Body Attached Or Connected Patents (Class 455/100)
  • Patent number: 6349201
    Abstract: A garment having at least one layer providing bullet-proof protection for the wearer. One or more additional layers incorporate sensors to detect the magnitude of an impact to generate a signal activating a wireless transmitter to send distress signals and/or positional and other information to a remote base location. Additional sensors may be provided to indicate physical characteristics of the wearer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2002
    Inventor: Sean Ford
  • Publication number: 20020002035
    Abstract: A method for fast transmission of large amounts of data stored in a memory of a main part to a slave by using a short-range mobile system is disclosed. The method comprises the steps of requesting transmission of data stored in the memory of the main part, establishing a selected radio link between the main part and the slave in response to the request for transmission of data, transmitting indexing information related to the kinds of data stored in the memory of the main part through the selected radio link, and transmitting data corresponding to the indexing information selected to the slave through the radio link.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 26, 2001
    Publication date: January 3, 2002
    Applicant: SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO., LTD
    Inventors: Seong-Wook Sim, Joung-Kyou Park, Dong-Jun Cho
  • Patent number: 6333694
    Abstract: An alarm system for sending distress information over a communication link includes a sensor to be worn by a user. Distress information is transmitted from the sensor when the user is in a predetermined position indicative of an emergency, when the user moves outside of a predetermined safety area, when the power supply supplying power to the sensor is low, when the user voluntarily activates the sensor, and when the user is not wearing the sensor. In response to the distress information, audio and/or video communication between the user and personnel monitoring the user at a remote central office is provided in response to the distress information.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2001
    Assignee: Advanced Marketing Systems Corporation
    Inventors: Douglas Pierce, Jeffrey S. Prough
  • Patent number: 6330430
    Abstract: A flexible sheet has a plurality of fasteners which can be fastened together to form an open-cornered enclosure for a mobile terminal, such as a wireless phone. A mid-portion of the flexible sheet has a selectively adjustable length whereby the case can be made larger or smaller to accommodate a variety of differently-sized instruments.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2001
    Assignee: Telefonaktiebolaget L M Ericsson (publ)
    Inventor: Henrik Jensfelt
  • Patent number: 6308074
    Abstract: A tetherless handset telephone with an earpiece connection port is disclosed. The handset is small in size and has an internal antenna. Thus, the handset can easily be placed within the user's pocket. A belt carrier for use with the handset holds the handset upside-down with the connection port easily accessible. The handset is arranged so that it can be cradled within a base unit and recharged while the handset is face-up.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2001
    Assignee: ReSound Corporation
    Inventors: Sunil Chandra, John P. Fairbanks, Jon C. Taenzer, Steven H. Puthuff, Arthur W. Astrin, Patrick A. Mavrakis
  • Patent number: 6305588
    Abstract: A releasable coupling for a suspension stud on a first face wall, especially of a mobile telephone. The coupling includes an orifice made in the wall and a device for axial retention of the stud, a coupling end of which is accommodated in the orifice in order to perform the coupling. The retention device includes a rod which passes through the orifice and is provided at its free end with a device for bearing axially on the perimeter of the orifice. The retention device can move, along a coupling path, between a coupling position in which the bearing device is applied against the wall and an uncoupled position in which the axial bearing device is disengaged from the wall. A device is furthermore provided for immobilizing the retention device with respect to the wall in its coupling position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2001
    Assignee: Mitsubishi Electric France
    Inventors: Stéphane Michel, Laurent Paul Joseph Lamballais, Jean-Yves Raymond Renard, Vincent Antoine Victor Belaïche
  • Patent number: 6292573
    Abstract: A portable communication device includes a speaker enclosure having a speaker and a plurality of telescoping nested shells moveable between a collapsed configuration and an expanded configuration. The shells have a top and bottom surface and interlocking sidewalls such that when the enclosure is deployed into an expanded configuration the shells form a rigid enclosure with a substantially sealed acoustic space therein. The space tunes an acoustic compliance for the speaker so as to improve broadband frequency response whether the communication device is using a privacy or speakerphone mode of operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2001
    Assignee: Motorola, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert A. Zurek, Matthew White, Thomas Stoll
  • Patent number: 6246863
    Abstract: An improved rescue device for locating persons buried by avalanches operates in either a transmit mode or a receive mode. A first belt terminator is lockably engagable with a first belt terminator receptor on a case, and is associated with a power switch. The power switch switches between a power on position and a power off position in response to the engagement and disengagement of the first belt terminator with the first belt terminator receptor, and preferably is also independently manually operable. A second belt terminator is lockably engagable with a second belt terminator receptor on the case, and is associated with a mode switch. The mode switch toggles between a transmit mode position and a receive mode position, and preferably is also independently manually operable. A signal processing system generates a visual display which provides graphic information to expedite searching.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2001
    Inventor: Gerald Kampel
  • Patent number: 6215985
    Abstract: A mobile communicator consisting of a wrist strap and an actual combined mobile communicator connected to the strap which includes at least two separate mobile communicator parts. The parts of the mobile communicator are mechanically connected by joints so that they can be folded inwardly against one another in repose position and can be opened profitably sequentially and in parallel when in a usage position. The mobile communicator parts are arranged to be opened outwardly for use in essentially a vertical direction compared with the plane of the wrist strap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2001
    Assignee: Nokia Mobile Phones, Ltd.
