Patent Publication Number: US-2020280626-A1

Title: System and apparatus for mitigating of bad posture and property loss through computer-assisted appliance

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This patent application is a continuation application of, and claims priority to, co-pending Ser. No. 15/042,709, filed on Feb. 12, 2016, which was a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/549,057, filed Jul. 13, 2012, now abandoned, which claimed priority to then co-pending U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/507,255, filed on Jul. 13, 2011, now expired. The disclosures of these foregoing applications are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. 
    
    
     TECHNICAL FIELD 
     The novel technology relates generally to the field of electronic devices, and, more specifically, to electronic personal and property security devices. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Many activities performed on a frequent basis, such as riding in a vehicle or locating items, present repeated and unnecessary hindrances to everyday lives. A great deal of time and energy is spent looking for car keys or a smartphone, and habituation of bad habits, such as bad posture, further affect health and wellness. 
     Miniaturization of technologies presents a potential boon to resolving these hindrances. However, most technologies aimed at resolving such everyday hindrances require excessively sized solutions and/or complicated configuration routines. Ultimately, what is needed is a compact, simple solution for location and awareness in one&#39;s life. 
     The present novel technology addresses these needs. 
     SUMMARY 
     The present novel technology relates to object location and special awareness systems. 
     The details of one or more embodiments of the subject matter described in this specification are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the description below. Other features, aspects, and advantages of the subject matter will become apparent from the description, the drawings, and the claims. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1  depicts a schematic diagram of a System of a first embodiment of the present novel technology. 
         FIG. 2A  depicts a schematic representation of a subset of System in the embodiment of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 2B  depicts a second schematic representation of a subset of System in the embodiment of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 3A  depicts a first schematic representation of the System of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 3B  depicts a second schematic representation of the System of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 4A  depicts screenshots for portions of the System of  FIG. 1 , more specifically a Home page. 
         FIG. 4B  depicts screenshots for portions of the System of  FIG. 1 , more specifically an Overview and Instructions page. 
         FIG. 5A  depicts screenshots for portions of the System of  FIG. 1 , more specifically a Device Status and Settings page. 
         FIG. 5B  depicts screenshots for portions of the System of  FIG. 1 , more specifically a Sensor Manager page. 
         FIG. 6  depicts screenshots for portions of the System of  FIG. 1 , more specifically a Posture and Position Settings page. 
         FIG. 7A  depicts sample screenshots for portions of the System of  FIG. 1 , more specifically a Biofeedback Alerts page. 
         FIG. 7B  depicts sample screenshots for portions of the System of  FIG. 1 , more specifically a How to Attach Sensors page. 
         FIG. 8  depicts sample screenshots for portions of the System of  FIG. 1 , more specifically a Progress Chart page. 
         FIG. 9  depicts a high-level diagram of a second implementation of the System. 
         FIG. 10A  depicts a first block diagram of certain components of the System of  FIG. 9 . 
         FIG. 10B  depicts a second block diagram of an example computer device associated with the System of  FIG. 9 . 
         FIG. 11A  depicts a first functional schematic representation of the System of  FIG. 9  with a controller and sensors in operating range. 
         FIG. 11B  depicts a second functional schematic representation of the System of  FIG. 9  with a controller and sensors beyond operating range with triggered alarm. 
         FIG. 11C  depicts a third functional schematic representation of the System of  FIG. 9  with a controller and sensors returned to operating range. 
         FIG. 12A  depicts a schematic demonstrating the functionality of the System of  FIG. 9  with a controller, sensor(s), and computer device in operating range. 
         FIG. 12B  depicts a schematic demonstrating the functionality of the System of  FIG. 9  with a controller, sensor(s), and computer device beyond operating range, triggering all alarms. 
         FIG. 12C  depicts a schematic demonstrating the functionality of the System of  FIG. 9  with a controller, sensor(s), and computer device returned to operating range. 
         FIG. 13A  depicts a schematic demonstrating the functionality of the System of  FIG. 9  with a computer device and sensor(s) in operating range. 
         FIG. 13B  depicts a schematic demonstrating the functionality of the System of  FIG. 9  with a computer device and sensor(s) beyond operating range, triggering alarms in both devices. 
         FIG. 13C  depicts a schematic demonstrating the functionality of the System of  FIG. 9  with a computer device and sensors with one sensor beyond operating range, triggering alarms in computer device and out-of-range sensor. 
         FIG. 13D  depicts a schematic demonstrating the functionality of the System of  FIG. 9  with a computer device and sensor(s) returned to operating range. 
         FIG. 14A  depicts a schematic demonstrating the functionality of the System of  FIG. 9  with a controller having a built-in panic button/actuator device configuration that may initiate distress calls and/or messages to emergency services and/or third parties. 
         FIG. 14B  depicts a schematic demonstrating the functionality of the System of  FIG. 9  with a computer device having a built-in panic button/actuator device configuration that may initiate distress calls and/or messages to emergency services and/or third parties. 
         FIG. 15A  depicts a schematic demonstrating the functionality of the System of  FIG. 9  with a controller having a panic button and a static computer device connected to a landline communication service. 
         FIG. 15B  depicts a schematic demonstrating the functionality of the System of  FIG. 9  with a first, handheld computer device having a panic button and a second, static computer device connected to a landline communication service communicating with third-parties and/or emergency services. 
         FIG. 15C  depicts a schematic demonstrating the functionality of the System of  FIG. 9  with a first, mobile computer device having a panic button communicating with a landline communication service via a second, static computer device. 
         FIG. 16A  illustrates screenshot of the System of  FIG. 9 , more specifically a Home page. 
         FIG. 16B  illustrates screenshot of the System of  FIG. 9 , more specifically a System Overview and Instructions page. 
         FIG. 16C  illustrates screenshot of the System of  FIG. 9 , more specifically a Protected List page. 
         FIG. 16D  illustrates screenshot of the System of  FIG. 9 , more specifically a Device Settings page. 
         FIG. 16E  illustrates screenshot of the System of  FIG. 9 , more specifically an Emergency Notifications page. 
         FIG. 16F  illustrates screenshot of the System of  FIG. 9 , more specifically a “911” Assistance page. 
         FIG. 16G  illustrates screenshot of the System of  FIG. 9 , more specifically a first Definitions page. 
         FIG. 16H  illustrates screenshot of the System of  FIG. 9 , more specifically a second Definitions page. 
         FIG. 16I  illustrates screenshot of the System of  FIG. 9 , more specifically a Find and Seek page. 
         FIG. 16J  illustrates screenshot of the System of  FIG. 9 , more specifically a Test System page. 
         FIG. 16K  illustrates screenshot of the System of  FIG. 9 , more specifically an Alerts page. 
         FIG. 17A  depicts a first block diagram associated with the System of  FIG. 9 , including a communication device enabled for remote activation of emergency call functionality in the  FIG. 9 . 
         FIG. 17B  depicts a second block diagram associated with the System of  FIG. 9 , including a communication device enabled for remote activation of emergency call functionality in the  FIG. 9 . 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     For the purposes of promoting an understanding of the principles of the novel technology and presenting its currently understood best mode of operation, reference will now be made to the embodiments illustrated in the drawings and specific language will be used to describe the same. It will nevertheless be understood that no limitation of the scope of the novel technology is thereby intended, with such alterations and further modifications in the illustrated devices and such further applications of the principles of the novel technology as illustrated therein being contemplated as would normally occur to one skilled in the art to which the novel technology relates. Some embodiments may omit some of the components of system  100 , and some embodiments may include other components as well. The illustrated embodiments in the drawings are intended to be exemplary only. 
