Body Attached Or Connected Patents (Class 455/100)
  • Patent number: 8064953
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for distributing power and data to devices coupled to the human body are described. The human body is used as a conductive medium, e.g., a bus, over which power and/or data is distributed. Power is distributed by coupling a power source to the human body via a first set of electrodes. One or more devices to be powered, e.g., peripheral devices, are also coupled to the human body via additional sets of electrodes. The devices may be, e.g., a speaker, display, watch, keyboard, etc. A pulsed DC signal or AC signal may be used as the power source. By using multiple power supply signals of differing frequencies, different devices can be selectively 15 powered. For example, a 100 Hz signal may be used to power a first device while a 150 Hz signal may be used to power a second device. Digital data and/or other information signals, e.g., audio signals, can be modulated on the power signal using frequency and/or amplitude modulation techniques.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 20, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2011
    Assignee: Microsoft Corporation
    Inventors: Lyndsay Williams, William Vablais, Steven N. Bathiche
  • Patent number: 8055213
    Abstract: Dynamic frequency selection based on CR is provided. A CR BS detects an interference-free and unused frequency band. When sensing a new BS that has great signal strength and requires the frequency band during communications in the frequency band, the CR BS releases the frequency band and dynamically selects another frequency band to avoid interference.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2011
    Assignees: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd., Inha-Industry Partnership Institute
    Inventors: Junhong Hui, Duck-Dong Hwang, Jae-Myeong Kim, Sang-Jo Yoo, Kyoung-Jin Cho, Jae-Hak Chung
  • Publication number: 20110269414
    Abstract: In summary, the present invention relates to a device, a method, a system and a computer program enabling to ensure a reliable communication even under difficult radio frequency conditions. In case data cannot be successfully communicated by a radio frequency communication, the data may be transmitted to another device by a body-coupled communication via a human or animal body. The other device can act as a relay and forward the data to an intended destination. Thus, data may be successfully transmitted to the intended destination even under difficult radio frequency conditions due to body shadowing or other effects.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 15, 2009
    Publication date: November 3, 2011
    Applicant: KONINKLIJKE PHILIPS ELECTRONICS N.V.
    Inventors: Thomas Falck, Steven Corroy
  • Patent number: 8050314
    Abstract: A wireless communication apparatus includes a plurality of antenna branches for transmitting and receiving a wireless communication signal, a calibration coefficient calculator for calculating a calibration coefficient for each frequency band, the calibration coefficient correcting an imbalance in phase and amplitude existing between the antenna branches, a coefficient storage memory for storing the calibration coefficient of each frequency band, a calibration coefficient reader for reading the calibration coefficient of a frequency band of one of a transmission signal and a reception signal as a target to be calibrated, a calibration coefficient interpolator for interpolating a calibration coefficient of the frequency band if the coefficient storage memory stores no corresponding calibration coefficient of the frequency band, and a calibration coefficient multiplier for multiplying one of the transmission signal and the reception signal by one of the read calibration coefficient and the interpolated calibrat
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2011
    Assignee: Sony Corporation
    Inventors: Hiroaki Takano, Tomoya Yamaura
  • Patent number: 8050705
    Abstract: An improved method and system for removing operating restrictions associated with a predetermined subscriber identity module (SIM) from a wireless device. A user is allowed to securely log onto a Web site that contains support information on subscription plans, billing, termination, penalties, and device-to-SIM unlocking. After satisfying any outstanding contract terms and payment of termination or device unlock fees, the user initiates a device-to-SIM unlock procedure. A client application on the wireless device securely transfers subscription, system, and SIM information to a device-to-SIM unlock system which uses the information to generate appropriate unlock codes. The unlock codes are then securely transferred to the client application, which processes them to remove operating restrictions associated with the predetermined SIM from the device and allow it to thereafter implement a plurality of SIMs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2011
    Assignee: Dell Products L.P.