    Inventor: Mika Tolvanen
  • Patent number: 6211799
    Abstract: Capacitive coupling is used to transmit data and power through a user's body. In one implementation, a transmitter carried by the user transmits power and data to a receiver, which is also carried on the user's body. The signal that the transmitter applies to the user's body not only contains a data component, but also powers the receiver and enables it to detect and decode the data. In other implementations, the transmitter or the receiver is physically displaced from the user's body (although both receiver and transmitter are coupled to environmental ground), and data and power are transmitted when the transmitter and receiver become sufficiently proximate—via the user's body—to permit capacitive coupling. The disclosed approach is amenable to a wide variety of applications, ranging from “interbody” exchange of digital information between individuals through physical contact (e.g., a handshake) to “intrabody” data transfer (e.g.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2001
    Assignee: Massachusetts Institute of Technology
    Inventors: E. Rehmi Post, Babak Nivi, Neil Gershenfeld
  • Patent number: 6208251
    Abstract: This system for monitoring and assisting isolated persons comprises: a unit (15) decentralized at the desired location for monitoring and assisting the said persons, equipped with a receiver and intended to transmit an alarm signal, in particular by way of the switched telephone network (16), to one or more defined locations (17), in particular a monitoring centre, an emergency centre, neighbours or family; and a portable unit (1) intended to be carried by the said persons, incorporating an emitter which is intended to emit one or more signals in the direction of the decentralized unit (15), the said signals being intended to initiate the transmission of the alarm signal from the decentralized unit in the direction of the said defined locations, and additionally incorporating means (2, 3, 4) for detecting that the person carrying the device has fallen, these means being able to initiate the emission, by the emitter incorporated therein, of the said signals which are intended in turn to initiate the transmissi
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2001
    Inventors: Pierre-Henri Cadet, Laurent Poyeton, Marc Vigneron
  • Patent number: 6185410
    Abstract: The present invention provides devices, systems, and methods for remotely activating a controller. In particular, the invention provides devices operable through a user's tactile sensation and easily operable for the elderly and the very young. In one embodiment, the present invention provides a remote transmitter for use with a controller such as a telephone base unit. The transmitter comprises a housing and a signal transmitter coupled to the housing. A switch device having a signal on position and a signal off position is also coupled to the housing. A user input connected to said switch device extends a sufficient distance from the housing to allow the user to locate and manipulate the user input through tactile sensing. When the user manipulates the input to move the switch device to the signal on position, the switch device activates the signal transmitter which sends signals to a telephone and causes the dialing of a selected telephone number.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 6, 2001
    Inventor: Ted R. Greene
  • Patent number: 6127917
    Abstract: A system for locating an individual in a facility, the system including a portable wireless transponder device borne by the individual; an interrogator; and a plurality of antennas distributed in the facility, the antennas being selectively separately connected to the interrogator, the interrogator when connected to any of the antennas having a communications range covering less than the area of the entire facility, the interrogator being configured to repeatedly transmit a wireless command to the portable wireless transponder device using alternating antennas, the portable wireless transponder device being configured to transmit data identifying the portable wireless transponder device in response to a command if the portable wireless transponder device is within communications range of the antenna sending the command, the individual being locatable by determining with which antenna the interrogator was able to establish communications with the portable wireless transponder device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2000
    Assignee: Micron Technology, Inc.
