Plural (e.g., Concurrent Auxiliary) Single Indications (e.g., Light Flashes When Bell Rings) Patents (Class 340/326)
  • Patent number: 11484768
    Abstract: An event management system and/or time management system is presented. The present disclosure relates generally to management of a sporting event. More specifically, the present disclosure is a system and method for the management of a sporting event reducing risks associated with inaccuracies and health hazards. In the present disclosure an event management system and method for implementing controls to protect workers and athletes from identified health hazards. Additionally, and without limitation, the present disclosure provides a system which is more accurate than conventional manual controls and provides real time evaluations of accuracy and reporting of the event.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2020
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2022
    Inventor: Dung Chau
  • Patent number: 11381154
    Abstract: A circuit is described for powering a chime that outputs audio in response to detection of an entity by a video doorbell. The circuit includes a rectifier circuit configured to generate a first signal based on a power source and a first switch coupled to the rectifier circuit. The first switch is configured to provide, based on the first signal, a first DC voltage signal during a first operating mode where the doorbell receives input that triggers actuation of the chime in response to detection of the entity. The circuit includes a second switch coupled to the rectifier circuit and the first switch. Based on the first signal, the second switch provides a second DC voltage signal during a second operating mode where the chime outputs the audio based on the input that triggers actuation of the chime in response to detection of the entity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 2020
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2022
    Assignee: Alarm.com Incorporated
    Inventor: Seton Paul Kasmir
  • Patent number: 11238712
    Abstract: A signaling pole assembly includes an elongated structure that provides both audible and visual notification when a remote sensor has been triggered. The elongated structure has a base assembly end configured to be buried underground and a cap end that is located opposite the base end. Lights and sirens are positioned on the elongated body near the cap end. A receiver module is positioned on the elongated body above the surface of the ground. The receiver module further comprising circuitry configured for receiving signals when a remote sensor has been triggered causing the lights and sirens to activate and return to standby operation after a predetermined amount of time has elapsed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2021
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2022
    Inventor: Bryan Buford Dickson
  • Patent number: 11189141
    Abstract: A universal threat awareness management system for occupant safety has a primary interface device that is positioned with a secured location. The interface device enables an authorized individual to monitor and manage an entire facility for hazardous situations. The system also has audio output devices, visual output devices, and environmental sensors. The audio output devices, visual output devices, and environmental sensors are positioned external to the secured location and enable the authorized individual to monitor and communicate with other people within and around the facility. The system is intended to be used as a campus-wide threat mitigation platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 2020
    Date of Patent: November 30, 2021
    Inventors: Charles Armpriester, Michael Swackhammer
  • Patent number: 11149938
    Abstract: A luminaire includes a first light source positioned at a first level of a luminaire housing. The first light source generates a light output. The luminaire also includes a trim component positioned at a second level of the luminaire housing different from the first level, The trim component includes a visual feedback element that emits a visual feedback response. Further, the luminaire includes a control circuit positioned at the second level within the trim component. The control circuit controls operation of the visual feedback element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2019
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2021
    Assignee: ABL IP Holding LLC
    Inventors: Charles Jeffrey Spencer, Towfiq M. Chowdhury, Mohammad Bani Hani, Daniel Francis Posacki, Kyle Michael Bradd, Gregory Philip Frankiewicz, Feng Chen, John Glenn Serra, Darcie Renee Callison
  • Patent number: 11058347
    Abstract: Provided herein are systems, methods and devices for the Detection and Prevention of Pressure Ulcers. The system, methods, and devices generally relate to sensors and fluid systems for detecting ulcers and preventing further pain for the patient and allow healthcare providers with valuable information to reposition a patient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2018
    Date of Patent: July 13, 2021
    Assignee: Board of Regents, The University of Texas System
    Inventors: U-Ter Aondo Grace Jia, Meryem Bousfiha, Casey Whitney, Mario Hernandez
  • Patent number: 11020855
    Abstract: Provided is a storage device including: a first storage region comprising a plurality of sensor regions for the plurality of the sensors; a second storage region into which a data set is written, the data set being generated by reading, from the respective plurality of sensor regions, sampling data of a sensor having a longest sampling period among the plurality of sensors for one period and sampling data of other sensors for a period corresponding to the period in which the sampling data of the sensor for the one period is generated and integrating the sampling data; and a control unit configured to write the sampling data of the plurality of sensors into the plurality of sensor regions, respectively, in a ring buffer format and generate the data set at a predetermined timing and write the data set into the second storage region in the ring buffer format.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2017
