CA2024521A1 - Theft and vandalism deterrent system - Google Patents
Theft and vandalism deterrent systemInfo
- Publication number
- CA2024521A1 CA2024521A1 CA002024521A CA2024521A CA2024521A1 CA 2024521 A1 CA2024521 A1 CA 2024521A1 CA 002024521 A CA002024521 A CA 002024521A CA 2024521 A CA2024521 A CA 2024521A CA 2024521 A1 CA2024521 A1 CA 2024521A1
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- alarm
- condition
- signals
- group
- predetermined
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
Classifications
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G08—SIGNALLING
- G08B—SIGNALLING OR CALLING SYSTEMS; ORDER TELEGRAPHS; ALARM SYSTEMS
- G08B13/00—Burglar, theft or intruder alarms
- G08B13/02—Mechanical actuation
- G08B13/14—Mechanical actuation by lifting or attempted removal of hand-portable articles
- G08B13/1436—Mechanical actuation by lifting or attempted removal of hand-portable articles with motion detection
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G08—SIGNALLING
- G08B—SIGNALLING OR CALLING SYSTEMS; ORDER TELEGRAPHS; ALARM SYSTEMS
- G08B13/00—Burglar, theft or intruder alarms
- G08B13/16—Actuation by interference with mechanical vibrations in air or other fluid
- G08B13/1654—Actuation by interference with mechanical vibrations in air or other fluid using passive vibration detection systems
- G08B13/1672—Actuation by interference with mechanical vibrations in air or other fluid using passive vibration detection systems using sonic detecting means, e.g. a microphone operating in the audio frequency range
Abstract
Abstract Self-contained theft and vandalism deterrent system for equipment security including sensors (12) for detecting conditions to which an alarm (24, 26, 28, 50) is responsive. The analog signals from the sensors (12) are serially delivered by a multiplexer circuit (16) whence they are then directed to a network (20) for conversion to digital signals. The digital signals are delivered to a micro processor (22) where the signals are evaluated to determine if an alarm condition exists. The sensing means (12) include sound and vibration detector for monitoring the ambient envelope. The micro processor (22) includes built in reprogramming and comparator circuits for varying the level at which a given condition will trigger an alarm response.
Description
2 0 2 ~
~escri~tlo_ THEFT AND VANDALISM DETERRENT SYSTEM
Technical Field The invention relates generally to the field of security systems and more particularly does it relate to an ambient envelope theft and vandalism deterrent system which is especially deslgned for use by contractors and builders tc protect equipment in addition to security of goods and containers in the transportation, stor~ge and like industries.
D ~-k~round rt Security systems which provide sigrlals from a c~in~Jle or A pluralit~ of sensors in order to prodllce an appropriate alar~ are well known in the art. Ho~lever, the prior art does not adequately provide an alarm system for detectin~ a particular sequence and or combination of events nor does it provide flexibility for several levels of response. In short the detection criteria of prior art systems do not adequately provide for tallorin~ a syste~ to a particular user's requirements.
As those ~killed in the art are well aware, theft and 2 ~
v~ndalism of construction, traAsportation an~ ~or~ge equipment is a major problem in industry. Crime lo~se~ or~
construction job sites, for example, continue to increase each year with theft of equipment being the major concern.
The most ~requently stolen items are hand tools, generators, air compressors and other small pieces of equipment. As a resul~ o the crime problems plaguin~ the industry it has become increasingly important for contractors and builders to provide alarm protection and deterrence to theft, tampering and vandalism for mobile and portable construction moving equipment, tools and machinery on the job site during non-use hours.
Among the problems of the prior art systems is the fact that the systems are too complicated and sophisticated and thereore far too expensive. Accordingly it is of particular concern to contractors and builders that there be detection of site intrusioD, movement, chan~e of location or tamperin~ with equipment. Such detection monitoring involves a number o~ condition pArameters and provides deterrent re~ponse on several levels. Xt is desirable that on one level, theft and vandalism/tampering detection be sel~ contained and not dependent on local or remote monitoring by computer or human operators.
Amon~ the prior art systems relating to this field of which applicants are aware are the following United States patents.
U~ S. Patent No. 4,337,462 discloses a system employing micro mini~ture electronic circUitry ~upported or hidden within ~n ~rticle of ~alue ~uc~ as a work of art, furniture, manufacturing or maintenance equipment, etc. and which when activated generates a short wave si~nal. The signal is transmitted either directly to a mo~itor station or to an electronic transponder which retransmits to a monitor station. The monitor sta~ion thus traces movement of the item, its location and identi~ication and in some instances the route along which it is being moved. This patented system does not relate to a self contained, on site self activating alarm system such as that herein disclosed and claimed.
