Radio frequency security system, method for a building facility or the like, and apparatus and methods for remotely monitoring the status of fire extinguishers

A system for remotely monitoring the status of one or more fire extinguishers includes means for sensing at least one parameter of each of the fire extinguishers; means for selectively transmitting the sensed parameters along with information identifying the fire extinguishers from which the parameters were sensed; and means for receiving the sensed parameters and identifying information for the fire extinguisher or extinguishers at a common location. Other systems and methods for remotely monitoring the status of multiple fire extinguishers are also provided.

TECHNICAL FIELD

Aspects of the invention relate to a system, method and apparatus for maintaining security, and more particularly for maintaining security in an environment such as a building facility where there is a security-sensitive area with security-sensitive objects or items. Other aspects of the invention relate to fire extinguishing systems and methods, and to sensing, monitoring, and remote transmitting apparatus and methods used in connection with fire extinguishing equipment.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The standards and requirements for fire extinguishing systems can be an overwhelming management task for Safety/Security Managers, who are responsible for large buildings or facilities. For example, at the Mandalay Hotel in Las Vegas, Nev., there are over 1900 fire extinguishers that require daily oversight and management. When one considers, for example, the following mandatory NFPA standards and requirements associated with fire extinguishers, it becomes readily apparent that the management of these systems in large buildings/facilities can be a monumental task:1) Ensure fire extinguishers have not been tampered with or illegally removed,2) Ensure fire extinguishers undergo required monthly, periodic and annual inspections to confirm they are fully charged and operable,3) Ensure fire extinguishers undergo scheduled maintenance/testing (annual hydrostatic and conductivity testing, system recharging, etc.), and4) Ensure fire extinguisher record keeping/documentation is completed.

Various fire extinguisher apparatus have been heretofore proposed. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 6,125,940 to Oram (incorporated herein by reference) discloses a pressure indicating system for fire extinguishers whereby an audio alarm is sounded if the fire extinguisher is overcharged or undercharged. A visual indicator displaying the amount of pressure is also provided.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,775,430 to McSheffrey (incorporated herein by reference) discloses a portable fire extinguisher, a valve assembly, and a gauge displaying the pressure condition of the fire extinguisher. An electronic circuit issues a signal in response to a condition, such as low pressure in the tank, smoke, lack of light, lack of external power, low battery, or lack of inspection reset within a predetermined amount of time. Attention is also directed to the following patents to McSheffrey et al. which disclose similar systems and improvements and which are incorporated herein by reference: U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,848,651; 6,302,218; 6,311,779; and 6,488,099.

U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,808,541, and 6,104,301, both to Golden (and both incorporated herein by reference), disclose an automatic fire suppression system having an electronic processor capable of monitoring system function, pressure, power level, and power source. A fire sensor and an audible or visual alarm are coupled to the processor. A valve is opened and the alarm is activated if the sensor detects a fire. A remote transmitter can be used to allow the system to be activated and the valve opened from a location remote from the hazard. A GPS device can be coupled to the processor and the location of the device can be communicated to a remote operator in the event that the presence of a fire is detected.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,728,933 to Schultz et al. (incorporated herein by reference) discusses, among other things, the problem of determining if all the fire extinguishers in a building are properly charged. It discloses (starting, for example, at Col. 11, line 9) a remote sensing and receiving system that may be employed in fire extinguisher devices. A remote sensor unit, attached to a fire extinguisher device, communicates with a receiver unit500through infrared signals. The sensor unit must be capable of transmitting data, to the receiver unit, indicative of identification of the fire extinguisher. The sensor unit stores information in memory, such as building address, date of filling, filling sight, barometric pressure at filling sight, device identification number, and location inside the building. Pertinent information for extinguisher maintenance and inspection could be stored in memory. In the normal course of building maintenance, an inspector holding a receiver unit periodically walks up to the fire extinguisher device and presses appropriate keys on a keyboard in order to activate the sensor unit. The sensor unit is turned on and transmits signals indicative of characteristics of the fire extinguisher device and the sensor unit. Such characteristics include current pressure in the extinguisher, identification of the fire extinguisher, date of charging, as well as other data stored by the sensor unit.

A commercial product, Fire Extinguisher Theft Stopper™, sounds an audio alarm when a fire extinguisher is removed from a designated position.

A fire extinguisher system is needed having improved sensing of fire extinguisher parameters and/or to assist with management of fire extinguisher systems.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Some embodiments of the present invention provide a method arranged to reduce security risks in or adjacent to a building facility where there are in, or proximate to, the building facility components which comprise one or more (or more than one) of the following:a) building component(s) which are part of, or associated with, a building of the building facility;b) facility component(s) which are in or adjacent to the building and relate to functions or occupancy of the building facility;c) other component(s) which are in or adjacent to the building facility that are not included in building components or facility components.

Each of these components is further categorized as follows:a) security-sensitive components which comprise:I. component(s) which themselves are security-sensitive (i.e. because of having or containing security-sensitive information or items or components which are of sufficient value to be security-sensitive);II. component(s) which are of a nature that if moved or otherwise tampered with in some manner such tampering may indicate a security risk;III. components which are both themselves security-sensitive and also are of a nature that if moved or otherwise tampered with in some manner such tampering may indicate a security risk;b) non-security-sensitive component(s), which include the items or components which are not security-sensitive.

In some embodiments, the method comprises providing at least one tamper-indicating device which in turn comprises a tamper-responsive section which comprises at least one tamper-responsive portion which has an intact condition and a non-intact condition. In a preferred form of the present invention, this tamper-responsive portion has an electrically conductive portion which in the intact position is able to conduct electricity between first and second tamper related locations, and in the non-intact position is not able to conduct electricity between the first and second tamper related locations.

Also, in some embodiments, the tamper-indicating device comprises a signaling section that is operatively connected to the tamper-responsive section in a manner to:a) provide a signal indicating at least one of;I. a non-intact condition;II. an intact condition; orb) not provide a signal in response to an interrogating signal to indicate:I. a non-intact condition; orII. an intact condition

The tamper-indicating device is placed in a security risk detecting position by operatively engaging the tamper-indicating device to two of said components, at least one of which is a security-sensitive component. The two components are characterized in that relative movements between the two components indicates a possibility of a security risk occurrence. The tamper-indicating device is arranged and connected to the two components so that relative movement between the two components causes a break or damage to the tamper-responsive section to cause the tamper-responsive section to go to its non-intact condition.

Then a signal receiving device is operated to ascertain either a reception of a signal or a lack of reception of a signal from the tamper-indicating device to ascertain the possible security risk occurrence. In some embodiments of the present invention, the tamper-indicating device transmits its tamper-indicating signal in response to the tamper-responsive section going to its non-intact condition. The tamper-indicating device has a sleep mode which exists so long as the tamper-responsive section is in its intact position. The tamper-indicating device is caused to go from the sleep mode to an active mode upon occurrence of the tamper-responsive section going to its non-intact condition to in turn to cause the tamper-signaling section to transmit the tamper-indicating signal. In the preferred embodiment the electrically conductive portion in the intact position causes the tamper-indicating device to remain in its sleep mode and in the non-intact position causes the tamper-indicating device to go to its active mode.

In a preferred form, the electrically conductive portion is operatively connected to circuitry of the tamper-signaling section in a manner that with the electrically conductive portion in its intact position, an input to a micro-controller of said tamper-signaling section is at a first voltage level. Then with the electrically conductive portion in its non-intact position, the input to the micro-controller is at another voltage level, with the change from the first voltage level causes the micro-controller to place the tamper-signaling section into its active mode.