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2021
    Assignee: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Takahiro Nakayama, Kazuhiro Mima, Hiroshi Bito
  • Patent number: 11009730
    Abstract: A display apparatus includes a display module displaying an image, a rear structure supporting the display module, a vibration generating device vibrating the display module, and a stiff member disposed on a rear surface of the display module. Accordingly, a sound pressure level corresponding to a high frequency domain is prevented from being reduced, thereby enhancing the quality of a sound output to a region in front of a display panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2020
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2021
    Assignee: LG Display Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: SeungHwan Yoon, KiDuk Kim, DongKyun Lim, JaiHyuk Lee
  • Patent number: 10938294
    Abstract: Devices and techniques are generally described for a doorbell camera circuit architecture. In some examples, at least one processor of a doorbell device may generate a first control signal. The at least one processor may send the first control signal to a power-switching control circuit of the doorbell device. The power-switching control circuit may receive a first input electrical signal. The power-switching control circuit may store at least a portion of energy associated with the first input electrical signal in a plurality of capacitors of the power-switching control circuit. The power-switching control circuit may supply power from the plurality of capacitors to a camera of the doorbell device during a first state of the control signal. In various examples, the power-switching control circuit may supply power from the battery to the camera of the doorbell device during a second state of the control signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2018
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2021
    Assignee: AMAZON TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
    Inventor: Douglas Mark Chin
  • Patent number: 10873255
    Abstract: An on-board charger includes input ports, output ports, an AC-DC converter, an isolated DC-DC converter, a first filter, and a second filter. The first filter is connected to the input ports. The first filter includes a first common mode choke coil, a first across-the-line capacitor, and first line bypass capacitors. The second filter is connected between the isolated DC-DC converter and each of the output ports. The second filter includes a second common mode choke coil and second line bypass capacitors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 2020
    Date of Patent: December 22, 2020
    Assignee: Murata Manufacturing Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hiroyuki Takatsuji, Hiroshi Kitada, Naomichi Enoki, Yoshihiro Imanishi
  • Patent number: 10834803
    Abstract: A trim for a lighting fixture includes a trim structure, a processor disposed on the trim structure, and an interface electrically coupled to the processor. A power is provided to the processor from a power source of the lighting fixture via the interface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2018
    Date of Patent: November 10, 2020
    Assignee: SIGNIFY HOLDING B.V.
    Inventors: Nam Chin Cho, Parth Joshi, David George Watt
  • Patent number: 10730511
    Abstract: A communication device having a wireless receiver configured to receive first signals from a vehicle and a wireless transmitter wherein the communication device transmits second signals containing information about a state of the vehicle to an external information device on the basis of the first signals via the wireless transmitter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 4, 2020
    Assignee: Volkswagen AG
    Inventors: Matthias Breuel, Arndt Böhme
  • Patent number: 10698243
    Abstract: A display apparatus includes a display module displaying an image, a rear structure supporting the display module, a vibration generating device vibrating the display module, and a stiff member disposed on a rear surface of the display module. Accordingly, a sound pressure level corresponding to a high frequency domain is prevented from being reduced, thereby enhancing the quality of a sound output to a region in front of a display panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2018
    Date of Patent: June 30, 2020
    Assignee: LG Display Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: SeungHwan Yoon, KiDuk Kim, DongKyun Lim, JaiHyuk Lee
  • Patent number: 10692334
    Abstract: In some embodiments, a power supply in a doorbell system includes a boost rectifier circuit with a plurality of active devices arranged in a bridge topology that are configured to receive an AC input voltage, generate a DC output voltage by rectifying the AC input voltage, drive an electric load using the rectified DC voltage, and boost an amplitude of the AC input voltage. Two of the plurality of active devices in the boost rectifier circuit may be pulse driven and can control an operation of a mechanical or digital chime device. The chime device can include a solenoid and the boost rectifier circuit may utilize the solenoid as an energy storage element to facilitate the boosting of the amplitude of the AC input voltage. The boost rectifier circuit may boost the AC input voltage by at least a multiplication factor of two.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2019
    Date of Patent: June 23, 2020
    Assignee: Logitech Europe S.A.