       FIG. 1  depicts the present novel technology as a system  100  and its component devices and representative parts of the body monitored for positional changes. System  100  includes one and/or more sensor devices  102  programmed to detect changes in posture and/or body position through an internal gyroscope and/or based on wireless measurement of the distance between another sensor  102 . Each sensor may typically include a built-in vibration, visual, and/or sound device activated by changes in body position. Such changes are also wirelessly communicated to a remote controller  101  that also has built-in sound and/or vibration devices. Controller  101  may be a specially-made transceiver device, and/or a conventional, programmable device on which system software  401  may be installed (e.g., smartphone, handheld computer, PDA, PC, etc.). Controller  101  maintains a communication link  201  with each sensor, typically via BLUETOOTH (BLUETOOTH is a registered trademark of SIG, Inc., a Delaware corporation, located at 5209 Lake Washington Boulevard, Suite 350, Kirkland, Wash. 98033), infrared, radio frequency, and/or other technologies. Sensors  102  are attached to and/or worn on a person&#39;s body (or on clothing and/or accessories) through adhesion, straps, hair and/or other clips, bindings and/or other mechanisms  114 . For certain embodiments of system  100 , system software  401  may be installed on controller  101 , which may display on an internal screen and/or external monitor real-time body position information based on communication from one and/or more sensors. In some implementations, as will be described elsewhere in this application, controller  101  may be a specially made device and/or a conventional computing device (e.g., a smartphone, PDA, laptop, desktop, etc.), which may in turn be programmed with system software  401 . 
     In operation, system  100  may be designed to provide a user with almost immediate feedback about changes in body position and/or posture. Such biofeedback may be used to teach and/or train a user to avoid undesirable, and/or achieve desired, body positions and/or postures. To do so, each sensor  102 , typically having the form of a fob-like object, may be actuated automatically to notify the user by an alarm (vibration and/or sound) once either and/or both (i) it deviates from and/or achieves, preset, horizontal and/or vertical planes; and/or (ii) it comes within a preset range of, and/or moves more than a preset distance from, another sensor. Once an alarm is actuated in a sensor, a similar vibration and/or sound alarm may also be wirelessly activated in controller  101 , and/or the sound in controller  101  may be programmed to be identical to that of the specific sensor that triggers the initial alarm. By being attached to and/or worn, directly and/or indirectly (e.g., skin, shirt, headband, hairclip, eyeglass frame, etc.), on specific parts of the body, once an alarm is activated in a sensor, the user typically may be able to feel the vibration on and/or about the body part. Sensors  102  may have individualized digital signatures recognized by controller  101  through wireless communication system  201  so as to distinguish it from other sensors that may be part of system  100 . 
     The controller  101  remotely controls the settings for each sensor  102  through wireless communication system  201 . Settings may include horizontal and/or vertical planes; sound and/or vibration alarms; distances and/or ranges between sensors; and/or associations of each sensor with a body part. An alarm (audible and/or vibratory) may be set off in controller  101  and/or sensor if either of both (x) a body part to which a sensor is affixed deviates from, and/or achieves, preset horizontal and/or vertical planes; and/or (y) two and/or more paired sensors move beyond, and/or come within, preset ranges and/or distances of each other. 
     The sensors  102  typically may be small (e.g., the size of a quarter and/or half dollar coin), battery powered programmable transceivers. They may be attached to and/or worn on a user&#39;s body and/or clothes through various means, including adhesive backing, straps, hair and/or other clips, and/or bands. Each sensor  102  may be programmed with a distinct alarm sound and/or volume. Devices in system  100  typically may communicate with each other using BLUETOOTH, WI-FI, direct-to-device (D2D) communication protocols (e.g., WI-FI DIRECT (WI-FI DIRECT is a registered trademark of Wi-Fi Alliance, a California corporation, located at 10900-B Stonelake Boulevard, Suite 126, Austin, Tex. 78759); Long Term Evolution (LTE) D2D (LTE is a registered trademark of Institut Europeen des Normes; a French nonprofit telecommunication association, located at 650 route des Lucioles, F-06921, Sophia Antipolis, France), LTE Advanced (LTE-A) D2D, etc.), radio wave, and/or other technologies  201 . 
       FIG. 2A  illustrates certain internal components of the devices included in system  100 , which are intended to be exemplary only. As shown in  FIG. 2A , each sensor  102  includes a housing containing circuitry and/or other components that may include the following:
         (i) A data processor and/or microprocessor  103 .   (ii) An on-off switch  104 .   (iii) An orientation device  105  (e.g., gyroscope, accelerometer, etc.) for detecting and/or communicating pitch, roll, and/or yaw of sensor  102 ;   (iv) Circuitry for external data communication with controller device  101  and/or in certain embodiments other sensors  102 , including a transmitter  106 , receiver  107 , and/or an antenna  108  that transforms electromagnetic energy to electrical signals provided to receiver  107 , and/or transforms electrical signals from transmitter  106  to electromagnetic energy for transmission to remote radio receivers in controller  101  and/or other sensors  102 . Receiver  107  responds to the electrical signals from antenna  108  to produce detected data for supervisor device  109 . Receiver  107  may include circuits such as filters and/or demodulators. Transmitter  106  responds to formatted data from supervisor device  109  to provide the electrical signals to drive antenna  108 . Transmitter  106  may include circuits such as modulators and/or filters. Antenna  108 , receiver  107  and/or transmitter  106  together form a radio communication circuit for two-way radio and/or other wireless communication with remote radio devices such as controller  101  and/or other sensors  102 .   (v) One or more supervisor devices  109  to control the operation of each sensor  102 , which may be implemented as a processor, microprocessor, digital signal processor (DSP), and/or any other logic circuit and/or combination of circuits providing control functions; and/or may operate in response to data and/or to program instructions stored in memory  110 ; and/or may also control radio and/or other wireless communication circuit components (e.g.,  106 ,  107 ,  108 ) by directing the tuning, activation, and/or deactivation of the circuit.   (vi) A memory unit and/or device  110  capable of storing data.   (vii) A vibration device  111  that causes sensor  102  to vibrate.   (viii) A speaker and/or other sound system  112  capable of emitting a variety of sounds (e.g., siren, beep, whistle, gong, etc.).   (ix) A power source  113  (e.g., battery, power supply, capacitor, etc.) and/or conductors  113  to operate sensor  102 .   (x) Attachment mechanisms and/or devices  114  by which sensor  102  may be affixed to and/or worn on and/or about a person&#39;s body. Such systems and/or devices may include adhesives, hook-and-loop fasteners, like backings, and/or clips.       

     Also as shown in  FIG. 2B , controller  101  may be a device wirelessly linked to and/or and or controlling of the settings/communications of sensor  102 . Controller  101  may be a specially-made transceiver device and/or a conventional device (e.g., smartphone, PDA and/or computer) on which software programs  401  may be installed, in either case that may include a housing, circuitry, and/or other components that may include all and/or some of the following:
         (i) An internal display screen and/or external monitor  302  enabling a user to view menu options, obtain information about and/or program sensors  102 .   (ii) User Interface  303  comprised of a keyboard, keypad, touchscreen, etc. to let user enter data and/or perform programming functions. In some implementations, screen  302  may be user interface  303  (e.g., as a touchscreen).   (iii) A memory unit and/or device  110  capable of storing data.   (iv) A speaker and/or other sound system  112  capable of emitting a variety of sounds (e.g., siren, beep, whistle, gong, etc.).   (v) A vibration device  111  that causes controller  101  to vibrate.   (vi) A wireless communication system  307  (e.g., transmitter  106 , receiver  107 , and/or antenna  108 ) for BLUETOOTH, radio wave and/or other communications with each sensor  102 .   (vii) A data processor and/or microprocessor  103 .   (viii) A supervisor device  109  that may be implemented as a processor, microprocessor, digital signal processor (DSP), and/or any other logic circuit and/or combination of circuits providing control functions. It may operate in response to data and/or to program instructions stored in memory  110 , and/or may control radio and/or other wireless communication circuit  307  by directing the tuning, activation, and/or deactivation of the circuit.   (ix) A power source (e.g., battery, line power, capacitors, etc.) and/or conductors  113 .   (x) An on-off switch  104 .   (xi) Programs and/or operating systems  312  to enable system software and/or application  401  to be installed and/or run on controller  101 , which software and/or application may be configured as computer readable program code and/or stored in device&#39;s memory  110 .       