In another embodiment of the present invention, interrogating signals are transmitted to the tamper-indicating device, and the tamper-indicating device modulates the signal in response to the interrogating signal so that a modulated response is transmitted when there is an intact condition of the tamper-responsive section. When a non-intact condition exists, the modulated signal is not transmitted, thus indicating a possibility of a security risk.

Also in some embodiments, the tamper-indicating device with the tamper-responsive section in its intact position is energized by an interrogating signal to provide a modulated response. With the tamper-responsive section in its non-intact position, the tamper-responsive device does not send the modulated response. In a specific form, the electrically conductive portion of the tamper-indicating device is operatively connected into circuitry of the tamper-signaling section so that when the tamper-signaling section is conductive, energizing current from the interrogating signal is able to cause the modulated response to the interrogating signal.

In a preferred form of the present invention the tamper-signaling section comprises operating components which are positioned within a housing of the tamper-signaling section. The operating components are responsive to the tamper-responsive section to produce the tamper-indicating signal. The tamper-responsive section comprises a plurality of tamper-responsive portions which are operatively connected to the tamper-signaling section in a manner that the signal transmitting section responds to any one of these tamper-responsive portions being in its intact or non-intact condition.

In a specific application of the present invention, a first connecting portion of the tamper-indicating device is connected to one of the two components, and a second connecting portion of the tamper-indicating device is connected to the other of the two components, with a tamper-responsive region of the tamper-responsive section being between the connecting portions in a manner that relative movement of the two components causes the tamper-responsive region to become severed or damaged to make the electrically conductive portion become non-conductive.

In some arrangements the two components have facing surfaces adjacent to one another, and the tamper-indicating device is positioned between the two facing surfaces. The first connecting portion of the tamper-indicating device is connected to one of the two components and the second connecting portion is connected to the other of the components in a manner that relative movement of the two components moves the two facing surfaces apart to cause a break or damage to the electrically conductive portion.

In other arrangements, there is a plurality of these tamper-indicating devices positioned between the two facing surfaces and connected to the facing surfaces, and the tamper-indicating devices are arranged so as to be positioned inwardly from surrounding edge portions of the surfaces so that relative rotational movement of the components to rotate the facing surfaces away from one another causes at least one of the tamper-indicating devices to go to its non-intact position. In another arrangement the first and second connecting portions of the tamper-indicating device are located on the tamper-responsive section, and the tamper-responsive section is connected to surface of the two components which are in general alignment with one another and spaced from one another.

Some aspects of the invention provide a method of remotely monitoring the status of multiple fire extinguishers, the method comprising coupling sensors to respective fire extinguishers in sensing relation to the fire extinguishers, the sensors each being configured to sense a parameter of the fire extinguisher to which it is coupled; associating transmitters with respective fire extinguishers, the transmitters being configured to selectively transmit information identifying the fire extinguisher with which the transmitter is associated and to selectively transmit information indicative of the sensed parameter; providing a receiver in selective wireless communications with the transmitters; and providing a computer coupled to the receiver, the computer being configured to maintain testing schedules for respective fire extinguishers and being configured to provide an output when it is time for an extinguisher to be inspected, tested, or undergo maintenance, the computer also being configured to selectively store information from a plurality of the transmitters.

Other aspects of the invention provide a system for remotely monitoring the status of one or more fire extinguishers includes means for sensing at least one parameter of each of the fire extinguishers; means for selectively transmitting the sensed parameters along with information identifying the fire extinguishers from which the parameters were sensed; and means for receiving the sensed parameters and identifying information for the fire extinguisher or extinguishers at a common location. The sensed parameters may be, for example, removal of a trigger pin or movement of a fire extinguisher. Other systems and methods for remotely monitoring the status of one or more fire extinguishers are also provided.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

InFIG. 1, there is illustrated by way of example, an environment in which the system of the present invention could be used advantageously.FIG. 1shows schematically a building facility which comprises a building structure12defining a secured area13. The structure12comprises a floor14, four sidewalls16,18,20and22, and a ceiling (a portion of which is indicated at24). The sidewall16has a doorway (exit/entrance)26for ingress and egress to and from the security-sensitive area13and an emergency exit doorway28. The wall18has three windows30leading to an outside location.

Within the secured area13, are a number of desks32which would normally be used by the personnel in the secured area13during working hours. By way of example, there is a locked safe34(or vault), three locked file cabinets36and two unlocked file cabinets38, which are positioned adjacent against the wall20. There is also shown somewhat schematically several security-sensitive items generally designated40, and these would be various movable items which would quite commonly be in a security-sensitive area. These could include documents, written communications, computer hard drives, discs, and other computer information media, funds and currency, items which contain evidence or evidentiary data, high valued items, etc. However, in the non-working periods during which the security-sensitive area may not have any people therein, these security-sensitive items40will be placed either in the safe34, one of the locked file cabinets36or some other secure location.

At this point it would be helpful for a more complete understanding of the present invention to indicate that the present invention can be combined with or incorporated with one or more other security systems. One such security system is described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/042,742, entitled “Radio Frequency Personnel Alerting Security System and Method”, filed Sep. 23, 2002, which is incorporated by reference herein. This other security system is particularly adapted for maintaining the security of the moveable security-sensitive items40, as indicated above. Later in the present text this other security system will be summarized and it will be indicated how the two systems could be used in combination. Thus, the contents of this other above mentioned patent application are incorporated herein by reference.

To continue now with the description of the present invention, reference is again made toFIG. 1. There are the other objects or components indicated at42, which are also security-sensitive either because of the information they contain or possibly for some other reason, such as being a rather expensive item which should be protected from theft. These could be, for example, computer related equipment, or a locked container which is used to contain security-sensitive documents and which for convenience is placed on a person's desk. These objects42are characterized in that either for reasons of size, or convenience, it is not practical (or desirable) to place these in a secured location, such as a safe34or the locked file cabinet36.

Also, these objects42could be such things as the safe34and25the locked file cabinet36. Even though these are securely locked, they could be susceptible to security risks by someone simply removing the entire safe34or locked file cabinet36from the security-sensitive premises. Then these could be opened at some other location to remove the security-sensitive documents. Also, there are other security problems, such as unauthorized personnel making a covert entry through the building structure into the secured area. Aspects of the present invention relate to maintaining security for these sorts of items and situations.

With the above being given as further background information, there will now be described the various embodiments of the present invention.

A first embodiment of the present invention will now be described with reference toFIGS. 1–5. As indicated previously in the introductory portion of this text under the subject heading “Background Art”, there is one type of security problem where there is a security-sensitive area where the surrounding walls are not true floor to true ceiling walls, but extend only partially toward the true ceiling. Then there is a false ceiling made up of ceiling tiles which are supported by metal support members (beams) that extend in a grid-like pattern over the ceiling area at a location spaced downwardly from the true ceiling. Also (as indicated earlier in this text), in the prior art where that area with the false ceiling tiles is security-sensitive, in many instances the use of ceiling tile clips is required to be installed in the ceiling system. Then when any of these ceiling tile clips are disturbed (for example by a person moving or removing one of the ceiling tiles), visual inspection will indicate that this disturbance has occurred, thus indicating the possible occurrence of a covert intrusion. Both the initial installation of the ceiling tile clips and the regular visual inspection are costly. Also, if a covert intrusion has occurred, it may be many hours later that the visual inspection is made. This first embodiment is designed to alleviate this problem.

To describe now this first embodiment reference is first made toFIG. 2which shows a portion of the aforementioned false ceiling24, and specifically there is shown inFIG. 2four of the individual ceiling tiles46supported by the support members formed in a rectangular grid pattern, these support members being indicated schematically at48. Depending upon the size of the area of the false ceiling24, there could be as many as several hundred tiles46. These are arranged in a rectangular grid pattern, and the four tiles46that are shown inFIG. 2are arranged in such a configuration, so that there is a juncture location50at which four adjacent corners52of the tiles46meet are closely adjacent to one another.