    Inventors: John M. Long, Jonathan Reckless, Aron Rosenberg
  • Patent number: 10672237
    Abstract: A doorbell switch includes a user input device configured to receive a user command to activate a doorbell sound output device, and activation circuitry configured to generate an activation signal in response to the user input device receiving the user command to activate the doorbell sound output device. A doorbell sound output device controller includes a switching device configured to control flow of electrical current between the doorbell sound output device controller and the doorbell sound output device, and control circuitry configured to control the switching device to enable flow of electrical current between the doorbell sound output device controller and the doorbell sound output device in response to receiving the activation signal from the doorbell switch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2019
    Date of Patent: June 2, 2020
    Assignee: Amazon Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert Tso
  • Patent number: 10560149
    Abstract: This disclosure describes techniques for using alternating current (AC) power waveforms to communicate between devices in a doorbell circuit. A signaling device that emits sound may be positioned in the doorbell circuit between an AC power source and a doorbell device (such as an A/V device including a doorbell). A signaling device may be coupled in parallel to a signaling-control device that includes electronic circuitry that provides a selective bypass to allow for larger amounts of current drawn by the A/V device to bypass the signaling device without causing the signaling device to emit the sound. The A/V device and the signaling-control device may use AC power waveforms to communicate data and/or data between each other. For example, the A/V device and the signaling-control device may control respective signal relays to selectively open and close the doorbell circuit in order to communicate with each other using the AC current waveform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2018
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2020
    Assignee: Amazon Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: James Steven Skeoch
  • Patent number: 10498871
    Abstract: The invention relates, among others, to a communication station (10) for an intercom network (11), comprising a housing (12) with a housing front (13) and a housing rear side (14), wherein a plurality of operating elements (15a, 15b, 15c) and at least one display (16a, 16b, 16c, 16d) are on the housing front, the display being configured as a touchscreen display, wherein the operating elements comprise a plurality of selector keys (17a, 17b, 17c, 17d), wherein the communication station as a result of an operator actuating a selector key provides a direct listening and/or speaking connection to another selected communication station (18a, 18b) of the intercom network, in particular via a switching station (19), wherein in a first function state (68) of the display information (A; B, C) of a first kind can be displayed and/or data (A; B; C) of a first kind can be entered on the display, the information and/or data relating to at least one operating element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2018
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2019
    Assignee: RIEDEL COMMUNICATIONS INTERNATIONAL GMBH
    Inventors: Stephan Schaaf, Hubert Sieben, Thomas Riedel
  • Patent number: 10440165
    Abstract: A doorbell system can include a doorbell and a chime. The chime can emit a notification sound in response to a visitor pressing a button of the doorbell. Electrical switches can be electrically coupled between the doorbell and the chime to control the flow of electricity to the chime. In some embodiments, the switches prevent the chime from emitting notification sounds.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 2017
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2019
    Assignee: SkyBell Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Joseph Frank Scalisi, Seton Paul Kasmir
  • Patent number: 10436433
    Abstract: A lighting apparatus and method for making the same are presented. In some aspects the apparatus includes a plurality of LED light sources mounted to a metal circuit board in a housing of the apparatus. In other aspects a light-permissive potting compound is disposed in the space between the LEDs and circuit board and the housing of said apparatus so as to permit exit of light from said LEDs while providing mechanical protection for the circuit board and LEDs and removing heat generated from said LEDs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 20, 2014
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2019
    Assignee: LEX PRODUCTS CORP
    Inventor: Donald Bowen
  • Patent number: 10304296
    Abstract: A doorbell switch includes a user input device configured to receive a user command to activate a doorbell sound output device, and activation circuitry configured to generate an activation signal in response to the user input device receiving the user command to activate the doorbell sound output device. A doorbell sound output device controller includes a switching device configured to control flow of electrical current between the doorbell sound output device controller and the doorbell sound output device, and control circuitry configured to control the switching device to enable flow of electrical current between the doorbell sound output device controller and the doorbell sound output device in response to receiving the activation signal from the doorbell switch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2018
