Patent Grant
10295967
The present invention relates to error and incident reporting apparatus and systems and, more particularly, to a system adapted to monitoring and acting upon status signals emanating from widely diverse and geographically separated installations.
The efficient functioning of modern societies relies on innumerable discrete items of infrastructure. In many cases, particularly where such items are located in remote or difficult to reach or monitor locations, a malfunction or adverse incident may remain undetected for considerable lengths of time causing inconvenience, economic loss or even potentially hazardous situations.
Regular inspection of many such items of infrastructure in remote areas, for example irrigation sluices, gates, stock watering troughs etc is usually impractical. Similar impracticality or prohibitive expense is associated with the monitoring for example of such items as tool sheds at building sites, tool boxes on trucks, and equipment and plant remaining on construction sites etc.
The need for monitoring is of course not restricted to remote areas. Security and status of equipment, buildings and vehicles and the like is important everywhere. However, setting up a monitoring system is frequently a complicated procedure, often involving complex wiring of hardware installations, site visits by professional personnel.
It is an object of the present invention to address or at least ameliorate some of the above disadvantages.
Note
The term “comprising” (and grammatical variations thereof) is used in this specification in the inclusive sense of “having” or “including”, and not in the exclusive sense of “consisting only of”.
The terms “owner”, “user”, “registered user” are used interchangeably in this specification for any person authorised to predefine the steps to be executed in response to a signal from an individual signal unit (ISU).
Accordingly, in one broad form of the invention, there is provided an infrastructure monitoring system; said apparatus including a plurality of geographically disparate individual signal units in communication with a central control facility via at least one communication satellite; said individual signal units adapted to change from a first stand-by state to a second powered up state on the occurrence of a change of status of an item of said infrastructure; each device of said individual signal units transmitting a signal to said central control facility during said powered up state; said signal triggering a programmed predefined sequence of responses; each said device returning to said stand-by state after transmission of a said signal.
Preferably, each of said individual signal units is provided with a unique signal unit identification code; said unique identification code comprising said signal transmitted to said central control facility.
Preferably, each of said individual signal units is provided with a signal transceiver module.
Preferably, each of said individual signal units is provided with a rechargeable power supply.
Preferably, said rechargeable power supply is recharged by a solar cell array.
Preferably, each said individual signal units is provided with at least one external event sensor.
Preferably, said at least one external event sensor is adapted to respond to a change in status of a said item of infrastructure.
Preferably, a said individual signal unit receives an input signal from said at least one external event sensor at said change of status.
Preferably, each said at least one external event sensor is associated with a unique sequence of repeat transmissions of said unique identification code; said unique sequence of repeat transmissions comprising said signal transmitted to said central control facility.
Preferably, each of said individual signal units is provided with an external event sensor interface adapted to monitor signals from at least one remote external event sensor.
Preferably, each of said individual signal units is provided with tamper monitoring means; said tamper monitoring means associated with one said unique sequence of repeat transmissions of said unique identification code.
Preferably, said central control facility includes a transceiver module in communication with said at least one satellite.
Preferably, said transceiver module is linked to server and data storage devices; said server and data storage devices adapted to process signals received from any one of said individual signal units.
Preferably, said server and data storage devices are adapted to initiate any of a plurality of pre-programmed outputs; said outputs dependent on said unique identification code and said unique sequence of repeat transmissions of said unique identification code comprising a received said signal.
Preferably, said server and data storage devices are adapted to initiate coded data for transmission to said individual signal units.
Preferably, said coded data transmitted to a said individual signal unit includes instructions for programmed responses by a said individual signal unit to inputs received from said one or more external event sensors.
Preferably, a said individual signal unit is provided with at least one output relay; said at least one output relay adapted to control an external device.
Preferably, said server and data storage devices are adapted to initiate predetermined communications to at least one nominated recipient; said communications dependent on signals received from a said individual signal unit.
Preferably, said at least one nominated recipient is a registered user of said monitoring system.
Preferably, said at least one nominated recipient is a service provider to said monitoring system.
Preferably, a said registered user of said monitoring system is enabled to register a said individual signal unit with said central control facility over the Internet.
Preferably, registration of said individual signal unit includes provision of data relevant to responses to external sensor events by said individual signal unit and by said central control facility.