In accordance with the present invention, there is located at each of these juncture locations50a tamper-indicating device54. This device54incorporates basic RFID technology, and in this particular embodiment comprises an operating or transmitting section55which comprises a containing housing56, and a tamper-indicating section57which in this particular arrangement shown inFIG. 2(and also shown inFIG. 4) comprises four elongate fingers or tendrils58which are operatively connected to the transmitting section55. As shown herein, these four tendrils extend outwardly from the housing56, with these tendrils58being oriented at right angles to one another. As can be seen inFIG. 2, each of these tendrils58reaches outwardly to extend over the corner portion52of a related ceiling tile46. Each tendril58is bonded or otherwise secured to its related ceiling tile46. If one of these ceiling tiles46is moved, as will be described later herein, the tendril58(which is attached to that tile46) would break or otherwise be damaged so as to cause a separation or break of a frangible wire of the tendril58.

When one of the tendrils58is so damaged, this causes the tamper-indicating device54to transmit an electromagnetic alarm signal (desirably an RFID signal which would identify that particular tamper-indicating device) to a suitable receiver/monitor indicated schematically at59, which in turn provides a signal to cause remedial action to be taken (seeFIG. 1). Such action quite likely would be an on site investigation at the location of signal producing RF tamper-indicating device or devices54to see if a covert intrusion has been made into the secured area.

InFIG. 4, there is shown an RF tamper-indicating device54which has four such tendrils58, and inFIG. 3, there is shown another RF tamper-indicating device60having an operating section61with two tendrils62extending oppositely from one another. It can be seen inFIG. 2that this RF tamper-indicating device60is used at a location where there are only two adjacent ceiling tiles46.

The tamper-indicating device54and60can be considered as a specialized form of an RFID tag. Accordingly, in the following text, for convenience, the tamper-indicating device will often be referred to as a “tag”, “RF tag”, or “RFID tag”.

While the first embodiment of the present invention has been described only with reference to the ceiling tiles46, it is to be understood that it could be applied to other components of the building structure12. For example, the windows30may be of a nature that these are seldom opened (or opened not at all), and yet these would present possible opportunities for a covert entry. The radio frequency tamper-indicating device54or60could be used with these in generally the same manner as indicated above. Also, there may be structural panels or components which are joined together to form, for example, the walls or ceiling portions of some other design, and the radio frequency tags or members54and/or60could be used to provide security at those locations also.

To describe the components of the operating section55of the RF tag54or60, reference is made toFIG. 5. In the text which follows, since the operating components of the tags54and60are identical (or substantially identical), reference will be made only to the tag54with the understanding that the description refers as well to the tag60. These operating components are collectively designated as a signal generating apparatus, which is identified by the numeral63. This apparatus63comprises a transceiver64that is operatively connected to an antenna66. The transceiver64has the capability to transmit through the antenna66an electromagnetic signal to the receiver monitor59(seeFIG. 1).

The transceiver64is also operatively connected to a micro-controller68(e.g., a microprocessor), such as the Texas Instruments MSP430 series or any other suitable processor, and has an operative connection at70to a battery72which in turn is connected to ground at74. Any conventional transceiver64can be used as long as it is compatible with the micro-controller68and can be activated by a signal from the micro-controller68. The micro-controller68is normally in a very low power “sleep mode” until activated. To activate the micro-controller68there is provided a connection at76to a resistor78that is in turn connected to a positive voltage terminal79from the battery72. The connection at76also connects to the aforementioned frangible wire of the tendril58. This frangible wire is indicated herein at80and (as indicated previously) is part of its related tendril58. The other end of the frangible wire connects to a ground at82. In this particular embodiment, the frangible wire80extends in an elongate loop, and the connections at76and82are adjacent to the RF tag housing56. The resistance level of the wire80is relatively low and the resistance level of the resistor78is relatively high. Accordingly, in the sleep mode very little current flows through the resistor78, and the voltage at the connection76is essentially at ground.

To describe now the operation of the RF tag54, as indicated above, the micro-controller (micro-controller)68is normally in the low power sleep mode. When a security breach breaks the frangible wire80in the tendril58, this causes the connection at76to swing from a low voltage state to the voltage at the terminal79through the resister78. This state causes an edge triggered interrupt within the micro-controller (micro-controller)68, and the micro-controller in turn powers up from its sleep state and activates the transceiver64(functioning as a transmitter). The transceiver64then sends a signal through the antenna66to the receiver/monitor59. This signal which is sent to the receiver/monitor59gives a message indicating that “I am damaged; my wire80has been broken or disconnected”.

This particular type of RFID tag (tamper-indicating device)54described in reference toFIG. 5is constructed so that in the sleep mode almost no charge is required to maintain the alert condition of the device54, and the device54could be operational in its sleep mode, for as long as possibly two years or more. At that time, another battery could be installed, or assuming the cost of the RF tag54is sufficiently low cost, a new tag54could be installed.

Alternatively, this system could be arranged so that the tamper-indicating devices54and60would be made as passive RFID tags where the tag54or60would not have a power source as a battery72, and the power of an interrogation signal would be sufficient to generate the response as needed from the tag54or60. In this instance the tags54and60would likely be arranged so that when interrogated, when the tag54or60is intact (i.e., the wire80is not broken), the tag54or60would give an “I'm okay” response. On the other hand, when the tag54or60is interrogated and no response is received, then this lack of a response would be interpreted as indicating that the tag54and60is inoperative (which would usually mean that the wire80is broken or damaged.

The tamper detecting device84by which this could be accomplished is shown schematically inFIG. 5A. There is a receiving antenna86, operatively connected to one end of the wire loop80, with the other end of the loop80being connected to an input87of the operating circuitry88which would include the micro-controller and other related components. The output of the operating section88connects to a transmitting antenna90from which the modulated return signal is directed back to the interrogating/receiving location or simply back to one or more receiving locations. The operating section88would be activated by the energy that the receiving antenna86absorbs from the interrogating signal and modulates this in a manner that the modulated signal would travel from the transmitting antenna90back to the receiving location.

In operation, when the wire80is intact, the interrogating signals would generate a modulated response that would be received as an “I'm okay” signal. Since the modulated response identifies that particular tag54, this response will be interpreted as coming from a particular tag location. On the other hand, when the wire80is broken, the power from the interrogating signal is not transmitted from the receiving antenna and no response is generated from the operating section88. Thus, the transceiver/monitoring apparatus would recognize that no response was given to that interrogated signal and this would indicate that the wire80at this particular tag was broken, and thus indicating a possible security risk occurrence.

A modified version of the device is shown inFIG. 5B. The components of the device shown inFIG. 5Bwhich are the same as or similar to components of the tamper-indicating device84,FIG. 5A, will be given light numerical designation with a (′) designation distinguishing those of this modified version ofFIG. 5B. The tamper-indicating device84′ ofFIG. 5Band comprises the same antennas86′ and90′, the circuitry88′, and the wire loop80′. However, the wire loop80′ is not connected in series between the antenna86′ and the circuitry88′. Rather, the wire loop is connected to the circuitry88′ and its intact and non-intact configurations are detected in the manner described previously herein relative to the embodiment shown inFIG. 5. Also, the receiving antenna86′ has a direct connection at87′ to the circuitry88′. The return signal from the circuitry88′ is, as in the circuitry ofFIG. 5A, transmitted to the transmitting antenna90′.

Within the broader scope of the present invention, there could be a number of variations. Three of these are shown as additional embodiments inFIGS. 6A,6B and6C.

