the assisted user and the hearing user, the relay providing the captioning for the assisted user. In normal operation, when the assisted user dials a number, the captioned telephone dials the relay which in turn dials the other party to the call. Here a method for operating a captioned telephone is disclosed where the captioned telephone monitors the number being called by the assisted user and, if the user is dialing emergency services (9-1-1 in the U.S.), the call to the relay is terminated and a direct connection to emergency services is initiated. This method is intended to provide the quickest and most error-free connection of the user to emergency services.

Abstract: A system and method provide the capability for a visitor to a home or business to leave an audio message for the occupants if they are not present. Outside the home or building, an interface may be provided which is proximate to a doorbell which a visitor may employ when notification by the doorbell has proved unsuccessful. Actuation of a switch on the interface may activate a messaging system which will retrieve a stored phone number and establish a telephonic connection over a telephone network. The telephonic connection may be with a voice messaging system which, in turn, will broadcast via a speaker incorporated into the user interface, a greeting recorded by the occupant. At the end of the greeting, a visitor may then speak into a microphone incorporated into the user interface, and record an audio message. The controller may further be programmed to establish a telephonic connection remotely located between the visitor interface and a telephone.

Abstract: A robot of the present invention moves to a place where a user is, in response to the voice of the user who is calling the robot. Then, when the user presses a switch, the robot recognizes that the user desires to send an urgent call and dials a pre-registered telephone number for sending urgent calls. When a receiver responds, the robot reads out and delivers a predetermined message to the receiver as a voice message, and switches the telephone to the handfree state so that the user can talk without holding the telephone.

Abstract: A service node receives an emergency telephone call from a packet network. The service node processes a source packet address for the emergency telephone call based on first packet address characteristics to determine if the caller is at the first location. The service node transfers the emergency telephone call with a first indication that the caller is at the first location if the caller is at the first location and transfers the emergency telephone call with a second indication that the caller is not at the first location if the caller is not at the first location. A location server receives a query for the emergency telephone call indicating the source packet address, processes the source packet address based on packet address characteristics to determine the current location of the caller, and transfers a response indicating the current location.

Abstract: An emergency dispatching system which can reduce the occurrence of false reports, reliably send the first report to relatives or the like in an emergency, and automatically detect even the occurrence of an internal danger.

Abstract: A method for recording an audible event includes receiving an incoming call from a calling party on a first calling line. The incoming call is connected to a voice mailbox associated with a voicemail witness service. An extended timeout period associated with the incoming call. Telecommunications data associated with an audible event is received over the first calling line for up to the extended timeout period. A voicemail witness record is generated by storing a representation of the received telecommunications data and associating the stored representation with the calling party.

Abstract: In an active matrix substrate, a glass substrate is provided with TFTs having gate electrodes connected to scanning lines also provided on the glass substrate. The glass substrate is further provided with auxiliary capacitance lines, formed on the same layer as the scanning lines. Further, pixel electrodes connected to drain electrodes of the TFTs are formed on the same layer as signal lines connected to source electrodes of the TFTs. An insulating layer is provided between the layer forming the signal lines and pixel electrodes and the layer forming the drain and source electrodes. Since the insulating film is present between the signal lines and the scanning and auxiliary capacitance lines, influence on the auxiliary capacitance value can be reduced, as can a signal line capacitance value. As a result, even when the auxiliary capacitance value is increased, the signal line capacitance value remains small.

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: A highly reliable industrial control system is produced by opening multiple connections on a connected messaging network running a standard serial protocol. The two connections are used to transmit redundant data and include a reply message to the message producer. Errors in the messages or media failure may be detected using standard error detection codes, retry counters and deadman timers. Comparison of the data of the two messages can reveal other types of failure not apparent by these former techniques.

Abstract: The present invention features a method for providing status information to a client based on data residing in an electronic database or e-file. The database of the information is maintained and updated, and is periodically analyzed to determine whether at least a portion of the data has changed since the last analysis or communication. If so, the client is automatically informed by the system, which initiates an automatic voice response (AVR) call out to the client. The client verifies that he or she is the true intended recipient of the status information before it is communicated. A log of this communication is also maintained by the system. The client has the opportunity to respond to the system AVR call and/or correct or provide additional information, the client voice response being stored in an appropriate voice mailbox.

Abstract: An emergency call system by which a caller can automatically call a plurality of other parties to leave an emergency message, includes an emergency call unit having a memory for storing telephone numbers to be called and an emergency message, an emergency key, and a microprocessor for controlling storage of the telephone numbers and emergency message in the memory, after the dial tone is obtained, dialing the telephone numbers in sequence upon activation of the emergency key, starting a transmit of the emergency message to the dialed telephone number to automatically advise of an emergency after a predetermined time after the telephone number has been dialed and no busy signal has been detected during a predetermined time period, and restarting the transmit of the emergency message to the dialed telephone number to automatically advise of an emergency after detecting each ring-back from each telephone number.

Abstract: The automatic home alarm system and method invention comprises one or more sensors, at least one sensor hub that identifies and transmits a state change signal upon the occurrence of an alarm trigger to a system unit, and said system unit communicates such information to an alarm call center or alarm authority using one or more telecom paths (e.g., dial-up telephone, mobile phone).

Abstract: A method, a system and a master terminal for line monitoring in system comprising a telephone network (ISDN), a master terminal (MASTER) connected to a place of reception (PR) of a response and to the telephone network (ISDN), and a slave terminal (SLAVE) connected to an object being monitored (OM) and to the telephone network (ISDN).