In a further broad form of the invention there is provided a method for monitoring the status of at least one aspect of geographically disparate items of infrastructure; said method including the steps of:
Preferably, each said individual signal unit includes;
Preferably, said method includes the further steps of:
Accordingly, in a first broad form of the invention, there is provided an apparatus and monitoring system for response to incidents sensed by at least one sensor of an individual signal unit; said response comprising in a first instance, transmission to a central control facility by a said individual signal unit, of at least a unique identifying code for that individual signal unit, over a communication network; said response comprising in a second instance, transmission of data from said central control facility to one or more recipients nominated by a registered owner of said individual signal unit; and wherein registration of a said individual signal unit and configuration of sensing and of said response is via a web-based interface.
Preferably, said response in said first instance includes digital or analogue data input to said individual signal unit.
Preferably, said digital or analogue data is transmitted to said central control facility in real time.
Preferably, said digital or analogue data is stored, prior transmission, on a data storage device of said individual signal unit.
Preferably, said at least one sensor is incorporated within said individual signal unit.
Preferably, said at least one sensor is an external sensor connected to an input port of said individual signal unit.
Preferably, said individual signal unit further includes a rechargeable power supply.
Preferably, said rechargeable power supply is recharged by a solar cell array.
Preferably, said web-based interface includes at least one web page; said web page provided with at least one data entry field.
Preferably, each of said individual signal units is provided with a unique individual signal unit identification code; said unique identification code comprising said signal transmitted to said central control facility.
Preferably, each said at least one external event sensor is associated with a unique sequence of repeat transmissions of said unique identification code; said unique sequence of repeat transmissions comprising said signal transmitted to said central control facility.
Preferably, of each said individual signal units is provided with at least one external event sensor.
Preferably, said at least one external event sensor is adapted to respond to a change in stimulus of said sensor.
Preferably, said at least one external event sensor is adapted to respond to a predefined stimulus.
Preferably, a said individual signal unit receives an input signal from said at least one external event sensor at said change in stimulus.
Preferably, said central control facility includes a transceiver module in communication with said communication network.
Preferably, said transceiver module is linked to server and data storage devices;
said server and data storage devices adapted to process signals received from any one of said individual signal units.
Preferably, said server and data storage devices are adapted to initiate at least one pre-programmed outputs; said output or outputs dependent on said unique identification code
Preferably, a said individual signal unit is provided with at least one input; said at least one input adapted to communicate with one said sensor.
Preferably, a said individual signal unit is provided with at least one output; said at least one output adapted to control an external device.
Preferably, said server and data storage devices are adapted to initiate predetermined communications to at least one nominated recipient; said communications dependent on a signal received from a said individual signal unit.
Preferably, said at least one nominated recipient is an owner of a said individual signal unit registered with said monitoring system.
Preferably, said at least one nominated recipient is a service provider nominated by said owner of a said individual signal unit.
In a further broad form of the invention, there is provided an individual signal unit; each said individual signal unit including;
In another broad form of the invention, there is provided a monitoring system; said apparatus comprising an individual signal unit and at least one owner selectable sensor connected to said individual signal unit; said individual signal unit and said at least one sensor registered by said user with a central control facility; wherein said individual signal unit is programmed to transmit a unique device identification code to said central control facility when said at least one sensor detects an incident; said central control facility responding to a transmitted said unique device identification code according to protocols established at registration of said unit by said owner.
In yet a further broad form of the invention, there is provided a monitoring system enabled by the internet and a communication system; said system including a number of individual signal units; each of said devices connected to at least one owner selectable sensor; each of said individual signal units and said at least one sensor registered with a central control facility by said owner over said internet; said central control facility responding to an incident sensed by a said sensor according to protocols established at registration by a said owner.
In yet a further broad form of the invention, there is provided a method of monitoring the status of an item of interest; said method including the steps of:
Preferably, said signal comprises a unique identifying code of said individual signal unit.
Preferably, said registering of a said individual signal unit includes the steps of:
In another broad form of the invention, there is provided a method for monitoring the status of at least one aspect of geographically disparate items of infrastructure; said method including the steps of:
In still another broad form of the invention, there is provided apparatus of an infrastructure monitoring system; said apparatus including a plurality of geographically disparate individual signalling devices in communication with a central control facility via at least one communication satellite; said individual signalling devices adapted to change from a first stand-by state to a second powered up state on the occurrence of a change of status of an item of said infrastructure; each device of said individual signalling devices transmitting a signal to said central control facility during said powered up state; said signal triggering a programmed predefined sequence of responses; each said device returning to said stand-by state after transmission of a said signal.
Preferably, each of said individual signalling devices is provided with a unique signalling device identification code; said unique identification code comprising said signal transmitted to said central control facility.