       FIGS. 3A-3B  illustrates a first embodiment of the present, novel system  100  for training users to attain and/or maintain targeted posture and/or other positions for different parts of the body. The training may be provided through signals (i.e., vibration, sound and/or visual alarms and/or alerts) transmitted to a user and/or activated by measured changes in posture and/or position. Those signals are provided by one and/or more sensors  102  and/or in some embodiments a controller  101 . Controller  101  typically may be used to program sensors  102  with posture and/or position parameters (e.g., desired vertical and/or horizontal planes, ranges/distances between sensors  102 , etc.). In some embodiments, controller  101  may also illustrate posture and/or body position information through a display, typically based on data from sensors  102  and/or historical records. Each sensor  102  may be directly and/or indirectly (i.e., through clothes and/or accessories) attached to and/or worn on a specific part of a user&#39;s body. Those parts of the body typically may be selected based on certain activities the user engages in where biofeedback information and/or training may enhance appearance, performance, health and/or safety. Selected activities may be as simple as standing and/or sitting with head held high and back erect; and/or as complicated as skiing with legs shoulder-width apart, knees bent at a fifty degree angle, and hips centered over the ball of the feet; as critical as keeping a head up and staying awake while driving; and/or the like. 
     Sensors  102  typically may be placed on the body and/or worn. For example, sensors  102  may be located on an individual&#39;s back, skull, neck, boot, foot, leg, chest, hip, and/or the like. Depending on the desired monitoring and/or feedback, one or more sensors  102  may form a mesh to inform controller  101  of various parameters of posture, activity, and/or the like. 
     The sensor detects and/or activates an alarm when a user attains and/or deviates from a targeted posture and/or position by measuring changes in the user&#39;s horizontal and/or vertical fields, and/or by wirelessly measuring distances between two and/or more of such devices. For example, if one sensor is attached to a user&#39;s right shoulder, and/or a second is attached to a user&#39;s left shoulder, controller  101  sets a target position when both shoulders are arched backward. The coordinates for that target position typically may be represented by either or both (x) the distance between the devices and/or (y) the horizontal/vertical planes of each device. If the user slouches forward, the targeted distance may be exceeded and/or planes change; either of which activates an alarm. 
     Biofeedback information and/or training may be provided via the alarms from sensors  102  and/or in certain embodiments from controller  101 . Those alarms typically may be activated when either (x) the user deviates from a preset position and/or posture (which may be adjusted with tolerances so that a deviation typically may be more than a preset degree (e.g., ten, fifteen, thirty, etc. degrees) and/or for more than a preset period of time (e.g., two, five, twenty, etc. seconds, minutes, hours, etc.) before the alarm is activated); and/or (y) the user achieves a preset, targeted position and/or posture. The devices are programmed so that the alarm typically may continue until a deviation is corrected. By way of example, if a user attaches a sensor  102  to his head and/or neck while driving, vibratory and/or audible alarms typically may be activated in that sensor, and/or in certain embodiments controller, if, having fallen asleep, the user&#39;s head tilts so as to deviate by more than fifteen degrees in any direction for more than five seconds from sensor&#39;s preset vertical plane. As another example, if a skier has sensors  102  on the front and/or back of a ski boot, and on each hip and/or knee, vibratory and/or audible alarms typically may be activated in each sensor and/or controller  101  once the user attains a preset stance with the right and left feet a distance apart (e.g., one-half, one, two, etc. feet) apart, the knees bent at a fifty degree angle, and/or the hips centered over the heels. 
     Each sensor  102  typically may have a unique digital signal that allows controller  101 , through wireless communication link  201 , to program settings for that sensor (e.g., sounds, body position targets, permitted deviations, etc.), and/or to distinguish each sensor from others. Controller  101  has unique digital signals that allow it to communicate with each sensor  102 . Controller  101  maintains its communication links to each sensor  102  via a BLUETOOTH, infrared, radio and/or like communication system  201 . 
       FIGS. 4A-4B  illustrates one embodiment of a menu system of, and other screenshots for, system  100  that typically may utilize a device on which system software  401  has been installed (e.g., smartphone, PDA, PC, laptop, etc.).  FIG. 4  also illustrates certain functionalities of system  100 , and the “look and feel” of system software and/or application  401 . It is to be noted that the illustrated menu system and/or screenshots are exemplary only. Other menu systems and/or screenshots/pages may be readily developed and/or provide additional functionalities and/or capabilities. 
     Home page/main menu  601  typically may be a sample screen/page of system software program/application  401 . The menu gives users various options for configuring and/or using system  100  and/or its devices. The selections of subpages accessed through main menu  601  typically are illustrated in  602 - 608 . By clicking on a link to a subpage in main menu  601 , that subpage appears on the screen. From any subpage (e.g.,  602 - 608 ), by clicking on a “Main Menu” link, the user typically may be returned to home page/main menu  601 . 
     System Overview and Instructions screen/page  602  provides the user with brief descriptions of different system  100  components and/or software features. This page typically instructs the user in the operation of system  100  and/or describes its component devices and/or functions. By clicking on any definitional and/or descriptive item highlighted on this page, another subpage opens on the screen with information and/or actions the user may perform. 
     Depicted on  FIG. 5A , device status &amp; settings screen/page  603  typically provides the user with a detailed inventory of sensors  102 ; the body parts/positions with which the sensors are associated; and/or the sound/vibration settings for the sensors and/or controller  101 . The page also allows the user to see the status (“on”/“off”) of each sensor, and/or directs the user to modify sensor  102  and/or controller  101  settings and/or add information by clicking on a “Device Manager” link. 
     For example, sensor “1” may have a status of “On,” be located on the user&#39;s right shoulder, and have an enabled sound alarm like a bell. Additionally, sensor “3” may have a status of “Off,” be located on the user&#39;s center upper back, and have a sound alarm like a gong. Device status &amp; settings screen/page  603  may also include settings such as vibration, auditory, and/or visual alarm settings and/or state. There may also be links to modify and/or add sensors  102 , which typically may redirect the user to device manager screen/page  604 . 
     Depicted on  FIG. 5B , device manager screen/page  604  provides various programming functions to manage system devices. Users typically may set parameters for sensors  102  and/or controller  101 . Those parameters typically include (i) activating audible alarms in sensors and/or controller, (ii) selecting a specific audible sound for each sensor, (iii) activating a vibration alarm in controller, (iv) setting permitted deviations from targeted positions, (v) designating the period of time a deviation in position may be permitted to continue before an alarm typically may be activated in a sensor, (vi) assigning a number to each sensor, (vii) associating each sensor with a specific part and/or area of the user&#39;s body, and/or the like. 
     For example, device manager screen/page  604  typically may include settings for user information, which sensors  102  are enabled, how sensor  102  may turn on, turn off, provide alarms, and/or customize alarms (e.g., bell, chime, gong, siren, etc.), where the sensor  102  is located, and/or the like. Alarm conditions for sensor  102  alarms may also be configured. For example, deviation-based alarms and/or achievement-based alarms may be configured. Deviation-based alarms typically may be used where a user may wish to avoid certain postures and/or positions, such as holding a head upright. Deviations, for example, may be configured in distance, percentage of deviation (e.g., 1%, 2%, 10%, 50%, etc.) from an expected position, and/or the like. Similarly, achievement-based alarms typically may be used to train a user to attain a posture and/or position. For example, this may trigger an alarm when you sit upright, allowing the user feedback that he or she is properly oriented. Tolerance with these alarms may also be configured, such that sensor  102  typically may not trigger unless a deviation threshold is exceeded. 