U. S. Patent No. 4,536,747 is directed to a sophisticated system using a plurality of preprogrammable and reprogrammable condition responsive detectors at remote location each having the ability to transmit signals tG â
cer.t~al monitoring control location. The system of this patent includes means for ~electively reprogrammin~l the lo~ic mean~ during its operation. The cent,ral control location provides ~ choice of multiple re.sponse actions, either automatic or malluAl, to the sensed conditions at the remote locations. Trânsmitter means are provided at each remote location for transmitting signals to the control console. The system o~ this patent is a more complicated, non-self contained security system, but is of interest because of it~ inclusion of the ability for repro~ramming the conditions to which the detector~ will ~e responsive.
U. S. Patent No. 4,~65,383 di~close~ ~ 8y~t~m primaxily for fire security in buildi.n~s. The detector sensors, located to xense heat, smoke, and mekhane yas for example, are connected throu~h telephone or power lines to central control circuits which provide appropriate response to sensed conditio~s~ This patent also is of interest only ~or its showing of multiple condition responsive sensors.
It is otherwise not relev~nt to this invention.
Other United States patents of which applicants are a~are are: 3,852,740; 4,262,2g~; 4,297,683 and 4,593,273.
None of these are germane to the disclosure and claims herein.
Sum~arv of the Invention The theft and vandalism deterrent security system of this invention is an ambient envelope monitorin~ system which is a self contained unit which is incorporated in a small tamper proof housin~ securely attached at almcJst any location on a vehicle or ot}ler piece o~ e~uipment. Yor lar~er pieces of equipment such ax dump trucks, earth movers, bulldozers, gr~ders, or containers, sensors for units of the invention may or will be placed in several locations and hardwired to the electronic~ box located in a safe location as for instance in the cab under the operator's seat. These units will include in the electronics, circuitry to process si~nals from the sensors ¢f~ ~ ~j ¢~J ,'~l which will monitor a variety o~ alArm~ble parameters. ~he electronics contain control circuits for varyi~ ~en~or sensitivity without need for operator input. Upon screening the sensor signals the electronics will be able to respond on several levels by being in turn hard wired to alarm responses such as for example high frequency sounds, dye sprays, strobe li~hts and voice warning speakers.
Accordingly, it is among the features of this invention to provide a theft and vandalism deterrent system for mobile and portable constructicn and moving equipment, tools and machinery during non-use hours on a job 5it2.
The system is relatively inexpensive since it is self contained. It is also rugged for broad temperature ranges and high impact and shock tolerance. It ls deactivated during equipment in-use hours.
The system is easily installed and may be removed and stored -~hile the equipment is in use and is adaptable to both lar~e and small e~uipment. The units of th~ sy~tem operate on equipment battery power but inclucle self contained back up hattery power. The invention is self testin~ with respect to its external sensors and its own battery. Each unit of the invention is armed and disarmed by number pad coding but may be armed and disarmed hy other means such as by key, magnetic card and the like. The system monitors a broad ran~e of condition parameters including but not limited to battery power, ignition switch condition, li~hts, metal conducted acoustical disturbances ~l~'g~
that ar~ audible, ~ub audible or ulkra~onic. ~dditional conditlon parameters which may be or ar~ sensed are motio or relocation and temperature changes.
The system is designed to be adaptable to bac~.ground acoustical noise levels, programmed to accept gradual temperature changes both ambient and equipment cooling, and programmed to discriminate so1~nd frequency and noise level profiles. Units of the invention are desi~ned to respond with synthesized voice warnin~s, screech alarms or strobe lights or other forms of alarm r~spor.ses. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the signals could be transmitted by radio or satellite or interfaced with phone lines or other means of communication.
B ief D scri~tion of Drawin~
Thc singl~ figure is a block diagram of the electronics for the system of this invention.
~est Mode For Ca~inq Out The Invention The self contained units of this invention will be contained in a tamper proof housin~ measuring for instance approximately 5.0 x 6.0 x 2.5 inches. It will include acoustical sensor, audible and visual annunciators, si~nal processin~ circuits, microprocessor and memory circuits, standby battery, protected external electrical connectors and arming/disarmin~ ~eans. The hou~ing will be made Of heavy gauge metal or other suitable material ~uch as plastic with protected entrances and openings a~d will be water and caustic resistant and include a double moisture barrier for protection of the internal circuits. Mounting of the internal components within the housin~ will be such as to offer resistance to vibration and shock. Also selection of components will be with the purpose o~
withstandiny temperature extremes beyond those expected in the field.
As seen in the drawing, as at number 12, one or a plurality of sensors are positioned at various points on the frame or body of for example a grader. The sensors 12 attach to a piece of equipment and may be a motion or vibration microphone sensor, a coil, strain gauge, or audio transducer for picking up the condition which will indicate thert, vandalism or tampering.
The system is designed to monitor A broad spectrum of acoustical disturbances conducted via ~rame and meta1 parts. The spectra range from sub-audibl~ for motion, throu~h audibility ~or the human ear to near ultrasonic frequency ran~es. The vibration, sound and motion-to-electrical transducers are attached to the equipment's metal parts which are not otherwise cushioned or isolated with respect to the frame or body. In this way one or more crystal or magnetic sensors are attached to 'listen' to all phy~ical disturbances over the range or spectrum of noise.