Preferably, each of said individual signalling devices is provided with a signal transceiver module.
Preferably, each of said individual signalling devices is provided with a rechargeable power supply.
Preferably, said rechargeable power supply is recharged by a solar cell array.
Preferably, each said individual signalling devices is provided with at least one external event sensor.
Preferably, said at least one external event sensor is adapted to respond to a change in status of a said item of infrastructure.
Preferably, a said individual signalling device receives an input signal from said at least one external event sensor at said change of status.
Preferably, each said at least one external event sensor is associated with a unique sequence of repeat transmissions of said unique identification code; said unique sequence of repeat transmissions comprising said signal transmitted to said central control facility.
Preferably, each of said individual signalling devices is provided with an external event sensor interface adapted to monitor signals from at least one remote external event sensor.
Preferably, each of said individual signalling devices is provided with tamper monitoring means; said tamper monitoring means associated with one said unique sequence of repeat transmissions of said unique identification code.
Preferably, said central control facility includes a transceiver module in communication with said at least one satellite.
Preferably, said transceiver module is linked to server and data storage devices; said server and data storage devices adapted to process signals received from any one of said individual signalling devices.
Preferably, said server and data storage devices are adapted to initiate any of a plurality of pre-programmed outputs; said outputs dependent on said unique identification code and said unique sequence of repeat transmissions of said unique identification code comprising a received said signal.
Preferably, said server and data storage devices are adapted to initiate coded data for transmission to said individual signalling devices.
Preferably, said coded data transmitted to a said individual signalling device includes instructions for programmed responses by a said individual signalling device to inputs received from said one or more external event sensors.
Preferably, a said individual signalling device is provided with at least one output relay; said at least one output relay adapted to control an external device.
Preferably, said server and data storage devices are adapted to initiate predetermined communications to at least one nominated recipient; said communications dependent on signals received from a said individual signalling device.
Preferably, said at least one nominated recipient is a registered user of said monitoring system.
Preferably, said at least one nominated recipient is a service provider to said monitoring system.
Preferably, a said registered user of said monitoring system is enabled to register a said individual signalling device with said central control facility over the Internet.
Preferably, registration of said individual signalling device includes provision of data relevant to responses to external sensor events by said individual signalling device and by said central control facility.
In a further broad form of the invention there is provided a method for monitoring the status of at least one aspect of geographically disparate items of infrastructure; said method including the steps of:
Preferably, each said individual signalling device includes;
Preferably, said method includes the further steps of:
In still another broad form of the invention, there is provided, an individual signal unit; each said individual signal unit including;
In still another broad form of the invention, there is provided a monitoring system including an individual signal unit; said individual signal unit communicating with a central control facility when an event sensor activates said individual signal unit; said central control facility executing a number of predefined steps on receipt of a communication from said individual signal unit; said predefined steps configured by an owner or registered user of said individual signal unit.
Preferably, a communication between said individual signal unit and said central control facility is not limited by distance.
Preferably, said individual signal unit may be located at any location relative said central control facility.
Preferably, said individual signal unit is mobility independent of said central control facility.
Preferably, said communication between said individual signal unit and said central control facility is by means of any communication network.
Preferably, said predefined steps include a communication between said central control facility and a said owner or registered user of said individual signal unit.
Preferably, said communication between said central control facility and said owner or registered user is by means of any communication network.
Preferably, said predefined steps may include a first layer and a secondary layer of said predefined steps.
Preferably, selected ones of said secondary layer of predefined steps may be executed by said central control facility in accordance with a reply to a said communication between said central control facility and a said owner or registered user.
Preferably, said individual signal unit is programmable.
Preferably, said individual signal unit includes a graphic display.
Preferably, said individual signal unit is configurable to accept signal input from any external sensing device.
Preferably, said individual signal unit is configurable to allow output signals to any said communication network.
Preferably, said individual signal unit is adapted for integration into products as an original equipment manufacture (OEM) module.
Preferably, said central control facility includes a database and a server; said central control facility maintaining an Internet web site on said server.
Preferably, said system provides a means of asset monitoring; said asset monitoring alerting a said owner or registered user to an incident affecting a said asset.
Preferably, said predefined steps include activation of an output device connected to a said individual signal unit.
In another broad form of the invention, there is provided a method of deriving revenue from a monitoring system; said monitoring system including a remotely located individual signal unit in communication with a central control facility; said method including:
Embodiments of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings wherein:
In the example of a communication satellite 20, it in turn, is in telecommunication contact with a number of individual signal units 22, for example via the Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM), the General Packet Radio Service (GPRS) or a similar communication network 21. Individual signal units 22 belong to registered users of the system and may be located anywhere within the signal footprint of a communication satellite (or satellites) 20, or of some other communication network.