     Depicted on  FIG. 6 , posture &amp; position screen/page  605  allows users to program targeted positions and/or postures for sensors  102 . From this screen, a user may select a prescribed activity (e.g., standing, sitting, driving, skiing, etc.), which may then open a body avatar on which the user may virtually place one and/or more sensors. With a sensor attached to the user&#39;s body, he and/or she may then change positions in order to create a targeted posture and/or pose that may be saved. This page/screen also illustrates permitted deviations from targeted positions. Once a targeted position has been saved, the user may proceed to a biofeedback session, and/or typically may be “trained” by receiving vibration and/or sound and/or visual alarms/alerts whenever he and/or she deviates from, and/or achieves, that target. 
     Depicted on  FIG. 7A , alerts screen/page  606  provides additional biofeedback information to users. Unless deactivated by a user for an activity, the screen may automatically open each time an alarm typically may be activated by one and/or more sensors  102 . The screen typically provides real-time notifications and/or visual displays of deviations from, and/or attainment of, targeted postures and/or positions. Alerts screen/page  606  typically may also allow a system  100  user to turn off alerts, customize alert deviation threshold, reset sensors  102 , and/or the like. In some further implementations, selections may be provided for saved activities and/or postures. For example, a user may select from a drop-down list of sports, postures, and/or combinations thereof for one or more body parts to customize and/or set system  100  parameters. In yet further implementations, these saved selections may also enable and/or disable one or more sensors  102  temporarily and/or permanently so as to cease alarms that may otherwise be generated. 
     Depicted on  FIG. 7B , How to Attach Sensors screen/page  607  provides instructions for attaching sensors  102  to parts of the user&#39;s body. A user typically may be instructed how sensors  102  should be attached to body parts, clothing, accessories, and/or the like. In some implementations, selecting one or more body parts on How to Attach Sensors screen/page  607  (i.e., by clicking on an image, selecting from a list, and/or the like) may generate one or more instruction routines for attachment to that selection. 
     As depicted on  FIG. 8 , Progress Chart screen/page  608  typically may provide historical and/or real-time data to a user about progress in reaching and/or maintaining targeted posture and/or position goals. From this screen/page  608 , a user may select the activity he and/or she wishes to monitor, and/or may view a graphic representation of progress in relation to the established target for that activity. For example, a user may be able to view his or her posture history graphically and/or statistically as a series of images, graphic, video, and/or the like. Such display may, in some implementations, allow predictive displays as well. For example, based on a user&#39;s progress historically, the system may analyze and calculate to predict (numerically, graphically, and/or the like) how a user will look at a given timeframe and/or when a user may reach a certain posture/position. In certain embodiments, a user may record a real-time representation of posture/position changes during an activity and/or play the recording back to gauge progress. 
     Another implementation of the present novel technology may be for use as a personal security and location system.  FIG. 9  depicts a high-level diagram of this implementation of system  100 .  FIG. 9  diagrams system  100  and/or its component devices and/or relationships. System  100  includes a controller  101  that uses battery and/or other power sources and/or typically may be programmed to communicate with one and/or more other sensor devices  102  via BLUETOOTH, infrared, radio frequency, audio and/or other technologies  201 . Typically, controller  101  typically may be lightweight and/or small such that controller  101  may be easily portable and/or even concealable. For example, controller  101  may typically be kept in a user&#39;s pocket and/or worn on a necklace and/or bracelet, and/or as a specially-designed wristwatch. In other implementations, controller  101  may be of waterproof and/or shock resistant design so as to be wearable in a pool, bath and/or shower. Typically, sensors  102  are physically attached to, placed in, on and/or about an object  903 . Object  903  may be a thing, a person, and/or a pet. In some implementations, sensors  102  may be affixed to an enclosure containing object  903 . In some implementations system  100  may also include one and/or more computer devices  906 . In such implementations, one and/or more of one and/or more computer devices  906  may have telecommunication, radio communication, and/or the like capabilities. System software program  401  typically may be installed on computer devices  906 . 
     In other implementations of system  100 , controller  101  may include additional sensors, buttons, indicators, and/or the like. For example, described below in this application, a built-in actuator/Panic button that automatically causes a computer device  906  to dial “911” and/or other numbers and/or solicit help by be include with system  100 . The volume and/or sound of the audible alarm for controller  101  and/or each sensor  102  (and in certain implementations, a computer device  906 ) may be set by the user to possess one or more distinguishing sounds and/or volumes. 
     In operation, controller device  101 , having a form of a fob and/or like object typically may be actuated automatically to emit a sound and/or vibration once either (i) a communication link to a sensor  102 , which also has the form of a fob and/or like object typically may be broken by virtue of controller  101  and/or sensor  102  being separated from each other by further than a programmable, defined distance and/or range as the result of theft, inadvertence and/or other reasons; and/or (ii) after being separated, controller  101  and/or a sensor device  102  are brought back within the defined distance and/or range of each other. Each sensor  102  typically may have an individualized digital signature recognized by controller device  101  (an in some implementations a computer device  906  through wireless communication system  201  so as to distinguish it from other sensor devices  102  that may be part of system  100 . In certain implementations, a computer device  906  may function as a controller  101  and/or sensor  102  (e.g., as disclosed in  FIGS. 12 and 13 ). 
     The controller  101 , and/or in some implementations computer device  906 , may set distance and/or range for each sensor  102 , and/or if person, object, and/or pet  903  to which sensor  102  typically may be affixed moves beyond that distance and/or range, an alarm (audible and/or vibratory) typically may be set off in controller  101  and/or sensor  102  (and in certain implementations, a computer device  906 . System  100  may also be used in reverse so that, by example, if after moving beyond preset distance and/or range, an object, person, and/or pet to which sensor  102  typically may be attached moves back within range of controller, such alarm typically may again be set off in all devices. 
     The sensors  102  may typically be small (e.g., the size of a quarter and/or half dollar coin), programmable transceivers operated by battery and/or other power source(s). Sensors  102  may be carried upon and/or in an object, person, and/or pet  903  and/or attached through various mechanism, including adhesive backing, an eyelet permitting sensor  102  to be worn on a necklace, bracelet, etc. Each sensor  102  typically may be programmable through its own user interface (and/or in some implementations by controller  101  and/or computer device  906  so as to have a distinct alarm sound and/or volume. When separated from controller  101  by more than a distance and/or range that may be adjustable and/or prescribed by a user, sensor  102 , and/or controller  101 , and in certain implementations a computer device  906 , each emits the distinct alarm sound programmed for such sensor for a fixed period of time. Conversely, once separated by being moved beyond the prescribed distance and/or radius, the alarms typically may again sound in sensor  102  and/or controller  101 , and in certain implementations, computer device  906  once sensor typically may be brought back within range of controller (and in certain implementations, computer device  906 ). 
     Devices in system  100  typically may communicate with each other using BLUETOOTH, Wi-Fi, radio wave, infrared, and/or other technologies  201 . In that way controller  101  and/or one and/or more computer devices  906  may communicate with and/or control the operations of, one and/or more sensors  102 , including setting sound alert tones and/or volumes, and/or prescribing distances and/or radiuses governing when alarms are triggered, etc. 
       FIG. 10A  depicts a block diagram of certain components of system  100 .  FIG. 10  illustrates certain internal components of the devices included in system  100 , which are intended to be exemplary only. Controller  101  typically includes a housing (which in certain implementations may be of waterproof design) containing circuitry and/or other components, described below. 
     In certain implementations, a built-in actuator (Panic button) capable of initiating automated dialing and/or messaging functions in a computer device  906  in the event of emergencies (described below) may be included. 
     A vibration device  111  typically may be included that causes controller  101  to vibrate as an indicator that a sensor  102  in system  100  has been lost and/or found: that is, it has been moved beyond a preset distance and/or range from controller  101 , and/or once out of range, has been brought back within a preset distance and/or range from controller  101 . 