J? ~, The transducer pickup~ 12 convert the mec~anical disturbances into electric~l anQlo~ signals which are directed to the signal conditioning network and filter amplifier 14. It is recogni~ed that pickups 12 could he di~ital signals. Circuitry 14 acc0pts the signals and conditions them with the active filter networks to scale for amplitude and shape and then separates them into groups of frequencies within the acoustical spectrum to produce several discrete output voltage analog signals proportional to the several frequency ranges.
The analog signals from the band pass filter amplifier 14 are directed then to the multiplexer 16 which accepts a separate signal for each range of frequency received. MultipleY~er 16 not only accepts the voltage input signals from network 14 but it also receives discrete signals from each of the external sensors 1~, representirg a nu~ber of parameters such as for exalnple ambient temperature, equipment temperature, motion, pressure, ~eight and so orth. Multiplexer 16 looks at each lirle and incoming signal separAtely and then sequentially outputs the incoming si~nals to converter network 20 where the voltage analog is converted to a binary digital si~nal tc be directed to the micro-computer 22.
The analog si~nals thus formed and converted to digital signals are sent to the microcomputer which is part of the self contained detection unit withir. the housing.
The microcomputer is capable of controlling the scale h ~L
f actors or lev~l ~ensitivitie~ o~ the v~rious ~en~or~ by controlling the tri~geriny level at which a particular sensor is made to respond. Such capability ~reatly extends the useful dynarnic range of the transducer sensors and permits evaluation of acoustical spectra in the presence of high or low backyround levels of noise, vibration or motion. It will be appreciated that background noise which could influence the system could ~e automotive, railroad, aircraft or other equipment noise or traffic o a predetermined distance or intensity.
Microcomputer 22 is contained within the housing and includes the entire program for making the decision on each signal received or on a plurality of input signals. In the case of the digitally converted acoustical signals the same are continuously evaluated against a model programmed into the microprocessor's permanent PROM memory. B~r ccmparirlg the input signals agai.nst the program model the processor 22 makes a decision whether or not an alarm condi~ion ~xists. In effect the model programmed into the processor creates a record of timc/acoustical spectrum/intensity exceedences which are recor~ed into the processor's working RAM memory to be further evaluated against timiny facto-s also proyrammed into the PROM. A three criteria evaluation of the disturbance is thus established while the exceedence values are held in the processor RAM each with a ime stamp. If any succession of evaluated disturbances me~sured against the time/spectrumJintensity exceedences persist~ over a few seconds, the en~ire ~ucce~ion o~
disturbances is recorded into non volatile EEPROM or battery backed RAM for future evaluation.
Besides the acoustical pickup signals processed to the microcomputer 22 there are or may be discrete inputs 30 from external means such as power on, power of~ switches, and over heating switch means. These are bias fsctor3 ox modification parameters which must be conveyed to the microcomputer via the multiplexer 32 which again outputs its received si~nals as described with r~spect to network 16.
The initial alarm responses may take a nu~ber of forms depending on desires of the user whether in construction, transportation or storage industries. The processor 22 may be able to respond on several levels as for instance with a dye spray 24, mace 26, strobe li~ht ~8 and/or synthesized voice speaker 42. Speaker 42 will b~
controlled by a counter 3g which is si~nalled by khe processor to tell the speaker to use one of a plurality of synthesized voice, screech or sir~n type alarms. Again a ~igital to analog converter 38 enables the speaker to be driven with the particular response desired. A bias network converts external battery power to the 5 volt system for the processor 22. The bias network 44 is connected to i~nition by-pass line 46 but the system also includes means 48, such as a solenoid, for shutting off the ignition i an alarm condition exists. LED's 50 may if 2 ~
desired be mount~d on tho control hou~ing to l~dic~t disturbance.
A number or alarm options are permitted in this type of system including an initial audible voice warning. If the disturbance persists the system may then go to a screech alarm or if after a timed interval the disturbance has stopped the system will automatically shut down. All exceedences which are eva}uated as potential alarms, whether or not an audible alarm is issued, are recorded into non-volatile memory for later of f line computer evaluation. Any disturbance which results in such a recording activates a visual indicator 50 in the contro~
housing. Subsequent re-arming of the unit will reset the indicator 50 but the previous record will be retained until subsequent events cause ~he capacity o~ the non-volatile memory to be exceeded.
Once an initial but not ye~ alarmable disturbance has occurred, the unit may be programmed to increase it~
evaluation time in stages, re~sha~e its spectral patt~rn either to adapt to chan~es in ambient acoustic~l levels or select specific spectrum/time envelopes for ~reater scrutiny. For the purposes of this disclosure ~he term 'envelope' means the a~bient acoustical or noise pattern as it exists at particular times during non-use hours.