    Inventors: Alan E. Sicher, Pratik M. Mehta
  • Patent number: 8036595
    Abstract: The present invention relates to systems and methods that facilitate wireless device communications and configuration. A detection component identifies N devices that are coupled together via a biological medium, N being an integer, wherein the medium includes direct or indirect touching to a device or devices. After biological contact, a configuration component initiates a configuration between a subset of the devices. Although configurations and/or other communications can be conducted through a medium such as the human body, the present invention can employ an initial touch to identify respective devices whereby other electronic configuration sequences commence without further device contact. Other aspects include chain touching between users and/or devices to facilitate contact between the devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2011
    Assignee: Microsoft Corporation
    Inventors: Andrew C. Glass, Christopher M. Dreher, Ellick H. Sung, Randall E. Aull, Doron J. Holan, Craig S. Ranta
  • Patent number: 8005428
    Abstract: An arrangement of devices which may be worn on the body of a person comprising a first device for transmitting signals to at least one second device via electromagnetic fields or waves, with the first device comprising a transmitter for transmitting such signals and an antenna connected to this transmitter, having a linear or chain-like, but not necessarily straight, arrangement of materials starting from the antenna, which affect the path of the electromagnetic waves or fields transmitted or produced by the antenna, such that at the location of at least one second device a higher receiving field strength of the signals transmitted by the transmitter prevails than without this arrangement of materials.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2011
    Assignee: Siemens Audiologische Technik GmbH
    Inventors: Uwe Rass, Jürgen Reithinger
  • Patent number: 7986922
    Abstract: Techniques for detecting and suppressing jammers are described. A receiver may perform post-FFT jammer detection and pre-FFT jammer suppression. The receiver may transform an input signal to obtain a frequency-domain signal and may detect for jammers in the input signal based on the frequency-domain signal. The receiver may determine powers of a plurality of carriers based on the frequency-domain signal and may detect for jammers based on peaks in the powers of these carriers. The receiver may filter the input signal (e.g., with a notch filter) to suppress the detected jammers. Alternatively or additionally, the receiver may perform post-FFT jammer detection and post-FFT jammer suppression. The receiver may determine whether jammer is present on each carrier based on data power and channel power for that carrier. The receiver may modify (e.g., zero out or reduce) the frequency-domain signal on carriers with detected jammers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 26, 2011
    Assignee: Qualcomm Incorporated
    Inventors: Serguei A. Glazko, James Edward Beckman, Shimman Patel
  • Patent number: 7983206
    Abstract: An integrated system for interactive communication and multimedia support in a vehicle. The system includes a plurality of peripheral devices and a central control unit. Each of the peripheral devices is configured to be installed in the vehicle. The central control unit is also configured to be installed in the vehicle and has a communication interface. The communication interface includes first and second communication platforms and communicates with the plurality of peripheral devices via at least one of the first and second communication platforms. Each communication platform is configured to support bi-directional and selective communication between each of the peripheral devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2011
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventor: Yuan Tian
  • Patent number: 7969382
    Abstract: A separable portable multi-display device is provided. A portable multi-display device includes a main body panel housing having a first display, a sub-panel housing having a second display, and a coupling device for coupling the main body panel housing to the sub-panel housing such that at least one sides of the first display and the second display can contact each other. The panel housings are separable from and connectable to each other, a range of a border between the displays when the panel housings are interconnected being minimized so that the displays can be shown as if it is driven as a single screen.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2011
    Inventors: Si Han Kim, Hyun Hee Kim, Jang Ho Kim
  • Patent number: 7970342
    Abstract: An accessory for a digital music player establishes bidirectional communications between the digital music player and a remote receiver. The bidirectional communication channel allows song information such as the title, artist and album to be transferred from the digital music player to the remote receiver. This information is then displayed by the remote receiver. The accessory also transmits an FM audio signal to the receiver based upon an audio signal received from the digital music player such that music from the player can be played over the remote receiver. The bidirectional communication channel allows the controls of the remote receiver's controls to be used to control the music being played by the digital music player. The commands and digital information are preferably transferred between the digital music player and the remote receiver in accordance with a Radio Data System or Radio Broadcast Data System format.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2011
    Assignee: Griffin Technology Inc.