    Inventor: John R. Tuttle
  • Patent number: 6121881
    Abstract: Protective mask communication systems are provided for use in hazardous environments, e.g., firefighting and hazardous waste clean-up operations. The systems allow wearers of protective masks working in a hazardous area to readily communicate both with each other and with personnel and automated systems outside of the area. Preferred systems provide short range radio communication between mask wearers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2000
    Assignee: Safety Tech Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: John S. Bieback, Peter J. LaPlaca, Fred Pulver
  • Patent number: 6118882
    Abstract: Audio apparatus comprises a base unit including circuitry for generating electrical signals representing sounds and at least one earphone adapted to receive the electrical signals and to reproduce sounds represented by the signals, in which the apparatus is provided externally with a terminal arranged so that it can be positioned in use in contact with or in close proximity to the surface of the user's body. The circuitry is arranged to supply to the terminal signals which are transmitted through the user's body, the or each earphone is provided with a terminal arranged so that it can be positioned in use in contact with or in close proximity to the surface of the user's body so as to receive signals transmitted from the terminal through the user's body, and the or each earphone includes receiving circuitry arranged to receive the signals. The earphones may be embodied in a pair of spectacles, and may be adjustable between a first position behind the ear and a second position in or more adjacent the ear.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2000
    Inventor: Philip Ashley Haynes
  • Patent number: 6081695
    Abstract: A holster for a pager has a main body portion and further has a loop for receiving the end of the user's belt therethrough. The main body portion of the holster has a pair of spaced-apart openings including a first (upper) opening and a second (lower) opening, the latter being formed as a slot. The belt clip of a pager is received in the upper opening, and an inturned end of the pager's belt clip is received in the lower opening (preferably with a slight interference fit) to preclude an inadvertent dislodgement of the pager. The holster also accommodates a cell phone.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2000
    Assignee: Stanley B. Wallace
    Inventors: Stanley B. Wallace, Dennis Wayne Amell
  • Patent number: 6067017
    Abstract: An emergency location system and method for determining the location of a caller sending an emergency signal without utilizing the bandwidth of the calling system. The system may be readily attached to existing telephone, radio-telephone and similar communicating devices through existing detachable battery packs. Detection of the need to send the locating signal may be based on automatic detection of a predetermined dialing sequence or through a dedicated switch (i.e., a "panic switch") or both.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 1996
    Date of Patent: May 23, 2000
    Assignee: Harris Corporation
    Inventors: Arthur L. Stewart, Brian P. Holt
  • Patent number: 6054928
    Abstract: A system and method for tracking, monitoring and learning prisoner or parolee behavior involves obtaining prisoner or parolee data and monitoring data for at least one individual prisoner or parolee, storing the prisoner or parolee data and monitored data into a database, learning prisoner or parolee behavior from the prisoner or parolee data and the monitored data in the database, and updating the prisoner or parolee data and the monitored data in the database. Expert system (i.e. including but not limited to fuzzy logic, reinforcement learning, neural networks, artificial intelligence, etc.) algorithms are executed for determining and analyzing deviated behavior by the prisoner or parolee. A parole level is assigned to the prisoner or parolee and it is determined whether the prisoner or parolee is to be moved up or down a parole level depending on whether the prisoner or parolee behavior does not constitute or does constitute prisoner or parolee violations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2000
    Inventors: Jerome H. Lemelson, deceased, by Dorothy Lemelson, executrix, Robert D. Pedersen, John H. Hiett
  • Patent number: 6047163
    Abstract: A miniature radio apparatus for use in transmission or reception of electic waves has a pair of antenna terminals insulated from each other. The pair of antenna terminals are so formed as to be brought into contact with, or to be capacitively-coupled to, different parts of the human body, respectively. One of the pair of antenna terminals is formed so as to be brought into contact with one of the arms, ears, or fingers of the user. The miniature radio apparatus also has a detection/control device for detecting whether the antenna terminals are in contact with, or capacitively-coupled to, different parts of the human body, respectively, and controlling the transmission or reception of electric waves. Consequently, it is possible to obtain a practical gain, and also to enlarge the range of communication so that the quality of communication is improved. It is, furthermore, possible to receive electric waves without an arm band antenna.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2000
    Assignee: Seiko Instruments R& D Center Inc.