Individual signal units 22 each are assigned a unique identifying code, and may take a number of physical configurations depending on the environment in which they are to be located.
With reference to
Each individual signal unit 22 is adapted to monitor the status of some aspect of an item of infrastructure, such as for example illustrated in
As shown in the schematic of
Preferably, the power supply 42 is rechargeable by means of a solar panel 48, but may also comprise batteries rechargeable from a mains power source, or replaceable battery packs. Where an individual signal unit has been incorporated in some item of infrastructure already provided with a power supply, such as in the street light example, power to the unit may be provided from that external supply.
An individual signal unit 22 may be provided with at least one external event sensor 44 incorporated within the device itself, but individual signal units 22 are more preferably provided with a sensor interface allowing the unit to accept signals from a number of external event sensors connected to the interface. Thus for example, an individual signal unit 22 may monitor a number of aspects of a remotely located facility, such as the doors and windows of a building or various items of equipment located on a service vehicle.
With reference to
GSM Engine 74.
This is the central core of the device. It includes a GSM transceiver allowing the module to connect to and communicate over the GSM network. The transceiver also makes use of the GPRS capability of the GSM network to connect to a server of the central control facility using IP sockets. The GSM engine also includes a basic Python script interpreter to run application scripts (software) and a battery charger 75 to allowing the charging of a Lilon battery pack (connected via J5 on the circuit diagram of
The application scripts (software) loaded into the GSM engine 74 allow the module to monitor the external sensors and devices connected to the ISU device and generate messages over the GPRS network to the central control facility server whenever there is a change in the status of these external sensors or devices. The typical operation will be for the GSM engine to connect to a known IP socket on a server at a known IP address. The message passed to the server via this connection will include the identification of the ISU device (typically the ‘phone number associated with the SIM card) and the details of the input status change.
The GSM engine has a push button switch (S1 on the circuit diagram of
Network Status Indicator (D1 on Circuit Diagram)
An LED (light emitting diode) is provided to give an indication of the status of the ISU device. When the LED is permanently off, the device is powered down. When the LED is blinking quickly (approximately 1 second period), the GSM engine is searching for the GSM network and attempting to register itself with the network. When the LED is blinking slowly (approximately 3 second period), the GSM engine has registered itself with the GSM network and is in a state that will allow it to make a connection with a server should one of the inputs change state. When the LED is permanently on, there is an active call being made by the device.
Battery Status Indicator (D6 on the Circuit Diagram)
A visible indication of the charge status of the battery is provided using an LED (light emitting diode).
USB Connection (J3 on the Circuit Diagram)
The ISU device has a USB connection to allow the module to be connected to a Personal Computer. This connection allows the application scripts (software) to be updated in the GSM Engine. Power is also drawn from the Personal Computer to recharge the Lilon battery. The power for the USB interface device (U6 on the circuit diagram) is taken from the USB connector. This minimises the current drawn from the Lilon battery to extend the operational time between charges. Interface components (U4 and U5 on the circuit diagram) isolate the connections between the USB device and the GSM engine when either the USB port is disconnected (USB device powered down) or the GSM engine has been turned off.
A protection device (U7 on the circuit diagram) has been included on the USB port to protect the USB device from electrostatic discharge onto the pins of the USB connector.
External Sensor Inputs (IN1-4 Signals on the Circuit Diagram)
The prototype ISU device implements 4 external sensor inputs. These connections are available on a dedicated input connector (J2 on the circuit diagram) and on the special attachment connector (J4 on the circuit diagram). These inputs have been configured to allow external sensors to simply connect these input signals to a 0 Volt return signal (available on both connectors) using a relay contact closure. This is the typical output from a wide range of sensors. An interface component (U3 on the circuit diagram) is provided to isolate the input signals from the GSM engine when the GSM engine has been turned off. There are also some protection devices (D2-5 on the circuit diagram) to protect the inputs of the interface component from electrostatic discharge onto the pins of the connectors.
Controlled Outputs (OUT1 and OUT2 Signals on the Circuit Diagram)
The prototype ISU device implements 2 controlled outputs. These outputs allow external devices to be switched by the ISU device. These outputs are implemented using transistors Q1 and Q2. The connections to external devices can be made either by the dedicated output connector (J1 on the circuit diagram) or the special attachment connector (J4 on the circuit diagram).
