| |
| United States Patent
|
6,972,677 |
| Coulthard |
December 6, 2005 |
Monitoring system
Abstract
A system for improved monitoring of changes in the location and
conditions surrounding people and property, utilizing fixed and
moveable logic processors, which communicate with each other as well
as receivers. Non-continuous signaling may be used to provide for
reduced power consumption, and network coupling may be used to
provided for exporting information to anywhere in the world.
| Inventors: |
Coulthard; John J.
(Scottsdale, AZ) |
| Appl. No.:
|
10/650,545 |
| Filed: |
August 27, 2003 |
| Current U.S.
Class: |
340/531 ;
340/539.13; 340/539.15; 340/573.1 |
| Current
International Class: |
G08B 001/00 () |
| Field of
Search: |
340/531,505,506,539.13,539.14,539.15,539.16,539.17,538.31,539.32,573.1
|
References Cited
[Referenced By]
U.S. Patent
Documents
Primary Examiner: Pham; Toan N.
Attorney, Agent or Firm:
Stoneman Law Offices, Ltd. Stoneman; Martin L.
Parent Case Text
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
The present application claims priority from my related U.S.
provisional patent application Ser. No. 60/406,110, filed Aug. 27,
2002, entitled "MODULAR, POST-PROGRAMMABLE RADIO FREQUENCY LOCATION,
IDENTIFICATION, TRACKING, MONITORING, INTERROGATION AND SENSING
SYSTEM, COMPONENTS AND METHODS" and also from my related U.S.
provisional patent application Ser. No. 60/452,261, filed Mar. 6,
2003, entitled "UNIVERSAL RADIO LOCATION, INTERPRETIVE MONITORING
AND EVEN TIMING SYSTEM AND METHOD". These related applications are
incorporated herein by this reference and are not admitted to be
prior art with respect to the present invention by the mention in
this cross-reference section.
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. A system, co-operable with at least one centrally-readable
database, for monitoring items within a local area, comprising, in
combination: a) a plurality of first logic-processor means, for
logical transacting with receivable information, respectively
associated with a plurality of locations within the local area; and
b) a plurality of second logic-processor means, for logical
transacting with receivable information, respectively associated
with a plurality of the items; c) wherein essentially each of said
plurality of first logic-processor means comprises first
communicator means for communicative coupling with essentially each
of said plurality of second logic-processor means; and d) wherein
essentially each of said plurality of second logic-processor means
comprises second communicator means for communicative coupling with
essentially each of said plurality of first logic-processor means.
2. The system according to claim 1 further comprising receiver means
for receiving communicated information from at least one of the
group consisting essentially of each of said plurality of first
logic-processor means and each of said plurality of second
logic-processor means.
3. The system according to claim 2 further comprising database means
for manipulating such receivable information.
4. The system according to claim 2 wherein said receiver means
comprises wireless receptor means for receiving communicated
information.
5. The system according to claim 2 wherein said receiver means
comprises network coupler means for communicative coupling with at
least one of the group consisting of: a) Internet; b) personal
computers; c) personal digital assistants; d) local area networks;
e) radios; f) cellular phones; g) wireless networks; and h) personal
computer memory card international associations (PCMCIA's) for
wireless applications.
6. The system according to claim 1 wherein said first communicator
means and said second communicator means each comprise wireless
system means for wirelessly assisting communicative coupling.
7. The system according to claim 6 wherein said first communicator
means and said second communicator means comprise at least one
frequency within the range consisting of: i) radio frequency; ii)
ultrasonic frequency; and iii) UV frequency.
8. The system according to claim 1 wherein essentially each of said
plurality of first logic-processor means and essentially each of
said plurality of second logic-processor means comprise identifier
means for uniquely identifying essentially each one of said
plurality of first logic-processor means and essentially each one of
said plurality of second logic-processor means.
9. The system according to claim 1 further comprising sensor means,
for sensing local information, attachable to at least one subset of
at least one of the group consisting essentially of each of said
plurality of first logic-processor means and each of said plurality
of second logic-processor means.
10. The system according to claim 1 wherein essentially each of said
plurality of first logic-processor means and essentially each of
said plurality of second logic-processor means comprise power source
means for providing electrical power.
11. The system according to claim 10 wherein essentially each of
said plurality of first logic-processor means and essentially each
of said plurality of second logic-processor means comprise
power-life-extender means for extending at least one life of said
power source means by assisting intermittent operation.
12. The system according to claim 1 wherein said first communicator
means and said second communicator means comprise non-continuous
signaler means for providing non-continuous communications.
13. The system according to claim 12 wherein said non-continuous
signaling means comprises optimized signaler means for providing
optimized power consumption when generating non-continuous
communications.
14. The system according to claim 1 wherein essentially each of said
plurality of first logic-processor means and essentially each of
said plurality of second logic-processor means comprises electric
circuit means for processing data.
15. The system according to claim 14 wherein said electric circuit
means comprises firmware means for providing modification of said
plurality of first logic-processor means and modification of said
plurality of second logic processor means.
16. The system according to claim 15 wherein said first communicator
means from at least one of said plurality of first logic-processor
means is communicatively coupleable with at least one of said
plurality of second logic-processor means so that said firmware
means of said at least one of said plurality of second
logic-processor means may be modified by said first communicator
means.
17. The system according to claim 15 wherein said second
communicator means from at least one of said plurality of second
logic-processor means is communicatively coupleable with at least
one of said plurality of first logic-processor means so that said
firmware means of said at least one of said plurality of first
logic-processor means may be modified by said second communicator
means.
18. The system according to claim 1 wherein essentially each of said
plurality of first logic-processors and essentially each of said
plurality of second logic-processors comprise at least one electric
circuit structured and arranged to process data.
19. The system according to claim 18 wherein said at least one
electric circuit comprises at least one firmware structured and
arranged to provide modification of said plurality of first
logic-processors and modification of said plurality of second
logic-processors.
20. The system according to claim 19 wherein said at least one first
communicator from at least one of said plurality of first
logic-processors is communicatively coupleable with at least one of
said plurality of second logic-processors so that said at least one
firmware of said at least one of said plurality of second
logic-processors may be modified by said at least one first
communicator.
21. The system according to claim 19 wherein said at least one
second communicator from at least one of said plurality of second
logic-processors is communicatively coupleable with at least one of
said plurality of first logic-processors so that said at least one
firmware of said at least one of said plurality of first
logic-processors may be modified by said at least one second
communicator.
22. A system, co-operable with at least one centrally-readable
database, for monitoring items within a local area, comprising, in
combination: a) a plurality of first logic-processors structured and
arranged to provide logical transaction with receivable information,
respectively associated with a plurality of locations within the
local area; and b) a plurality of second logic-processors structured
and arranged to provide logical transaction with receivable
information, respectively associated with a plurality of the items;
c) wherein essentially each of said plurality of first
logic-processors comprises at least one first communicator
structured and arranged to communicatively couple with essentially
each of said plurality of second logic-processors; and d) wherein
essentially each of said plurality of second logic-processors
comprises at least one second communicator structured and arranged
to communicatively couple with essentially each of said plurality of
first logic-processors.
23. The system according to claim 22 further comprising at least one
receiver structured and arranged to receive communicated information
from at least one of the group consisting essentially of each of
said plurality of first logic-processors and each of said plurality
of second logic-processors.
24. The system according to claim 23 further comprising at least one
database structured and arranged to manipulate such receivable
information.
25. The system according to claim 23 wherein said at least one
receiver comprises at least one wireless receptor structured and
arranged to receive such receivable information.
26. The system according to claim 23 wherein said at least one
receiver comprises at least one network coupler structured and
arranged to communicatively couple said at least one receiver with
at least one of the group consisting of: a) Internet; b) personal
computers; c) personal digital assistants; d) local area networks;
e) radios; f) cellular phones; g) wireless networks; and h) personal
computer memory card international associations (PCMCIA's) for
wireless applications.
27. The system according to claim 22 wherein said at least one first
communicator and said at least one second communicator each comprise
at least one wireless system structured and arranged to wirelessly
assist communicative coupling.
28. The system according to claim 27 wherein said at least one first
communicator and said at least one second communicator comprise at
least one frequency within the range consisting of: i) radio
frequency; ii) ultrasonic frequency; and iii) UV frequency.
29. The system according to claim 22 wherein essentially each of
said plurality of first logic-processors and essentially each of
said plurality of second logic-processors comprise at least one
identifier structured and arranged to uniquely identify essentially
each one of said plurality of first logic-processors and essentially
each one of said plurality of second logic-processors.
30. The system according to claim 22 further comprising at least one
sensor structured and arranged to sense local information,
attachable to at least one subset of at least one of the group
consisting essentially of each of said plurality of first
logic-processors and each of said plurality of second
logic-processors.
31. The system according to claim 22 wherein essentially each of
said plurality of first logic-processors and essentially each of
said plurality of second logic-processors comprise at least one
power source structured and arranged to provide electrical power.
32. The system according to claim 31 wherein essentially each of
said plurality of first logic-processors and essentially each of
said plurality of second logic-processors comprise at least one
power-life-extender structured and arranged to extend at least one
life of said at least one power source by assisting intermittent
operation.
33. The system according to claim 22 wherein said at least one first
communicator and said at least one second communicator comprise at
least one non-continuous signaler structured and arranged to provide
non-continuous communications.
34. The system according to claim 33 wherein said at least one
non-continuous signaler comprises at least one optimized signaler
structured and arranged to provide optimized power consumption when
generating non-continuous communications.
35. A method and system for monitoring at least one state of at
least one item associated with at least one healthcare facility by
storing in at least one database such at least one state of such at
least one item, received from a plurality of fixed status
broadcasters and a plurality of mobile status broadcasters
comprising the steps of: a) receiving at least one state change of
such at least one item from at least one state sensor by at least
one of such plurality of fixed status broadcasters; b) receiving at
least one state change of such at least one item from at least one
state sensor by at least one of such plurality of mobile status
broadcasters; c) determining requirement to broadcast such at least
one state change by such at least one such plurality of fixed status
broadcasters; d) determining requirement to broadcast such at least
one state change by such at least one of such plurality of mobile
status broadcasters; e) broadcasting required such at least one
state change by such at least one of such plurality of fixed status
broadcasters; f) broadcasting required such at least one state
change by such at least one of such plurality of mobile status
broadcasters; g) receiving such required such at least one state
change from such at least one of such plurality of fixed status
broadcasters; h) receiving such required such at least one state
change from such at least one of such plurality of mobile status
broadcasters; i) storing such required such at least one state
change in such at least one database; and j) reporting such required
such at least one state change.