    Inventor: Tatsuo Miyoshi
  • Patent number: 6043746
    Abstract: A Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) security tag for attachment to a small article of merchandise to monitor the tagged item. The security tag uses a thin flexible strip. An RFID tag device is coupled to the thin flexible strip and is used for storing data related to the small article of merchandise to be monitored. A plurality of conductors are laid on the thin flexible strip. The plurality of conductors are coupled together to form a multiple turn coil for providing energy to the RFID tag device when a first end of the thin flexible strip is coupled to a second end of the thin flexible strip to form a loop.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2000
    Assignee: Microchip Technology Incorporated
    Inventor: Peter Sorrells
  • Patent number: 6041220
    Abstract: An antenna device having a surface on which radiation of an output of the antenna device is suppressed in at least one direction is attached to a case so that the radiation-output-suppressed surface of the antenna device is arranged to face an user side at the time of talking.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2000
    Assignee: Kyocera Corporation
    Inventor: Akihiro Suguro
  • Patent number: 6034622
    Abstract: An open-loop internal monitoring system comprising (a) a plurality of internal radio transmitters, each being implanted in a human for transmitting a plurality of signal pulses, each pulse being encoded with unique identifying information; (b) a plurality of external radio receivers each having a corresponding clock, for receiving each of the plurality of signal pulses transmitted by each of the plurality of internal radio transmitters and for generating from each received signal pulse a plurality of data including at least a time-of-arrival generated in accordance with the synchronized clock of the external radio receiver and the internal radio transmitter identifying information; and (c) a central processor for (1) estimating a location for each internal radio transmitter in accordance with the time-of-arrival, (2) storing, for each human, authorized or unauthorized areas to which the human is assigned, (3) determining an event of whether the estimated location is within the authorized area or the unauthori
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 1996
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2000
    Assignee: Robert A. Levine
    Inventor: Robert A. Levine
  • Patent number: 6032027
    Abstract: A holding arrangement for the operating element of a telephone or a mobile telephone, such as a telephone receiver with a dialing keyboard or a handset, for an installation in a container existing in a vehicle is disclosed. A receiving device for releasably fixing the operating element and a holding body carrying the receiving device are provided. The holding body can be swivelled about a swivelling axis aligned transversely to its longitudinal course from a removed position with the operating element stored in the container into an offered position with the operating element situated to be easily gripped, and vice versa. For the purpose of a universal installation into all vehicle types in a space-saving manner, with a still remaining free useful space in the container, a fork-shaped carrier is provided for the swivel bearing of the holding body, which fork-shaped carrier accommodates the swivelling shaft in two carrying arms which project at a right angle from a carrying plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 29, 2000
    Assignee: DaimlerChrysler AG
    Inventors: Santiago Duenas Loza, Tilo Volkmann
  • Patent number: 6009563
    Abstract: A sports safety helmet includes two way radio communications and integral external lighting. The helmet is particularly well adapted for use in sailing, where head protection from swinging booms, heavy lines, and other components is desirable, and where unassisted voice communication can be difficult due to noise from wind, waves, and rigging of the boat. The present helmet is also of value in other activities where head protection is important, such as skiing, climbing, etc., and is of value in many occupations as well. The helmet is preferably configured to have smoothly rounded contours devoid of any protrusions, in order to preclude catching or snagging on rigging, tree branches, or other articles during use. The integrated lighting is of great assistance for night sailing, skiing, climbing, or other activities engaged in at night or periods of low lighting. A collar may also be provided, depending from the lower rear edge of the helmet, to protect the wearer from water spray.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 1998
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2000
    Inventors: David A. Swanson, Greg White
  • Patent number: 5990793
    Abstract: An integrated safety and communication system for attachment to a standard type of firefighter's face mask includes a command post tracking and accountability monitor, and a mask attachment having means for transmitting the amplified voice of the wearer to anybody within its audible range, and to enable communications with the command post including identification, location, vital signs such as pulse and respiratory rate, vicinity temperature, hydrocarbon monitoring and alarm signal if the wearer becomes motionless for a predetermined time period.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 1994
    Date of Patent: November 23, 1999
    Assignee: Safety Tech Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: John S. Bieback
  • Patent number: 5987310