Initially the second embodiment shown inFIG. 6Awill be described. In describing this second embodiment, components of the second embodiment which are essentially the same as (or similar to) components of the first embodiment will be given like numerical designations, with a “a” suffix distinguishing those of the second embodiment. The tag in the embodiment ofFIG. 6Ais the same as shown inFIG. 5, in that there is the transceiver64, the antenna66, the micro-controller68, and the battery72, as shown inFIG. 5(not shown inFIG. 6A).

Accordingly, only those components of the second embodiment shown which function somewhat differently or are in a somewhat different arrangement are illustrated in6A.

InFIG. 6A, there is the connection76ato the micro-controller (68inFIG. 5), and there is also the voltage source79awhich connects to the connection76athrough the high resistance resistor78a. However, instead of having the frangible wire80, there is provided a thermistor92aconnected to the connection76aand to the ground connection82a. This thermistor92anormally is conductive, but if the ambient temperature rises above a predetermined level, the electrical resistance increases. Accordingly, this will initiate a signal to the micro-controller68which will in turn transmit an alarm signal that there is a high temperature condition at the thermistor92a, this high temperature condition possibly resulting from a fire.

InFIG. 6B, there is shown a third embodiment, and as in the description relative to the embodiment ofFIG. 6A, the components of this third embodiment which correspond to components in the first and/or second embodiments will be given like numerical designations, but with a “b” suffix distinguishing those of the third embodiment.

This RF tag of the third embodiment is somewhat similar to the second embodiment ofFIG. 6A, but it differs in that the resistor78bis connected between the connecting points76band82b. Then there is located between the voltage source79band the connection76ba phototransistor94b. The phototransistor94bis normally nonconductive, but when a light is shone upon the phototransistor94b, it then becomes conductive. Accordingly, it can be seen that in normal operation (when there is no light directed to the phototransistor94b) the contact76bwill be at ground potential. Then when the phototransistor94bbecomes conductive, thus forming a conductive path from the points79bto76b, this activates the micro-controller to cause the alarm signal to be generated. For example, this RF tag could be located in a dark room, and if an anomalous light source is detected, this would create an alarm signal.

This third embodiment could be used in a variety of situations, and these are discussed further later in this text. However, to give one example at this time, the light sensitive surface of the photoresister could normally be covered by an opaque cover in an environment where there is light. The security intrusion or movement of security-sensitive item would result in the opaque cover being removed from the light sensitive surface, thus triggering an alarm.

FIG. 6Cshows a fourth embodiment, and components of this fourth embodiment which are similar to prior embodiments will be given like numerical designations with a “c” suffix distinguishing those in the fourth embodiment. This RF tag54of the fourth embodiment is substantially the same as the third embodiment ofFIG. 6B, except that in place of the photo transistor94b, there is provided a magnetic reed switch96cwhich is normally open. Then when the switch96ccomes in proximity to a source97cof a magnetic field, then the switch element98ccloses. An application of this embodiment (in a somewhat modified form) will be described later herein.

Reference is now made toFIGS. 7 and 8which show a fifth embodiment. In describing this fifth embodiment ofFIGS. 7 and 8, components which are similar to corresponding components in one or more of the prior embodiments will be given a like numerical designation or designations, with a “d” suffix distinguishing those of the fifth embodiment.

FIG. 7is a side elevational view where there are shown two objects100dand102d, with these having first parallel and aligned surfaces104dand106d, respectively, aligned in a common plane, and two other parallel surfaces108dand110dwhich face one another and are spaced laterally from one another, with the surfaces104dand108dbeing at right angles to one another and meeting at a corner edge112d, and the surfaces106dand110dalso being at right angles to one another and meeting at an edge location114d. These two objects100dand102dcould be two building structural components which are adjacent to one another, or the object100dcould be stationary structure, and the object102dcould be a security-sensitive container or some other security-sensitive object which is moveable and adjacent to the stationary structure100d. Or these two members or components100dand102dcould be two moveable objects which in a normal configuration would be adjacent to, or at least contiguous to, one another, but or of such a nature that when one of these is moved relative to the other, this would indicate an occurrence that may relate to a security risk.

With further reference toFIGS. 7 and 8, the radio frequency tag or member54dcomprises a housing56dcontaining the operating components and one arm or extension member58dwhich is comparable to the tendril extension member58. The housing56dhas at its bottom surface an adhesive coating116d, by which the housing56dcan be securely bonded to the surface106d. The tendril or arm58dhas two portions, namely a first portion118dwhich is directly connected into the housing56d, and a second portion120dwhich is at the outward end of the tendril58d(i.e., further from the housing56d). The two tendril portions118dand120dare joined to one another along a serrated or otherwise weakened juncture line or location122dso that the two sections118dand120dcan be more easily separated from one another at the location122d.

There are provided a pair of stiffening plates,124dand126d. The stiffening plate124dis fixedly connected (e.g., by bonding) to the tendril portion118d, and the other stiffening plate126dis fixedly attached (e.g., bonded) to the tendril portion120d. These two plates124dand126dhave adjacent edges128dwhich are positioned closely to one another on opposite sides of the serrated or weakened location122d.

In the plan view ofFIG. 8, it can be seen that the tendril58dcomprises the wire loop80dembedded into a rather thin elongate strip of material130d. This could be plastic material or a plastic/fabric material could be similar to a piece of adhesive tape. The lower surface of the two tendril portions124dand126deach have an adhesive layer132dand134d, respectively, by which the tendril portions126dand124dare bonded to their respective upper surfaces106dand104d.

To describe the operation of this fifth embodiment ofFIGS. 7 and 8, it should first be noted that the two rigid plates124dand126dare each bonded to their respective tendril portions118dand120dthat are in turn bonded to the surfaces106dand104dof the objects102dand100dso that two rigid plates124dand126dand the tendril portions118dand120dare fixedly connected to their respective objects100dand102d. Thus, when there is even a slight relative movement between the two objects100dand102d, there will be a break occurring along the serrated location122dof the tendril58d.

To describe now the sixth embodiment of the present invention, shown inFIG. 9. As with the prior embodiments, components which are similar to the components of the prior embodiments will be given like numerical designations, with an “e” suffix distinguishing those of this sixth embodiment.

InFIG. 9the RF tag or member54eis positioned between two objects100eand102e, having facing flat surfaces106eand108e—which are closely adjacent to one another, with only the thickness of the RF tag54eseparating the two surfaces106eand108e. The object100ecould be, for example, a table top or a counter top, and the object102e, could be, for example, a security-sensitive item such as a piece of computer equipment, or possibly a locked container which itself contains security-sensitive items.

This RF tag54dhas a housing56eand a single tendril58e. The overall configuration of this tag56ecan be the same as, or substantially the same as the tag54dof the fifth embodiment.

The housing56eis for the most part located adjacent to, but spaced laterally from, the object102eso that its antenna is not shielded by the object102e. The housing56ehas on its lower surface an adhesive layer116eso as to be bonded to the surface106e, and the upper surface of the tendril58ehas an upper adhesive surface134eso as to be bonded to the surface108e. In addition, the tendril58ehas bonded to its lower surface a rigid plate member126e. There is a serrated or weakened portion122ein the tendril58eat a location closely adjacent to the housing56e.

To describe the operation of this sixth embodiment, reference is now made toFIGS. 10 and 11. Let us assume (as suggested earlier) that the lower member100eis a table top and the object102eis a piece of computer equipment which is security-sensitive. Further, it is expected that the piece of computer equipment102eis to remain at a stationary location on the table top100efor an extended length of time. To accomplish this, a plurality of the RF tags54eare placed at spaced locations along the bottom surface108eof the object (e.g., computer equipment)102e, so that the top adhesive layer134sticks to the lower surface108eof the computer equipment102e. Then the piece of computer equipment102eis placed on the top surface106eof the table top100eso that the bottom adhesive surfaces116eof each of the housing portions56eof the three RF tags54eadheres to the upper surface106eof the table top100e. The adhesive layer116eand134ecould initially be covered by a removable protective layer.