36. The method and system according to claim 35 wherein such at
least one state change comprises: a) occurrence of at least one
event affecting such at least one item; b) change of location change
of such at least one item; and c) change of at least one monitored
value affecting such at least one item.
37. The method and system according to claim 35 wherein the step of
determining requirement to broadcast such at least one state change
by such at least one of such plurality of fixed status broadcasters
comprises: a) receiving at least one broadcast requirement rule; and
b) comparing such at least one state change to such at least one
broadcast requirement rule.
38. The method and system according to claim 35 wherein the step of
determining requirement to broadcast such at least one state change
by such at least one of such plurality of mobile status broadcasters
comprises: a) receiving at least one broadcast requirement rule; and
b) comparing such at least one state change to such at least one
broadcast requirement rule.
39. The method and system according to claim 35 wherein the step of
reporting such required such at least one state change comprises: a)
transmission of such required such at least one state change to at
least one local area network; b) transmission of such required such
at least one state change to at least one personal computer; c)
transmission of such required such at least one state change to at
least one cellular telephone; d) transmission of such required such
at least one state change to at least one personal digital
assistant; and e) transmission of such required such at least one
state change to at least one radio frequency receiver.
40. The method and system according to claim 35 wherein such at
least one item comprises: a) infant patients; b) adult patients; c)
fixed equipment; and d) mobile equipment.
41. The method and system according to claim 35 wherein such step of
broadcasting required such at least one state change by such at
least one of such plurality of fixed status broadcasters comprises:
a) activating at least one broadcasting transmitter; b) broadcasting
such required such at least one state change using such at least one
broadcasting transmitter; and c) de-activating such at least one
broadcasting transmitter.
42. The method and system according to claim 35 wherein such step of
broadcasting required such at least one state change by such at
least one of such plurality of mobile status broadcasters comprises:
a) activating at least one broadcasting transmitter; b) broadcasting
such required such at least one state change using such at least one
broadcasting transmitter; and c) de-activating such at least one
broadcasting transmitter.
43. The method and system according to claim 35 wherein such at
least one healthcare facility comprises: a) hospitals; b) nursing
homes; c) assisted living facilities; d) offices of medical
practitioners; and e) personal residences.
44. The method and system according to claim 35 further comprising
the step of determining a plurality of steady-state values for the
conditions surrounding such at least one state sensor and using such
plurality of steady-state values as a reference for determining, in
the future, when a state change has occurred.
Description
BACKGROUND
This invention relates to providing a system for improved monitoring
of changes in the location and conditions surrounding people and
property. Typically, inadequate monitoring of changes in the
location and conditions surrounding people and property has resulted
in inefficiency, kidnapping, the loss of lives, and the
misplacement, loss, or theft of extremely valuable property.
For example, in July of 1998, newborn Kamiyah Mobley was abducted
from the University Medical Center in Jacksonville, Fla. The baby
girl was taken from her mother's room by a woman dressed in a blue
nurse's smock. Similarly, in August of 1987, newborn Carlina White
was abducted from Harlem Hospital in New York, N.Y. The baby girl
disappeared from the hospital premises while being treated for a
fever. To this day, neither baby has been found. Similar to visually
monitoring newborns, most machines monitoring the life threatening
conditions of other hospital patients must be actually viewed by the
physician in order to be useful at all. Unless a physician is
physically present at the location of the machine, a possibly deadly
time delay exists between a machine displaying data representing a
detrimental change in a patient's condition and the arrival of the
physician to read the data displayed. As a result, efforts have been
made worldwide to remotely monitor changes in the location of
newborns and condition of other hospital patients. Furthermore, such
a monitoring system could be used for tracking the location and
conditions of any person or property located anywhere in any
building.
Much like in a hospital, difficulty in monitoring a system increases
dramatically where complex numbers of property and people are
involved. For example, when the Shuttle Columbia exploded over five
states in February of 2003, over 2000 search team members collected,
documented, tagged, and transported over 21,000 pieces of shuttle
debris. Such pieces are currently being organized and inspected as
evidence in determining the cause of the Shuttle Columbia disaster.
A system capable of efficiently monitoring changes in location and
surrounding conditions of such disaster evidence, which protects it
from the risk of misplacement, loss, or theft, would be extremely
beneficial.
Due to the tremendous risk of harm involved with changes in the
location and conditions surrounding people, as well as the high risk
of property misplacement, loss, and theft due to inadequate
monitoring of operations involving valuable property, the
development of a system capable of efficiently monitoring changes in
the location and conditions surrounding people and property would be
beneficial.
OBJECTS AND FEATURES OF THE INVENTION
A primary object and feature of the present invention is to provide
a system for coupled communication between logic processors and a
receiver. It is a further object and feature of the present
invention to provide such a system for providing coupled
communication between sensors and receivers. It is a further object
and feature of the present invention to provide such a system
capable of communicating at varied frequencies. It is a further
object and feature of the present invention to provide such a system
capable of communicating at periodic frequencies. It is a further
object and feature of the present invention to provide such a system
capable of communicating at non-continuous frequencies. It is a
further object and feature of the present invention to provide such
a system capable of optimized power consumption when communicating
at non-continuous frequencies.
It is a further object and feature of the present invention to
provide such a system utilizing wireless systems. It is a further
object and feature of the present invention to provide such a system
utilizing logic-processor specific power sources. It is a further
object and feature of the present invention to provide such a system
utilizing electric circuits. It is a further object and feature of
the present invention to provide such a system utilizing electric
circuit firmware. It is a further object and feature of the present
invention to provide such a system utilizing signal-modified
firmware.
It is a further object and feature of the present invention to
provide such a system utilizing wireless receptors. It is a further
object and feature of the present invention to provide such a system
utilizing wireless receptors capable or targeting particular signals
by modifying their read-range. It is a further object and feature of
the present invention to provide such a system where a receiver is
communicatively coupled to external networks.
A further primary object and feature of the present invention is to
provide such a system that is efficient, inexpensive, and handy.
Other objects and features of this invention will become apparent
with reference to the following descriptions.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
In accordance with a preferred embodiment hereof, this invention
provides a system, co-operable with at least one centrally-readable
database, for monitoring items within a local area, comprising, in
combination: a plurality of first logic-processor means, for logical
transacting with receivable information, respectively associated
with a plurality of locations within the local area; and a plurality
of second logic-processor means, for logical transacting with
receivable information, respectively associated with a plurality of
the items; wherein essentially each of such plurality of first
logic-processor means comprises first communicator means for
communicative coupling with essentially each of such plurality of
second logic-processor means; and wherein essentially each of such
plurality of second logic-processor means comprises second
communicator means for communicative coupling with essentially each
of such plurality of first logic-processor means.
Moreover, it provides such a system further comprising receiver
means for receiving communicated information from at least one of
the group consisting essentially of each of such plurality of first
logic-processor means and each of such plurality of second
logic-processor means. Additionally, it provides such a system
further comprising database means for manipulating such receivable
information. Also, it provides such a system wherein such first
communicator means and such second communicator means each comprise
wireless system means for wirelessly assisting communicative
coupling. In addition, it provides such a system wherein such
receiver means comprises wireless receptor means for receiving
communicated information. And, it provides such a system wherein
essentially each of such plurality of first logic-processor means
and essentially each of such plurality of second logic-processor
means comprise identifier means for uniquely identifying essentially
each one of such plurality of first logic-processor means and
essentially each one of such plurality of second logic-processor
means.
Further, it provides such a system further comprising sensor means,
for sensing local information, attachable to at least one subset of
at least one of the group consisting essentially of each of such
plurality of first logic-processor means and each of such plurality
of second logic-processor means. Even further, it provides such a
system wherein essentially each of such plurality of first
logic-processor means and essentially each of such plurality of
second logic-processor means comprise power source means for
providing electrical power. Moreover, it provides such a system
wherein essentially each of such plurality of first logic-processor
means and essentially each of such plurality of second
logic-processor means comprise power-life-extender means for
extending at least one life of such power source means by assisting
intermittent operation. Additionally, it provides such a system
wherein such first communicator means and such second communicator
means comprise at least one frequency within the range consisting
of: radio frequency; ultrasonic frequency; and UV frequency.
Also, it provides such a system wherein such first communicator
means and such second communicator means comprise non-continuous
signaler means for providing non-continuous communications. In
addition, it provides such a system wherein such non-continuous
signaling means comprises optimized signaler means for providing
optimized power consumption when generating non-continuous
communications. And, it provides such a system wherein essentially
each of such plurality of first logic-processor means and
essentially each of such plurality of second logic-processor means
comprises electric circuit means for processing data. Further, it
provides such a system wherein such electric circuit means comprises
firmware means for providing modification of such plurality of first
logic-processor means and modification of such plurality of second
logic processor means.
It also provides such a system wherein such first communicator means
from at least one of such plurality of first logic-processor means
is communicatively coupleable with at least one of such plurality of
second logic-processor means so that such firmware means of such at
least one of such plurality of second logic-processor means may be
modified by such first communicator means. Even further, it provides
such a system wherein such second communicator means from at least
one of such plurality of second logic-processor means is
communicatively coupleable with at least one of such plurality of
first logic-processor means so that such firmware means of such at
least one of such plurality of first logic-processor means may be
modified by such second communicator means. Moreover, it provides
such a system wherein such receiver means comprises network coupler
means for communicative coupling with at least one of the group
consisting of: Internet; personal computers; personal digital
assistants; local area networks; radios; cellular phones; wireless
networks; and personal computer memory card international
associations (PCMCIA's) for wireless applications.