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2019
    Assignee: Amazon Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert Tso
  • Patent number: 10063416
    Abstract: A redundant mesh communications network uses multiple controllers or controller gateways to route messages and to monitor the integrity of wired and wireless mesh system elements. Such multiple control units and multiple paths provide various redundant communications solutions, thereby avoiding a single point of failure in the network.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2018
    Assignee: HONEYWELL INTERNATIONAL INC.
    Inventors: Andrew G. Berezowski, Jesse J. Otis, Charles T. Pearson
  • Patent number: 10062271
    Abstract: A method for operating a consumer communication device is described including receiving content from a service provider, determining if the received content is an emergency alert system notification and communicating the emergency alert system notification to a communication device, if the received content is the emergency alert system notification. Further described is a method for operating an enhanced detection device including receiving an emergency alert system notification, determining if the emergency alert system notification is communicated best by means of sounding an alarm or by means of vocalizing the emergency alert system notification and communicating the emergency alert system notification through a protected structure by means of initiating an alarm or by means of verbalizing the emergency alert system notification.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2018
    Assignee: THOMSON Licensing
    Inventor: John Sidney Stewart
  • Patent number: 10062251
    Abstract: Doorbell systems can communicate wirelessly with remotely located computing devices such as smartphones, laptops, gaming consoles, and streaming media players. In some embodiments, doorbells comprise a camera, a speaker, and a first battery. In several embodiments, a battery pack comprises a second battery and is electrically coupled to the doorbell. A battery charging system can electrically couple the second battery to the first battery such that the second battery is configured to recharge the first battery.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2018
    Assignee: SkyBell Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Seton Paul Kasmir, Joseph Frank Scalisi
  • Patent number: 9978254
    Abstract: A wireless speaker device configured for use with a wireless A/V recording and communication device, such as a doorbell. The wireless speaker device, which includes a speaker, may connect to the user's local area network (LAN), such as a Wi-Fi network. The LAN is connected to a wide area network (WAN), such as the Internet and/or a public switched telephone network (PSTN). When the wireless A/V recording and communication device detects a visitor, it sends a signal, via the LAN, to at least one device in the WAN, such as a server and/or a service. In response, the at least one device in the WAN sends a signal, via the LAN, to the wireless speaker device. The signal to the wireless speaker device includes a command for the wireless speaker device to emit a tone through its speaker. The wireless speaker device then emits a tone through its speaker to alert the user that a visitor is at the wireless A/V recording and communication device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2016
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2018
    Inventors: James Siminoff, Joshua Roth, John Modestine, Spiro Sacre, Mark Siminoff
  • Patent number: 9939143
    Abstract: An integrated ceiling device (80, 120) includes an electronics assembly (56) and a mechanical arrangement (20). The mechanical arrangement includes a housing (22), a heat dissipating structure (24), and support arms (26). The housing is configured to retain the electronics assembly. The heat dissipating structure includes a lamp seat (50) for receiving a light source (54), and a central opening (34) surrounded by fins (36). The support arms extend between and interconnect the housing with the heat dissipating structure. The housing is positioned within the central opening and is spaced apart from the fins of the heat dissipating structure to enable a free flow of air in an air gap (42) between the housing (22) and the structure (24). The electronics assembly may include a plurality of elements (160, 162, 164, 166) retained in the housing which are spaced apart from the heat dissipating structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2016
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2018
    Inventor: Daniel S. Spiro
  • Patent number: 9807485
    Abstract: A sleek ceiling speaker having an annular magnetic assembly and annular dust cap through which extends an elongated actuator, which may also be a light pipe. The elongated actuator supports a variable transformer tap which is manually operated by rotating a bottom end of the elongated actuator which is expanded into a sound disperser plug. Changing the transformer tap changes the volume produced by the speaker. The elongated actuator may also support an LED board that provides light to the light pipe and to the transparent or translucent sound disperser plug. Rotating the elongated actuator may also be used to change the lighting. The housing is secured to a ceiling tile by attaching a releasably attachable outwardly extending circumferential flange to a sound funnel that supports the sound disperser.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2016
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2017
    Assignee: Mitek Corp., Inc.