Now let us assume that someone wishes to remove this piece of computer equipment102efrom its position on top of the table100e. Obviously, if the person simply lifts the computer equipment102efrom the table, each of the housing sections56eof the three tags54ewill adhere to the upper surface106eof the table top100e, and the tendril sections58eof each of the tags54ewill adhere to the piece of computer equipment102e. This will cause the wire loop80and each of the tendrils58eto break, with the RF tags54egiving the alarm signal.

Now let us take the situation where the thief is aware of the use of the RF tags, and the thief attempts to somehow sever the adhesive layers116that adhere to the surface106eor possibly the adhesive layers of the tendril portions58ethat adhere to the bottom surface of the computer equipment102e. Let us further assume that this person is successful of slipping a very thin severing tool underneath the computer equipment102e. It is likely that this attempt to sever, for example, the RF tag54eon the right side ofFIG. 11will raise the right side of the computer equipment102eat least a short distance. This would cause the computer equipment102eto rotate at least slightly about the left RF tag54eso as to tend to raise at least one of the other RF tags54eslightly above the surface106e. The effect of this would be to separate the housing56efrom the tendril portion58ealong the severance line122e, thus causing the alarm signal to be given.

A seventh embodiment of the present invention is shown inFIG. 12. As in the description of the other embodiments, components of earlier embodiment will be given like numerical designation with the “f” distinguishing those of this seventh embodiment.

An examination ofFIG. 12will indicate that the RF tag54fof this seventh embodiment is very similar to the fifth embodiment, except instead of having a single tendril section58e, there are two oppositely extending tendril sections58f.

Thus, there is the central housing section56fand the two aforementioned tendril section58fon opposite sides thereof. There is a top adhesive layer134fover the top surface of each of the tendril sections58f. Also, the lower surface of the housing56fhas an adhesive layer116f.

Also, there are two rigid plates124fand126fbonded to the related tendril members58fso that the lower surface of these two rigid plates124fand126fare in the same plane as the lower adhesive layer at116fof the housing156f.

The operation of this seventh embodiment ofFIG. 12is similar to the operation of the sixth embodiment ofFIGS. 9–11. The particular application of this seventh embodiment could be used in other ways. For example, the two tendril sections58fcould be positioned beneath adjacent objects, so that either of the objects connected to their respective tendril sections58fwould activate the operating section contained in the housing56f. Also, it may be that the object in which the tamper-indicating device54is attached has a somewhat different configuration where there are two side sections (e.g., where there is a U-shaped configuration in plan view). Then the housing section56fcould be placed in an open area between the two branches of the U, and the two tamper-indicating sections58fcould be under two side portions of the object to which the tamper-indicating device54is secured. In that instance, it could be that the tamper-indicating sections58fcould be spaced further from one another, or the center-located housing section56fcould be made at a greater length so as to extend further laterally.

An eighth embodiment is illustrated inFIG. 13. As in the description of prior embodiments, the components which are the same as, or similar to, components of any of the prior embodiments will be given like numerical designations, and in this instance, with a “g” suffix distinguishing those of this eighth embodiment. The depth of the RFID tag54gis exaggerated for purposes of illustration.

The tag54gcomprises a housing56ghaving a single tendril58gextending outwardly therefrom. The bottom surface140gof the housing56gand the bottom surface141gof the tendril58geach have the same adhesive layer142gthat bonds both the housing56gand the tendril58gto the underlying surface106g.

At the outer portion of the tendril58g(i.e., further from the housing56g) there is an additional tendril component144gpositioned immediately above an outer portion of the tendril member58g, and this tendril component144ghas its lower surface bonded to the upper surface of the outer portion of the tendril58gby a bonding layer146g. The upper surface148gof the upper tendril component144ghas a bonding layer150g.

The wire member80ghas two first wire portions152gwhich extend from the housing56gthrough the main tendril member58gand at the outer portion of the tendril member portions152g, these two wire members152gtake an upturn at154gto extend into the upper tendril component144g. Then there is a connecting wire portion156gwhich connects to the upper ends of the tendril portions154g. Thus, these wire portions152g,154gand156gform a continuous loop.

The lower bonding layer142gand the upper bonding layer148gmake relatively strong bonds, while the intermediate bonding layer146gmakes a relatively weak bond.

To describe the operation of the eighth embodiment, reference is now made toFIG. 14, where it shows a pair of the RF tag members54gpositioned on a surface106gof a table100g, and there is shown an object, such as computer equipment102ghaving a lower surface108g. The lower surface108gof the computer apparatus102gis bonded to the upper bonding layer148g, and the lower surface140gof the housing56gand the lower surface141gof the tendril member58gare bonded directly to the table surface106gby the bonding layer142g.

Let us now assume that someone is attempting to remove the computer apparatus102gand also that this person recognizes that there may be some sort of security member between the apparatus102gand the support member100g. This person may simply wish to slide the computer member102gover the table surface106gin the hopes of foiling the action of the security member. However, with the arrangement of this eighth embodiment, the upper adhesive layer148gwill adhere strongly to the computer member102g, while the lower bonding layer142gwill adhere strongly to the table top106g. However, the relatively weak intermediate bonding layer146gwill give way and the upper tendril component144gwill slide laterally relative to the tendril member58g. This will sever the two wire portions154g.

Also, if it is attempted to raise one end of the computer apparatus102gthen again the upper tendril member144gwill separate from the lower tendril member58g, also breaking the wire sections154g. As in the previous embodiments, this will cause the operating components within the housing56gto signal the alarm.

A ninth embodiment of the present invention is illustrated inFIGS. 15 and 16. As in the description of prior embodiments, the components of this ninth embodiment which are the same as, or similar to, components of the earlier embodiments will be given like numerical designations, but with an “h” designation distinguishing those of this ninth embodiment.

It is contemplated that within the broader scope of the present invention, the tamper-indicating section57of the first embodiment could utilize some component other than the wire80, as shown in the25first embodiment and other embodiments. Such an arrangement is shown in this ninth embodiment.

InFIG. 15, substantially the same circuitry is shown as inFIG. 5, except that instead of having the wire80of the tendril, there is shown a magnetic reed switch96h, such as shown inFIG. 6c. However, instead of having the magnet97cofFIG. 6cas being itself a magnet, there is shown a magnetically permeable member97cwhich is closely adjacent to the magnetic reed switch element98h, with this magnetically permeable member97hbeing part of the RF tag54h.

To explain the operation of this ninth embodiment, reference will now be made toFIG. 16. InFIG. 16there is shown a stationary support structure100h, which could be, for example, a counter top or a floor of a structure. This structure100hhas formed in its upper surface a recess162h, and there is positioned in the lower part of this recess162ha permanent magnet164h. The RF tag or member54his arranged so that the magnetically permeable member97his positioned at the lower part of the housing56h, and the magnetic reed switch96his positioned immediately adjacent to the magnetically permeable member97h. Further, the housing56his shown as fitting into a recess162hformed at the lower surface108hof the security-sensitive object102h(which as in prior embodiments could be a container with security-sensitive documents, computer equipment, etc.).

With the object102h(e.g., a security-sensitive container) being positioned on the surface106hof the support structure100h, the lower portion of the housing56hof the RF member54hextends downwardly a short distance into the recess162h. In this location, the magnetically permeable member97his in contact with the magnetic member164h. (As shown inFIG. 16, there is a small gap between the magnetically permeable member90hand the permanent magnet164h, and this is simply being done for purposes of illustration to indicate that these are separate members).