In accordance with another preferred embodiment hereof, this
invention provides a system, co-operable with at least one
centrally-readable database, for monitoring items within a local
area, comprising, in combination: a plurality of first
logic-processors structured and arranged to provide logical
transaction with receivable information, respectively associated
with a plurality of locations within the local area; and a plurality
of second logic-processors structured and arranged to provide
logical transaction with receivable information, respectively
associated with a plurality of the items; wherein essentially each
of such plurality of first logic-processors comprises at least one
first communicator structured and arranged to communicatively couple
with essentially each of such plurality of second logic-processors;
and wherein essentially each of such plurality of second
logic-processors comprises at least one second communicator
structured and arranged to communicatively couple with essentially
each of such plurality of first logic-processors.
Additionally, it provides such a system further comprising at least
one receiver structured and arranged to receive communicated
information from at least one of the group consisting essentially of
each of such plurality of first logic-processors and each of such
plurality of second logic-processors. Also, it provides such a
system further comprising at least one database structured and
arranged to manipulate such receivable information. In addition, it
provides such a system wherein such at least one first communicator
and such at least one second communicator each comprise at least one
wireless system structured and arranged to wirelessly assist
communicative coupling. And, it provides such a system wherein such
at least one receiver comprises at least one wireless receptor
structured and arranged to receive such receivable information.
Further, it provides such a system wherein essentially each of such
plurality of first logic-processors and essentially each of such
plurality of second logic-processors comprise at least one
identifier structured and arranged to uniquely identify essentially
each one of such plurality of first logic-processors and essentially
each one of such plurality of second logic-processors. Even further,
it provides such a system further comprising at least one sensor
structured and arranged to sense local information, attachable to at
least one subset of at least one of the group consisting essentially
of each of such plurality of first logic-processors and each of such
plurality of second logic-processors. Moreover, it provides such a
system wherein essentially each of such plurality of first
logic-processors and essentially each of such plurality of second
logic-processors comprise at least one power source structured and
arranged to provide electrical power.
Additionally, it provides such a system wherein essentially each of
such plurality of first logic-processors and essentially each of
such plurality of second logic-processors comprise at least one
power-life-extender structured and arranged to extend at least one
life of such at least one power source by assisting intermittent
operation. Also, it provides such a system wherein such at least one
first communicator and such at least one second communicator
comprise at least one frequency within the range consisting of:
radio frequency; ultrasonic frequency; and UV frequency.
In addition, it provides such a system wherein such at least one
first communicator and such at least one second communicator
comprise at least one non-continuous signaler structured and
arranged to provide non-continuous communications. And, it provides
such a system wherein such at least one non-continuous signaler
comprises at least one optimized signaler structured and arranged to
provide optimized power consumption when generating non-continuous
communications. Further, it provides such a system wherein
essentially each of such plurality of first logic-processors and
essentially each of such plurality of second logic-processors
comprise at least one electric circuit structured and arranged to
process data. Even further, it provides such a system wherein such
at least one electric circuit comprises at least one firmware
structured and arranged to provide modification of such plurality of
first logic-processors and modification of such plurality of second
logic-processors.
The system wherein such at least one first communicator from at
least one of such plurality of first logic-processors is
communicatively coupleable with at least one of such plurality of
second logic-processors so that such at least one firmware of such
at least one of such plurality of second logic-processors may be
modified by such at least one first communicator. Moreover, it
provides such a system wherein such at least one second communicator
from at least one of such plurality of second logic-processors is
communicatively coupleable with at least one of such plurality of
first logic-processors so that such at least one firmware of such at
least one of such plurality of first logic-processors may be
modified by such at least one second communicator.
Additionally, it provides such a system wherein such at least one
receiver comprises at least one network coupler structured and
arranged to communicatively couple such at least one receiver with
at least one of the group consisting of: internet; personal
computers; personal digital assistants; local area networks; radios;
cellular phones; wireless networks; and personal computer memory
card international associations (PCMCIA's) for wireless
applications.
In accordance with another preferred embodiment hereof, this
invention provides a method and system for monitoring at least one
state of at least one item associated with at least one healthcare
facility by storing in at least one database such at least one state
of such at least one item, received from a plurality of fixed status
broadcasters and a plurality of mobile status broadcasters
comprising the steps of: receiving at least one state change of such
at least one item from at least one state sensor by at least one of
such plurality of fixed status broadcasters; receiving at least one
state change of such at least one item from at least one state
sensor by at least one of such plurality of mobile status
broadcasters; determining requirement to broadcast such at least one
state change by such at least one such plurality of fixed status
broadcasters; determining requirement to broadcast such at least one
state change by such at least one of such plurality of mobile status
broadcasters; broadcasting required such at least one state change
by such at least one of such plurality of fixed status broadcasters;
broadcasting required such at least one state change by such at
least one of such plurality of mobile status broadcasters; receiving
such required such at least one state change from such at least one
of such plurality of fixed status broadcasters; receiving such
required such at least one state change from such at least one of
such plurality of mobile status broadcasters; storing such required
such at least one state change in such at least one database; and
reporting such required such at least one state change.
Also, it provides such a method and system wherein such at least one
state change comprises: occurrence of at least one event affecting
such at least one item; change of location change of such at least
one item; and change of at least one monitored value affecting such
at least one item. In addition, it provides such a method and system
wherein the step of determining requirement to broadcast such at
least one state change by such at least one of such plurality of
fixed status broadcasters comprises: receiving at least one
broadcast requirement rule; and comparing such at least one state
change to such at least one broadcast requirement rule. And, it
provides such a method and system wherein the step of determining
requirement to broadcast such at least one state change by such at
least one of such plurality of mobile status broadcasters comprises:
receiving at least one broadcast requirement rule; and comparing
such at least one state change to such at least one broadcast
requirement rule.
Further, it provides such a method and system wherein the step of
reporting such required such at least one state change comprises:
transmission of such required such at least one state change to at
least one local area network; transmission of such required such at
least one state change to at least one personal computer;
transmission of such required such at least one state change to at
least one cellular telephone; transmission of such required such at
least one state change to at least one personal digital assistant;
and transmission of such required such at least one state change to
at least one radio frequency receiver. Even further, it provides
such a method and system wherein such at least one item comprises:
infant patients; adult patients; fixed equipment; and mobile
equipment. Even further, it provides such a method and system
wherein such step of broadcasting required such at least one state
change by such at least one of such plurality of fixed status
broadcasters comprises: activating at least one broadcasting
transmitter; broadcasting such required such at least one state
change using such at least one broadcasting transmitter; and
de-activating such at least one broadcasting transmitter.
Even further, it provides such a method and system wherein such step
of broadcasting required such at least one state change by such at
least one of such plurality of mobile status broadcasters comprises:
activating at least one broadcasting transmitter; broadcasting such
required such at least one state change using such at least one
broadcasting transmitter; and de-activating such at least one
broadcasting transmitter. Even further, it provides such a method
and system wherein such at least one healthcare facility comprises:
hospitals; nursing homes; assisted living facilities; offices of
medical practitioners; and personal residences. Even further, it
provides such a method and system further comprising the step of
determining a plurality of steady-state values for the conditions
surrounding such at least one state sensor and using such plurality
of steady-state values as a reference for determining, in the
future, when a state change has occurred.
And this invention provides a useful new format for communicative
bits/bytes.
This invention also provides that both First logic-processors and
Second logic-processors may have the programmed capability to
establish their own sampling rates and statistical analysis methods
to determine the normal or typical sensed conditions of the
environment, preferably the steady-state environment, in terms of
absolute values, rate of change of these values and the
relationships of the various sensed parameters being monitored by
the First logic-processor or Second logic-processor; and the result
of this analysis may result in the onboard microprocessor changing
the sampling rates for one or more sensors, increasing the size of a
sample for one or more sensors, switching to a different analysis
algorithm and determining an appropriate transmission schedule,
power level and even modulation scheme.
Yet further, this invention provides each and every novel detail,
feature, article, process, system and/or method disclosed in or
mentioned by or shown in this specification, including the drawings,
the claims, the abstract, and any appendices.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the monitoring system according to a
preferred embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 2-00 is another perspective view of the monitoring system
according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 2-01 through FIG. 2-89 provide detailed descriptions of a
preferred embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 3, comprising FIG. 3A, FIG. 3B, FIG. 3C., and FIG. 3D, is a
perspective view of a Second logic-processor according to a
preferred embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 4 is a Receiver flowchart according to a preferred embodiment
of the present invention.
FIG. 5, comprising FIG. 5A and FIG. 5B, is a perspective view of a
power source according to a preferred embodiment of the present
invention.
FIG. 6-00 is a perspective view of an electric circuit according to
a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 6-01 is another perspective view of an electric circuit
according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 7, comprising FIG. 7A, FIG. 7B, FIG. 7C., and FIG. 7D, is a
wireless system configurations table according to a preferred
embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 8 is a firmware flowchart according to a preferred embodiment
of the present invention.
FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a network coupler according to a
preferred embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 10, comprising FIG. 10A and FIG. 10B, is a sensor sampling-plan
according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a Second logic-processor according
to another preferred embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 12, comprising FIG. 12A and FIG. 12B, is an alternative
perspective view of a Second logic-processor according to a
preferred embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 13, comprising FIG. 13A and FIG. 13B, is a side view of the
sections of a Second logic-processor according to a preferred
embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 14, comprising FIG. 14A and FIG. 14B, is a posterior view of
the sections of a Second logic-processor for according to a
preferred embodiment of the present invention.
Within the specification, reference to a figure number indicates
reference to the set of all lettered figures for that number (for
example, reference to "FIG. 7" indicates reference to FIG. 7A, FIG.
7B, FIG. 7C., and FIG. 7D).
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE BEST MODE AND PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS OF
THE INVENTION
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the monitoring system according to a
preferred embodiment of the present invention. Preferably, system
100 comprises First logic-processors 110, Second logic-processors
120, first communicators 111, and second communicators 121.
Preferably, First logic-processors 110 provide logical transaction
with receivable information, respectively associated with a
plurality of locations within a local area. Preferably, Second
logic-processors 120 provide logical transaction with receivable
information, respectively associated with a plurality of the items.
Preferably, First logic-processors 110 comprise first communicators
111, communicatively coupled with Second logic-processors 120.