    Abstract: A cellular phone in the form of a glove with a cellular phone assembly incorporated therein. The cellular phone assembly comprises a slim line housing having the cellular phone circuitry therein, the housing attached to the back hand of the glove. A wire extends from the voice output portion of the cellular phone circuitry and along the thumb portion of the glove for connection to a speaker found on the outside of the thumb appendage. A second wire extends from the cellular phone voice input circuitry and along the little finger appendage of the glove for connection to a microphone. The central housing presents the conventional phone buttons on the back hand side of the glove. The glove with the cellular phone incorporated therein allows a user to easily transport and use a cellular phone without interference with the manual dexterity of the gloved hand. In use the gloved thumb with speaker thereon is held near the ear and gloved little finger with microphone thereon is held near the mouth.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 16, 1999
    Inventor: Jason D. Gray
  • Patent number: 5936539
    Abstract: A monitor system of the type including at least one portable patient monitor for acquiring, processing and transferring patient data monitored from a patient, the system being distributed over at least two geographically separate patient monitoring areas which are interconnected via a communication network having a network node connection in each of the areas. A patient monitor docking station located in one of the patient monitoring areas provides for transmission of patient data from the portable patient monitor to the network via a selective coupling of the portable patient monitor to the network node connection. The docking station provides, in addition to the selective coupling to the portable monitor and apparatus for transferring patient data between the portable monitor and the docking station, a memory for storing network related information and transferring the network related information to the portable monitor when it is coupled to the docking station.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 1996
    Date of Patent: August 10, 1999
    Assignee: Siemens Medical Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Kenneth Fuchs
  • Patent number: 5929777
    Abstract: A personal infrared beacon unit capable of being worn as an adornment of clothing, incorporated into a part of a person's attire, or embodied within a personal pager, a cellular phone or a 2-way data device. The beacon unit may be in communication with an established network and may be activated externally by a locator signal, or internally by activation of an emergency button. Upon activation, the beacon unit emits coded timed infrared bursts in coherent beams, and when the beams are detected, they may be decoded visually or with a decoding device to provide the identity and location of the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 27, 1999
    Assignee: MCI World Com, Inc.
    Inventor: Kevin T. Reynolds
  • Patent number: 5923254
    Abstract: A field programmable tracking device which includes a programmably channelized multichannel transmitter. The transmitter includes a magnetically operable circuit which allows external programmability of transmission channel selection. Activation of the magnetically operable circuit for a first period of time activates a microcontroller. Continued activation of the magnetically operable circuit for a second period of time causes the microcontroller to initiate a verified channel count. Once a desired channel count is verified, activation of the magnetically operable circuit is stopped to select the desired channel. The transmitter is provided with a flexible antenna. Both the transmitter and the flexible antenna can be coupled to a collar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 13, 1999
    Assignee: Innotek Pet Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Scott A. Brune
  • Patent number: 5914701
    Abstract: A wireless system includes one or more transmitters and one or more remote receivers that are respectively coupled through one or more users and room ground. The transmitters each produce low-frequency, low power signals that, through capacitive coupling, pass as displacement currents into and from the body of the user, which acts as a conductive node. A receiver that couples capacitively to the user responds to the displacement currents and reproduces the signals. The transmitter includes a signal generator and a pair of electrodes. The signal generator produces modulated signals that vary the voltage between the electrodes, a first one of which is closely coupled capacitively to the user's body such that the "quasi-electrostatic" field resulting from the electrode potential causes a displacement current to pass to the user's body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 22, 1999
    Assignee: Massachusetts Institute of Technology
    Inventors: Neil Gersheneld, Thomas Zimmerman, David Allport
  • Patent number: 5914671
    Abstract: A system for locating an individual in a facility, the system including a portable wireless transponder device borne by the individual; an interrogator; and a plurality of antennas distributed in the facility, the antennas being selectively separately connected to the interrogator, the interrogator when connected to any of the antennas having a communications range covering less than the area of the entire facility, the interrogator being configured to repeatedly transmit a wireless command to the portable wireless transponder device using alternating antennas, the portable wireless transponder device being configured to transmit data identifying the portable wireless transponder device in response to a command if the portable wireless transponder device is within communications range of the antenna sending the command, the individual being locatable by determining with which antenna the interrogator was able to establish communications with the portable wireless transponder device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 22, 1999
    Assignee: Micron Communications, Inc.