     Circuitry for external data and/or other communications with one and/or more sensors  102  and in certain implementations computer devices  906 , including a receiver  107 , a transmitter  106 , and an antenna  108  typically may facilitate intercommunication between system  100  components. Antenna  108  typically transforms electromagnetic energy to electrical signals provided to receiver  107  and transforms electrical signals from transmitter  106  to electromagnetic energy for transmission to remote radio receivers in one and/or more sensor devices and in certain implementations, one and/or more computer devices  906 . Receiver  107  responds to the electrical signals from antenna  108  to produce detected data for supervisor device  109 . Receiver  107  may include circuits such as filters and/or demodulators. Transmitter  106  responds to formatted data from supervisor device  109  to provide the electrical signals to drive antenna  108 . Transmitter  106  may include circuits such as modulators and/or filters. Antenna  108 , receiver  107 , and/or transmitter  106  together form a radio communication circuit for two-way radio and/or other wireless communication with remote radio devices such as one and/or more sensors  102 , and in certain implementations one and/or more computer devices  906 . 
     Supervisor device  109  typically may act to control the operation of controller  101 . Supervisor device  109  may be implemented as a processor, microprocessor, digital signal processor (DSP), and/or any other logic circuit and/or combination of circuits providing control functions. Supervisor device  109  operates in response to data and/or program instructions stored in memory  110 . In one mode, supervisor device  109  typically controls radio and/or other wireless communication circuit by directing the tuning, activation, and/or deactivation of the circuit. 
     An on-off switch  104  typically may act to energize connected circuitry, which in certain implementations may include an LED and/or other indicator to show when controller device  101  typically may be active. 
     A memory unit and/or device  110  typically may be included that is capable of storing data and/or program instructions for operation of controller  101  and/or other system  100  components. 
     A user interface  303  typically may allow a user to control controller device  101 , which in certain implementations includes a push button, touchscreen, and/or other built-in actuator device to let the user to select programming options for sensor device (e.g., alarm sounds, volume and/or range settings), and/or a display screen sufficiently large to display requisite programming and/or other information for controller  101 . In certain implementations, the user interface may enable the user to select programming options for sensors  102  (e.g., alarm sounds and/or range settings). In still other implementations, user interface  303  may be obviated and/or omitted. 
     A battery and/or other power source  113  typically may be included to provide sufficient power to operate controller  101  and/or facilitate mobility. 
     A speaker and/or other sound system  112  capable of emitting a variety of sounds (e.g., siren, beep, whistle, gong, etc.) to indicate that a sensor  102  has deviated beyond a certain threshold typically may allow system  100  to announce separation distance(s) being exceeded. In certain implementations, controller  101  may include and/or or be replaced by computer device  906 . Speaker  112  may, in some implementations, also energize after sensor  102  is brought back within a preset distance and/or range. 
     Mechanisms for attaching controller  101  and/or sensor  102  may be included, such as eyelet  115  and/or similar construction and/or attachments to the housing through which a chain, ring, etc. may be inserted so as to enable a user to easily carry controller  101  on a keychain and/or wear it on a necklace and/or bracelet. In certain implementations, controller device  101  may also take the form of, and/or be incorporated into, a wrist watch and/or worn on the wrist through a watch band device. 
     As also shown in  FIG. 10 , each sensor  102  typically may include a housing containing circuitry and/or other components that may include the following: 
     Circuitry for external data communication with controller device  101 , and certain implementations one and/or more computer devices  906 , including a receiver  107 , a transmitter  106 , and/or an antenna  108 . Antenna  108  typically transforms electromagnetic energy to electrical signals provided to receiver  107 , and/or transforms electrical signals from transmitter  106  to electromagnetic energy for transmission to remote radio receivers in controller device  101  and/or in certain implementations one and/or more computer devices  906 . Receiver  107  typically responds to the electrical signals from antenna  108  to produce detected data for supervisor device  109 . Receiver  107  may include circuits such as filters and/or demodulators. Transmitter  106  typically responds to formatted data from supervisor device  109  to provide the electrical signals to drive antenna  108 . Transmitter  106  may include circuits such as modulators and/or filters. Antenna  108 , receiver  107 , and/or transmitter  106  typically together form a radio communication circuit for two-way radio and/or other wireless communication with remote radio devices such as controller  101 , and in certain implementations one and/or more computer devices  906 . 
     Vibration device  111  that typically may cause sensor  102  to vibrate as an indicator that the associated sensor  102  has been lost and/or found; that is, it has been moved beyond a preset distance and/or range from controller  101 , and/or in certain implementations, a computer device  906 ; and/or once out of range, has been brought back within a preset distance and/or range from controller  101  and/or computer device  906  as the case may be. 
     Supervisor  109  that typically may control the operation of sensor  102 . Supervisor device  109  may be implemented as a processor, microprocessor, digital signal processor (DSP), and/or any other logic circuit and/or combination of circuits providing control functions. Supervisor device  109  typically operates in response to data and/or program instructions stored in memory  110 . In one mode, supervisor device  109  typically controls the radio and/or other wireless communication circuit by directing the tuning, activation, and/or deactivation of the circuit. 
     Memory unit and/or device  110  that typically may be capable of storing data and/or program instructions for use with system  100  and/or sensor  102 . 
     A user interface  303  that lets a user control sensor  102  and in certain implementations, includes a pushbutton, touchscreen, and/or other built-in actuator device to let the user to select programming options for sensor device  102  (e.g., alarm sounds, volume and/or range settings), and/or a display screen sufficiently large to display requisite programming and/or other information for sensor  102 . In some implementations, user interface  303  may be omitted and/or obviated from sensor  102 . 
     An on-off switch  104 , which in certain implementations may include an LED and/or other indicator to show when sensor  102  typically may be active. 
     A battery of other power source  113  that may provide power sufficient to operate sensor  102 . 
     A speaker and/or other sound system  112  that is capable of emitting a variety of sounds (e.g., siren, beep, whistle, gong, etc.) to indicate that sensor  102  has been lost and/or found (i.e., has been moved beyond a preset distance and/or range from controller  101 , and/or in certain implementations a computer device  906 ; and/or once out of range, has been brought back within a preset distance and/or range from controller  101  and/or computer device  906  as the case may be. 
     Mechanisms for attaching controller  101  and/or sensor  102  may be included, such as eyelet  115  and/or similar construction and/or attachments to the housing through which a chain, ring, etc. that may be inserted so as to enable a user to easily carry sensor  102  on a keychain and/or wear it on a necklace and/or bracelet. Sensors  102  may also have adhesive, hook-and-loop type fasteners, and/or similar backing systems to allow the same to be affixed to objects. 
     As also shown in  FIG. 10B , system  100  may include one and/or more computer devices  906  that have been programmed with software program  401  for system  100 . Computer devices  906  may include a programmable cell phone (e.g., smartphone), PDA, and/or other handheld computer pad, tablet and/or similar device with telephone/email functionality, and in certain implementations may also include a desktop and/or laptop computer. Each computer device  906  has a construction, circuitry, operating system, email, text messaging and/or other software, processing and/or other features and abilities typically found in “off-the-shelf” products in the marketplace, including: 
     A display/monitor screen  302  and/or monitor enabling a user to view menu options, obtain information about and/or program controller  101  and/or sensors  102 . Screen  302  may, in some implementations, display System  100  information such as, but not limited to, each controller  101  and/or sensor  102 ; status (e.g., armed, disarmed, etc.) of each System  100  device; the object  903  associated with each device; device programming options (e.g., alarm sounds, range, alert recipients, 911 messaging, etc.); purchasing and/or contact information; and/or the like 
     User interface  303  to let user control computer device  906 , which in typical implementations, may include a (a) keypad, touchscreen and/or other device for entering data and/or initiating actions, (b) a display screen, (c) a microphone and/or speaker, and/or the system software  401  and/or one and/or more other software application programs for controlling the computer device  906  and/or other devices, processing received data, and/or producing a display based on the data. In the particular exemplary implementation described herein user interface  303  may include a display screen  302  sufficiently large to display graphical and/or other data and/or text, and/or modalities for enabling a user to input information, make selections, create messages for automated delivery, and/or perform other tasks relevant to the operation of system  100 . 