Preferably, Second logic-processors 120 comprise second
communicators 121, communicatively coupled with First
logic-processors 110. Preferably, First logic-processors 110 "poll",
or transmit signals, to Second logic-processors 120. Preferably,
First logic-processors 110 may also "poll" for other First
logic-processors 120 (and may sometimes be referred to as
"pollers"). However, Second logic-processors 120 may also "poll" for
First logic-processors 110, as well as other Second logic-processors
120 (and may sometimes be referred to as "transponders")(embodying
herein a plurality of first logic-processor means, for logical
transacting with receivable information, respectively associated
with a plurality of locations within the local area; and embodying
herein a plurality of second logic-processor means, for logical
transacting with receivable information, respectively associated
with a plurality of the items).
Preferably, system 100 further comprises Receiver 130. Preferably,
Receiver 130 receives communicated information from First
logic-processors 110. Preferably, Receiver 130 receives communicated
information from Second logic-processors 120. Preferably, Receiver
130 receives information resulting from "polling", or signals
transmitted between logic-processors 110 and 120 (embodying herein
receiver means for receiving communicated information from at least
one of the group consisting essentially of each of said plurality of
first logic-processor means and each of said plurality of second
logic-processor means). Preferably, both First logic-processors 110
and Second logic-processors 120 may comprise Receivers 130.
Preferably, Receiver 130 comprises wireless receptor 162.
Preferably, wireless receptor 162 receives wireless communications.
Preferably, Receivers 130 comprise 16-bit digital attenuators that
can be controlled by the on-board microprocessor either as a result
of wireless or wired instructions from the control center in the
case of Receivers 130, or instructions from a logic-processor 110 or
120, or a PDA in the case of a Second logic-processor. Furthermore,
the microprocessor in each case can automatically increase the level
of attenuation and reduce the read range if the signal density
reaches a point that collisions can occur causing an excessive level
of data errors. A further alternative in the case of First
logic-processors 110 and Second logic-processors 120 is to reprogram
the First logic-processors 110 or Second logic-processors 120 set
attenuation level, on site, using the ribbon cable programming
option. Preferably, wireless receptor 162 is structured to enhance
sensitivity to signals intended for reception by wireless receptor
162 (embodying herein wireless receptor means for receiving
communicated information). Preferably, system 100 further comprises
database 140. Preferably, database 140 manipulates the information
communicated between Receiver 130, First logic-processor 110, and
Second logic-processor 120 (embodying herein database means for
manipulating such receivable information).
Preferably, first communicators 111 and second communicators 121
each comprise wireless systems 155. Preferably, wireless systems 155
provide for wireless communication of information (embodying herein
wireless system means for wirelessly assisting communicative
coupling). Upon reading the teachings of this specification, persons
of ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, considering
issues such as technology, cost, and efficiency, other wireless
systems such as infrared, ultraviolet, acoustic, magnetic,
non-radio, etc., may suffice. Preferably, First logic-processors 110
and Second logic-processors 120 each comprise identifiers 154.
Preferably, identifier 154 uniquely identifies each of the First
logic processors 110. Preferably, identifier 154 uniquely identifies
each of the Second logic processors 120 (embodying herein identifier
means for uniquely identifying essentially each one of said
plurality of first logic-processor means and essentially each one of
said plurality of second logic-processor means).
Preferably, system 100 further comprises sensor 150. Preferably,
sensor 150 senses local information. Preferably, sensor 150 senses
local information attachable to at least one subset First
logic-processors 110. Preferably, sensor 150 senses local
information attachable to at least one subset of Second
logic-processors 120 (embodying herein sensor means, for sensing
local information, attachable to at least one subset of at least one
of the group consisting essentially of each of said plurality of
first logic-processor means and each of said plurality of second
logic-processor means). Upon reading the teachings of this
specification, persons of ordinary skill in the art will now
understand that, considering issues such as efficiency, technology,
and cost, other wireless systems may suffice.
Preferably, communicators 111 and 121 comprise communication
frequencies of light or sound, which may travel unobstructed between
First logic-processors 110, Second logic-processors 120, receivers
130, and other transmitting and receiving sources. Preferably,
communicators 111 and 121 comprise communication frequencies within
the range of radio frequency. Preferably, communicators 111 and 121
comprise communication frequencies within the range of ultrasonic
frequency. Preferably, communicators 111 and 121 comprise
communication frequencies within the range of ultraviolet frequency
(embodying herein first communicator means for communicative
coupling with essentially each of said plurality of second
logic-processor means, and embodying herein second communicator
means for communicative coupling with essentially each of said
plurality of first logic-processor means). Upon reading the
teachings of this specification, persons of ordinary skill in the
art will now understand that, considering issues such as location
mediums, technology, and cost, other frequencies such as infrared,
x-ray, etc., may suffice.
Preferably, First logic-processors 110 and Second logic-processors
120 each comprises power source 160. Preferably, power source 160
provides electrical power. Preferably, power source 160 comprises
power life extender 161. Preferably, power life extender 161 extends
the life of power source 160 by assisting intermittent operation
(embodying herein power source means for providing electrical power;
and embodying herein power-life-extender means for extending at
least one life of said power source means by assisting intermittent
operation).
Preferably, first communicator 111 and second communicator 121 each
operate at a frequency within the range consisting of radio
frequency. Preferably, first communicator 111 and second
communicator 121 each operate at a frequency within the range
consisting of ultrasonic frequency. Preferably, first communicator
111 and second communicator 121 each operate at a frequency within
the range consisting of UV frequency. Preferably, first communicator
111 and second communicator 121 each comprise non-continuous
signaler 156. Preferably, non-continuous signaler 156 provides for
non-continuous communication between First logic-processors 110,
Second logic processors 120, and receivers 130. Preferably, first
communicator 111 and second communicator 121 each comprise optimized
signaler 157. Preferably, optimized signaler 157 provides optimized
power consumption when generating non-continuous communications
(embodying herein non-continuous signaler means for providing
non-continuous communications, and embodying herein optimized
signaler means for providing optimized power consumption when
generating non-continuous communications).
Preferably, First logic-processor 110 and Second logic processor 120
each comprise electric circuit 151. Preferably, electric circuit 151
processes information. Preferably, electric circuit 151 comprises
firmware 152. Preferably, firmware 152 provides for hardware, which
can be modified as if it were software. Firmware 152 is also
referred to in the arts as "middleware". Preferably, firmware 152
can be modified by wireless system 155 (embodying herein electric
circuit means for processing data, embodying herein firmware means
for providing modifiable hardware, embodying herein communicatively
coupleable with at least one of said plurality of second
logic-processor means so that said firmware means of said at least
one of said plurality of second logic-processor means may be
modified by said first communicator means, and embodying herein
communicatively coupleable with at least one of said plurality of
first logic-processor means so that said firmware means of said at
least one of said plurality of first logic-processor means may be
modified by said second communicator means).
Preferably, Receiver 130 comprises network couplers 158. Preferably,
network couplers 158 communicatively couples Receiver 130 to outside
networks. Preferably, network couplers 158 comprise the Internet,
Personal Digital Assistants (PDA's), Local Area Networks (LAN's),
and Personal Computer Memory Card International Associations
(PCMCIA's). Upon reading the teachings of this specification,
persons of ordinary skill in the art will now understand that,
considering issues such as technology, cost, and efficiency, other
network couplers such as radios, cellular phones, personal computers
(PC's), etc., may suffice.
Preferably, system 100 can be used in a wide variety of applications
such as remotely locating, identifying and tracking people, items,
vehicles or other objects particular to the time they pass a certain
location, and they can be configured to monitor and adapt to a
variety of sensed conditions. This enables system 100 to be
configured for use in locating and determining the status of people,
equipment, and other items. Such people, equipment, and items may be
located in both multistory and underground buildings. Preferably,
First logic-processors 110 and Second logic-processors 120 provide
for data transmission, as well as interpretation of data and
instructions from remote sources. Preferably, logic-processors 110
and 120 provide for coded transmission between Receiver 130 and any
other sources. Preferably, Receiver 130 receives, decodes, and
presents the information for review, analysis, and determination of
appropriate action. Preferably, such information is stored in
database 140. Furthermore with the ability of the Receiver 130 to
send information immediately utilizing wireless system 155, any
information can be delivered in real time to anywhere in the world,
all with a single Receiver 130 or with an arrayed set of identical
receivers 130.
An important aspect of the invention is the modularized nature of
the Second logic-processor 120 and its mechanical and functional
versatility. Preferably, it consists of three primary elements, two
of which are common to all applications and environments described
previously. They are the power source 160 and the communicator 121.
Preferably, these two connectors are sealed and plug together to
achieve an electrical link. Preferably, signal modifiable firmware
153 can be modified by plugging into connector portions 131 or 132,
as shown in FIG. 3. Preferably, Second logic-processor 120 comprises
at least two connection portions, whereby first connector portion
131 is used for programming, and the second connector portion 132 is
used for testing and selecting certain functional options.
Preferably, first connector portion 131 utilizes a ribbon-type
connector. Preferably, first connector portion 131 is located on the
portion of Second logic-processor 120 on which power source 160 is
attached. Preferably, second connector portion 132 is located on an
opposite portion from first connector portion 131.
Preferably, second connector portion 132 is used for testing and
selecting certain functional options such as transmitter modulation
mode, pulse widths, and frequencies. Preferably, additional
connector may also be connected utilizing second connector 132.
Preferably, connector portions 131 and 132 can have a variety of
uses from simply a sealed cap that selects the transmission
characteristics and protects the connector when used only for beacon
applications, to use as a connector for power source 160, to a
choice of active status sensor 150 connections that provide
information regarding its host, such as power off or power on, door
open or door closed, switch up or switch down, temperature hot or
temperature cold, light or no light, item moving or nonmoving, etc.
Another key feature of the system is the method by which Second
logic-processor 120, although configured for real time inventory
tracking, can be customized for a wide variety of sensing and
conditions applications that can all be read together using the same
Receiver 130. Preferably, the method described herein also requires
that the content of communication from Second logic-processor 120 to
the Receiver 130 contain a variable word length and a variable
number of words in each transmission, depending on its circumstances
and instructions from First logic-processor 110. This is possible
because, preferably, the Second logic-processor 120, for all these
applications, is the same except for its transmission data content
and the choice of desired connectors for connector portions 131 and
132. Preferably, the data encoding format is the same for all Second
logic-processors 120 except for the word length, number of words in
a transmission and the nature of the encoded information, although
these variables are limited to a predetermined set of options, the
option being identified at the beginning of the transmission.