    Inventor: Paul Griffin
  • Patent number: 7946459
    Abstract: A simple-to-use adornment device, and method, employed by a user close-at-hand for personal safety enhancement. It contains a personal alarm or remote control device while maintaining a capability for immediate alarm/remote activation to summon assistance. It has a jewelry appearance or comprises a modular casing to which exchangeable decorative elements can be attached. Since it improves the aesthetic look of an associated alarm/remote, users are more likely to wear it habitually and experience enhanced personal safety and well-being as a result thereof. Inner and outer members with asymmetrical keyed guides are in sliding relation to one another to form the casing with one-way assembly, and a cord/chain connected to the members maintains their association with one another even when disassembled. Openings in each member are aligned to provide activation button access. Optional features include an interior resilient spacer, a cover, a clasp, and sheet pockets associated with the outer member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2011
    Inventor: Edith Anne Cheitman
  • Patent number: 7945064
    Abstract: A hearing system has a first device and a second device. The first device acoustically couples to skin of a user of the hearing system and includes a sensor to detect acoustic signals. The second device includes a hearing stimulator arrangement to stimulate hearing of the user in response to the acoustic signals detected with the first device. The first device and second device are each operable to bidirectionally communicate through an ultrasonic communication link comprising at least a portion of the body of the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2011
    Assignee: Board of Trustees of the University of Illinois
    Inventors: William D. O'Brien, Jr., Albert S. Feng, Bruce C. Wheeler, Charissa R. Lansing, Herbert Bachler, Robert C. Bilger, Carolyn J. Bilger, legal representative
  • Patent number: 7933554
    Abstract: A magnetic induction data transmission network comprising a master hub, at least one sensor node communicatively coupled to the master hub and a magnetic induction coil preferably adapted to be worn about a bodypart of a subject such as an individual's waist or neck. In at least one embodiment of the invention, the magnetic induction coil preferably includes a connector which serves as an intermediary between the coil and the hub to allow data communication.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2011
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventors: Reed W. Hoyt, John F. Lanza
  • Patent number: 7929911
    Abstract: A wireless communication game system includes a plurality of mobile game apparatuses, which function as a parent device or a child device and are capable of making a communication with each other, and broadcasts from the parent device a parent device packet including a parent device PID, a user name UserName, a game name GameName, an OC flag, an E slot, a U slot, and a payload. All the parent device packets are received from the parent device existing within a communicationable range of a user's own apparatus, and the user's own apparatus creates a parent device list, and displays the parent device list on an LCD. Therefore, a user or a player of his own apparatus looks at the game name of the parent device list, for example, and operates a cross key included in an operation key so as to select one desired parent device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2011
    Assignee: Nintendo Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Shoya Tanaka, Masato Kuwahara, Toru Oe, Teruyuki Yoshioka
  • Patent number: 7864057
    Abstract: A pet location system having a pet locator with GPS capabilities in communication with a wireless network such that a user interface accessible on a common computer network or by telephone is provided. The pet location system includes access to the user interface via a computer on the common computer network or via a telecommunications network.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2011
    Assignee: Perfectech, Inc.
    Inventors: Stanford D. Milnes, Demitrius Nelon, George W. Mills, Harold E. Asbridge, John M. LaTronico, Keni D. LaTronico, legal representative
  • Patent number: 7860455
    Abstract: An electric field generated by another electric field communications apparatus reaches electric field sensor ES. Electric field sensor ES outputs an electric signal in response to the changes in the electric field. The electric field that reaches electric field sensor ES enters a return path of the electric field communications apparatus that is a source of the electric field. By locating electric field sensor ES between receiver main electrode ERB and receiver return electrode ERG, electric field intensity at the location where electric field sensor ES is positioned. Therefore, sensitivity of the changes in electric field for electric field communications apparatus TRX can be improved.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2010
    Assignee: NTT DoCoMo, Inc.