    Inventor: John R. Tuttle
  • Patent number: 5912623
    Abstract: A house arrest monitoring system wherein a transmitter module is attached to the subject by a strap containing a number of conductors. The module includes a microprocessor which applies a voltage to selected conductors and establishes a voltage pattern on the conductors. Any detected change in the pattern causes the generation of a tamper signal. The system is set for monitoring by an optical signal to prevent unauthorized resetting following a tamper condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 15, 1999
    Assignee: Alert Systems Corporation
    Inventor: Martin D. Pierson
  • Patent number: 5907522
    Abstract: Portable device for receiving and/or transmitting radio-transmitted messages comprising:a case (11; 42; 51),an antenna (12; 31, 32; 52, 53) capable of picking up both a magnetic component and an electric component of an electromagnetic field carrying radio-transmitted messages, anda micro-receiver (13) receiving the messages picked up by the antenna, said antenna comprising two conductive plates (15, 16; 31, 32; 52, 53) disposed so as to pick up the radial electric component (E.sub.r) of said electromagnetic field with respect to the body of the wearer.The antenna (12; 31, 32; 52, 53) is formed by a coil (17) comprising a turn arranged in said case (11; 42; 51) to pick up the azimuthal magnetic component (H.sub..PHI.) of said electromagnetic field around said body and the plates (15, 16; 31, 32; 52, 53) form part of said coil (17).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 25, 1999
    Assignee: Eta SA Fabriques d'Ebauches
    Inventors: Viron Teodoridis, Felix Gassmann, Francesco Spina
  • Patent number: 5896087
    Abstract: A theft protection system, particularly for textiles, leather goods and other products, wherein the products are provided with a function strip, such as a seam band, waste band, hanger, label or the like, and wherein the function strip is provided with an alarm tripping device. The theft protection system further includes at least one detector placed in the exit areas of the selling floor of a shop, department store of the like, wherein the detector responds when a products provided with the alarm tripping device is being moved past the detector. The alarm tripping device includes at least one linear alarm tripping component provided for detectability and mounted on a carrier. The linear alarm tripping component of the alarm tripping device is connected to the carrier in the manner of a thread by a textile manufacturing method.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 20, 1999
    Assignee: Friedrich Graf Sohne GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Bernhard Frowein
  • Patent number: 5884198
    Abstract: The components of a portable radio are distributed over a user's body to utilize the user's body as a vehicle for carrying the radio. A patch antenna mounted across a user's shoulder improves the user's ability to receive and transmit by minimizing body shielding effects. A control unit including a talk button, display, key pad and speaker is mountable to the user's other shoulder in close proximity to a user's ear and mouth for faster and more efficient communication. The power supply includes a plurality of battery packs that are mountable about the user's waist. The radio components are thus positioned to optimize their use while efficiently and comfortably utilizing the user's body to support the radio.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 1996
    Date of Patent: March 16, 1999
    Assignee: Ericsson, Inc.
    Inventors: Scott Kese, Richard Culbertson, John Yoon
  • Patent number: 5877675
    Abstract: A portable, three-way wireless communication system provides a patient with a direct link to a caregiver, as well as a central facility such as a nurse's station. The system is comprised of a patient unit, a caregiver unit and a central station. The patient unit is designed to be small and portable, and can be worn on the patient's wrist or the like. The unit permits a patient to send a request for assistance directly to an assigned caregiver, and provides for two-way voice communications between the patient and the caregiver. The unit stores information associated with the patient, such as identification, medications, attending physician, and the like. The caregiver unit is also portable, and provides two-way voice communications with patients and other caregivers. The unit displays information about each patient to whom the caregiver is assigned. The central station functions as a backup, in the event that a caregiver is not able to timely respond to a call from a patient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 1996
    Date of Patent: March 2, 1999
    Assignee: Jansys, Inc.
    Inventors: Janice I. Rebstock, T. Paul Rast
  • Patent number: 5850613
    Abstract: Apparatus for a radio microphone enables hands-free operation of the microphone when it is attached to a user's shirt, jacket or other article of clothing, for example. The apparatus preferably comprises a cover which is attached to the microphone and includes an integral actuating lever that is positioned to be actuated by movement of a user's head or chin. Police, fire or other emergency personnel at the scene of an emergency can utilize the cover to keep their hands free for other tasks during operation of the microphone, and this also avoids the possibility that the user will contaminate the microphone by contacting it with their hands.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 15, 1998
    Inventor: David C. Bullecks
  • Patent number: 5815077
    Abstract: A device for locating and training an animal includes a hand held transmitter and a multi-function electronic collar assembly to be worn by the animal. The electronic collar assembly includes a receiver for receiving signals from the transmitter. A microprocessor connected to the receiver processes the signals and is connected to a sounder, a sound sensor, a electroshock stimulator, and a motion sensor mounted on the collar. The transmitter can program the collar assembly and command it in one of several modes or functions for locating and training the animal. In the locating or sounder mode, the sounder emits humanly audible sounds to indicate the location of the animal. In one training mode, the sound sensor detects when the animal is making undesirable noises, such as barking, and the microprocessor has the stimulator deliver a shock to the animal for barking control.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 29, 1998
    Assignee: B.E.R.T.S. Inc.