Preferably, the Universal Coding Format used in the Second
logic-processor 120's transmissions contain information needed by
the decoder to recognize the data as coming from a particular Second
logic-processor 120 configuration. Preferably, the Universal Coding
Format provides information regarding the type of the transmission
encoding scheme (Transmission Type Code), an application specific
group code, a unique Second logic-processor 120 code, a First
logic-processor 110 code, and a variety of event status or sensor
150 data bytes, which can each have a different number of bits, or
even none at all. Preferably, the nature of the encoded information
is programmed into the Receiver 130 software as a look-up table and
identified through the Second logic-processor 120's individual code.
Preferably, database 140 comprises the encoded information.
The polling scheme can have a variety of features depending on the
nature of the application. If the Second logic-processor 120 is
stationary, the polling signal may either be received from a hand
held PDA (serving both as a First logic-processor 110 and a Receiver
130) in order to have it send its current status and location
information immediately instead of at its normal periodic rate, or
the polling signal will have been received from a First
logic-processor 110 located in the vicinity. Typically, the latter
signal will be ignored when the Second logic-processor 120 is
stationary. It is important that First logic-processor 110 (whether
part of a PDA or a site-located First logic-processor 110) should
have only a limited range so as to address only those Second
logic-processors 120 within a desired range or radius of First
logic-processor 110. Preferably, the transmission scheme is set up
to have a maximum bit count for each byte, which may be different
for each byte, and a maximum byte count for each word, which may be
different for each byte. Preferably, there may be a different number
of words in each Second logic-processor 120 transmission.
Preferably, there are only a specific number of different
transmission schemes that are defined by the Transmission Type Code,
which is programmed into Receiver 130 memory as a look up table.
Additional details are provided in Appendix A.
FIG. 2-00 is a perspective view of a First logic-processor 110
according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
Preferably, system 100 comprises First logic-processors 110.
Preferably, First logic-processors 110 comprise first communicators
111, communicatively coupled with second logic-processors 120.
Preferably, each First logic-processor 110 can be programmed to send
out a transmission that includes the ID of a specific Second
logic-processor 120 (and/or First logic-processor 110) and each
Second logic-processor 120 can be programmed to respond only if
their ID is contained in a received transmission or only respond to
certain preprogrammed instructions or only to respond to certain of
the instructions transmitted to it by the First logic-processor 110.
Preferably, First logic-processor 110 provides a security benefit by
alerting authorities to the presence of a certain item in a limited
access location or unauthorized removal from a location or from the
building, for example, removal from a hospital of life support
equipment from an area in which it is required to remain. Another
example would be the operation of equipment in an unauthorized
location or location intended only for storage of the equipment when
not in use. Multiple pieces of the same equipment in the same
location may also be an undesirable situation that can be prevented
with this system, as can equipment limited to adult use, which
should not be present in a children's ward. In addition, this
prevention may apply to equipment that should not be used near
pregnant women and hence should not be present in a maternity ward,
or similar requirements in quarantined areas. Another example of use
is to alert of danger that may develop if an item is moved into an
area or next to another piece of equipment or person, such as oxygen
or other flammable gas near an open flame or potential static
sparks.
FIG. 2-01 shows the Second logic-processor 120 Second
logic-processor circuit schematic with the micro-controller part 001
and the transmit hybrid TX5000 part 002. A polling Receiver 006
consisting of the tuned circuit L4 and C7, rectifier D2 and load R4.
Preferably, all logic-processors 110 and 120, and Receivers 130,
have the capability of transmitting and receiving in different
modulation schemes for example OOK (on/off keying) or ASK (amplitude
sequenced keying). The mode can be selected during the assembly
process, on site, for the logic-processors 110 or 120, by attaching
a cap 1121 or a sensor 150 that mechanically sets the mode. However,
this can also be controlled by the microprocessor via the remote
instruction method as used for setting the attenuation level.
Alternatively, either system component can have two transmitters or
in the case of the Reader, two receivers, one set continually for
OOK modulation and the other ASK, thus providing simultaneous
transmission and reception of both modes.
A resistor network 003 provides the means for onboard selection of
either OOK or ASK modulation by inserting zero ohm resistors R6 and
R9, or R7 and R8, respectively. Alternatively, all four of these
resistors can be omitted and off board modulation decision can be
made with connectors J1-9 and J1-10, shown by 004. Circuit 005 and
other J2 pins provide the ability for on-board programming or
subsequent reprogramming. A simple First logic-processor 006
consists of the tuned circuit L4 and C7, rectifier D2 and load R4
and a polling reception indicator 007 comprising an LED D1 that is
also a means of determining battery condition by reading the voltage
at the node between R3 and D1 at the micro-controller pin 2 via R6
when the LED is turned on by the polling reception signal. Also, an
on-board temperature sensor 008 consists of Q1 and R5.
Preferably, the connector J1, 009, provides the connections to the
power connector or power ribbon cable and also provides the
connections for on-board programming and testing. Connector J2, 010
provides connections for Second logic-processor 120 testing,
modulation selection and, where the application calls for it,
connections to the sensor connector, sensor ribbon cable or Receiver
130 connector for coded signals. Connector 011 provides a connection
for an internal flexible whip antenna that wraps around the inside
of the Second logic-processor case or, in some applications, can
protrude through a water tight slit in the case to provide improved
range. The micro-controller (PIC16LF876A or equivalent) also has
built-in temperature sensing and battery condition monitors; but
when other micro-controllers are used to optimize performance that
do not have these features, these alternate options are available or
they can be used to provide an alternate input on these parameters.
FIG. 2-02 shows the layout of the topside of the Second
logic-processor PCB 012, the Modulation Selector/Sensor connector
013, and the Power Connector/Reprogramming connector 014. A via, 015
(J3), is the flexible whip antenna connector.
FIG. 2-03 shows the layout of the bottom side of the Second
logic-processor PCB 012 showing the on-board OOK/ASK selection
network 016.
FIG. 2-04 shows the transmission pulse timing when OOK modulation is
used. The time slot 017 is 200 uS wide and a "0" bit 018 is 40 uS
wide pulse, significantly less than 50% of the time slot, while a
"1" bit 019 is represented by four consecutive 40 uS wide pulses
(one 160 uS pulse) that is significantly more than 50% of the time
slot. One example of the use of this transmission scheme is a byte
than consist of a start bit 160, a couple of sets of data bits 161
and 162, a parity bit 163 and two stop bits 164, all of this making
up a word. The word may be transmitted several consecutive times
(three in the example) in cases where the Receiver 130 is required
to identify a word two or three times before accepting the data.
FIG. 2-05a and FIG. 2-05b show a diagram of the transmission
encoding method. It shows a maximum of 80 time slots or bits, 030.
Bit 1, 019, is the start bit and always a "one" followed by a
five-bit byte, 020, that defines the Transmission Type, how many
bytes make up the transmitted word and how many bits are in each
byte. This is followed by a three-bit group code 021. These three
"bytes" always make up the first nine bits transmitted. This is
followed by the unique Second logic-processor code 022 that can be a
byte with as many as 16 bits and a Polling code 023 with as many as
5 bits. Following this are five status or data bytes 024, 025, 026,
027, 028, each of which can have as many as eight bits. Following
that there is a parity or CRC byte 029 that can have as many as 8
bits followed by two stop bits 031, both "zeros". FIG. 2-05a and
FIG. 2-05b show the full eighty time-slots and the black fill shows
the slots where there are transmissions. The white slots show no
bits being transmitted and in the actual implementation these slots
are eliminated, as shown by 032, 033, 034, 045, 036 and 037; that is
why a preceding byte is needed to identify which bytes are included
in the transmission and how many bits each has. This word will be
transmitted several times with an interval in between that is
determined by the word length and the specific nature of the
application.
The polling 038 and data 039, 040, 041 bytes can consist of only one
bit. In the polling case a "one" bit indicates that the Second
logic-processor 120 is transmitting because of a polling
instruction, a "zero" indicates that the Second logic-processor 120
transmitted according to its programmed periodicity (not polled). In
the case of data bytes a single byte indicates status of a sensed
input, zero or one (low or high), indicating that its monitored
location is on or off, open or closed, above or below a limit,
within a pair of limits or outside, or any other condition that can
be represented by a single bit.
A polling byte 042 of more than one bit indicates the Second
logic-processor 120 is transmitting because of a coded polling
instruction and the byte represents that code. The Second
logic-processor 120 can also be programmed without a polling bit at
all and this indicates that the Second logic-processor 120 does not
have a polling function. For other data bytes that have more than
one bit, the byte represents actual data such as temperature,
pressure, acceleration and humidity, or characteristics of a
magnetic field, radioactivity, water quality, air contaminants or
life signs, and information from thermostats, fire, smoke or
security alarms. If less than five inputs are being monitored the
"empty" bytes are eliminated. The Transmission Type Code includes
information on the exact nature of each data byte, specifically what
it represents and the bit to parameter magnitude relationship, i.e.,
degrees per bit, psi per bit, gauss per bit, etc., and the range of
that parameter. The byte can also be used to represent a variation
from a "par" value or a rate of change.
FIG. 2-06 describes a Second logic-processor 120 firmware 152
proposal for a specific application.
FIG. 2-07 describes a set of Second logic-processor 120 Transmission
Periodicity Decision Tables that show a Sensor Sampling Plan and
Transmission Periodicity options that might apply to a Truck Wheel
Monitoring application.
FIG. 2-08 describes a set of Second logic-processor 120 Transmission
Periodicity Decision Tables that show a Sensor Sampling Plan and
Transmission Periodicity options that might apply to Home and
Building applications. Preferably, both First logic-processors 110
and Second logic-processors 120 have the programmed capability to
establish their own sampling rates and statistical analysis methods
to determine the normal or typical sensed conditions of the
environment, preferably the steady-state environment, in terms of
absolute values, rate of change of these values and the
relationships of the various sensed parameters being monitored by
the First logic-processor or Second logic-processor. The result of
this analysis may result in the onboard microprocessor changing the
sampling rates for one or more sensors, increasing the size of a
sample for one or more sensors, switching to a different analysis
algorithm and determining an appropriate transmission schedule,
power level and even modulation scheme.