    Inventors: Masaaki Fukumoto, Toshiaki Sugimura, Hirotaka Nakano
  • Patent number: 7860471
    Abstract: A body-insertable apparatus is inserted into a subject and obtains information of an inside of the subject. The body-insertable apparatus includes an illuminating unit that outputs an illumination light to illuminate the inside of the subject; an imaging unit that obtains image information of the inside of the subject which is illuminated by the illuminating unit; a radio transmitting unit that transmits information of the inside of the subject by radio; a clock generating unit that generates a clock for obtainment of the image information by the imaging unit; and a correcting unit that corrects a clock for radio transmission by the radio transmitting unit based on the clock generated by the clock generating unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2010
    Assignee: Olympus Corporation
    Inventors: Takeshi Mori, Takemitsu Honda, Masatoshi Homan
  • Patent number: 7809331
    Abstract: To provide a data communication device capable of performing a stable human body communication by bringing the human body into contact with electrodes or proximities thereof without requiring user's attention when the data communication device held by the user is in the process of the human body communication. A transceiver electrode 103 and a reference electrode 104 are formed on concave portions 102 formed at positions where the user's fingers can be naturally brought into contact with the concave portions 102 when a data communication device 10 is held by one of the user's hands, such that the surfaces of the electrodes have a height slightly lower than those of the lateral portions of the housing 101. The transceiver electrode 103 and the reference electrode 104 are electrically connected, via a lead line 106, to a data communication unit 105 accommodated in the housing 101 and having a function of transmitting and receiving data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 5, 2010
    Assignee: Panasonic Corporation
    Inventor: Hidekazu Kano
  • Patent number: 7801483
    Abstract: A transmitter (2) modulates information to be transmitted with an alternating-current signal having a predetermined frequency and includes a variable reactance section (16) which produces resonance with a stray capacitance (18) between a circuit ground (17) in the transmitter (2) and an earth ground (20) which strays from the earth ground (20) and a stray capacitance (19) between the human body (3) and the earth ground (20).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2010
    Assignee: Nippon Telegraph and Telephone Corporation
    Inventors: Tadashi Minotani, Mitsuru Shinagawa
  • Publication number: 20100231353
    Abstract: A system is provided with a portable device for the transmission of a signal to a second device, wherein the portable device is wearable on the body of a user. The portable device includes at least two electrodes and transmitter electronics for the generation of an electrical signal between the electrodes, such that the signal is able to be coupled by the electrodes into the body of the user and detected by at least one electrode of the second device. A portable device is distinguished in that between the electrodes are arranged component parts of the transmitter electronics and/or of an application distinct from the transmitter electronics, and/or an air gap is present.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 14, 2008
    Publication date: September 16, 2010
    Applicant: KABA AG
    Inventor: Andreas Haberli
  • Patent number: 7702282
    Abstract: Interactions with a trigger device and/or body motions, such as motions detected with an accelerometer, may be used to augment user input interaction with a mobile terminal. In one implementation, logic senses when a first trigger device enters close proximity to the mobile terminal. A command for the mobile terminal is then executed based on the trigger device. The trigger device may be, for example, integrated with jewelry or clothing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2010
    Assignee: Sony Ericsoon Mobile Communications AB
    Inventors: Anette Sandegård, Kristoffer Åberg, Erik Ahlgren, Robert Simon Lessing
  • Patent number: 7689176
    Abstract: A telemetry system including a first device having a processor that employs a DC balanced encoding scheme to generate a DC balanced encoded data signal, a modulator for modulating an RF carrier wave by the DC balanced encoded data signal and generating a DC balanced encoded RF modulated data signal including DC balanced RF energy. The DC balanced encoded RF modulated data signal transmitted by the first device is received by a second device. Since the RF energy received is DC balanced, drift in baseline voltage is eliminated irrespective of data transmission thereby improving the robustness of recovery of data by the second device. The second device may include a converter for converting the DC balanced RF energy extracted from the received DC balanced encoded RF modulated data signal to a substantially constant average induced voltage, irrespective of data being transmitted, for powering at least one component of the second device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2010
    Assignee: Codman NeuroSciences Sárl
    Inventor: Rocco Crivelli
  • Patent number: 7684769
    Abstract: In circumstance of a wearable computing system, in order to effectively transfer data between electronic devices using electric property of human body, minimization, low power, and high-speed are required. Human body data communication apparatus and module using broadband signaling technology is provided to perform high-speed peer-to-peer data communication with a signal electrode and low power. The apparatus and module have a direct coupling interface with a single electrode without an antenna and a sensor, and a transmitter transmitting digital signal without modulation, and a receiver recovering a clock and data by detecting a broadband pulse signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2010