    Inventors: Johnathan Ivey, Kevin Sykes
  • Patent number: 9779625
    Abstract: A proximity alarm device includes a control unit, an amplifying unit, an output terminal, a ground terminal, a detection unit, and a determining apparatus. The control unit receives an input of a referencing signal. An output of the control unit is electrically connected to the amplifying unit. An output of the amplifying unit is electrically connected to an output terminal. The ground terminal is electrically connected to a ground. The output of the amplifying unit is electrically connected to the detection unit. An output of the detection unit is electrically connected to the determining apparatus. Then, the determining apparatus compares a detection signal detected by the detection unit and a determination reference signal with each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2017
    Assignee: PANASONIC INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY MANAGEMENT CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Shigeharu Sumi, Ichiro Ohno
  • Patent number: 9770665
    Abstract: A functional mat racer in accordance with present embodiments includes a mat configured to accommodate a rider, wherein the mat comprises a ride surface configured to contact a ride floor or slide surface and an opposing surface configured to hold the rider. The functional mat racer also includes one or more handles coupled to the mat and a functional module coupled to the mat, wherein the functional module comprises one or more light sources.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 26, 2017
    Assignee: University City Studios LLC
    Inventors: Justin Michael Schwartz, Ross Alan Osterman, William Dale Mason
  • Patent number: 9767631
    Abstract: Methods, systems, and devices are described that are directed to status and control of a garage door system via an alarm system controller. A garage door system may include one or more garage doors and at least one sensor configured to sense data indicative of a status of a garage door of the one or more garage doors. The at least one sensor may further be configured to convey the sensed data to an alarm system controller.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2017
    Assignee: Vivint, Inc
    Inventors: James Ellis Nye, Michael D. Child, Jeffrey G. Thomas, Jeremy B. Warren
  • Patent number: 9754466
    Abstract: A system, a device and a method for providing directional indication are provided. The system includes a detector (113) configured to sense a condition, a guidance indicator (117) configured to provide an indication regarding a path for egress, and a control unit configured to control the guidance indicator based on a signal from the detector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2017
    Inventor: Michael Simmons
  • Patent number: 9438042
    Abstract: A power transmission system includes a first unit for carrying out the steps of receiving high voltage direct current (HVDC) power from an HVDC power line, generating an alternating current (AC) component indicative of a status of the first unit, and adding the AC component to the HVDC power line. Further, the power transmission system includes a second unit for carrying out the steps of generating a direct current (DC) voltage to transfer the HVDC power on the HVDC power line, wherein the HVDC power line is coupled between the first unit and the second unit, detecting a presence or an absence of the added AC component in the HVDC power line, and determining the status of the first unit based on the added AC component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2016
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Di Zhang, Luis Jose Garces, Jian Dai, Rixin Lai
  • Patent number: 9126122
    Abstract: The presented cell phone-enabled doll companion allows a child novel ways to self-select and self-execute applications while requiring no intervention or supervision from the parent. Further, it provides learning, entertainment and safety by integrating cell phone communication, education, entertainment, alert and monitoring systems. While providing a convenient means of communication between the child and parent, the system allows surveillance of a child's real-time environment, GPS monitoring and SIDS/health monitoring. The functionality and the physical elements of the system are programmable through installation of applications downloadable from an application store. Various options for parental access to a configuration interface to modify settings and download applications are provided, including via a cell phone, a website, customer service call center and/or the doll companion touch screen.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 8, 2015
    Assignee: ZUGWORKS, INC
    Inventor: Thomas T. Boeckle
  • Patent number: 9013281