Special Attachment Connector (J4 on the Circuit Diagram)
A special attachment connector has been provided on the ISU device to allow it to be plugged into purpose built sensors. These sensors will be engineered to accommodate the ISU device and all of the required connections between the two devices are made through the single attachment connector. This connector supports attachments that are self-powered and are capable of providing current to recharge the battery in the ISU, as well as attachments that do not have their own power supply and require current from the ISU device's battery to operate.
The apparatus of a monitoring system may include a number of standard sensor devices available for purchase along with, or in addition to the individual signal unit 22. Each sensor device is adapted to respond to a predefined stimulus, and may include sensors for power status, smoke detection, motion detection, door or window opening, button press, fluid level, tampering, location via the GPS system and video camera, for example. These standard sensor devices are provided as a simple plug-in to the individual signal unit 22, via one of the input connection 64 or USB port shown in
An individual signal unit 22 may further be provided with internal error monitoring facilities, such as a power supply failure. Preferably also, individual signal units 22 are equipped with interference sensors to alert the central control facility 12 of tampering by unauthorised persons, or disturbance by animals for example.
Individual signal units 22 in at least one preferred embodiment, are provided with output relays to activate one or more external devices according to pre-programmed responses to sensor monitored events. Examples may include the activation of audio and/or visual alarms, the switching on of security lighting, closure of fire doors and so forth.
The power supply and control module 42 is adapted to maintain individual signal unit 22 in a passive, standby state until receiving a signal from an external event sensor. Such a signal initiates a powering up of the device, enabling it to transmit its unique encrypted identifying code to the central control facility. After transmission of this signal the individual signal unit powers down and returns to its passive standby state.
An individual signal unit 20 may also be brought into a powered up state on command from the central control facility 12. This powering up may be for the purpose of re-programming the individual signal unit 22 to install a new response procedure, for example after the installation of a new, or an additional external event sensor, relocation of the unit, or to modify an existing procedure.
Where an individual signal unit 22 is provided with data entry and display facilities, such programming or re-programming of the unit may be performed at the device itself. At the conclusion of such local data input, the new or modified data is transmitted to the central control facility to update its responses to any signals received from the individual signal unit as required.
Referring again to
In a first simplest preferred form of the invention, a signal sent by an individual signal unit 22 consists solely of its unique encrypted identifying code. No data is sent with this code. The information as to what a receipt of this code by the central control facility means, is stored in the central processing computers of the facility. This information, which is supplied by and under the control of the registered owner of the individual signal unit, may include instructions as to what actions are to be taken in response to the signal.
Although in this preferred form of the invention, the individual signal unit 22 is only enabled to transmit a single encrypted identifying code, it may do so in various ways to indicate various events. Each external event sensor is associated with a unique sequence of repeat transmissions of said unique identification code. For example if an external sensor device is activated, the code may be transmitted a predetermined number of times for that particular sensor at short intervals. However should an error condition develop in the device itself, such as for example a low battery situation, the code may be transmitted singly. The manner of transmission of this single encrypted code is then the determinant of the status of the device and of what action should be taken by the central control facility.
According to its pre-programmed instructions, an individual signal unit 22 may continue to transmit its signal at intervals for a pre-defined period as an aid in location of the device by service personnel alerted by the central control facility 12 as described below.
Again with reference to
Typically, one nominated recipient 30 will be the registered user or owner of the individual signal unit from which the alerting signal was received. However nominated recipients may also include service providers, who are automatically notified of the occurrence and the nature of the event, the location of the individual signal unit and any other pre-defined details. Service providers may include police, fire and ambulance services, or equipment servicing personnel for example. At registration of an individual signal unit, the owner of the unit may elect that third parties be contacted only on receipt by the central control facility of authorisation from the owner.
An applicant user or owner will be required to supply all relevant details of the individual signal unit, its external event sensing faculties, intended location and the procedures to be implemented on receipt of a signal from the device. The central control facility then issues the unique identification code for the individual signal unit. Alternatively, an individual signal unit may be pre-programmed at manufacture with its unique identifying code. As well, the applicant user or owner nominates a service provider of the GSM, GPRS or other communication system, for billing purposes, or alternatively, the central control facility makes this arrangement, with billing for such service included in the overall charge for use of the system.
The information thus received is used by the central control facility to program the procedure to be followed by the facility in response to signals received from the individual signal unit. The facility may also transmit data to the individual signal unit prior to its commissioning but subsequent to its installation at the infrastructure item, to set the parameters of signal transmission, such as frequency and interval of repeat transmissions for example.