    Assignee: Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology
    Inventors: Seong-Jun Song, Namjun Cho, Sunyoung Kim, Hoi-Jun Yoo
  • Patent number: 7684768
    Abstract: A self-powered current loop transmitter transmits a process variable over a wireless link, deriving operating power from the current which drives the loop. A storage capacitor is connected across the system input terminals through a switch to provide the operating power for the system components.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2010
    Inventors: Otto P. Fest, Noel Smith
  • Patent number: 7672732
    Abstract: An apparatus for powering an implant includes first energy interface elements, a removeably attachable holding device and a first energy source, such as a battery. An energy conversion circuit converts first energy into second energy which is transmitted within the body of the patient to the implant. Also, an apparatus for providing information to an implant that includes first energy interface elements and a housing that includes a processor operatively coupled to the first energy interface elements and an energy source operatively coupled to the processor. The processor is structured to generate an information signal and cause the signal to be transmitted within the body of the patient for delivery to the implant. Associated methods are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2010
    Assignee: University of Pittsburgh - Of the Commonwealth System of Higher Education
    Inventors: Mingui Sun, Robert J. Sclabassi, Daliang L. Li, Jun Zhao, Steven Hackworth
  • Patent number: 7629897
    Abstract: A wireless electronic device transcribes spoken words into text for input on an electronic device such as, but not limited to, a computer, cell phone, handheld computer, Blackberry or vehicle navigation system. The wireless transcriber device mounts within the oral cavity, preferably to the back side of a tooth, and detects vibration of the tooth and/or palate bone structure as the wearer of the device speaks. The sensed vibrations are converted to digital signals for wireless transmission to the electronic device. The electronic device receives the signals and captures the digital data containing the sensed vibrations. A software program in the electronic device reads the vibration data and converts the vibration data to text for input on the electronic device. The input text can be used for various purposes such as to create a document, fill in a form, send a text message or to give an operational command to the electronic device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 8, 2009
    Inventor: Reino Koljonen
  • Patent number: 7610919
    Abstract: An intraoral aversion device to assist a user in quitting an undesirable behavior such as tobacco smoking, tobacco chewing, use of snuff, illicit drug use, excessive alcohol consumption, excessive food consumption, and/or other undesirable activity facilitated via the mouth. The aversion device may be wholly or partially configured to be disposed in the user's mouth, for example. The aversion device may include a detector and a output device, wherein the detector is configured to detect a parameter indicative of the user engaging in the habit or undesirable activity. If (and only if) the detector detects such a parameter, the output device delivers a negative stimulus to the user, thus providing negative feedback and creating an incentive for the user to limit if not eliminate the undesirable activity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 3, 2009
    Assignee: Aetherworks II, Inc.
    Inventors: David Scott Utley, Jack Denton Utley, Jr., Peter Trexler Keith, Michael Berman, Robert Emmett Atkinson
  • Publication number: 20090191824
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for distributing power and data to devices coupled to the human body are described. The human body is used as a conductive medium, e.g., a bus, over which power and/or data is distributed. Power is distributed by coupling a power source to the human body via a first set of electrodes. One or more devices to be powered, e.g., peripheral devices, are also coupled to the human body via additional sets of electrodes. The devices may be, e.g., a speaker, display, watch, keyboard, etc. A pulsed DC signal or AC signal may be used as the power source. By using multiple power supply signals of differing frequencies, different devices can be selectively 15 powered. For example, a 100 Hz signal may be used to power a first device while a 150 Hz signal may be used to power a second device. Digital data and/or other information signals, e.g., audio signals, can be modulated on the power signal using frequency and/or amplitude modulation techniques.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 20, 2009
    Publication date: July 30, 2009
    Applicant: MICROSOFT CORPORATION
    Inventors: Lyndsay Williams, William Vablais, Steven N. Bathiche
  • Publication number: 20090081966
    Abstract: A communications device (100) for remotely controlling an electrical device (690) can include: (a) a transmitter (220) for transmitting electrical signals; (b) a casing (110) having a first surface (129) in a first plane, and mechanically coupled to the transmitter; and (c) a user control mechanism (160) with an outer surface (161) and electrically coupled to the transmitter with the outer surface of the user control mechanism projecting out of the first plane. The casing and the transmitter are configured to be coupled to an upper arm of a user. The user control mechanism and the casing are flexible.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 25, 2007
    Publication date: March 26, 2009
    Applicant: Belkin International, Inc.