Thus, the magnetic flux of the permanent magnet164hpermeates the magnetically permeable member90hto in turn cause it to simply function as an extension of the magnet164hand thus bring the reed switch98to its closed position. The magnetically permeable member97his made up of a magnetically permeable material which does not have “magnetic memory”. Accordingly, as soon as the object102his moved upwardly so as to also lift the RF tag54h, the air gap that is formed between the member97hand the magnet164his created, with the magnetic flux in the member90hdecreasing substantially so that it is not able to maintain the switch member98hin its closed position. Thus, when the switch97hmoves to its open position, this immediately sends a signal to the micro-controller to in turn produce an alarm signal.

Also, it is to be recognized, as with at least some of the other embodiments, that it is possible to arrange the RF tag54hso that it responds to an interrogating signal, in which case a modulated response is made by the RF tag54hto provide an “I'm okay” signal to the interrogating apparatus. In that case, when the object102his in a secured position, with the switch element98hwith the switch80hbeing in its closed position (as shown inFIG. 16), it will be interrogated periodically and give the “I'm okay” signal, and then will not respond when the object102his moved out of its secured position ofFIG. 16. But when the modulated response is not received, this indicates a possible security risk occurrence.

A tenth embodiment is shown with reference toFIGS. 17 and 18. As with the description of the prior embodiments, components of this tenth embodiment which are similar to components of prior embodiments will be given like numerical designations with a “k” suffix distinguishing those of this tenth embodiment. This tenth embodiment utilizes an RF tag54k, which is the same as the RF tag54of the first embodiment, where the wire extends from the contact point76to a ground location. In this tenth embodiment, instead of utilizing the wire80kin a relatively short tendril58, the wire80kextended outwardly for a more substantial length, such as ten feet, twenty feet, etc., up to the limit permitted by the design. Conceivably, the length of this wire could even be one hundred feet or several hundred feet. This wire80kcould be formed as two wires having the outer ends connected to form a—loop, or a single wire where the far end of the wire would simply be attached to a common ground with the RF tag54k.

Part of the length of this wire80kis shown, and there is illustrated schematically fasteners170kat spaced locations also the wire80k. These fasteners could be small adhesive strips. Also the wire80kcould be in or bonded to a plastic or fabric strip171kwith serrated “break” locations172kat spaced intervals along its length where the wire80kcould be more easily broken.

It is apparent that if the break is made anywhere along the length of this wire80k, this will cause the RF tag member54kto send an alarm signal. One possible use for this tenth embodiment is, for example, where there is a location with various security-sensitive objects which would need to be made secure in a very short time. This strip171kwith the wire80kand with its fasteners170kcould be wound up in a roll as shown at176kinFIG. 17, and as the wire80kwith its attached strip171kis unwound from the roll176k, it could be wrapped over, across or around various objects, and also across openings of various sorts to create a more secured environment.

A possible modification of this tenth embodiment is that portions of this plastic strip are made with a bottom adhesive layer which is made with a rather high bonding strength in areas where there are the serrated break locations122karranged at spaced locations along the strip portion172k. The bond strength of the adhesive layer is sufficiently strong so that if one section174kbetween two break lines122kis pulled up, the adjoining sections174kwould still adhere to the substrate, and the wire80kwould break at the break locations122k. Thus, if an intruder is attempting to carefully remove the wire with the strip172kcarefully to avert detection, as soon as the person raises one of these sections174kthe break will occur and thus the alarm signal will be given.

At such time as they need for security in this particular location passes, then the information would be given to the control system that the alarm signal from the tag54kwould be disregarded so that the wire80kwith the many fasteners170kand the strips172kcould all be removed from that temporarily secured area without triggering the alarm system.

It was indicated earlier in this text that the system of the present invention could advantageously be incorporated into one or more other security systems, and the one system in particular which was mentioned is described in the U.S. patent application entitled “Radio Frequency Personnel Alerting Security System and Method”, naming the same inventors as in the present patent application.

The manner in which this is done will now be described with reference toFIGS. 19 and 20. It will readily be recognized thatFIG. 19shows substantially the same building facility as shown inFIG. 1, but with a few additions. The components shown inFIG. 19which are the same as (or similar to) those shown inFIG. 1will be given like numerical designations, but with the numeral “2” preceding the numerals that appear inFIG. 1. Thus, the building facility is designated210the building structure is designated212, the desks are designated232, the safe designated234, etc.

With regard to the items which have been added toFIG. 19and which do appear inFIG. 1are several RFID tag members241, each of which is shown being associated with a security-sensitive item240. It will be recalled that earlier in this text it was indicated that these security-sensitive items240are items such as documents, computer discs, and other moveable items, which in their secured position are either locked in the vault234or locked in the file cabinets236.

However, during working hours when authorized personnel are present in the secured area213, the security-sensitive items240could be outside of the secured location and, for example, on a person's desk. There is also shown a monitoring and interrogation apparatus244which is operatively connected to one or more antennas. Four such antennas are shown at246and broken lines are shown at the top ofFIG. 19to indicate the operative connection of the two antennas246at the top of the page to the monitoring and interrogation apparatus244. The two antennas246at the bottom ofFIG. 19have similar operative connections, but which are not shown for ease of illustration.

During non-working hours, during which the security-sensitive items240should be kept in a safe place, as indicated above, these items240could be kept either in the safe234or the locked file cabinets236. Both the safe234and the locked file cabinets236are made of metal, and thus substantially block electromagnetic radiation or signals in the area.

To describe now the operation of the system of this additional security system, the monitoring and interrogation apparatus244sends out electromagnetic interrogation signals periodically through antennas246into the secured area213. Each of the security-sensitive items240has attached to it an RFID tag241, and with these sensitive security documents240being in the open, the interrogation signals will reach the RFID tags. Each tag241will send a response indicating—“I am in an open area and not in my secured location”. Now let us assume that the security-sensitive items240are locked in the safe234or the file cabinets236. Then when the interrogation signals are sent out, there will be no reply from the RFID tags241, and thus the interrogation and monitoring system244would recognize this as indicating that the items240are in their secured locations.

Let us take now a situation where the authorized personnel are in the building facility and working at their respective desks232and various documents240are on the desks of these persons. When the noon hour comes and all of the personnel in the secured area213are to leave for lunch, all of the security-sensitive items240should be placed in either the safe234or the locked file cabinets236. Also the safe234and file cabinets236should be locked and RFID tags would be operatively connected to the locking mechanisms to indicate either a locked or unlocked condition. At this time the interrogation and control apparatus244would be sending out its interrogating signals. If no response signals are received, this would mean that all of the security-sensitive items have been placed in the safe234or file cabinets236, and that these have been locked.

However, let us assume that at the noon hour the interrogation and control apparatus244sends out its series of signals to each of the RFID tags241and receives a response from one or more of these tags241, thus indicating that security-sensitive items are left in a non-secured location. When this occurs, the apparatus244sends the appropriate alarm signals to initiate precautionary action. This occurs as follows.

As soon as any one of the personnel in the security-sensitive area213approaches the exit door226, a proximity detector248recognizes that one or more persons is about to leave the area213through the door226. The proximity detector248signals this to the apparatus244which immediately sends alert signals to alert the personnel who are about to leave the area through the door226to the fact that the area213is not secure since some of the documents240or other security-sensitive items240are left out in the open. This alert signal is telling the personnel not to leave the secured area until proper steps should be taken to make sure these documents or other security-sensitive items240are placed either in the safe234or the file cabinets236. When this is accomplished, and when the personnel approach the door226, there are no such alarms given.