Another criterian which may be required as part of the disturbance evaluation al~orithm is temperature of one or more parts of the protected equipment. It may be important to determine the prob~bili~y o~ thermAl pops or crack~ which occur as machinery cool~ down ~fter use, Alsa the system must consider rapid changes in ambient air temperature. Any abrupt chan~e in temperature of any monitored engine parts will result in an alarm unless the unit has been disarmed. For instance if the equipment has been parked for the night and the unit armed, the system must accept noises from the cooling engine until the engine temperature drops to a threshold value of for example 80 de~rees. Additionally, a broad spectrum sensor microphone acoustically isolated from the equipment may be required to separately evaluate ambient sound and vibration levels near the e~uipment.
Each unit will be provided with an inaudible pulse generator which will attach to the equipment's metal parts for the purpose of 'ping' testing the equipment. Signals for the ping network 52 are provided by processor 2~ to generate a return signal which if not received or if delayed may constitute an alarm condition. The 'pin~' testing exists as a means ~or testing the audi~ y sensors and to calibrate th~ same.
In its operatiorl the theft and vandalism deterrent system of this invention is designed so that the ambient conditions such as noise, temperature, vibration, light and other conditions, are monitored on a scheduled or induced basis with the results forminy an 'ambient envelope.' The envelope will chan~e due to chan~ing conditions, such as that o~ an engine cooling after it is turned off with resultant noises and vibrations. Another exampla would be parking a piece of equipment alon~side a freeway where the noise level and vibration would be substantially different between peak afternoon traffic hours and early pre-dawn hours of the morning. The 'ambient envelope' is continuously modified by monitoring the same to accommodate those chan~es. The alarm system is activated when,an event occurs which is outside the ambient envelope. Thus there is provided an alarm system which is constan'ly ~un~d to or compatible with normal ambient condition.
~escri~tlo_ THEFT AND VANDALISM DETERRENT SYSTEM
Technical Field The invention relates generally to the field of security systems and more particularly does it relate to an ambient envelope theft and vandalism deterrent system which is especially deslgned for use by contractors and builders tc protect equipment in addition to security of goods and containers in the transportation, stor~ge and like industries.
D ~-k~round rt Security systems which provide sigrlals from a c~in~Jle or A pluralit~ of sensors in order to prodllce an appropriate alar~ are well known in the art. Ho~lever, the prior art does not adequately provide an alarm system for detectin~ a particular sequence and or combination of events nor does it provide flexibility for several levels of response. In short the detection criteria of prior art systems do not adequately provide for tallorin~ a syste~ to a particular user's requirements.
As those ~killed in the art are well aware, theft and 2 ~
v~ndalism of construction, traAsportation an~ ~or~ge equipment is a major problem in industry. Crime lo~se~ or~
construction job sites, for example, continue to increase each year with theft of equipment being the major concern.
The most ~requently stolen items are hand tools, generators, air compressors and other small pieces of equipment. As a resul~ o the crime problems plaguin~ the industry it has become increasingly important for contractors and builders to provide alarm protection and deterrence to theft, tampering and vandalism for mobile and portable construction moving equipment, tools and machinery on the job site during non-use hours.
Among the problems of the prior art systems is the fact that the systems are too complicated and sophisticated and thereore far too expensive. Accordingly it is of particular concern to contractors and builders that there be detection of site intrusioD, movement, chan~e of location or tamperin~ with equipment. Such detection monitoring involves a number o~ condition pArameters and provides deterrent re~ponse on several levels. Xt is desirable that on one level, theft and vandalism/tampering detection be sel~ contained and not dependent on local or remote monitoring by computer or human operators.
Amon~ the prior art systems relating to this field of which applicants are aware are the following United States patents.
U~ S. Patent No. 4,337,462 discloses a system employing micro mini~ture electronic circUitry ~upported or hidden within ~n ~rticle of ~alue ~uc~ as a work of art, furniture, manufacturing or maintenance equipment, etc. and which when activated generates a short wave si~nal. The signal is transmitted either directly to a mo~itor station or to an electronic transponder which retransmits to a monitor station. The monitor sta~ion thus traces movement of the item, its location and identi~ication and in some instances the route along which it is being moved. This patented system does not relate to a self contained, on site self activating alarm system such as that herein disclosed and claimed.
U. S. Patent No. 4,536,747 is directed to a sophisticated system using a plurality of preprogrammable and reprogrammable condition responsive detectors at remote location each having the ability to transmit signals tG â
cer.t~al monitoring control location. The system of this patent includes means for ~electively reprogrammin~l the lo~ic mean~ during its operation. The cent,ral control location provides ~ choice of multiple re.sponse actions, either automatic or malluAl, to the sensed conditions at the remote locations. Trânsmitter means are provided at each remote location for transmitting signals to the control console. The system o~ this patent is a more complicated, non-self contained security system, but is of interest because of it~ inclusion of the ability for repro~ramming the conditions to which the detector~ will ~e responsive.