In a second preferred embodiment, the individual signal unit of the present invention again includes at least a transceiver module 40, a rechargeable power supply and power control module 42, and at least one external event sensor 44 and a logic circuit 46 as shown in
In this embodiment also, the unit is not restricted in its transmission to the central control facility of it unique identifying code but is enabled to transmit the input analogue or digital data, either in real time, or retrieved from its data storage device at predetermined times or on command form the central control facility.
Thus in this form, the individual signalling unit may have attached as an input device such equipment as a video camera, sound recording equipment or a Global Positioning System (GPS) module for example. The connection of a GPS module allows the individual signal unit to report its location, either continuously, at predetermined intervals or on command from the central control facility. Similarly, a video camera may send images on a continuous basis, at predetermined intervals or as commanded. Alternatively, data from a camera, GPS module etc may be stored in the data storage device (if so provided) of the individual signal unit for later interrogation and download to the central control facility.
In either of the above described preferred embodiments, an individual signal unit may be provided with an on/of facility adapted for local activation. That is a facility whereby a registered user or other authorised person can switch the unit between power off and standby for monitoring. This facility may be a Radio Frequency (RF) responder unit, either incorporated in the individual signal unit itself, or as a connected input device.
Connectivity
The flexibility of the individual signal unit (ISU) in the many ways it can be interfaced with other devices is illustrated in
As shown in the sequence illustrated by
Likewise, as shown in
These may include SMS messaging, Internet, voice, facsimile transmissions, use of the GPRS system, telephone, pagers and satellite. Thus the central control facility may communicate the occurrence of an incident to the user's mobile phone, computer, land-line telephone, and facsimile machine. As well, the control facility may where appropriate communicate with another ISU, programmable logic controller (PLC) or transfer data to a designated database. Thus, by connecting an output device, for example a PLC, actuator, or motor and the like, to an ISU, the predefined steps or actions to be executed could include the initiation of processes at the remote location at which the ISU is situated.
Also as shown in
Depending on its configurations, the ISU 142 may communicate with the web site 148 of the central control facility by any of a number of distributed communication systems 158. These may include, as shown on
In addition to these communication systems being used to send messages or other forms of communication to the user or registered owner of the ISU, the central control facility may use the same systems for communication with other service providers 162 as shown in
Some further features of the monitoring system according to the invention include:
The ISU and server are programmable and can support a wide range of inputs.
The ISU is not restricted to the above described inputs and outputs. Additional or alternative inputs and outputs can be readily added to the design.
The ISU can support a variety of transport mechanisms including CDMA, 3G and satellite depending on what distributed communication system is available.
The message sever of the central control facility is based on scalable architecture allowing it to be duplicated or upgraded to support increased traffic in the future.
The ISU can support a simple LCD or other graphic display unit, to provide a user with status information.
The ISU can be integrated into products as an OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) module. This may be a user upgradeable or factory fitted option.
The monitoring system of the present invention lends itself to commercial exploitation in a number of ways. Some of these may be summarized as:
Licensing of complete systems developed by others as ISU certified Retail of ISUs for ad hoc users
Inviting existing products and services to join user configurable web-based systems
Additional programming and systems service charges
Building custom-designed measurement and control applications
Asset monitoring, for example
Asset control, for example
Revenue may be derived from a number of activities associated with the ISU based monitoring system, for example:
With reference now to
A further configurable option shown in
To provide the above service to purchasers of an ISU for an in-vehicle application, the central control facility may establish a database of service providers willing to offer services and provide quotations to registered users of the ISU monitoring system.
This aspect of the application of the monitoring system of the invention provides for a further revenue stream for the central control facility. An example of a pricing structure for vehicle service providers who wish to promote their services to owners of vehicle based ISUs is shown in
Componentry
As set out in more detail above, the principle components of the ISU are:
Network module
Within these broad component modules, the ISU may be configured in various models with varying attributes:
As an example of one possible configuration, an ISU could comprise, a GPRS Module GM862; I/O Connector (J4) 2214R-16SG-85; Light Pipe C435815; LED (alarm and network) 0805KRCT; Switch (On/Off) ELTSA-63; USB Connector 5075BMR05SM; 4 Pin Edge Connectors S4B-PH-K-S(output); 8 Pin Edge Connectors S8B-PH-K-S(input); Battery Sanyo UF55344F; Arial Coax 22-SMA-50-0-53.