The alarm could be a visual display250, or an audio alarm252(vocalizing words or some sort of other alarm signal), or both. Also, it could be that in addition to giving the alert signals access through the door would either be impeded or blocked in some manner, such as by the apparatus244activating a lock254on the door. Or there could be a mechanism which would simply impede opening the door226to give a physical signal to the personnel that that person should not be leaving the area. If the person would leave the area regardless of these alert signals, then another alarm signal (indicating a more urgent alarm) could be given and appropriate security measures being taken.

Then during the non-working hours, the interrogation and control apparatus244could still function to send out its interrogation signals to see if any of these security-sensitive documents240are being removed from their security-sensitive locations (either in the safe234or the locked file cabinets236). If this is detected, then this would indicate that there has possibly been a covert entry into the secured area213and either the safe or the locked file cabinets236have been tampered with.

Other features of this system being described inFIG. 19are contained in the full text of the other patent application (these naming the same inventors as in the present patent application). Since these are incorporated by reference to such patent application, these will not be repeated in this text.

Reference is now made toFIG. 20, which shows schematically the main components of the interrogation and control apparatus shown in the other patent application. More specifically, there is indicated the motion detector (or other proximity detector)248, the two displays250and252, and also the antennas246and the lock or locks254. There is a micro-controller256which is operatively connected to the RF interrogator258that in turn sends interrogation signals through the antennas246. The motion detector244gives its input to the micro-controller256and the response to the interrogation signals come back through the antennas246, and through the interrogator258back to the micro-controller. Other inputs are provided from the various sources, which are indicated schematically and collectively at receiver260.

As indicated above, this system shown inFIGS. 19 and 20could be incorporated with the system of the present patent application, since the very same interrogation system and the antennas246could be used to send out the interrogation signals as needed, and also to receive the various alarm signals or “I'm okay” signals which would result from utilizing the system of the present invention.

Also, it becomes readily apparent from reviewing the operations of the present invention and also that the system ofFIGS. 19 and 20that these two systems complement each other in that these are directed to related but somewhat different security risks. Thus with these two systems working cooperatively with one another, the overall security of the area is enhanced.

With the system of the present invention and the system from the aforementioned U.S. patent application being combined, the interrogation and control apparatus244would also serve the function of the receiver/monitor59of the present invention. This interrogation and control apparatus would act as a receiver of signals from those tamper-indicating devices54or60which are able to generate and transmit the signal without any interrogation. However, for those embodiments of the tamper-indicating devices of the present invention which are passive and respond to an interrogating signal, then the interrogation and control apparatus244would be sending the interrogating signals and either be expecting a response or expecting no response for the items that are in the “I'm okay” condition.

In a preferred embodiment, the interrogating signals are sent sequentially and the interrogation is specific to each of the RFID tags or tampering indicating devices that are being monitored. Also the interrogation and control apparatus would have stored at its database the location of each tamper-indicating device (RFID tag) and the item or at least the type of item to which the tamper-indicating device (tag) attached or associated, and also its location. Therefore when the interrogations are made for the tags241that are associated with the security-sensitive items240(which should be available for interrogation only during certain periods) when the interrogating signals are sent, this would indicate the following.

During those periods where the security-sensitive items240are expected to be out of the locked file cabinets236or safe234, then the response would be indicated as a signal indicating “I am present in the area of interrogation and therefore have not yet been taken out of this secured area”. Further, if no response is received during the time periods where the items240are supposed to be in their secured location, the lack of a signal would indicate that these are in the safe234or the locked file cabinets236. On the other hand a response during these periods where these items240are supposed to be securely placed in the file cabinets236and234would indicate a security risk occurrence.

With regard to the items242, as indicated above for the some of the tamper-indicating devices, such as the device54of the present invention, the interrogation and control apparatus244may never receive a signal from those items242, since they would not have been tampered with and their tamper-indicating devices would remain in the intact position. For other items242which have their tamper-indicating devices or RFID tags passive, then a response would be a expected, and this would be a signal indicating “I'm okay; my tamper-responsive section is intact”. On the other hand, a lack of a signal in response to an interrogation from the passive RFID tags would indicate that the tamper-indicating device54was in its non-intact position and would indicate a possibility of a security risk occurrence.

FIGS. 21 and 22show a system310, embodying various aspects of the invention, for remotely monitoring the status of multiple fire extinguishers. The system310comprises a plurality of sensors adapted to be coupled to respective fire extinguishers312in sensing relation to the fire extinguishers312. The sensors are each configured to sense a parameter of the fire extinguisher312to which it is coupled. In the illustrated embodiment, at least some of the fire extinguishers312have associated therewith a motion sensor314configured to sense if the fire extinguisher is moved.

In some embodiments, one or more fire extinguishers312have associated therewith an enable or trigger pin sensor316configured to sense if a fire extinguisher enable pin (trigger pin) is removed or tampered with. More particularly, in some embodiments, the trigger pin sensor316is defined by a tamper indicating device as described above in connection withFIGS. 5,5A,5B,6A,6B,6C,7,8,9,10,11,12or13, for example.

Still further, in the illustrated embodiment, at least some of the fire extinguishers312have associated therewith a pressure sensor318configured to sense fire extinguisher pressure (e.g., to determine if the fire extinguisher312is overcharged or undercharged).

The system310further includes a plurality of transmitters320(and internal or external antennas321) associated with respective fire extinguishers312. The term “transmitter,” as used herein, is intended to encompass devices that are selectively polled, in a wireless manner, by an interrogator. In some embodiments, the transmitters320are defined by transceivers capable of receiving as well as transmitting. The “extinguisher” initiates a communication sequence, using a transmitter320, when an alarm condition occurs. Each transmitter320is associated with or supported from a fire extinguisher12and coupled to the sensors314,316, and318associated with that fire extinguisher312. The transmitters320are each configured to selectively transmit information identifying the fire extinguisher with which the transmitter is associated and to selectively transmit information indicating what the sensors314,316, or318are sensing. In some embodiments, the transmitters320are defined by, for example, a 915 MHz or other band RF transceiver. These are small, inexpensive, systems with a predetermined range (e.g., about 300 feet of range). In addition, they are low enough in power not to require FCC licensing. An example of the type of technology presently available is the uD3 system used to monitor urban power meters. The uD3 system is described at www.udatanet.com.

In some embodiments, at least some of the transmitters320are defined by radio frequency identification devices322that respectively include transmitter320, a processor324coupled to the transmitter320, and a battery326coupled to the transmitter320and processor324to supply power to the transmitter320and processor324. Batteries are readily available that can operate the system310for over five years, for example, if the extinguishers are polled just a few times each month. A typical battery is, for example, a 3.7 volt 350 mA hour lithium battery.