U. S. Patent No. 4,~65,383 di~close~ ~ 8y~t~m primaxily for fire security in buildi.n~s. The detector sensors, located to xense heat, smoke, and mekhane yas for example, are connected throu~h telephone or power lines to central control circuits which provide appropriate response to sensed conditio~s~ This patent also is of interest only ~or its showing of multiple condition responsive sensors.
It is otherwise not relev~nt to this invention.
Other United States patents of which applicants are a~are are: 3,852,740; 4,262,2g~; 4,297,683 and 4,593,273.
None of these are germane to the disclosure and claims herein.
Sum~arv of the Invention The theft and vandalism deterrent security system of this invention is an ambient envelope monitorin~ system which is a self contained unit which is incorporated in a small tamper proof housin~ securely attached at almcJst any location on a vehicle or ot}ler piece o~ e~uipment. Yor lar~er pieces of equipment such ax dump trucks, earth movers, bulldozers, gr~ders, or containers, sensors for units of the invention may or will be placed in several locations and hardwired to the electronic~ box located in a safe location as for instance in the cab under the operator's seat. These units will include in the electronics, circuitry to process si~nals from the sensors ¢f~ ~ ~j ¢~J ,'~l which will monitor a variety o~ alArm~ble parameters. ~he electronics contain control circuits for varyi~ ~en~or sensitivity without need for operator input. Upon screening the sensor signals the electronics will be able to respond on several levels by being in turn hard wired to alarm responses such as for example high frequency sounds, dye sprays, strobe li~hts and voice warning speakers.
Accordingly, it is among the features of this invention to provide a theft and vandalism deterrent system for mobile and portable constructicn and moving equipment, tools and machinery during non-use hours on a job 5it2.
The system is relatively inexpensive since it is self contained. It is also rugged for broad temperature ranges and high impact and shock tolerance. It ls deactivated during equipment in-use hours.
The system is easily installed and may be removed and stored -~hile the equipment is in use and is adaptable to both lar~e and small e~uipment. The units of th~ sy~tem operate on equipment battery power but inclucle self contained back up hattery power. The invention is self testin~ with respect to its external sensors and its own battery. Each unit of the invention is armed and disarmed by number pad coding but may be armed and disarmed hy other means such as by key, magnetic card and the like. The system monitors a broad ran~e of condition parameters including but not limited to battery power, ignition switch condition, li~hts, metal conducted acoustical disturbances ~l~'g~
that ar~ audible, ~ub audible or ulkra~onic. ~dditional conditlon parameters which may be or ar~ sensed are motio or relocation and temperature changes.
The system is designed to be adaptable to bac~.ground acoustical noise levels, programmed to accept gradual temperature changes both ambient and equipment cooling, and programmed to discriminate so1~nd frequency and noise level profiles. Units of the invention are desi~ned to respond with synthesized voice warnin~s, screech alarms or strobe lights or other forms of alarm r~spor.ses. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the signals could be transmitted by radio or satellite or interfaced with phone lines or other means of communication.
B ief D scri~tion of Drawin~
Thc singl~ figure is a block diagram of the electronics for the system of this invention.
~est Mode For Ca~inq Out The Invention The self contained units of this invention will be contained in a tamper proof housin~ measuring for instance approximately 5.0 x 6.0 x 2.5 inches. It will include acoustical sensor, audible and visual annunciators, si~nal processin~ circuits, microprocessor and memory circuits, standby battery, protected external electrical connectors and arming/disarmin~ ~eans. The hou~ing will be made Of heavy gauge metal or other suitable material ~uch as plastic with protected entrances and openings a~d will be water and caustic resistant and include a double moisture barrier for protection of the internal circuits. Mounting of the internal components within the housin~ will be such as to offer resistance to vibration and shock. Also selection of components will be with the purpose o~
withstandiny temperature extremes beyond those expected in the field.
As seen in the drawing, as at number 12, one or a plurality of sensors are positioned at various points on the frame or body of for example a grader. The sensors 12 attach to a piece of equipment and may be a motion or vibration microphone sensor, a coil, strain gauge, or audio transducer for picking up the condition which will indicate thert, vandalism or tampering.
The system is designed to monitor A broad spectrum of acoustical disturbances conducted via ~rame and meta1 parts. The spectra range from sub-audibl~ for motion, throu~h audibility ~or the human ear to near ultrasonic frequency ran~es. The vibration, sound and motion-to-electrical transducers are attached to the equipment's metal parts which are not otherwise cushioned or isolated with respect to the frame or body. In this way one or more crystal or magnetic sensors are attached to 'listen' to all phy~ical disturbances over the range or spectrum of noise.
J? ~, The transducer pickup~ 12 convert the mec~anical disturbances into electric~l anQlo~ signals which are directed to the signal conditioning network and filter amplifier 14. It is recogni~ed that pickups 12 could he di~ital signals. Circuitry 14 acc0pts the signals and conditions them with the active filter networks to scale for amplitude and shape and then separates them into groups of frequencies within the acoustical spectrum to produce several discrete output voltage analog signals proportional to the several frequency ranges.