    Inventor: Erik P. Christiansen
  • Patent number: 5794127
    Abstract: A new Headphone Remote Control for Operating an Entertainment Center for offering a headphone with a fully equipped remote control for privately operating and controlling an entertainment center. The inventive device includes an antenna receiver, a channel selector control, a locator speaker, a locator over-ride circuit, a pressure switch, and a head phone transmitter. In use, the Headphone Remote Control for Operating an Entertainment Center 10 is located by clapping one's hands together. When the device is found and placed upon one's head, the pressure switch 28 de-energizes the locator speaker 24 and can selectively energize the vibrator signal 25 which will signal the user when someone wants their attention. While wearing the device, for example, the user is able to watch and listen to the TV while others around him do not hear the TV, but rather, others can concurrently listen to the STEREO instead.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 1996
    Date of Patent: August 11, 1998
    Inventor: Wilfredo Lansang
  • Patent number: 5771002
    Abstract: A tracking system comprising multiple satellite units and a master unit for selectively and individually locating each satellite unit. Each satellite unit receives a search signal from the master unit and transmits a response signal to the master unit when the search signal contains a search identity code which matches a unique identity code of the satellite unit. The master unit has user controls for selecting any one of the satellite units to be located and a memory for storing the unique identity code of each satellite unit. The master unit also has an indicator circuit for indicating the strength of the response signal and a display and speaker for visually and audibly indicating the strength to a user. The master unit is programmed such that when the user selects one of satellite units to be located, the master unit transmits a search signal having a search identity code which matches the unique identity code of the selected satellite unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 23, 1998
    Assignee: The Board of Trustees of the Leland Stanford Junior University
    Inventors: William R. Creek, Marvin L. Wahl, Bryan L. Clausen, Sr., Mery Clausen, Bryan Clausen, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5771001
    Abstract: A new Personal Alarm System for detecting whether a person is in an emergency situation by measuring blood pressure, pulse and temperature, and thereafter transmitting such information and location through cellular relay stations to a home receiver where the proper authorities may be alerted. The inventive device includes a portable transmitter which transmits an electronic signal through cellular relay stations, and a home receiver which receives the electronic signal and displays the information on an information screen for people at home.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 23, 1998
    Inventor: Marlon J. Cobb
  • Patent number: 5757929
    Abstract: A personal communications apparatus using a garment-based audio interface includes a garment member worn on the upper torso of a person, wherein the garment member includes a neck opening which allows extension therethrough of the neck of the person. An audio output device capable of producing hi-fidelity spatialized 3-D sound aiming in selected directions is located adjacent the neck opening of the garment member. A receiver capable of receiving at least one transmitted signal and producing an audio signal based thereupon is coupled to the audio output device. An audio input device capable of capturing spatialized 3-D sound from selected directions is located adjacent the neck opening of the garment member. The audio signal from the audio input device is provided to a transmitter capable of transmitting a signal in dependence upon the audio signal. Embodiments of the garment member include a shirt and a necklace.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 1996
    Date of Patent: May 26, 1998
    Assignee: Interval Research Corporation
    Inventors: Weijia Wang, Daniel A. Shurman, Margaret Diane Rezvan Minsky
  • Patent number: 5751820
    Abstract: An integrated circuit chip set design for a wireless hearing aid communication system including a battery operated transceiver unit worn in the vicinity of the ear of the user and a compact battery operated transmitter/receiver unit worn by or in close range of the user. The basis of the integrated circuit chip set design is to optimize circuit size, speed, power, and manufacturability for a personal use wireless audio communication system using the reflective transmission technology. Power and speed consideration of the circuits are designed to accommodate wireless audio RF reflective transmissions for a close range to the user. The transceiver and the receiver of the system are designed to switch between certain transmission states in order to facilitate rapid switching between a first mode in which the transmitter is transmitting to the receiver and a second mode in which the transceiver is transmitting to the receiver.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 12, 1998
    Assignee: ReSound Corporation
    Inventor: Jon C. Taenzer
  • Patent number: 5710989
    Abstract: An emergency position indicating radio beacon, sized for mounting on a life vest or the like, that includes a water-activated switch that automatically activates the transmitter when the water-activated switch is mounted in water. The water-activated switching circuitry includes an insulated electrical paddle that separates the exposed electrical contacts a predetermined distance to insure that the device will not be inadvertently activated by moisture, but that it must be immersed in water for proper contact. The system also includes a memory circuit and power amplification.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 1996
    Date of Patent: January 20, 1998
    Assignee: ACR Electronics, Inc.