    Inventors: Thorben Neu, David Kleeman
  • Patent number: 7480492
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for distributing power and data to devices coupled to the human body are described. The human body is used as a conductive medium, e.g., a bus, over which power and/or data is distributed. Power is distributed by coupling a power source to the human body via a first set of electrodes. One or more devices to be powered, e.g., peripheral devices, are also coupled to the human body via additional sets of electrodes. The devices may be, e.g., a speaker, display, watch, keyboard, etc. A pulsed DC signal or AC signal may be used as the power source. By using multiple power supply signals of differing frequencies, different devices can be selectively 15 powered. For example, a 100 Hz signal may be used to power a first device while a 150 Hz signal may be used to power a second device. Digital data and/or other information signals, e.g., audio signals, can be modulated on the power signal using frequency and/or amplitude modulation techniques.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2009
    Assignee: Microsoft Corporation
    Inventors: Lyndsay Williams, William Vablais, Steven N Bathiche
  • Patent number: 7454002
    Abstract: In one embodiment, personal data capturing functionality is integrated into a wireless communication device or a portable computing device by incorporating one or more personal parameter receivers into the wireless communication device or the portable computing device. In another embodiment, personal data capturing functionality is integrated into a wireless communication device or a portable computing device by attaching a personal data capture device to the wireless communication device or the portable computing device. The personal data capture device is configured to receive personal data of a user and transmit the personal data to the wireless communication device or the portable computing device, either of which is capable of transmitting the personal data to a network server over a wireless network.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2008
    Assignee: SportBrain, Inc.
    Inventors: Deane Gardner, Mitz Kurobe
  • Patent number: 7450964
    Abstract: A semiconductor integrated circuit including: a circuit function section; a bus connected to the circuit function section; an information fetch register for fetching data flowing over the bus; and a radio communicating circuit for wirelessly transmitting the data fetched into the information fetch register.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2008
    Assignee: Seiko Epson Corporation
    Inventors: Izumi Iida, Makoto Inoguchi
  • Publication number: 20080259827
    Abstract: A communication system using a frequency determined according to information security protection or a transmission distance of a signal is provided. A local area communication requiring information security protection uses a frequency less than a predetermined frequency, and a local or wide area communication requiring no information security protection uses a frequency greater than predetermined frequency, thereby providing an effective communication environment based on information security protection, a communication distance, and communication characteristics satisfying frequency characteristics of a transmission medium, and accordingly increasing a communication field.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 6, 2006
    Publication date: October 23, 2008
    Applicant: Electronics and Telecommunications Research Institute
    Inventors: Jin-Bong Sung, Sung Weon Kang, Jung Hwan Hwang, Duck Gun Park, Chang Hee Hyoung, Jin Kyung Kim
  • Patent number: 7386059
    Abstract: A device for processing signals may be designed as a transmitting and receiving arrangement or exclusively as a receiving arrangement, and has a baseband component and a radiofrequency component. The interface between the baseband component and the radiofrequency component for the reception path is realized by an exclusively digital interface in the same way as the interface for the transmission path. The transmission of useful data—received useful data, useful data to be transmitted—is preferably effected via the digital interface completely separately from the transmission of the configuration data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2008
    Assignee: Infineon Technologies AG
    Inventors: Berndt Pilgram, Dietmar Wenzel
  • Patent number: 7383030
    Abstract: A distributed data transmitter (DTXR) which is an adaptive data communication microwave transmitter having a distributable architecture of modular components, and which incorporates both digital and microwave technology to provide substantial improvements in physical and operational flexibility. The DTXR has application in, for example, remote data acquisition involving the transmission of telemetry data across a wireless link, wherein the DTXR is integrated into and utilizes available space within a system (e.g., a flight vehicle). In a preferred embodiment, the DTXR broadly comprises a plurality of input interfaces; a data modulator; a power amplifier; and a power converter, all of which are modularly separate and distinct so as to be substantially independently physically distributable and positionable throughout the system wherever sufficient space is available.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2008
    Assignee: Honeywell Federal Manufacturing & Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Kenneth Dewayne Brown, David Dunson
  • Publication number: 20080096495
    Abstract: The human physiological data testing instrument module is minimized and digitalized and then collaborated in the mobile communication device in the way of external connection, internally built-in, or insertion so as to treat the acquired data to display on, store in, or deliver an alarm signal from the mobile communication device, or transmit to a distant medical station for the doctor there to check the health condition of the client, or give a medical attention if necessary.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 24, 2006
    Publication date: April 24, 2008
    Inventor: Ein-Yiao Shen
  • Patent number: 7352996