Abstract: When an alarm panel needs to transmit alarm data, it seizes the PSTN and disconnects the premises-wiring. If in a call, the user is cut off immediately and it appears to the user that the connection to the PSTN has been lost. If trying to place a call, the user also perceives that the connection to the PSTN is lost. The present invention provides tonal signals to the user to indicate that the PSTN line is in use by the alarm panel and also notifies the user when the PSTN connection is available for use.

Abstract: Methods for dialing an emergency telephone number from a teleworking client according to the invention include detecting at the teleworking client when an emergency number is dialed, disconnecting the teleworking client from the PBX/MLTS, connecting the teleworking client to the PSTN, and dialing an associated stored number. The apparatus of the invention resides in software that is installed in off the shelf hardware. Though the invention is described with reference to a teleworking client, it may also be applied to any other dialup network connection.

Abstract: An electronic programmer for the auto-dial functions of a telephone comprises an apparatus which electrically connects the rows and columns lines on the keyboard of a telephone so as to mimic the pressing the buttons on the telephone keypad.

Abstract: The automatic home alarm system and method invention comprises one or more sensors, at least one sensor hub that identifies and transmits a state change signal upon the occurrence of an alarm trigger to a system unit, and said system unit communicates such information to an alarm call center or alarm authority using one or more telecom paths (e.g., dial-up telephone, mobile phone).

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: In an active matrix substrate, a glass substrate is provided with TFTs having gate electrodes connected to scanning lines also provided on the glass substrate. The glass substrate is further provided with auxiliary capacitance lines, formed on the same layer as the scanning lines. Further, pixel electrodes connected to drain electrodes of the TFTs are formed on the same layer as signal lines connected to source electrodes of the TFTs. An insulating layer is provided between the layer forming the signal lines and pixel electrodes and the layer forming the drain and source electrodes. Since the insulating film is present between the signal lines and the scanning and auxiliary capacitance lines, influence on the auxiliary capacitance value can be reduced, as can a signal line capacitance value. As a result, even when the auxiliary capacitance value is increased, the signal line capacitance value remains small.

Abstract: A phone-interface device receives a wireless signal from a control panel. The wireless signal encodes information regarding a system condition that has occurred in a facility. The phone-interface device communicates the system condition to a monitoring station. The phone-interface device receives its electrical power from the telephone line or from an energy storage device. In another aspect, the phone-interface device receives a provisional-alarm signal command from a control panel. The phone-interface device determines whether a disarm command has been received from the control panel. When a disarm command has not been received before expiration of a period of time, the phone-interface devices sends an alarm condition to a monitoring station.

Abstract: In one aspect, a phone-interface device determines whether a problem has occurred at a control panel by determining whether a signal from the control panel has been received, and when a signal has not been received within a period of time, the phone-interface device transmits an error message to a monitoring station. In another aspect, the control panel determines whether a problem has occurred at the phone-interface device by determining whether a signal from the phone-interface device has been received, and when a signal has not been received within a period of time, the control panel transmits an error message to a user. In another aspect, the phone-interface device contains memory to buffer data transferred between the control panel and a monitoring station. In this way, a high-speed connection between the phone-interface and the monitoring station can be accommodated while using a lower-speed connection between the phone-interface device and the control panel.

Abstract: In a computer having an emergency calling function for detecting an emergency situation and for transferring an emergency call message previously set by a user to a preset emergency call telephone number, a non-volatile memory stores information which is not lost if power is turned off. A message/telephone number setter receives an emergency call message indicating an emergency situation and an emergency call telephone number which are input by a user and stores the received message and number in the non-volatile memory. An emergency call button generates an emergency detection signal when the user presses an emergency call button. A microprocessor receives the emergency detection signal from the emergency call button and restores the computer from a power-save state or a power-off state to a normal state.

Abstract: An information gathering system for remotely monitoring and diagnosing the condition of equipment includes at least one sensor, electronic controller, electronic module and data processor unit. The electronic controller is connected to monitored equipment and operable to sense and electronically store an indication of the equipment condition. The electronic module is removably connectible with the electronic controller and operable to electronically record the indication of equipment condition, removably connectible with a telephone outlet and capable of sensing connection therewith, and preprogrammed to dial the telephone number of a data processor unit at a remote service provider location. The data processor unit responds to the dialed telephone number, downloads the electronic indication, analyzes it and outputs a recommended course of action.

Abstract: A portable alarm system in which the alarm functions are contained within a portable enclosure, communication is maintained between the alarm system and wireless security devices, and the alarm is capable of initiating a telephone call to a security monitoring station either by conventional hard-wired telephone lines by cellular transmission, by 1900 megahertz PCS or by other wireless technology. The system may include a wireless/cordless line seizure feature to use a nearby landline if the system is plugged into a landline that has been disabled. The system may also include a vibration/shock sensor to activate the alarm functions if the portable unit is moved or attempted to be destroyed by an intruder.

Abstract: The present invention is generally directed to an automated system for requesting service of a vending machine. In accordance with one aspect of the invention, the system includes a set of sensors configured to detect a variety of service conditions, including products being low or out of stock, as well as out of order conditions. The sensors generate output signals that are input to a transmitter disposed at (typically within) the vending machine. The transmitter includes circuitry that encodes the signals received from the sensors into a message that includes an instruction code. The transmitter further includes circuitry for transmitting the encoded message, preferably via radio frequency transmission (although other forms of transmission are consistent with the invention). The system further includes a transceiver located remotely (but nearby) from the transmitter, and configured to receive the transmitted signal.