    Abstract: This invention relates to electronic wearable articles such as clothing. The invention is an integrated wearable article (e.g. an electronic glove) that allows a user to signal to others the user intent for direction. The electronic glove includes a glove, a chevron-shaped light integrated with the glove that points away from the user when glove is on the hand of the user to indicate intended direction, and an electronic circuit including a switch mechanism with a first contact assembly on the thumb and a second contact assembly on the index finger of the glove, wherein the electronic circuit detects when the first contact assembly touches the second contact assembly to actuate the light, and a battery to power the electronic circuit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2015
    Assignee: Zackees, Inc.
    Inventors: Zachary James Vorhies, Murat Ozkan, Roger Fred Challender
  • Patent number: 8896427
    Abstract: A portable thermal image emergency exit marking device for use by firefighters and rescue personnel includes a polygonal housing having electrical heating elements on side panels that are shaped to form infrared heat generating words or symbols indicating an escape exit which are clearly visible by a thermal imaging camera, a flashing strobe light, and an audible alarm, to guide firefighters to the exit of a burning smoke-filled building. The configuration of the infrared heating elements avoids confusion and clearly distinguishes the words or symbols from other hot spots, heat emitting objects, and burning objects in the environment of the burning structure. An accessory adjustably supports the marking device at various heights above the floor surface when desired. The housing may have a ring for connecting a rope that can be extended from the housing to an exit of the burning structure and followed to exit the burning structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2014
    Inventor: Roland Ramirez
  • Publication number: 20140340206
    Abstract: Sensory messaging systems, according to particular embodiments, are configured to enable users to transmit sensory messages between sensory messaging devices. In various embodiments, the system is configured to allow users to transmit messages that recipients can experience substantially without having to read any text associated with the message. Sensory messages, according to particular embodiments, may include an aroma, a spark, a vibration, a sound, a light, or a warming.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 17, 2013
    Publication date: November 20, 2014
    Inventor: Edward D. Bugg, JR.
  • Patent number: 8866599
    Abstract: A system and method for signaling users including a control device electrically connected to a transceiver. The transceiver has a specified frequency. A first mobile signal device being activated by a first user and electrically communicating with a first transmitter having a selectable signal frequency. The first transmitter electrically communicates with the transceiver using the specified frequency. A second signal device includes a second receiver for receiving an activation signal from the transceiver. The second receiver electrically communicates with the transceiver using the specified frequency. The second signal device is activated by the activation of the first mobile signal device using the transceiver for alerting other persons.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2014
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: David J. Delia, Wayne M. Delia, Edward E. Kelley
  • Patent number: 8779906
    Abstract: A personal safety and alarm system including a siren/strobe light, and a pepper spray container which are selectively removably positioned in a holder with the holder being selectively detachably secured to a stand for use on a bedside table or the like or which may be placed in the person's purse or pocket. The system also includes a flashlight which is selectively removably secured to the stand.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2014
    Inventor: Robert Douglas Manning
  • Patent number: 8669852
    Abstract: A reflex speaker which provides an acoustic signal generator for acoustic alarm signals is captured in a housing through which the acoustic signals project via ports at the exit end of the housing. The housing defines a compartment at the exit end with an opening which is covered so that the acoustic signals project out of the exit end around the compartment. The cover may be a transparent cover which provides a lens through which optical signals generated by optics in the compartment provided by either LEDs to provide an optical warning signal, or a video camera, such as a CCD, which responds to visual signals as from hazards at the rear of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 11, 2014
    Assignee: Star Headlight & Lantern Co., Inc.