     User interface  303  typically may allow a user to enter data and/or perform programing functions such as, but not limited to, setting the range, alarm sounds and other functions of System  100  device; entering user and/or third-party contact information and/or other data for emergency notifications; creating voice, text, and/or email message content for automated alerts; setting device sound, dialing sequence, and/or other response/operating parameters for panic button  1005  operation. 
     Memory unit and/or  110  capable of storing data, messages, program instructions and/or other information associated with the operation of system  100 . Memory  110  may also store system software  401  and/or like data. 
     In certain implementations vibration device  111  may be included that causes computer device  906  to vibrate as an indicator that controller  101  and/or sensor  102  in system  100  has been lost and/or found (i.e., has moved beyond a preset distance and/or range, and/or is brought back within a preset distance and/or range. 
     Speaker and/or other sound system  112  capable of emitting a variety of sounds (e.g., siren, beep, whistle, gong, etc.) to indicate that controller  101  and/or sensor  102  in system  100  has been lost and/or found (i.e., has moved beyond a preset distance and/or range, and/or is brought back within a preset distance and/or range). Speaker  112  may also sound a siren or other alarm if panic button  1005  is actuated and/or may initiate certain sound/dialing silencing functions based on panic button  1005  response settings. 
     Circuitry and functionality  201  for external data communication with network devices so as to permit communication with controller  101  and/or sensors  102 . Communications may be either or both wired (e.g., USB, IEEE 1394, etc.) and/or wireless methods and/or devices (e.g., BLUETOOTH, and/or IEEE 802.11 and/or related standards, and/or other radio wave and/or wireless protocols). In certain cases the computer device  906  may utilize a network interface (e.g., a digital modem and/or transceiver circuit for digital data communication) to link computer device  906  with controller  101  and/or sensors  102 . 
     Alternatively, the network interface may be an entirely wireless circuit of any suitable type for wireless communication, as described elsewhere in this application. Wireless interface  201  may communicate according to a wireless protocol (e.g., BLUETOOTH, IEEE Standard 802.11 and/or related standards, and/or cellular and/or like transceiver circuits). Also, circuits which communicate using unlicensed frequency bands may be used for data communication among system devices. 
     Telephone communication system  1010  for automatically dialing “911” and/or placing other calls, and/or playing prerecorded messages to designated recipients based on loss and/or theft of a sensor  102  and/or controller  101 , and/or a user pressing a panic button  1005 . 
     Email and/or text messaging system  1015  for automatically delivering preprepared messages to designated recipients based on loss and/or theft of a sensor  102  and/or controller  101 , contacting emergency services, and/or a user pressing a panic button  1005 . 
     GPS Device and/or System  1020  for ascertaining user location and in certain circumstances, automatically transmitting that location to emergency services and/or other third parties based on loss and/or theft of a sensor  102  and/or controller  101 , and/or a user pressing a panic button  1005 . 
     Software application programs and system software  401  to enable computer device  906  to perform conventional operating functions and/or the novel functions of system  100 ; process received data; and/or produce a display based on the data. System software and/or application  401  may be configured as computer readable program code and/or stored in device&#39;s memory  110 . 
       FIGS. 11A-11C  illustrate a first implementation of the present, novel system  100  system for automatically initiating an audible and/or vibratory alert in a first transceiver device, controller  101 , and/or one and/or more second sensor devices  102 . Alerts may be triggered in one of two ways: (i) the devices are separated from each other by a predetermined distance and/or range (such as through theft and/or oversight); and/or (ii) the devices are brought back within a predetermined distance and/or range of each other after having been separated.  FIG. 11A  depicts controller  101  and sensor  102  connected at a distance of approximately five feet over wireless connection  201 ;  FIG. 11B  depicts the same controller  101  and sensor  102  having a broken connection  201  after exceeding a preset distance threshold (e.g., eight feet) and sounding alarm from speakers  112 ;  FIG. 11C  depicts the same controller  101  and sensor  102  again reconnected via connection  201  and having silenced alarming speakers  112 . 
     Each sensor device  102  in system  100  may have a unique sound so as to distinguish it from other sensor devices  102 . The same sound programmed for sensor device  102  typically may be also programmed to play in controller  101  to alert a user that a particular sensor device  102  has been lost and/or found. System&#39;s sensors  102  may be attached, affixed, inserted into, and/or worn on an object, person, and/or pet  903 . Each sensor device  102  has a unique digital signal that allows controller device  101 , through wireless communication link  201 , to distinguish that sensor device  102  from others. Controller device  101  has unique digital signals that allow it, through wireless communication link  201 , to communicate with each sensor device  102  in system  100  (i.e., a distinct signal tuned to each sensor device  102 ). 
     Controller device  101  maintains a communication link via a BLUETOOTH, infrared, radio and/or like short-range communication system  201  with one and/or more sensors  102 . Sensor  102  may be preprogrammed and/or programmed by a user via device&#39;s user interface  303  and/or other internal mechanism, and/or via controller device  101  by a communication link  201 ) to (i) generate a distinct sound that distinguishes it from other sensor devices  102  in system  100 , and (ii) to have a set distance and/or range from controller, so that if it moves beyond that range and/or distance, alarms typically may go off in sensor  102  and/or controller  101 . Controller device  101  may be programmed as well so that its alarm sound typically may be identical to the alarm sound of each sensor device  102 . 
     When controller  101  and sensor  102  in system  100  are separated by more than a preset distance and/or range, alarms may be triggered in each device. For example, if a sensor  102  with a certain range (e.g., one, two, three, five, ten, etc. feet) is placed inside a user&#39;s wallet and a controller  101  is in the user&#39;s front pocket, vibration and/or audible alarms may go off in sensor  102  and/or controller  101  if a pickpocket were to take the wallet beyond the certain range from the owner&#39;s pocket, and/or if the user were to leave the wallet on a table and walk out of a restaurant. The alarms may continue for a preset period of time (e.g., five minutes) and then may discontinue; but may be reactivated if controller  101  and/or wallet with sensor  102  were brought back within the communication range of the devices (e.g., ten, one hundred, one thousand feet, etc.). In some implementations, activation and/or deactivation of alarms may be manually activated by user. 
     System  100  may include numerous sensors  102  (e.g., two, five, ten, one hundred, etc.), each of which may function in the same manner with respect to triggering alarms when moving beyond, and/or back into, a preset distance and/or range from controller device  101 . Controller  101  typically may be programmed to distinguish each sensor  102  by its special digital signature (e.g., frequency) and to communicate a separate digital signal to each sensor device  102  linked to controller  101  through wireless communication system  201 . Controller  101  typically may store a unique alarm sound for each sensor  102  (e.g., gong, bell, siren, etc.) and/or play that alarm sound if sensor  102  moves out of, and/or back into, the preset distance and/or range. Controller  101  typically may intermittently play the unique alarm sound for each if more than one sensor  102  at a time is moved out of the preset distance and/or range, and/or brought back within that distance and/or range. 
       FIGS. 12A-12C  illustrate a second implementation of the present novel technology underlying system  100 . That implementation incorporates a computer device  906  into system  100  as one of sensor devices  102 . System  100  includes a controller  101  that communicates with one and/or more sensors  102 , including a computer device  906 , via a BLUETOOTH, infrared, radio and/or like short-range communication system  201 . Typically, controller  101  and/or sensor  102  and related computer device  906  include built-in alarm systems to vibrate and/or play a distinct sound alerting a user as to when (i) controller  101  and/or sensor  102  (which in this implementation includes a computer device  906 ) have been separated by more than a programmable distance and/or range from each other; and/or (ii) after having been separated for more than a defined period of time (e.g., one, five, ten, twenty, etc. minutes), are brought back in a programmable distance and/or range of each other. 
       FIG. 12A  depicts controller  101  connected to sensor  102  and computer device  906  via wireless connection  201  at a distance of approximately five feet.  FIG. 12B  depicts the same controller  101 , sensor  102 , and computer device  906 ; however, sensor  102  is now fifteen feet from controller  101  and beyond the preset distance threshold (e.g., ten feet for a time threshold of five seconds), triggering speakers in all three devices to sound alarms.  FIG. 12C  depicts the same controller  101 , sensor  102 , and computer device  906  having been brought back into the preset distance threshold, thus silencing the speakers  112 . 