FIG. 2-09 shows a typical Second logic-processor 120 firmware 152
flow chart for a nominal application.
FIG. 2-10a and FIG. 2-10b illustrate the various Second
logic-processor 120 configuration options such as frequency,
modulation mode, polling and firmware 152 options.
FIG. 2-11 and FIG. 2-12 show the means by which the test,
programming and external sensor cables, and any plug in sensor or
special purpose connector, include connections that select whether
the Second logic-processor 120 transmits an OOK modulated signal or
an ASK modulated signal, further adding to the versatility of the
LITMIS product that allows field programming and field
configuration, in order to optimize the system's performance for
each application. In FIG. 2-27 the transmitter hybrid TX5000 01 can
be connected either to operate in an OOK modulation mode or an ASK
modulation mode depending on whether the transmit enable connection
from the micro-controller is connected to the TX5000 pin 17 or pin
18 (the unconnected pin is grounded). To achieve this for OOK
modulation, the connection (cable or connector) to the Second
logic-processor 06 has four of its pins connected so that the Second
logic-processor connections 02 and 03 are connected (grounding
TX5000 pin 17) and connections 04 and 05 are connected (connecting
TX5000 pin 18 to the micro-controller Transmit enable pin). FIG.
2-28 shows the ASK modulation where the connection (cable or
connector) to the Second logic-processor 06 has four of its pins
connected so that the Second logic-processor connections 02 and 04
are connected (grounding TX5000 pin 18) and connections 03 and 05
are connected (connecting TX5000 pin 17 to the micro-controller
Transmit enable pin).
FIG. 2-13 shows one form of a Sensor connector where 043 is a
temperature sensor, which could be a thermistor; 044 illustrates a
bridge form of sensor that could be a pressure or a wide variety of
bridge type sensors. The sensors are supplied by power from a
voltage regulator 045 and the sensed voltages are amplified by
operational amplifiers 046 and fed to comparators 047, whose outputs
are delivered to the Second logic-processor 120 microprocessor.
FIG. 2-14 shows diagrams of possible designs for Second
logic-processor 120 plug-in sensors; 048 shows a moisture testing
probe that can be pushed into the soil and the tip of the probe has
"pores" which allow a moisture sensor inside the probe to obtain a
reading of relative moisture level. The Second logic-processor 120
with its power connector is simply plugged into the probe connector
which includes the standard OOK or ASK selection function and other
standard interconnections between sensor connectors and the Second
logic-processor such as power and data lines, as well as the
standard latching and sealing mechanisms. The floating pool sensor
consists of a float 049 and a sensing unit 050 on the end of a
"snorkel", where the sensing unit can contain a variety of elements
to monitor pH, Chorine content, hardness and sensors that evaluate
the water for possible dangerous contaminants. It is noted that the
multi-parameter sensing unit could be built into the water
filtration system in which case the Second logic-processor 120 would
simply snap on to it in a similar manner to the moisture probe. An
alternative form of the floating sensor would include a motion or
vibration sensor (accelerometer) inside the submerged housing 051
that would provide information on momentary or sustained turbulence
that might indicate something had fallen into the pool such as a
small child or an elderly person.
Item 052 is a typical security sensor that detects movement of
people or objects in its vicinity but designed as a plug-in Second
logic-processor 120 connector; 053 is a connector that picks up
polling signals; 054 monitors the status (open, open by how much or
closed) or changing status (opening or closing) of doors, windows,
containers, mail boxes, safes, vaults, etc; 055 represent safety
monitors such as heat, fire, smoke, allergens and the presence of
other harmful conditions designed as a plug-in Second
logic-processor 120 connector; 056 a radioactive sensor, 057 a wind
velocity sensor, 058 a rain gauge and 059 a blood pressure or pulse
rate monitor. This latter application can be expanded to include
anything monitoring life signs of chronically ill patients,
particularly ambulatory patients who may not be under the constant
care of another individual.
FIG. 2-15 shows a water Quality sensor that could be used in a pool
monitoring application checking pH, chlorine concentration,
hardness, etc. This Sensing Second logic-processor 120 could also
include a vibration sensor that could be used to monitor water
turbulence. Preferably, the Second logic-processor 120 would be
programmed to sample and analyze to identify sudden changes in
turbulence, typical of a person or animal falling into the pool and
struggling to get out. The Receiver 130 would be programmed to
distinguish between normal pool usage and unintended entry into the
pool. Furthermore, the system is designed to receive information
from multiple sources and analyze relationships. Children or elderly
people using a pool or likely to be in the vicinity of a pool or
pond could have a wrist or ankle Second logic-processor 120 with a
submersion sensor that would provide further input, and a polling
Receiver 130 that would provide location input when passing through
a pool gate or leaving the house. Depending on how the Water
Monitoring Second logic-processor 120 was situated in the pool it
could also include a physical or magnetic pool level indicator.
FIG. 2-16 and FIG. 2-17 show heart beat characteristics that would
be monitored by a Second logic-processor 120 attached to young
babies, the elderly or chronically ill patients, along with other
important life signs. Each EKG heartbeat has four positive-going
voltage changes to peaks 060, 063, 069, and 068, two transition from
below and cross zero volts 063 and 069; the phase of these two
different wave sections can also be recorded. The fourth 068 is the
start of a second heartbeat waveform P. Each heartbeat has three
positive amplitudes 060, 063, and 069. These three analog parameters
would be monitored and analyzed. In addition timing criteria 061,
064, 065 and the timing of the peaks 060, 063, and 069 would also be
monitored. Sampling would establish norms for absolute values and
the relative rate change of these characteristics which, when
compared to absolute values, rate of change of values and comparison
between characteristics as described in FIG. 2-08, permits anomalies
requiring urgent attention to be identified.
In order to provide an effective interface between sensors of this
sort and the Second logic-processor 120 microprocessor when
measuring heart beat amplitudes such as R, the times are measurable
from the moment the positive-going edge of R crosses zero (a little
after Q) to the time the positive waveform T returns to zero, and
the time from the moment one positive-going edge of R crosses zero
to the same place on the "next" waveform R. This EKG Second
logic-processor 120 interface connector may also include a clock,
counter and timer, zero-crossing detectors, phase-angle detectors,
comparators, amplitude measurements, memory and analog to digital
coding. Further since "spike" R has the highest (steepest) phase
angle and amplitude of the three positive wave sections in a
heartbeat, this zero-crossing and steep phase-angle (representing
part of a "high" frequency waveform vs. the "low" frequency of the P
and T waves) combination can be used as a start time. The
negative-going wave sections from this time can be monitored and
counted (Q to S, continuing through T). From start time to when the
second wave section T returns to zero is the second parameter. The
amplitude of all positive waveforms can be sampled, stored and
counted; if the second positive waveform also has the highest
phase-angle and amplitude this is R and can be can be coded.
FIG. 2-18 shows such an interface with an oscillator, timing, A/D
converters, voltage reference, comparators, logic, and some memory
that can also provide voltage or current to sensors. Each such
interface can handle or control either one analog input/detector at
a time; or with multiplexing up to six such sensors.
FIG. 2-19 shows a means for detecting the removal of a wrist or
ankle Second logic-processor 120 used in instances described above.
The Second logic-processor 120 Connector 070 is connected to the
Power Connector 071 by a conductor 072 which passes through a clasp
073 returns to and passes under 070 around the other side of the
wrist or ankle 074, to and passes under 071 back to other section of
the clasp and then returns to the Power connector 071. This design
makes it impossible to remove the Second logic-processor 120 from
the wrist without interrupting the power supply, either by
unlatching the clasp or by cutting the conductive band 074. The
Second logic-processor 120 has a power storage capacitor adequate to
send a final transmission when power is disconnected. A final
transmission of this nature has an added bit indicating the removal
of power. This data bit will remain attached to transmissions until
reset, to identify removal and perhaps reconnection to another
person, or simply tossed aside to sabotage tracking and monitoring
functions. The key to the continuity concept is demonstrated in the
Clasp Detail 075. A 4-pin plug connects to a matching 4-pin socket
enabling the power wiring to cross from one to the other and return,
a process that occurs both for the connection between 070 and 073,
as well between 071 and 073.
FIG. 2-20 shows a system installed in a home, monitoring it for a
broad range of characteristics. A single Receiver 076 placed in a
central location and can receive and decode transmissions from any
Second logic-processor 120 attached to any combination of sensors
located on the property inside or outside the home. A fireplace 077
in the living room is monitored by Second logic-processor 078, which
has temperature and smoke sensors. This may also monitor the
concentration of combustion products and toxicity vapors. Similar
Second logic-processor 079 and 081 are shown placed by fireplaces
080 and 082. In the event these fireplaces are gas operated, the
Second logic-processor would also monitor for natural gas or propane
leaks. The master bedroom Second logic-processor 120083 would
monitor in a similar manner, but in this case perhaps sensing for
smoldering caused by an improperly discarded cigarette or a poorly
placed candle. There could be a Second logic-processor attached to a
set of life signs sensors on an elderly or chronically ill patient.
Second logic-processor 084 would similarly monitor bathroom
conditions but could also monitor for bath or toilet overflows or
electrical problems such as shorts or ground fault over loads.
Second logic-processor 085 is located in the dining room and may
have an added sensor to monitor a food warmer or might monitor a
normally locked china or silver cabinet for security purposes. The
kitchen Second logic-processor 086 would likely have a variety of
sensors with a separate Second logic-processor 120 by each
appliance. With a gas range it would include a sensor for gas leaks
while an electrical range would have an overload detector. Other
bedroom Second logic-processor 087, 088, and 089 would be customized
for the occupant, perhaps detecting for allergens, molds, bacteria
or other airborne threats. Second logic-processor 090 is located
outside the house perhaps by a barbeque sensing for propane leaks in
addition to the temperature and other sensors. Second
logic-processor 091 in the garage would sense for the same
parameters as other sensors, but might also include a gasoline
sensor, workbench electrical shorts and ground fault overloads. A
vehicle-mounted Second logic-processor could monitor tire pressures
and battery condition, alerting the owner ahead of time to a
potential flat tire or dead battery in the morning. Other Second
logic-processors can be monitoring movement in each room, opening
and closing doors and windows, be connected to thermostats and
conventional security and safety devices like fire and smoke alarms,
even monitoring such obscure criteria like termite or carpenter ant
infestations. Other Second logic-processors may be employed with
sensors that can monitor, pool and garden gates, pools and ponds,
mailboxes, even the moisture level in the soil for irrigation
optimization. Solar heating systems, wind force, and earth tremors
can be similarly monitored. City water can be monitored for purity
and freedom from biological contaminants and for sudden surges that
might indicate a leak or burst pipe when compared with motion
sensors that show no one is in the house. Similarly, surges in
electricity or gas usage could detect shorts or gas leaks; aand
there is again the benefit of comparison with temperature rise,
detection of combustion products or the detection of a high natural
gas or propane concentration in the air.