The analog signals from the band pass filter amplifier 14 are directed then to the multiplexer 16 which accepts a separate signal for each range of frequency received. MultipleY~er 16 not only accepts the voltage input signals from network 14 but it also receives discrete signals from each of the external sensors 1~, representirg a nu~ber of parameters such as for exalnple ambient temperature, equipment temperature, motion, pressure, ~eight and so orth. Multiplexer 16 looks at each lirle and incoming signal separAtely and then sequentially outputs the incoming si~nals to converter network 20 where the voltage analog is converted to a binary digital si~nal tc be directed to the micro-computer 22.
The analog si~nals thus formed and converted to digital signals are sent to the microcomputer which is part of the self contained detection unit withir. the housing.
The microcomputer is capable of controlling the scale h ~L
f actors or lev~l ~ensitivitie~ o~ the v~rious ~en~or~ by controlling the tri~geriny level at which a particular sensor is made to respond. Such capability ~reatly extends the useful dynarnic range of the transducer sensors and permits evaluation of acoustical spectra in the presence of high or low backyround levels of noise, vibration or motion. It will be appreciated that background noise which could influence the system could ~e automotive, railroad, aircraft or other equipment noise or traffic o a predetermined distance or intensity.
Microcomputer 22 is contained within the housing and includes the entire program for making the decision on each signal received or on a plurality of input signals. In the case of the digitally converted acoustical signals the same are continuously evaluated against a model programmed into the microprocessor's permanent PROM memory. B~r ccmparirlg the input signals agai.nst the program model the processor 22 makes a decision whether or not an alarm condi~ion ~xists. In effect the model programmed into the processor creates a record of timc/acoustical spectrum/intensity exceedences which are recor~ed into the processor's working RAM memory to be further evaluated against timiny facto-s also proyrammed into the PROM. A three criteria evaluation of the disturbance is thus established while the exceedence values are held in the processor RAM each with a ime stamp. If any succession of evaluated disturbances me~sured against the time/spectrumJintensity exceedences persist~ over a few seconds, the en~ire ~ucce~ion o~
disturbances is recorded into non volatile EEPROM or battery backed RAM for future evaluation.
Besides the acoustical pickup signals processed to the microcomputer 22 there are or may be discrete inputs 30 from external means such as power on, power of~ switches, and over heating switch means. These are bias fsctor3 ox modification parameters which must be conveyed to the microcomputer via the multiplexer 32 which again outputs its received si~nals as described with r~spect to network 16.
The initial alarm responses may take a nu~ber of forms depending on desires of the user whether in construction, transportation or storage industries. The processor 22 may be able to respond on several levels as for instance with a dye spray 24, mace 26, strobe li~ht ~8 and/or synthesized voice speaker 42. Speaker 42 will b~
controlled by a counter 3g which is si~nalled by khe processor to tell the speaker to use one of a plurality of synthesized voice, screech or sir~n type alarms. Again a ~igital to analog converter 38 enables the speaker to be driven with the particular response desired. A bias network converts external battery power to the 5 volt system for the processor 22. The bias network 44 is connected to i~nition by-pass line 46 but the system also includes means 48, such as a solenoid, for shutting off the ignition i an alarm condition exists. LED's 50 may if 2 ~
desired be mount~d on tho control hou~ing to l~dic~t disturbance.
A number or alarm options are permitted in this type of system including an initial audible voice warning. If the disturbance persists the system may then go to a screech alarm or if after a timed interval the disturbance has stopped the system will automatically shut down. All exceedences which are eva}uated as potential alarms, whether or not an audible alarm is issued, are recorded into non-volatile memory for later of f line computer evaluation. Any disturbance which results in such a recording activates a visual indicator 50 in the contro~
housing. Subsequent re-arming of the unit will reset the indicator 50 but the previous record will be retained until subsequent events cause ~he capacity o~ the non-volatile memory to be exceeded.
Once an initial but not ye~ alarmable disturbance has occurred, the unit may be programmed to increase it~
evaluation time in stages, re~sha~e its spectral patt~rn either to adapt to chan~es in ambient acoustic~l levels or select specific spectrum/time envelopes for ~reater scrutiny. For the purposes of this disclosure ~he term 'envelope' means the a~bient acoustical or noise pattern as it exists at particular times during non-use hours.
Another criterian which may be required as part of the disturbance evaluation al~orithm is temperature of one or more parts of the protected equipment. It may be important to determine the prob~bili~y o~ thermAl pops or crack~ which occur as machinery cool~ down ~fter use, Alsa the system must consider rapid changes in ambient air temperature. Any abrupt chan~e in temperature of any monitored engine parts will result in an alarm unless the unit has been disarmed. For instance if the equipment has been parked for the night and the unit armed, the system must accept noises from the cooling engine until the engine temperature drops to a threshold value of for example 80 de~rees. Additionally, a broad spectrum sensor microphone acoustically isolated from the equipment may be required to separately evaluate ambient sound and vibration levels near the e~uipment.