Attachments
The ISU may be adapted to accept input from virtually any signal producing device. Some currently known examples include: motion detectors, Bluetooth accessories, alarms, detectors and responders.
Other attachable devices include programmable logic controllers, (which may for example be programmed to act on vending machines, dispensers and robots), message boards, remote monitoring devices, RF networks and remote control units.
In Use
Individual signal units 22 are added to the monitoring system 10 by registration with the central control facility 12. Such registration may be accomplished by an applicant user or owner over an Internet web site maintained by the central control facility. Data monitored by an individual signal unit can only be accessed by the registered owner or by third parties authorised by the owner, through use of a user name and password established when a unit is first registered.
The Public User
A new private user of the system may purchase an individual signal unit 22 at any authorised outlet, such as for example a mobile phone retailer. As well he or she may select from a range of standard sensor units compatible with the individual signal unit also available at the authorised outlet or obtainable from an accredited supplier. Preferably, the individual signal unit is adapted to accept as input up to four individual sensor devices via input connector 64. Thus for example, an individual signal unit may have connected a motion sensor, a video camera, a microphone as well as a smoke alarm (not shown).
Preferably also, the individual signal unit 22 is provided with at least two output relays via output connectors 66, to which may be connected external devices such as security lights or audio alarm for example.
To make use of the equipment, a new owner must register with the central control facility, preferably over an internet web site maintained by the facility, or by telephone. With reference to
After logging onto the web site and selecting the option of registering 100 as shown in
At this point also the owner is required to establish an account with the facility for billing purposes.
Next, as shown in
If the device is provided with a display module, a Confirmation Code is displayed when power is provided to the unit, that is when it is first switched on. This number 112 is then also entered as shown in
For ease of identification, the owner may nominate a brief description 114, typically associated with the function or location of the signalling unit and its connected sensor/s, as shown in
The owner is then invited to nominate which sensor unit or units are to be connected to the individual signal unit, either by clicking on an icon 116 as shown in
When registration formalities have been completed, the owner is given the opportunity to configure the individual signal unit; that is to establish the protocols to be followed by the central control facility in response to a signal transmitted by the device.
As shown in
The inputs of the web site page shown in
As shown in
The input web site page of
This sequence of steps completes the registration and configuration of the individual signal unit, the attached sensor and any output device/s and the response steps to be taken by the central control facility if a signal from the registered individual signal unit is received.
In addition to registration and configuration, the central control facility web site may be accessed at any time by the owner (or other authorised person) of a registered individual signal unit, by entering security user name and password, for example. Several options 130 are then presented to the owner of the individual signal unit as shown in
One of the available options is the facility of locating an individual signal unit. When this option is selected, but the individual signal unit is not fitted with a GPS module, the central control facility can command the individual signal unit to transmit its unique identifying code for a sufficient length of time to enable triangulation of its location from three or more stations of the distributed communication network. This location is then superposed on a map 132 and the map and marked detected location relayed to the owner of the individual signal unit as shown in
Another option available to a registered owner is the ability to reconfigure the registered individual signal unit. This may be desirable if the device is to be moved to another location, used for a different application, or sensors added or removed from the device for example.
A third option available to the registered owner, is that of checking the current status of the device and its event history. As shown in
For example “Toolbox 1”, may be a toolbox fitted with an individual signal unit, located on an item of earth moving plant left unattended at a work site. The tabulated history shows it has been interfered with at the time and on the date shown 136. Depending on the pre-programmed procedure associated with the individual signal unit, the owner or personnel responsible for the equipment may be alerted within minutes. Alerting messages may be transmitted via any preferred or multiple media, for example by telephone, mobile phone text messages, facsimile or by email.
“Grandma” may be an individual signal unit incorporated in a personal security module in which the sensor is a push button, providing an elderly (or incapacitated) person with a means of alerting someone to a distress situation.
The Commercial User
The individual signal unit of the present invention may be incorporated at manufacture (or be retro-fitted) to an item of infrastructure or instrumentation. Individual signal units so incorporated are registered with the central control facility in a similar way to that described for the public user above. In the example given earlier of streetlight fittings, streetlights under the control of a local authority are fitted, preferably at manufacture, with a sensor and individual signal unit. The individual signal unit for each streetlight is assigned a unique encrypted code which is associated with data maintained in the central control facility's computers. This data may include the type of bulb fitted and the location of the particular streetlight. The data may further include an instruction set as to what action to take when an encrypted code signal is received by the control facility. This could include a message to the maintenance department and even a requisition on a supplier of the required bulb so that a check of bulb stock and possible resupply will automatically follow.