     With system software  401  installed in it, computer device  906  establishes a communication link via a BLUETOOTH, infrared, radio and/or like short-range communication system  201  with controller device  101 , which in turn may maintain a communication link  201  with one and/or more sensors  102  in system  100 , including computer device  906 . Range, alarm sounds, and/or other settings for controller  101 , sensors  102 , and/or computer device  906  may be internally programmed by user interfaces in each device, and/or through controller 101  and/or computer device  906  via wireless communication system  201 . 
     Computer device  906  typically establishes a communication link  201  with a controller device  101  and in some implementations may program controller device  101  to set the range, alarm sounds, volume, and/or other settings for each sensor  102  in system  100 . Computer device  906  functions as a sensor device  102  as well. When controller  101  and/or computer device  906  are separated by more than a preset distance and/or range, identical alarms may be triggered in both devices. The alarms include vibration in each device and/or a distinct alarm sound that identifies computer device  906  (e.g., siren, gong, fog horn, bell, etc.). The same alarm sound that is programmed to issue from computer device  906  may also issue from controller  101  as well. Once controller  101  and/or computer device  906  are separated by more than the preset range, the alarms in each device continue to sound for a predetermined period of time (e.g., one, five, ten, twenty, etc. minutes) and/or until the devices move beyond their communication range (e.g., one, ten, one hundred, one thousand, etc. feet); after which, each device may silenced. If, after being separated for more than the prescribed time period and/or distance controller  101  and/or computer device  906  are brought back within range, the alarms typically may again ring for the preset period of time. In this way, a user may be alerted when computer device  906  and/or controller device  101  is lost and/or found. In addition and as with controller  101 , computer device  906  vibrates and/or issues a distinct alarm sound for each sensor device  102  when that device is lost and/or found. 
     System  100  may include numerous sensor devices  102 , each of which may function in the same manner with respect to separation from controller  101 . Controller  101  and/or computer device  906  may be each programmed to distinguish each sensor  102  by its digital signal (e.g., frequency), and/or play the sensor  102 &#39;s unique sound (e.g., gong, bell, siren, etc.) when it is lost and/or found. Controller  101  may be also programmed to communicate a separate digital signal that may be recognized by each sensor device  102  linked to controller  101  through wireless communication system  201 . Controller  101  typically may store a unique alarm sound for each sensor device  102  (e.g., gong, bell, siren, etc.) and/or play that alarm sound if sensor  102  moves out of, and/or back into, the preset distance and/or range. Controller  101  typically may intermittently play the unique alarm sound for each if more than one sensor device  102  at a time is moved out of the preset distance and/or range, and/or brought back within that distance and/or range. 
       FIGS. 13A-13D  illustrate a third implementation of the present novel technology underlying system  100 . That implementation replaces controller  101  device with computer device  906 . With system software  401  installed, computer device  906  establishes a communication link  201  via a BLUETOOTH, infrared, radio and/or like short-range communication system  201  with all sensors  102  in system  100 , and in some implementations may program their range, alarm sounds, volume and/or other settings. 
       FIG. 13A  depicts computer device  906  connected to sensor  102  via connection  201  at a distance of approximately ten feet.  FIG. 13B  depicts the same computer device  906  no longer connected to sensor  102  via connection  201  at a distance of approximately twelve feet, having exceeded distance threshold (e.g., ten feet for a time threshold of one minute) and thus triggering speakers  112  to play alarms.  FIG. 13C  depicts the same computer device  906  and sensor  102  joined by a second sensor  102 , where the first sensor  102  at a distance of ten feet to computer device  906  has not exceeded the distance threshold and is not sounding alarm, but where the second sensor  102  at a distance of twenty feet is exceeding the distance threshold and causes speakers  112  in computer device  906  and second sensor  102  to sound alarms.  FIG. 13D  depicts computer device  906  and sensor  102  brought back into the distance threshold and silencing the alarms from speakers  112 . 
     As illustrated in  FIGS. 13A-13D , when computer device  906  and/or a sensor  102  are separated by more than a preset distance and/or range, identical alarms may be triggered in each device. The alarms include vibration in each device and/or a distinct alarm sound for each sensor device  102  (e.g., siren, gong, fog horn, bell, etc.). The same alarm sound that may be programmed to issue from a sensor  102  issues from computer device  906  as well. Once computer device  906  and/or sensor device  102  are separated by more than the preset range, the alarms in each device continue to sound for a predetermined period of time (e.g., one, five, ten, twenty, etc. minutes); after which, each device may be silenced. If, after being separated for more than the prescribed time period, computer device  906  and/or sensor  102  are brought back within range, the alarms typically may again go off and/or play for the preset period of time (e.g., one, five, ten, twenty, etc. minutes). In this way, a user may be alerted when a sensor  102  and/or computer device  906  is lost and/or found. If computer device  906  is lost and/or taken, and/or is later found (i.e., brought back within range, vibration and/or auditory alarms sound in all of sensors  102 . 
       FIGS. 14A-14B  illustrate a fourth implementation of the present novel technology underlying system  100  that may include all of the functions for the system  100  illustrated in this application, and also includes a built-in actuator device/Panic button  1005  as part of controller device  101 . Operationally, by pressing the panic button  1005 , a user may automatically cause a handheld computer device  906  to dial “911” for help and/or send distress messages in emergency situations even if the user typically may be unable to physically access computer device  906 . Pressing the panic button  1005  a specified number of times automatically causes computer device  906  to dial  911  and/or send a prerecorded message requesting a specific type of assistance (e.g., 1 click=police assistance; 2 clicks=emergency medical services (EMS) assistance; and/or 3 clicks=fire rescue assistance). In some implementations, if a user continuously presses the actuator/panic button  1005 , a siren and/or other alarm sound may be played from controller  101  and/or computer device  906 . The user may cancel a distress call by pressing the actuator/panic button  1005  a preset number of times (e.g., 4 clicks). 
     As also illustrated in  FIG. 14 , system  100  may be configured so that certain 911 calls dial silently and/or turn off sounds from computer device&#39;s  906  speakers  112  so as not to alert an assailant and/or intruder that a distress call typically may be being placed. In addition to 911 messages, computer device  906  may be programmed to send messages (e.g., email, text, etc.) to third parties after an automated 911 call is placed. In further implementations, system  100  may activate GPS devices  1020 , activate microphones and/or other capture device of sensor  102  and/or computer device  906 , and/or send preprogrammed messages for locating sensor  102  and/or computer device  906  (e.g., email Internet Protocol (IP) address, GPS location, closed wireless access point, etc.). 
       FIG. 14A  depicts controller  101  having button  1005  thereon and connected to telephone device  1010  and email/text device  1015 . Upon activation of button  1005 , controller  101  may cause a phone call and/or message through telephone device  1010  (e.g., distress call to emergency services) and/or a message (e.g., email, text, picture, etc.) to be sent to one or more recipients via email/text device  1015 .  FIG. 14B  depicts computer device  906  having button  1005  replacing controller  101  but still connected to telephone device  1010  and email/text device  1015 .  FIG. 14B  depicts only a phone call being triggered through telephone device  1010 , but any combination of events may be triggered and/or programmed to occur via button  1005  actuation and/or multiple actuation. 
       FIGS. 15A-15C  illustrates a fifth implementation of the present novel technology underlying system  100  that may include all of the functions for system, but includes the use of a fixed-location computer device  906 , such as a home and/or office PC and/or laptop with telephone and/or email functionality. Operationally, by pressing actuator/Panic button  1005  on controller device  101  in wireless network  201 , a user may automatically cause computer device  906  in a home, office and/or other fixed location with telephone communication capabilities via telephone device  1010  to dial for help in an emergency. This implementation may also integrate a mobile computer device  906  into system  100  to similarly respond to panic button  1005  when the user is outside of a static location. As illustrated in  FIG. 15 , the devices in system  100  may perform all and/or substantially all of the functions, and/or have substantially all of the features noted elsewhere in this application, including the ability to automatically dial “911” and/or send prerecorded messages in the event of an emergency by pressing controller&#39;s panic button  1005 . 