    Inventors: Steven W. Neufeglise, Daniel T. McCann
  • Patent number: 8593281
    Abstract: A passage alert system and method using a Radio Frequency IDentification (RFID) technology are provided. The method and system are capable of alerting when a mobile terminal having an RFID tag passes the entrance at which an RFID reader is installed, whereby the owner is therefore aware of the mobile terminal. In the passage alert method of the present invention, when the first communication terminal passes an entrance at which the second communication terminal is installed, one of the first and second communication terminals resets the passage mode of the first communication terminal with an output of an alert message corresponding to the changed passage mode such that the owner may be aware of the first communication terminal, thereby reducing the possibility of losing the first mobile communication terminal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2013
    Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Dong Joon Park, Soon Shik Hwang
  • Patent number: 8536991
    Abstract: A decorative doorbell device is provided that includes a base unit attachable to a door and an ornamental housing unit rotatably lockable to the base unit. A doorbell ringer may be attached to the ornamental housing unit with a wireless activator so that a sound-producing unit is remotely activated by the wireless activator. The ornamental housing unit may be formed in the shape of a football helmet and decorated with a particular team's logo and colors on in any other desired ornamentation and shape.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2013
    Inventor: Spencer O. Gilbert
  • Patent number: 8299903
    Abstract: A combination light and sound producing fixture and combination screw-in light with speakers element is disclosed where the fixture is installed in a wall or ceiling or on a wall or ceiling. The light bulb/speaker can be screwed or secured into a standard light bulb socket. The sound producing elements is a coaxial arrangement of speakers having a low frequency transducer and one or more high frequency transducers that can be directed to emit sound in a particular direction. The fixture or bulb may further include digital signal processing to modify the sound to account for obstructions in or near the fixture. The surface of the sound transducer can be reflective in nature to provide focusing or diffusion of the light from the lighting elements. The lighting elements are incandescent, fluorescent or low voltage LED type that may include adjustment for lighting intensity and color.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2012
    Inventors: Edward H Haase, John Kemper Pasley
  • Publication number: 20120154119
    Abstract: A redundant system of interactive alert devices designed to be attached to a cell phone, a wallet and a set of keys. Any one of these devices can initiate a signal to enable the other two to activate a visual, vibratory and or audible signal so they can be located. The cell phone case incorporates a secondary DC power source that must be manually manipulated when the cell phone is uncoupled from the case to be utilized, thereby allowing the user an extended period to make an emergency call in the event the phone is dead.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 20, 2010
    Publication date: June 21, 2012
    Inventor: Michael Lee Schepps
  • Patent number: 8193919
    Abstract: A peripheral load driver that utilizes the power, wiring, and primary load of a conventional doorbell system to drive a doorbell system peripheral load at a higher current without risk of inadvertently energizing the primary load of the conventional doorbell system. The peripheral load driver comprising a power converting means for converting power extracted from the conventional doorbell system from a higher-voltage-at-a-lower-current to a lower-voltage-at-a-higher current wherein the higher-voltage-at-a-lower-current is insufficient to energize the primary load of the conventional doorbell system and the lower-voltage-at-a-higher-current is compatible with the doorbell system peripheral load.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 24, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2012
    Inventors: Peter Langer, Douglas C. Cinzori
  • Patent number: 8183989
    Abstract: An emergency exit indicator includes a light source, a visual indicator and a power line communication unit, wherein the visual indicator is disposed within the illumination scope of the light source, and the power line communication unit is electrically connected to the light source. The emergency exit indicator is capable of altering the displayed escape information. The present invention further provides an emergency exit indicating system using the above-mentioned emergency exit indicator and can more precisely display the escape information.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2012
    Assignee: GE Investment Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Wen-Kuei Tsai
  • Publication number: 20120019372