    Abstract: A system reduces the risk of eavesdropping on data used to access an establishment's computer network. In one embodiment, a system includes a personal area network (PAN) access device that couples a low power, low frequency modulated signal to a wearer, the PAN access device including a data storage unit for storing personal identification data including biometric data and a modulator for modulating a low power, low frequency signal with the personal identification data, a personal area network (PAN) receiver for receiving the modulated signal, a database for storing purchasing data for a plurality of customers, a memory including instructions which, when executed, associate the received personal identification data with the stored shopping data for one of the plurality of customers and a microprocessor for executing the stored instructions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2008
    Assignee: NCR Corporation
    Inventor: Alok Kumar
  • Patent number: 7321785
    Abstract: A cellular telephone is used as a remote control device to control operations on the users nonportable computer which is remote location to the cellular telephone. The user can carry out various operations on the cellular telephone which cause the remote computer to take some additional action.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 22, 2008
    Inventor: Scott C. Harris
  • Patent number: 7304571
    Abstract: A device for activating a signal emitter for use in a firefighter locator system operates in conjunction with the firefighter's self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA). The activation device includes a pressure sensor to monitor pressure on an air line that delivers air from the SCBA air tank to the SCBA air regulator. When the firefighter opens the SCBA air tank valve, pressure is sensed in the air line and the emitter is activated to transmit a signal. The signal is received by base stations that then use the signal to locate/track the signal emitter. Preferably, the activating system also includes a user operated reset button(s) and a shutoff circuit to allow the user to stop transmission of the signal by the signal emitter. The shutoff circuit is designed to stop transmission of the signal only after the air line has been depressurized and the reset button(s) is depressed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2007
    Assignee: Information Systems Laboratories, Inc.
    Inventors: J. Doss Halsey, Douglas J. Wolff
  • Patent number: 7254376
    Abstract: A wearable phone and a method of using the same is provided. The phone includes a glove; a display mounted on the glove and including a user interface, the display on which a virtual key pad is displayed; a sensor on the glove disposed under the display, the sensor for sensing the movement of the entire hand; sensors on the glove disposed at interfaces between the fingers and the back of the hand, the sensors for sensing the movements of the fingers; a speaker on the glove disposed under the root of the little finger; a microphone spaced apart from the speaker by a predetermined distance below the speaker; a wireless communication module on the glove for outputting information selected and displayed on the display and voice information input through the microphone and for transmitting information received from the exterior to the display and the speaker; and a battery for supplying power to the wireless communication module and the display.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2007
    Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Tae-suh Park, Sang-goog Lee
  • Patent number: 7254414
    Abstract: In accordance with a request from a portable telephone 60, a sound data delivering server 20 delivers a trial-listening music data to the portable telephone without charging a fee to a user of the portable telephone, or delivers a regular music data to the portable telephone upon charging a fee to the user. The delivered trial-listening music data is actually reproduced by the portable telephone; however, the number of reproduction times is limited, and the trial-listening music data is erased from a memory (RAM 63) of the portable telephone after the trial-listening music data is reproduced for the predetermined number of reproduction times. Thus, a system is provided in which the user of the portable telephone can obtain the trial-listening music data of an incoming call melody without being charged for the fee, and can actually reproduce the trial-listening music data with the use of the user s portable telephone.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2007
    Assignee: Yamaha Corporation
    Inventors: Shunsuke Nakamura, Yutaka Hasegawa, Takashi Kunii, Kosei Terada
  • Patent number: 7206423
    Abstract: Disclosed is a hearing aid that includes a first component operable to receive an input and a second component operable to provide an output to at least one ear of a user of the hearing aid. The first component and the second component are electrically coupled together by a closed electrical circuit including at least one electrical conduction pathway formed by skin of the user between the first component and the second component. An electrical signal is transmitted from the first component to the second component with the closed electrical circuit. Communication between the first and second components can be one-way or two-way.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2007
    Assignee: Board of Trustees of University of Illinois
    Inventors: Albert S. Feng, Douglas Jones, Bruce C. Wheeler, Robert C. Bilger, Charissa R. Lansing, William D. O'Brien
  • Patent number: 7181264
    Abstract: Intense environmental or working conditions can impede an individual's evaporative cooling mechanism normally responsible for thermoregulation during exercise or exertion. Non-invasive physiological monitoring capabilities are needed to more precisely define the cardiovascular responses and identify markers of impending failure of compensatory mechanisms prior to collapse or onset of irreversible pathology. The oxymetry method and system of the present invention provides non-invasive, continuous remote monitoring and analysis of cardiovascular and pulmonary function that overcomes accuracy and monitoring deficiencies of current oximetry systems.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2007
    Assignee: Sekos, Inc.