Each unit will be provided with an inaudible pulse generator which will attach to the equipment's metal parts for the purpose of 'ping' testing the equipment. Signals for the ping network 52 are provided by processor 2~ to generate a return signal which if not received or if delayed may constitute an alarm condition. The 'pin~' testing exists as a means ~or testing the audi~ y sensors and to calibrate th~ same.
In its operatiorl the theft and vandalism deterrent system of this invention is designed so that the ambient conditions such as noise, temperature, vibration, light and other conditions, are monitored on a scheduled or induced basis with the results forminy an 'ambient envelope.' The envelope will chan~e due to chan~ing conditions, such as that o~ an engine cooling after it is turned off with resultant noises and vibrations. Another exampla would be parking a piece of equipment alon~side a freeway where the noise level and vibration would be substantially different between peak afternoon traffic hours and early pre-dawn hours of the morning. The 'ambient envelope' is continuously modified by monitoring the same to accommodate those chan~es. The alarm system is activated when,an event occurs which is outside the ambient envelope. Thus there is provided an alarm system which is constan'ly ~un~d to or compatible with normal ambient condition.
Claims (9)
1. An alarm system for generating an alarm signal responsive to a sensed condition wherein said sensed condition is compared to a reference condition for determining if an alarm signal is to be generated, said system comprising in combination, a) alarm signal generating means, b) predetermined reference condition and reference condition comparing means, c) sensing means for generating a signal responsive to a sensed condition, d) said alarm signal generating means being responsive to a sensed condition signal if said sensed condition signal exceeds said predetermined reference condition to which it is compared, e) programmable data processing means in said system for programming present variances in sensed conditions into said predetermined reference condition comparing means, whereby said alarm system is adaptable to a variable program of reference conditions to which said alarm system is responsive
2. The alarm system according to claim 1 and wherein said sensing means include ambient noise detector means for monitoring ambient noise levels.
3. The alarm system according to claim 2 and wherein said programmable data processing means includes means for changing said predetermined reference condition.
4. The alarm system according to claim 3 and wherein said sensing means generate electrical analog signals which are converted to electrical digital signals.
5. The alarm system according to claim 4 and wherein said sensing means detect a predetermined range of acoustical disturbances, and wherein network means are included for separating the acoustical disturbances into groups of frequencies and outputting discrete output voltage analog signals proportional to the group of frequency ranges.
6. A theft and vandalism deterrent system for items of equipment including a self contained electronics control housing adapted to be secured to said item of equipment at a predetermined location thereon and being adapted to be connected to an external power source as well as having self contained power, said system further including, a) at least one sensor means for said system which is connected to said control housing for transmitting at least one condition sensed by said sensor means to the electronics within said control housing in the form of electrical signals, b) said at least one condition including at least an ambient noise level condition above which noise level condition will be generated an alarm and below which noise level condition will be generated no alarm, said ambient noise level being changed by said electronics to conform to the changes in ambient noises in proximity to said items of equipment, c) said electronics including first network means for accepting said electrical signals and separating the same into a predetermined group of frequency ranges, each of said group of frequency ranges being converted to a discrete signal proportional to one of the group of frequency ranges, d) second network means for receiving each of said group of frequency range signals and sequentially outputting the same, and e) directing said frequency range signals to a microprocessor for determining whether said frequency range signals represent an alarm condition, said microprocessor being adapted to activate alarm means if signals received therein are evaluated to exceed said predetermined level.
7. The theft and vandalism deterrent system according to claim 6 and wherein said first network means are included for separating the acoustical disturbances into groups of frequencies and outputting discrete output voltage analog signals proportional to the group of frequency ranges.
8. The theft and vandalism deterrent system according to claim 6 and wherein a third network means is provided for receiving and converting said group of frequency range voltage analog signals into digital signals.
9. A theft and vandalism deterrent system for items of equipment including a self contained electronics control housing adapted to be secured to said item of equipment at a predetermined location thereon and being adapted to be connected to an external power source as well as having self contained power, said system further including, a) a plurality of sensor means for said system which are connected to said control housing for transmitting a plurality of predetermined conditions sensed by said sensor means to the electronics within said control housing in the form of electrical analog signals, b) said plurality of conditions including at least an ambient noise level condition above which noise level condition will be generated an alarm and below which noise level condition will be generated no alarm, said ambient noise level being changed by said electronics to conform to the changes in ambient noises in proximity to said items of equipment, c) said electronics including first network means for accepting said electrical signals and separating the same into a predetermined group of frequency ranges, each of said group of frequency ranges being converted to a discrete voltage analog signal proportional to one of the group of frequency ranges, d) second network means for receiving each of said group of frequency range voltage analog signals and sequentially outputting the same, and e) third network means for receiving and converting said group of frequency range voltage analog signals to digital frequency range signals, and e) directing said frequency range digital signals to a microprocessor for determining whether said frequency range signals represent an alarm condition, said microprocessor being adapted to activate any one of a plurality of alarm responses if signals received therein are evaluated to exceed predetermined levels of said plurality of conditions.