    Abstract: A security system includes a warning notification module adapted to recognize at least one of a wireless or audible signal. A door bell ringer or emergency transmission signal from a wireless transmitter can provide a recognition signal to a microprocessor in the security system via the warning notification module. The microprocessor retrieves dog barking sounds stored in memory and provides them to at least one of an amplifier or radio frequency transmitter after the microprocessor receives the recognition signal from the warning notification module. Dog barking sounds can be broadcasted using the wireless transmitter. Processing can be with a time delay after first receipt of the recognition signal. A random module can enable random retrieval of various dog barking sounds from memory for processing. A time out module can disable operation of the microprocessor at a set time after recognition signal receipt.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 28, 2011
    Publication date: January 26, 2012
    Inventors: Melisendro T. Ortiz, Luis M. Ortiz
  • Patent number: 8013719
    Abstract: A combination low voltage light and sound producing fixture is disclosed for installation in a yard wall or ceiling or on a wall or ceiling. Outdoor lighting and sound is produced with low voltage lighting that is wired or solar powered for operation. The fixture may further include digital signal processing to modify the sound to account for obstructions in near or around the fixture. The fixture may include a feedback system that allow the fixture to self modify its frequency response. The signal to the fixture is provided by wired or wireless interface. The surface of the sound transducer can be reflective in nature to provide focusing or diffusion of the light from the lighting elements. The lighting elements are incandescent, fluorescent or low voltage LED type that may include adjustment for lighting intensity or color.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2011
    Inventor: Edward H. Haase
  • Patent number: 7982593
    Abstract: An alarm device of a vehicle battery for monitoring voltage ranges in charging and discharging processes of the vehicle battery uses a sampling circuit to monitor the charging and discharging voltages real time of a battery, and prompts alert through a light or a buzzer of an alert unit in accordance with the preset voltage stage in a charging and discharging process of the battery. Moreover, a connection port compatible to an external electric device for accessing and examining the defect of a malfunction battery as a reference for maintaining and updating a malfunctioned battery.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2011
    Assignee: Lifetech Energy Inc.
    Inventor: Alan Hsu
  • Patent number: 7969301
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for using an energy emanating device to find a person (17a,b) or an object based on preselected attributes (33) stored in the energy emanating device (10) are disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2011
    Assignee: Social Fabric Corporation
    Inventor: Edward F. Tuck
  • Publication number: 20110095874
    Abstract: A remote switch monitors, navigates, and provides transport control to an electronic device or system, including computers or other digital systems. It includes: a switch with a visual indicator, transitionable between first and second states, or multiple states; a symbol on the visual indicator to identify the navigation function; and a communication interface to the electronic system. The device utilizes the communication interface to send a first message related to the navigation function to the electronic system in response to the user operating the switch; the device utilizes the communication interface to receive a second message related to the navigation status from the electronic system; and the visual indicator transitions between the first state and the second state to indicate the navigation status. The device may be used with the feet, freeing the hands to play an instrument such as a guitar, and provides tactile and visual feedback.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 28, 2009
    Publication date: April 28, 2011
    Applicant: APOGEE ELECTRONICS CORPORATION
    Inventor: Betty Bennett
  • Publication number: 20110084829
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a mezuzah case having an electronic signaling device for attracting attention of Jewish people walking through a doorway to a mezuzah which is affixed to the doorpost. The Mezuzah case includes housing for holding and protecting a mezuzah parchment and an electric signaling device for emitting a noticeable signal. According to one embodiment the signaling device is a light source. According to an alternative embodiment, the signaling device emits an audio signal. The mezuzah case may further include electronic means for automatically controlling the signaling device according to a preset program and a power source for energizing the electronic means and the signaling device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 11, 2009
    Publication date: April 14, 2011
    Inventors: TOMER SHAPIRA, ELI LEVI