    Inventor: John F. Flood
  • Patent number: 5701356
    Abstract: The transducer support assembly includes a transducer secured to a U-shaped strap having a pair of chest engageable leg portions connected integrally to a curved neck engageable portion by a pair of twisted intermediate portions for engaging the body of the user. The chest engageable leg portions are adapted to fit over the shoulders and to lie substantially flat against the chest of the user. A wide portion of the neck engageable portion extends in overlying substantially continuous engagement with the neck or back of the user to resist the chest engageable leg portions from swinging away from the chest. A gripping material forms an underside surface of the strap to frictionally engage the user, thereby inhibiting the strap from moving relative to the body of the user. Another transducer support assembly includes a flexible U-shaped neck support having a chest engageable portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 23, 1997
    Assignee: HM Electronics
    Inventors: Thomas H. Stanford, Farhad Noroozi Sahne, Thomas P. Riches, Robert O'Neill
  • Patent number: 5689214
    Abstract: An electromagnetic wave generator for influencing different corporal states in a biological organism includes an oscillator circuit coupled to a microcontroller and an antenna coupled to the microcontroller through which waves at a given frequency are transmitted to a biological organism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 18, 1997
    Assignee: Psycho Chrono, S.L.
    Inventor: Juan Oses Navaz
  • Patent number: 5678202
    Abstract: An antenna system and method for use in a portable unit of a wireless telephone headset, wireless telephone headset adapter, or other telecommunication device combines a capacitive coupling antenna with an electric field sensitive antenna. The electric field sensitive antenna, such as a monopole antenna, receives and transmits RF signals when the portable unit is located remote from the user. A patch antenna receives and transmits RF signals when the portable unit is located proximate to, for example is worn by, the user. The patch antenna is a conductive surface for capacitively coupling to a user's body which acts as a radiating and receiving medium. Both the patch antenna and monopole antenna are coupled to an antenna port by matching circuits to tune each antenna for desired RF characteristics. When worn by the user, the RF effects of the monopole antenna are negligible and the patch antenna operates as the primary antenna.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 1996
    Date of Patent: October 14, 1997
    Assignee: Plantronics, Inc.
    Inventors: Cristian C. Filimon, Stephen M. Jacobs, Anand Gundavajhala
  • Patent number: 5678207
    Abstract: A multi-purpose fastening assembly (131) which can be used for both securely fastening and charging an internal battery (113) located within a wireless microphone (103). The fastening assembly (131) includes a head portion (133) and a base plate (135) which are electrically isolated so they can be used as electrical terminals for recharging the battery (113) within the wireless microphone (103).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 14, 1997
    Assignee: Motorola, Inc.
    Inventors: William R. Williams, Joseph Patino
  • Patent number: 5652569
    Abstract: A child alarm device consists of a guardian's transmitter and a child's receiver. The transmitter is held or carried by the guardian. The receiver is mounted inside a backpack worn by the child. If the child wanders out of range of the guardian's transmitter, after a short delay an audible alarm is triggered in the child's backpack automatically. One of the child's alarms can be triggered manually by the guardian. As an optional "Panic Button", the child can also trigger an alarm himself by disconnecting his chest strap. The child's receiver has one Group identification code and recognizes only one channel code. The guardian can control more than one channel within the same group ID code to watch over more than one child. The backpack has anti-tamper features such that an alarm will be triggered if someone tries to tamper with the backpack or molest the child.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 1994
    Date of Patent: July 29, 1997
    Assignee: Paul Joseph Gerstenberger
    Inventors: Paul Joseph Gerstenberger, Bryan H. Weitzel
  • Patent number: 5636378
    Abstract: An apparatus comprising a vest constructed using woven tubing which generally forms a mesh throughout the vest. The tubing is connected with a reservoir, wherein the tubing and reservoir are filled with electrically conductive fluid. The fluid communicates with a pair of leads to maintain a constant, low-level electrical contact therebetween. The woven tubing is covered with cloth-like material and a hardening substance, such as epoxy. Hence, the tubing will break when the vest receives a significant impact. When the tubing is broken, the fluid escapes from the tubing and breaks the electrical contact between the leads, whereby a transmitter is activated to send a recorded message. In addition, a position sensor is attached to the transmitter for activating the transmitter to send the recorded message if the apparatus is maintained in a non-vertical position for a predetermined period of time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 1995
    Date of Patent: June 10, 1997
    Inventor: Quentin L. Griffith