FIG. 2-21 shows a high Yagi Antenna specification for achieving a
desired read range.
FIG. 2-22 shows a building application with a centrally located
Receiver 092 that locates Second logic-processors 093 and 094 that
move, or may move, around the building, by locating fixed, coded,
location First logic-processor 110 by each doorway 096, periodically
along corridors 097 and at stairwells. As the moving Second
logic-processor passes within the very limited range of this
directional First logic-processor, it receives and decodes the
polling signal, adding that code to its own. The same Receiver 130
can receive signals from other Second logic-processors monitoring
various building conditions such as doors open or closed, lights on
and off or the status of other items 095.
FIG. 2-23 shows a building outfitted with First logic-processor 102
that can be used to locate people, Laptop computers and other tagged
assets as the move, are relocated or removed from rooms or the
building, or even from one floor of the building to another.
Pollable Second logic-processor 101 will pickup, extract the First
logic-processor's location identification code and add it to its own
identification code which it then transmits to the Receiver 103. The
First logic-processor might also include an additional bit to notify
the control center of the transmission, status of each door (open or
closed) or even whether the light is on in the room. The key here is
the very short range and directionality of the First
logic-processor, that are simply another version of a Second
logic-processor, with a lower power transmitter and a directional
antenna where required. The Second logic-processors have been
designed to be able to switch frequencies by simply a change of
Transmitter hybrid component or by replacing it by a frequency
programmable transmitter.
FIG. 2-24 shows a similar application to FIG. 2-23 except in this
case the doorway connectors are sensing Second logic-processors,
identifying open and closed doors, lights on or off, and other
conditions, and transmitting the data to the Receiver 105
periodically or immediately when a change in status occurs.
Preferably, the Second logic-processors, which can also be read by
the Receiver, would likely be a used just for identification
purposes and perhaps to provide its own sensor information. It
should be noted throughout these applications that the read range of
the Receiver can be programmed to limit the field being monitored.
There is 16-bit remotely programmable attenuator in the Receiver
before the radio frequency Receiver circuit that is used to define
the read range.
FIG. 2-25 shows a Responder version of the Second logic-processor.
In this application the components are only included in circuit 098
if the First logic-processor is intended to operate only when it
recognizes that a Second logic-processor with a short pulse beacon
is within range, it which case it will transmit its information, and
where applicable its instructions, before shutting down. For First
logic-processor without this circuit populated, they are programmed
to transmit intermittently. As a First logic-processor 110 the
temperature monitoring circuit 099 is normally not populated but in
some applications temperature, or temperature history, may be part
of the information to be relayed by the Second logic-processor back
to the Receiver, since the Responder has only a very short range, or
may be operating on a different frequency that the Receiver. An
example of this application might be a Responder that is monitoring
an environment but there is no requirement to send this information
directly to the Receiver, or it's not practical to do so, or the
information is only important when a short pulse beacon Second
logic-processor is in the vicinity. The Responder transmitter hybrid
1100 can in some circumstances have the same frequency as the Second
logic-processor, but in the majority of applications it would
operate at a different frequency (list in FIG. 2-10) or it may
preferably operate at about 13.56 MHz, or a lower frequency.
FIG. 2-26 shows an example of a control center display such as might
be used in the application show in FIG. 2-24. In this case, each
sensing Second logic-processor is designed to sense five conditions
(this is an example of a one bit sensor response). A total of twenty
Second logic-processors are each monitoring five conditions such as
doors, drawers, switches and other conditions open or closed, off or
on, etc. The display identifies the Group Code, as there may be more
than one company using the building in which case the display might
be password protected to show only a particular Group Code. The next
column identifies the unique Second logic-processor code, followed
by the status of each of the five conditions being monitored. A red
entry indicates a change from the previous reported status and a
bold line indicates that the Second logic-processor 120 is not
reporting and shows the last received status. The display also
provides other pertinent information. Instead of this template, a
building plan could be used similar to FIG. 2-24 and the door,
drawer, lights, etc., could be shown actually open or closed, on or
off, and a change highlighted in red and an un-read situation in
another color. This could also be used where other Second
logic-processors are being monitored (such as location tags), in
which case the monitoring could include location and movement around
the building. Other conditions, such as temperature, natural gas
concentrations and the like, can also be monitored if the
appropriate Second logic-processor 120 is installed.
FIG. 2-27 shows a system block diagram of a pollable Second
logic-processor 1107, a Receiver 1108 and the polling First
logic-processor 1110. The First logic-processor can either instruct
the Second logic-processor to send its data immediately or provide
other instructions. As in other system configurations, the Receiver
1102 decodes and further analyzes the data before periodically
sending the information on to a control center 1103 PC or PDA. If an
anomaly is confirmed, it will send data immediately to whichever
prescribed phone number or LAN address is indicated for that
particular event.
FIG. 2-28 shows a system block diagram of a Second logic-processor
1101 and Receiver 1102 with two-way communication. In this case the
Receiver can provide the Second logic-processor with polling or
other instructions instead of a separate polling transmitter. The
benefit of this type of system is that it provides the Receiver with
the ability to interrogate the Second logic-processor when it
detects a problem but needs to modify the collection of further
data. It also leads to the ability of introducing sensor connectors
1106 that also provide control functions when called for. As in
other system configurations, the Receiver 1102 decodes and further
analyzes the data before periodically sending the information on to
a control center 1103 PC or PDA. If an anomaly is confirmed, it will
send data immediately to whichever prescribed phone number or LAN
address is indicated for that particular event. The transceiver
feature also provides the ability for the control center, that
always has two-way communication with the Receiver, to send
instructions to the Second logic-processor via the Receiver 130 that
then serves as a two-way relay or repeater between the person
receiving the data and the monitoring (and control) Second
logic-processor. The Second logic-processor's radio frequency
section in this case has the normal radio frequency hybrid
transmitter replaced by a Transceiver hybrid 1105 and similarly for
the Receiver 130's radio frequency receiver section 1104.
FIG. 2-29 is a view of a sensing Second logic-processor. In this
application, the power connector 1105 and sensor connector 1106 each
plug directly into the Second logic-processor 1107. The attachment
cleats 1108 can still be used for connection to the host.
FIG. 2-30 is an exploded view of the flat sensing Second
logic-processor again showing power connector housing 1109, power
connector battery insert 1110, housing for the Second
logic-processor 1111, Second logic-processor electronics 1112,
sensor electronics 1113 and the sensor connector housing 1114. Other
features shown are the sensor connector multi-pin plug 1115,
matching Second logic-processor multi-pin socket 1116 and socket
1117 (for power connector attachment) and power connector plug 1118.
FIG. 2-31 is view of the basic Second logic-processor consisting of
the power connector 1119 plugged into Second logic-processor 1120.
In this case, a snap cap 1121 is used to seal the unused sensor
connector socket. There are several versions of this cap: one being
a snap-on cap used only for sealing purposes, and the others are
used for setting certain Second logic-processor operating
conditions. For example, the Second logic-processor's hybrid
transmitter can be operated in either an OOK modulation mode or ASK
modulation mode. The appropriate cap is attached to achieve the
selected modulation mode. It can be removed and replaced with the
alternate cap version if the modulation method needs to be changed.
All of the sensor connectors and other special custom attachments
have the same modulation setting option.
FIG. 2-32 is another exploded view of the basic Second
logic-processor again showing power connector housing 1122, power
connector battery insert 1123, housing for the Second
logic-processor 1124, Second logic-processor electronics 1125 and
the selected end cap 1126. Other features shown are the end cap
multi-pin plug 1127, matching Second logic-processor multi-pin
socket 1128 and socket 1129 (for power connector attachment) and
power connector plug 1130.
FIG. 2-33 shows the use of a Transceiver Hybrid Circuit in place of
the Second logic-processor transmitter and Receiver. FIG. 2-33 shows
how the 16-bit programmable attenuator 200 can be inserted between
the antenna and the Saw Filter (and before the inductors RFIO and
ESD choke) to provide a field limiting function that prevents a
Second logic-processor out of the desired range from being received
and shows how the 16-bit Signal Strength Comparator circuit 201 can
be used by tapping off the signal prior to the Peak Detector
circuit.
FIG. 2-34 is an exploded view of power source 1160. Preferably,
power source 1160 comprises housing 1135, attachment cleats 1136,
and battery insert 1137 and plug 1138, and, preferably, a sealing
bullhead 1139 that is present on all connector inserts.
FIG. 2-35 shows a close up view of the Second logic-processor 1140
containing the micro-controller, radio frequency transmitter,
polling circuit, temperature sensor, battery condition monitor,
transmit inhibit switch and poll response LED. It shows the sensor
interface sockets 1141 and 1142, cleats 1143, and the sealing tongue
1144.
FIG. 2-36 is an exploded close up view of the Second logic-processor
showing its case 1145, attachment cleats 1146, electronics PCB 1147,
socket 1148 and 1149, and the sealing bulkheads 1150.
FIG. 2-37 shows a close up view of the sensor connector 1151 showing
the plug 152 that interfaces with the Second logic-processor, cleats
1153, and the sealing tongue 1154.
FIG. 2-38 shows an exploded close up view of the sensor connector
showing the case 1155, electronics PCB 1156, plug 1157 (that
interfaces with the Second logic-processor and the sealing bulkhead
1158), cleats 1159, and the sealing tongue 1165.