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US07/414,701 US5051723A (en) | 1989-09-29 | 1989-09-29 | Signalling system with ambient condition reference monitoring |
| US07/414,701 | 1989-09-29 |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2024521A1 true CA2024521A1 (en) | 1991-03-30 |
Family
ID=23642579
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002024521A Abandoned CA2024521A1 (en) | 1989-09-29 | 1990-09-04 | Theft and vandalism deterrent system |
Country Status (2)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| US (1) | US5051723A (en) |
| CA (1) | CA2024521A1 (en) |
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| US5239459A (en) * | 1990-02-05 | 1993-08-24 | General Research Corporation | Automated assessment processor for physical security system |
| US5452188A (en) * | 1992-04-14 | 1995-09-19 | Green; Timothy M. | Modular strobe bar |
| US5493268A (en) * | 1994-04-29 | 1996-02-20 | Lewis, Sr.; Robert J. | Anti-carjacking system |
| US5677668A (en) * | 1994-06-10 | 1997-10-14 | Winner International Royalty Corporation | Vehicle accessory protection systems |
| US5459447A (en) * | 1994-06-20 | 1995-10-17 | John Snyder, Inc. | Aftermarket installable dual sensitivity shock detector |
| US5886622A (en) * | 1994-06-24 | 1999-03-23 | Jon Snyder, Inc. | Alarm system with sensor signal evaluator |
| US6026492A (en) * | 1997-11-06 | 2000-02-15 | International Business Machines Corporation | Computer system and method to disable same when network cable is removed |
| US6021493A (en) * | 1997-11-06 | 2000-02-01 | International Business Machines Corporation | System and method for detecting when a computer system is removed from a network |
| WO1999053627A1 (en) | 1998-04-10 | 1999-10-21 | Chrimar Systems, Inc. Doing Business As Cms Technologies | System for communicating with electronic equipment on a network |
| US6472980B1 (en) * | 2000-04-27 | 2002-10-29 | Pittway Corporation | Device with built-in signal discrimination and output synchronization circuits |
| US7493391B2 (en) * | 2001-02-12 | 2009-02-17 | International Business Machines Corporation | System for automated session resource clean-up by determining whether server resources have been held by client longer than preset thresholds |
| US20030043046A1 (en) * | 2001-08-31 | 2003-03-06 | Watwood Stephen F. | Vibration sensing satellite call-out unit |
| US7656287B2 (en) * | 2004-07-23 | 2010-02-02 | Innovalarm Corporation | Alert system with enhanced waking capabilities |
| US7701336B1 (en) | 2004-08-31 | 2010-04-20 | Erudite, Inc. | Detection of nuclear materials hidden inside cargo shipments by using sensor fusion technique |
| US7151447B1 (en) | 2004-08-31 | 2006-12-19 | Erudite Holding Llc | Detection and identification of threats hidden inside cargo shipments |
| US7936266B2 (en) * | 2006-10-27 | 2011-05-03 | Maritime Container Security, Inc. | Shipping container seal monitoring device, system and method |
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| US3665312A (en) * | 1969-10-06 | 1972-05-23 | Goldman Paul | Radio alarm system |
| US3614724A (en) * | 1970-04-08 | 1971-10-19 | Atomic Energy Commission | Detection system |
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| US4284983A (en) * | 1980-02-19 | 1981-08-18 | Lent Roger S | Appliance anti-theft and protection circuitry |
| JPS56132690A (en) * | 1980-03-19 | 1981-10-17 | Hochiki Co | Fire detector |
| US4479113A (en) * | 1982-01-20 | 1984-10-23 | The United States Of America As Represented By The United States Department Of Energy | Compensated intruder-detection systems |
| US4536747A (en) * | 1982-02-11 | 1985-08-20 | Jensen Garold K | Comprehensive intruder-environmental hazard detection, control, and action system |
| JPS59226883A (en) * | 1983-06-07 | 1984-12-20 | Nissan Motor Co Ltd | Loran c receiver |
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| US4665383A (en) * | 1985-04-22 | 1987-05-12 | Firecom, Inc. | Security system with monitoring and warning circuits |
| US4686513A (en) * | 1985-09-30 | 1987-08-11 | Sensormatic Electronics Corporation | Electronic surveillance using self-powered article attached tags |
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- 1989-09-29 US US07/414,701 patent/US5051723A/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
-
1990
- 1990-09-04 CA CA002024521A patent/CA2024521A1/en not_active Abandoned
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| US5051723A (en) | 1991-09-24 |
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Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| FZDE | Discontinued |