Similarly, smoke alarms may incorporate an individual signal unit, with the smoke detector circuit providing an input to the signalling unit when smoke is detected. In this example power for the signalling unit may be provided in common with the smoke detector power supply.
In another example, individual signal units may be incorporated in parking meters, with sensing for example of coin full, out of paper or tampering conditions.
In a further example, as alluded to above, individual signal units provided with magnetic card readers as input attachments may be incorporated or attached at a number of locations within or on the outside of various buildings. Security personnel or cleaners may then swipe an appropriate card through the reader to trigger a signal to the central control facility, which then forwards notification to an appropriate nominated recipient that the building is secure or has been cleaned.
An individual signal unit may be installed in plant and commercial vehicles, monitoring for example power up and power down of an engine so as to track duty cycles, servicing intervals and improper use for example. In this example, the owner of the plant or vehicle can access the central control facility and obtain a record of the times the plant was in operation and log the hours of service.
In yet a further example, individual signal units with appropriate sensors may be located along rivers and streams to give early warning of changes in water levels.
Other areas of use include the monitoring of vending machines as to status of stock and tampering for example. Items of utility infrastructure, such as water and gas supply equipment also may be conveniently monitored for usage and error conditions.
In at least one embodiment of the invention, the action taken by the control facility may be predicated on a secondary layer of instructions received from the owner of the individual signal unit and the sensor or sensors attached to it. For example, the registration of the unit may include a number of optional actions for the control facility to implement after a first notification to the owner (or an authorized recipient designated by the registered owner) of an event.
For example, where the individual signal unit is monitoring the security of a site office or container at a building site, the possible actions to be taken by the central control facility may include:
1. to ignore
2. to call a contracted security firm
3. to call the site foreman
4. to call a neighbour
5. to call the police
The primary instructions on record at the control facility to be followed on receipt of a signal from the individual signal unit installed at the building site, is to send an SMS message to the owner or authorized recipient. He or she may respond for example with “34”. The control facility will then carry out actions 3 and 4 of the possible actions of the secondary layer of instructions by notifying the site foreman (3) and the neighbour (4) of the event.
In a further example of use, as summarised in
This application of the ISU is of particular use for operators of hire cars for example with an ISU as described above to provide any of the data transferable from a car's onboard computer. These may include the status of the vehicle's door locks at any given time, for example to indicate if it has been left unlocked while not in use.
In the case of loss of keys of any vehicle, the ISU could be instructed to lock and keep locked the doors of the vehicle until this command was reversed.
An in-vehicle ISU could be used to augment the entertainment system of the vehicle by accessing the internet via wireless broadband for downloading music and videos, accessing a remote computer and using the internet for surfing.
Still with reference to
Information extracted from the vehicle's onboard computer, if relayed to a designated repair centre when the vehicle suffers malfunction at some remote location, could be used by the repair centre to issue instructions for repairs.
It will be appreciated that the individual signal unit and monitoring system described above provides an extremely flexible and effective way of disseminating an alert of an alarm generated by any of a range of events at widely dispersed locations to owners of the device and/or those service providers best able to deal effectively with the cause of the alarm, and allows a unit owner to specify the circumstances under which the owner is to be contacted actions taken.
The system provides:
The individual signal unit (ISU) system of the present invention provides a missing link people products and services.
With unlimited scope and versatility the ISU platform can receive information via any network and initiate a user-configured chain of events, anywhere in the world to any one.
It is capable of bringing world-wide products and services to a centralised system for multiple uses and applications.
The small compact ISU (similar in size and appearance of a small MP3 player may be adapted to access advanced programming and resources with little or no setup.
The above describes only some embodiments of the present invention and modifications, obvious to those skilled in the art, can be made thereto without departing from the scope and spirit of the present invention.
| Number | Date | Country | Kind |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2006903740 | Jul 2006 | AU | national |
| 2007902358 | May 2007 | AU | national |
The present application relates to and claims the benefit of priority to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/846,531 filed Mar. 18, 2013, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/373,506 filed Jan. 12, 2009 now U.S. Pat. No. 8,446,276, which is a 371 nationalization of PCT/AU2007/000958 filed Jul. 12, 2017, all which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety for all purposes as if fully set forth herein
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| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 20150261198 A1 | Sep 2015 | US |
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Parent | 13846531 | Mar 2013 | US |
| Child | 14667903 | US | |
| Parent | 12373506 | US | |
| Child | 13846531 | US |