    Inventors: William P. Wiesmann, Loland A. Pranger, Mary S. Bogucki
  • Patent number: 7162281
    Abstract: The invention relates to a mobile phone holder for attaching a mobile phone to a body part of a user or to a dashboard or other structures in a vehicle. The mobile phone can be intermittently rotated under the manipulation of the user and attached/detached to a waist belt or the structures in the vehicle in an easy and secure manner. This prevents loss of the mobile phone while ensuring convenience in use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 9, 2007
    Inventor: Dong Joo Kim
  • Patent number: 7129835
    Abstract: A method and apparatus in connection with a wristop computer. According to the method, a desired variable is measured using a measuring unit, the measured variable is equipped with at least one digital codeword and transmitted wirelessly over a transfer channel to a receiver, and at the other end of the transfer channel, the transmitter's signal is identified on the basis of at least one codeword. According to the invention, the digital codeword is transmitted to the receiver together with the measured variable depicted as time-period data (t1 or t3).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2006
    Assignee: Suunto Oy
    Inventor: Ari Nikkola
  • Patent number: 7120507
    Abstract: A control apparatus includes a communication unit for conducting the data communication. Identification information is assigned to the control apparatus. The control apparatus further includes a storage unit having an identification information table storing information containing the identification information and the identification information of other control apparatuses, which are connected to and communicate with the control apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2006
    Assignee: Fujitsu Ten Limited
    Inventor: Seigo Tanaka
  • Patent number: 7117010
    Abstract: An induction-type loopset is provided that is connectable to a wireless device. The loopset contains a first coil electromagnetically coupled to a t-coil hearing aid and an impedance-matching device coupled to the first coil. The impedance-matching device is responsive to an audio signal from the wireless device. The induction-type loopset is powered from the power source of the wireless device. The power source is responsive to an activation state of the wireless device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2006
    Assignee: Cingular Wireless II, LLC
    Inventors: David Shively, Mel Frerking
  • Patent number: 7088972
    Abstract: A distributed data transmitter (DTXR) which is an adaptive data communication microwave transmitter having a distributable architecture of modular components, and which incorporates both digital and microwave technology to provide substantial improvements in physical and operational flexibility. The DTXR has application in, for example, remote data acquisition involving the transmission of telemetry data across a wireless link, wherein the DTXR is integrated into and utilizes available space within a system (e.g., a flight vehicle). In a preferred embodiment, the DTXR broadly comprises a plurality of input interfaces; a data modulator; a power amplifier; and a power converter, all of which are modularly separate and distinct so as to be substantially independently physically distributable and positionable throughout the system wherever sufficient space is available.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2006
    Assignee: Honeywell Federal Manufacturing & Technologies, LLP
    Inventors: Kenneth Dewayne Brown, David Dunson
  • Patent number: RE40116
    Abstract: A mobile client device, such as a wireless mobile or a palm sized personal digital assistant, is provided with a number of sensors and companion programming instructions/circuitry to generate a heart rate reading for a user holding the device. The sensors are used to sense blood flow rate of the user. The sensors are advantageously disposed in a distributed manner, in a number of locations of the mobile client device. The programming instructions/circuitry are used to infer a holding pattern of the device, and generate the heart rate reading, using a subset of the sensed data, based at least in part on the inferred holding pattern.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2008
    Inventor: G. Eric Engstrom