The radio frequency identification devices322each include a common housing328supporting or enclosing the transmitter320, processor324, and, in some embodiments, the battery326. The radio frequency identification devices322are configured to selectively identify themselves to the receiver. For example, the radio frequency identification devices322can be of a design as described in one or more of the following commonly assigned patent applications, which are incorporated herein by reference: U.S. patent application Attorney Ser. No. 10/263,826, filed Oct. 2, 2002, entitled “Radio Frequency Identification Device Communications Systems, Wireless Communication Devices, Wireless Communication Systems, Backscatter Communication Methods, Radio Frequency Identification Device Communication Methods and a Radio Frequency Identification Device” by inventors Michael A. Hughes and Richard M. Pratt; U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/263,809, filed Oct. 2, 2002, entitled “Method of Simultaneously Reading Multiple Radio Frequency Tags, RF Tag, and RF Reader”, by inventors Emre Ertin, Richard M. Pratt, Michael A. Hughes, Kevin L. Priddy, and Wayne M. Lechelt; U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/263,873, filed Oct. 2, 2002, entitled “RFID System and Method Including Tag ID Compression”, by inventors Michael A. Hughes and Richard M. Pratt; U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/264,078, filed Oct. 2, 2002, entitled “System and Method to Identify Multiple RFID Tags”, by inventors Michael A. Hughes and Richard M. Pratt; U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/263,940, filed Oct. 2, 2002, entitled “Radio Frequency Identification Devices, Backscatter Communication Device Wake-Up Methods, Communication Device Wake-Up Methods and A Radio Frequency Identification Device Wake-Up Method”, by inventors Richard Pratt and Michael Hughes; U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/263,997, filed Oct. 2, 2002, entitled “Wireless Communication Systems, Radio Frequency Identification Devices, Methods of Enhancing a Communications Range of a Radio Frequency Identification Device, and Wireless Communication Methods”, by inventors Richard Pratt and Steven B. Thompson; U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/263,670, filed Oct. 2, 2002, entitled “Wireless Communications Devices, Methods of Processing a Wireless Communication Signal, Wireless Communication Synchronization Methods and a Radio Frequency Identification Device Communication Method”, by inventors Richard M. Pratt and Steven B. Thompson; U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/263,656, filed Oct. 2, 2002, entitled “Wireless Communications Systems, Radio Frequency Identification Devices, Wireless Communications Methods, and Radio Frequency Identification Device Communications Methods”, by inventors Richard Pratt and Steven B. Thompson; U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/263,635, filed Oct. 4, 2002, entitled “A Challenged-Based Tag Authentication Model”, by inventors Michael A. Hughes and Richard M. Pratt; U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/589,001, filed Jun. 6, 2000, entitled “Remote Communication System and Method”, by inventors R. W. Gilbert, G. A. Anderson, K. D. Steele, and C. L. Carrender; U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/802,408; filed Mar. 9, 2001, entitled “Multi-Level RF Identification System”; by inventors R. W. Gilbert, G. A. Anderson, and K. D. Steele; U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/833,465, filed Apr. 11, 2001, entitled “System and Method for Controlling Remote Device”, by inventors C. L. Carrender, R. W. Gilbert, J. W. Scott, and D. Clark; U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/588,997, filed Jun. 6, 2000, entitled “Phase Modulation in RF Tag”, by inventors R. W. Gilbert and C. L. Carrender; U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/589,000, filed Jun. 6, 2000; entitled “Multi-Frequency Communication System and Method”, by inventors R. W. Gilbert and C. L. Carrender; U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/588,998; filed Jun. 6, 2000, entitled “Distance/Ranging by Determination of RF Phase Delta”, by inventor C. L. Carrender; U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/797,539, filed Feb. 28, 2001, entitled “Antenna Matching Circuit”, by inventor C. L. Carrender; U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/833,391, filed Apr. 11, 2001, entitled “Frequency Hopping RFID Reader”, by inventor C. L. Carrender. The advantages of selecting any of the designs are the same as the advantages suggested in the respective patent applications.

In some embodiments, the microprocessor324is a simple, low cost, 8-bit micro controller that monitors the three sensors314,316,318and send/receive commands from the transceiver320. An ID code is stored in nonvolatile memory of the microprocessor324, thus uniquely identifying the extinguisher. In some embodiments, additional locations in the nonvolatile memory, or additional memory, is used to store the maintenance record, and location of the extinguisher.

The system310further includes a receiver330in selective wireless communications with the transmitters320. In some embodiments, the receiver330is defined by a transceiver.

The system310further includes a computer332coupled to the receiver. In some embodiments, the computer332is configured to maintain testing schedules for respective fire extinguishers312in, for example, a maintenance database334. In some embodiments, the computer332is configured to provide an output when it is time for an extinguisher312to be inspected, tested, and/or undergo maintenance. For example, the computer332includes an alarm system335defined, for example, by a monitor configured to provide visual information or alerts and/or a speaker configured to provide audible information.

The computer332is also configured to selectively store information from a plurality of the transmitters320. More particularly, the computer is configured to selectively store information from the sensors314,316, and318coupled to a transmitter320as well as information identifying the transmitter320and/or the fire extinguisher312to which the transmitter320is attached. The information is stored, for example, in maintenance database334.

In some embodiments, the computer332contains all of the records also recorded in the individual extinguishers312to meet fire protection system standards/requirements. Thus, maintenance records, histories, charging status, etc., are stored in two locations—in the computer332and in the memory of the microprocessors324associated with the various fire extinguishers312. In some embodiments, the computer332is interfaced to an alarm panel containing a map of the extinguishers location, and thus can indicate when an event occurred, what extinguisher it was, and its location. In some embodiments, operators of the computer332, such as Safety/Security Managers may use the computer to poll individual extinguishers312to ascertain operability of the extinguisher, as well as determine condition/status radio frequency identification device system components, i.e., transmitters320, transceivers330, microprocessors324, and battery units326. This will permit Safety/Security Managers to be alerted to and address anomalies that may be developing in regard to these system components, prior to a component actually malfunctioning.

In some embodiments, at least one of the transmitters320is configured to communicate with the receiver330(seeFIG. 22) via another of the transmitters320. More particularly, one or more of the transmitters320are configured to communicate in a daisy-chain fashion.

In alternative embodiments, a radio frequency identification device322is used to define one of the transmitters320and also define a sensor. For example, in one embodiment, a radio frequency identification device322is used to define one of the transmitters320and also define a sensor14to sense if the associated fire extinguisher312is moved. In these embodiments, the radio frequency identification device322includes a conductor336configured to be broken in response to movement of the associated fire extinguisher312. In some embodiments, the radio frequency identification device322includes frangible material including a conductor336configured to be broken in response to movement of the associated fire extinguisher312. The conductor336can be arranged in a manner similar to the manner in which conductor80,80′, etc. is arranged as described above in connection withFIGS. 5,5A,5B,6A,6B,6C,7,8,9,10,11,12or13, for example.

Thus, a system has been provided that allows for the remote monitoring of fire extinguishing equipment/protection systems within areas governed by standards/requirements established by Underwriters Laboratories, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), and/or the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). The system helps ensure building/facility Safety/Security Managers are immediately alerted/notified to anomalies relating to tamper, theft, operability of fire extinguishers, and to enhance/ensure the timely inspection, testing, maintenance, management, record keeping of these systems, as well as potential anomalies that may be developing in regard to radio frequency identification devices.

The system makes it possible for Safety/Security Managers to remotely monitor the status of fire extinguishers to help ensure, 1) they are in their designated locations, 2) immediate altering in the event of tampering/theft, 3) immediate alerting in the event an extinguisher's pressure gauge reading/indicator falls below the operable range/position, 4) immediate alerting when an extinguisher is required to undergo scheduled inspection/testing/maintenance, and/or 5) timely record keeping of these systems. Various aspects of the invention provide building/facility Safety/Security Managers a reliable and cost effective way to ensure fire extinguishers are available, serviceable, and operational in the event of an emergency.

A human no longer needs to manually inspect every extinguisher. In addition, should tampering, a loss of pressure, etc., occur, the central computer can immediately indicate an alarm condition. Existing fire extinguishing systems can be retrofitted with the sensor technology disclosed herein.

Because each extinguisher “tag” will has its own unique address, multiple extinguishers can communicate with the central computer, and indeed with each other. Thus, extinguishers can communicate in daisy chain to relay information to their nearest neighbor so that even remote extinguishers can get information to the central computer even though they are out of 300 feet of range, i.e., they only need to be within 300 feet of a tagged extinguisher as long as there is an eventual path to the central computer.