FIG. 2-39 shows the basic Second logic-processor (power connector
and Second logic-processor) and a ribbon cable 1166 plugged into the
sensor interface socket 1167. This cable serves a variety of
purposes that include programming the micro-controller, testing the
Second logic-processor functionality (including setting the
modulation method to either OOK or ASK), or to interface sensors. In
an actual installation where the Second logic-processor is connected
to external sensors, the plug would be built into an end cap to
provide a sealed assembly.
FIG. 2-40 shows the power connector 1168 connected to the Second
logic-processor 1169, showing the cable and plug assembly 1170
before insertion into the sensor connection socket 1171.
FIG. 2-41 shows the Second logic-processor 1172 in a further test
configuration where the power is also supplied through a plug in
cable 1173 allowing a complete in-process test of the main at
various voltage levels and to measure current drain in various modes
and conditions of operation and with various sensor loads. The
Second logic-processor alone, or with any form of sensor connection,
can also be powered from an external source using this power cable
connector, but the plug would then be built into an end cap to
provide a sealed assembly.
FIG. 2-42 shows the Second logic-processor 120 with the two
unplugged cable connectors 1174 and 1175.
FIG. 2-43 is an exploded view of a sensing Second logic-processor
1120.
FIG. 2-44 is a block diagram of the basic LITMIS Receiver 130. The
radio frequency Section consists of a radio frequency Receiver 1177
with connectors for one or two (for diversity) antennae 1176, an
antenna-Receiver impedance matching circuit and an OOK/ASK Receiver
(within 1177). There are two identical radio frequency sections per
circuit as shown in this drawing. At least one optional 16-bit
programmable attenuator stage(s) 1181 may be included between the
antenna(s) and the Receiver. The attenuator stage is controlled by
the Microprocessor 1186 directly or on instructions to the Receiver
from the control center. This provides the ability to limit the
receiving range of the Receiver to the area of interest and reduce
noise or collisions from other Second logic-processor or Tags that
are outside the area of interest.
The Analog Section has a gain circuit 1178 that consists of a
differential amplifier and a summing amplifier. The differential
amplifier provides gain and offset adjustment while the summing
amplifier adds the two (1 per Receiver) signals together. The Analog
Section also has a filter circuit 1179 consisting of an active
filter reduce signal noise. The Digital Section has a level detector
1180 consisting of a 16-level voltage divider, 16 comparators and an
upper and lower level voltage adjustment. The voltage divider
provides 16 equally spaced voltage reference levels for the 16
comparators. Each comparator detects if the received signal is
higher or lower than its voltage reference. The upper and lower
voltage references are adjusted using a potentiometer. This Level
Detector serves to provide a calibrated 16 bit Signal Strength
functions with the range sensitivity being controlled by the 32-bit
processor 1186. Where a 16-bit Attenuator Read-range adjustment
feature is used, the output of the 16-bit Signal Strength function
must be linked to the attenuator setting. This could be used to
provide a 256-bit Signal Strength function although this precision
would rarely be used because of the many potential attenuating
factors associated with radio signals. One application it can be
used for, where the attenuating factors are specific to the nature
of the environment and location, is to provide a very accurate
analysis of these attenuating factors, which could be determined
prior to an installation and then programmed into the Receiver or
the central control computer and used to refine the Signal Strength
readings when using the system for locating purposes.
The CPLD functions consist of a 16-level to 4-bit converter 1182
that de-bounces the incoming bits and converts the data to a 4-bit
binary code. A Digital Squelch function 1182 is used to set a
minimum signal value. Any signals below the digital squelch level
are ignored. The Digital Filter 1184 performs a weighted average on
the signal. Each sample is weighted based on the age of the sample;
and the older the sample, the less weight a sample has in the
average. This provides a smoother signal and reduces noise. A Slope
Detector 1185 looks for slope changes in the signal. There are
currently 3 types of slopes detected (up, down & level). Any change
in slope type is detected in the Event Rate Detector 1187 and a
pulse is generated. An 18-bit counter is used to keep a rolling
count of the 4 MHz clock 1188 in a binary format. A Time Stamp Latch
1190 latches whenever a pulse is latched from the 18-bit counter
1189 whenever a pulse is received from the slope detector. All
rollover events are also latched to aid in tracking event timing.
All data captured in the time stamp latch 1190 is also loaded into a
4K.times.18 bit FIFO (First In First Out) 1191 Memory device. The
FIFO is used to store time stamps until the microprocessor is ready
to read them. Event Rate Detector is used when time stamps occur at
a rate that is faster than the known signal rate; it makes an
automatic adjustment to the digital squelch circuit, which
effectively eliminates fast noise signals. The microprocessor reads
data from the FIFO and analyzes the time stamps to decode data from
the transmitter. The microprocessor also controls the potentiometers
that adjust the upper and lower threshold levels. The microprocessor
also sets the level in the digital squelch circuit, and acts as the
interface to the system computer.
FIG. 2-45 to FIG. 2-54 show the PC-104 LITMIS Receiver Board
detailed circuit schematic and FIG. 2-55 to FIG. 2-62 show the
detailed LITMIS PCMCIA Receiver circuit schematic for the external
antenna card with the range selection circuitry (FIG. 2-56). FIG.
2-63 to FIG. 2-72 show the PCMCIA Receiver board layout for the
external antenna card, and FIG. 2-73 the layout with the internal
Splatch component antenna. FIG. 2-74 shows the nature of the Splatch
Planar Antenna this is used in the LITMIS PCMCIA Receiver. Another
advantage of using a PCMCIA Receiver 130 is that, when used with a
dual slot PCMCIA expansion Pak (such as iPAQ's), the second slot can
be used with an 802.11 Modem for communication with the control
center.
FIG. 2-75 shows a view of the assembled, fixed LITMIS PC-104
Receiver 50 with mounting flange 51. Also shown is the dual PCMCIA
slot 52, serial connector 53, power connector 54 and LAN connector
55. Also shown are ten coaxial connectors, one for a WLAN antenna
56, one for a GPS antenna 57, and eight connectors 58 providing coax
cable connections to the maximum number of four, dual (orthogonal)
antennae.
FIG. 2-76 shows an exploded view of the fixed LITMIS PC-104 Receiver
showing the case 60, the cover 59 and mounting flanges 51, the dual
PCMCIA slot 52, serial connector 53, power connector 54 and LAN
connector 55 (also coax sockets 56, 57, and 58). The four PC-104
boards shown are PCMCIA two-slot Connectors 61 that can be used for
GPS or 802.11 cards or even one of two LITMIS PCMCIA Receivers 130
(such as Aaeon PCM-3115B), CPU Connector 62 (such as Aaeon PCM-4335
or 3336), Ethernet Connector 63 (such as Aaeon PCM-3660) and the
LITMIS Receiver 64. Other PC-104 options include a Vehicle Power
Supply Connector for Wheel and Axle Monitoring Systems, fork lift,
golf cart or similar applications, 48-channel DIO Connector such as
Aaeon PCM-33724), Isolated RS232/422/485 Connector (such as Aaeon
PCM-3610), or a Cell Phone/Internet Communications Board (including
boards such as Ubicom's PhantomServer). Preferably, the stack can be
expanded to include combinations of the above options.
FIG. 2-77 shows a use of a pollable Second logic-processor (that
doesn't transmit unless polled) and a repetitively transmitting
First logic-processor, as a scoring method in a wide range of
sporting events. A short-range First logic-processor with a
directional antenna is located on either end of the scoring line
with the transmissions directed across the track so as to cover the
full width of the scoring line and assure that a Second
logic-processor crossing the line will receive the polling signal.
The instant the Second logic-processor receives the polling signal
it transmits its code to the Receiver located nearby, thereby
notifying the Receiver that the Second logic-processor has just
crossed the scoring line and time stamping that reception.
FIG. 2-78 shows a use of a pollable Second logic-processor (that
doesn't transmit unless polled) and a repetitively transmitting
coded First logic-processor as a scoring device in sporting events
where there are a number of scoring lines periodically spaced over a
wide area. A short-range coded First logic-processor with a
directional antenna is located on either end of the scoring line
with the transmissions directed across the track so as to cover the
full width of the scoring line and assure that a Second
logic-processor 120 crossing the line will receive the polling
signal. The instant the Second logic-processor receives the coded
polling signal it transmits its code along with the First
logic-processor's code to the Receiver located anywhere within a
1500 foot radius, thereby notifying the Receiver that the Second
logic-processor has just crossed a specific scoring line, and time
stamping that reception.
A further version of this scoring method involves replacing the
coded First logic-processor with a coded Responder, a polling device
that only transmits its code when it receives a prompt from a Second
logic-processor in range. In this method the Second logic-processor,
in addition to the functions described previously, also sends out a
very narrow low power beacon pulse every tenth of a second to every
second, depending on race speeds (walkers, runners, skiers, sleds,
horses, vehicles), except when it is sending its polled data to the
Receiver. The Responder acts as a pollable First logic-processor, in
other words, a First logic-processor that only transmits a polling
signal when it receives a beacon prompt.
FIG. 2-79 shows a sensor application that provides the ability to
provide remote surveillance of stored radioactive items and to
detect radiation in monitored environments. The application has the
ability to handle nonproliferation monitoring, spent fuel
safeguards, and long term monitoring of stored radioactive wastes by
using the features of LITMIS that sample, average, establish
parameter normals, and then continuously compare readings every few
seconds against absolute and rate of change limits. Data
transmissions to the Receiver can be hourly or daily except when
anomalies are detected, in which case transmissions can be
repetitive or continuous depending on the seriousness of the
condition.
FIG. 2-80 shows a LITMIS PCMCIA Receiver card 202 plugged into an
iPAQ PDA Expansion Pak. In this case the PCMCIA Receiver has an
internal stub or Splatch antenna. Where a dual PCMCIA slot expansion
Pak is used, an 802.11 modem card can also be inserted to provide
radio communication to the central monitoring computer. In this
configuration the LITMIS PCMCIA Receiver must be the Splatch version
and the card must have a reverse connection into the slot compared
to the 802.11 Modem. All Splatch versions of the PCMCIA Receiver are
configured that way, thus avoiding communication problems because of
the close proximity of the two PCMCIA cards. This orien |