     When controller  101  is out of range of the stationary computer  906  (e.g., when the user leaves the home area network and/or is mobile), handheld computer device  906  may act as the communication interface for initiating “911” and/or other calls and/or sending alerts. If handheld computer device  906  and/or stationary computer device  906  are both turned “on” and/or within range of controller  101 , the closest computer device  906  typically may initiate “911” dialing and/or notification alerts. Integration of fixed location computer device  906  and/or a handheld computer device  906  enables the handheld device  906  to interact with and/or respond to controller  101  when the handheld device  906  is at a fixed location (e.g., a home and/or office) and/or while the user is out of range of fixed-location computer device  906 . Similarly, static computer device  906  and/or handheld computer device  906  may provide “lost and found” functions by monitoring one and/or more sensors  102  in the home and/or on the go. 
       FIG. 15A  depicts controller  101  connected over wireless connection  201  to static computer device  906 , which is in turn connected to telephone device  1010  and landline telephone service (e.g., twisted pair copper telephone, VOIP, etc.).  FIG. 15B  depicts another computer device  906  (mobile and/or static) with button  1005  connected to static computer device  906 , which is in turn connected to telephone device  1010 . Upon activation of button  1005 , static computer device  906  is signaled to send one or more messages to one or more recipients over the landline telephone service.  FIG. 15C  depicts mobile computer device  906  with button  1005  communicating with static computer device  906 , which in turn activates telephone device  1010  to send one or more messages to one or more recipients over the landline telephone service, thus allowing a remote user to perform one or more activities over a physical system (i.e., a landline telephone system, a cable internet system, etc.). 
       FIGS. 16A-16K  illustrate one implementation of a menu system and other screenshots for system software  401  that typically may be installed on each computer device  906  in system  100 . The illustrations in  FIGS. 16A-16   k  underscore certain of the functionalities of system  100  and the “look and feel” of the system software  401 . It is to be noted that the illustrated menu system and screenshots are exemplary only. Other menu systems and screenshots may be readily developed and provide additional functionalities and capabilities. 
       FIG. 16A  depicts Main menu  801 , which typically may be a sample screenshot of a Home Page and main menu  801  of system software program  401  for computer devices  906  in system  100 . Main Menu  801  gives users various options for configuring and/or using system; obtaining answers to questions; configuring system devices; checking the status of system devices; purchasing additional devices; setting up 911 messages and/or alerts; etc. The selections of subpages accessed through main menu  801  typically are illustrated in  802 - 810  on  FIGS. 16B-16K , respectively. By clicking on a link to a subpage in main menu  801 , the user may be taken to the relevant subpage. From any subpage  802 - 810 , by clicking on a main menu link, the user typically may be returned to home/main menu  801 . 
       FIG. 16B  depicts System Overview and Instructions page  802 , which typically provides the user with brief descriptions of different system components and/or software features. This page typically instructs the user in the operation of the system/program and/or describes its component devices and/or functions. By clicking on any definitional and/or descriptive item highlighted on this page, the user may either be taken to another subpage with information and/or actions the user may perform (e.g., programming and/or testing devices), and/or the user may be taken to another subpage providing further information and/or definitions. 
       FIG. 16C  depicts Protected List page  803 , which typically provides the user with a detailed inventory of devices  102  in system  100 ; objects, people, and/or pets  903  with which sensor devices  102  may be associated; and/or the range, sound and/or volume settings for each system device. The page also allows the user to see the status (“on” and/or “off”) of system devices, and/or to see settings for any controller device  101  with a panic button  1005  functionality (e.g., the number of clicks needed to summon police assistance; whether silent dialing is turned on and/or off; and/or whether audible alarm sounds may be activated). Finally, from this page, the user may see the types of alert messages and/or recipients that have been programmed into system  100 . The user may modify settings shown on this page and/or add information by clicking on a “Device Settings” link; and/or may also modify and/or add contacts and/or messages for alerts by clicking on an Emergency Notification link (i.e., the parties that may be notified automatically by delivery from computer device  906  of a preset message). 
       FIG. 16D  depicts Device setting page  804 , which typically contains programming instructions and allows users to input information to program system devices. From this page, the user may be able to click on links to subpages where specific actions may be taken. Those actions include (i) programming alarm sounds and/or distances/ranges for sensors  102  and/or controller  101  (if included in system  100 ); turning devices on and off; associating sensors  102  with objects, people, and/or pets  903 ; and/or setting up emergency notifications in the event of certain losses and/or other situations. 
       FIG. 16E  depicts Emergency notifications page  805 , which typically lets a user configure notices that may be sent to the user and/or other third parties. Those notices may be sent in certain cases where the computer device  906  detects the loss of an object, person, and/or pet wearing, carrying and/or to which there is affixed, a sensor  102 . Through various drop-down menus, the user may be able to specify recipients of notifications; enter contact information for the user and/or designated recipients; elect to use and/or customize predefined messages; specify which sensor devices  102  typically may trigger alert notices in the event they are taken and/or lost; etc. Notification messages typically may be delivered to recipients by voice and/or text and/or email messages, subject to the hardware and/or software capabilities of the user&#39;s computing device  906  and/or  701 . For example, the system software  401  may include voice-to-text messaging (i.e., typically may cause the computer device  906  to type messages based on the user&#39;s spoken words); and/or typically may provide for text-to-voice messaging (i.e., typically may cause the computer device  906  to verbally play back for 911 and/or other third parties messages that have been prewritten for the program and/or that are recorded by the user). 
       FIG. 16F  depicts  911  assistance page  806 , which typically contains instructions for using, and governs the operation of, the automated emergency dialing features of system  100  where controller device  101  may be equipped with a panic button  1005 . This page allows users to control various settings and/or features related to automated dialing services. As discussed elsewhere in this application, based on the number of times a user clicks (presses) on actuator/panic button  1005 , automated calls typically may be made through computer device  906  to 911 requesting police, EMS, and/or fire rescue services. Operationally, the computer device  906  may typically be in range of the controller  101  when panic button  1005  is pressed. Once computer device  906  receives the signal through wireless communication link  201 , system software  401  causes computer device  906  to, typically immediately, dial  911  and/or play a prerecorded message requesting assistance for the user and/or explaining that the user cannot physically access the phone. Through this screen page  806 , the user may set various parameters for the 911 dialing features, including (i) activating “silent dialing” and/or speaker silencing so that an assailant is not alerted to the call; (ii) including personalized information (e.g., medical conditions, allergies, etc.) in messages to 911; sending copies of 911 messages to third parties specified by the user (based on their contact information stored in computer device&#39;s  906  memory  110 ); adding automated GPS positioning messages to 911 messages; and/or selecting the type of messages to be sent to third parties (i.e., voice, text, email, and/or the like). To further facilitate the understanding and/or use of automated 911 dialing and/or panic button  1005  functionality, through the drop down menu on 911 assistance page  806 , a user accesses separate subpages with definitions and explanations  807 , depicted on  FIGS. 16G-16H . 
       FIG. 16I  depicts use of functions and/or directions on Find and Seek page  808 , which typically allows users to cause computing device  906  to find objects, people, and/or pets that have been lost. From a dropdown menu, the user may select a sensor  102  that may be attached to an item that has been lost (e.g., an eyeglass case with a sensor  102  affixed to it that has been misplaced in the home). By clicking on the relevant device name and/or number on this subpage, the user may cause computer device  906  to send a signal to lost sensor  102 . If lost sensor  102  is within computer device&#39;s  906  maximum range (determined by wireless communication system  201 ), sensor  102 &#39;s distinct alarm sound typically may be activated in sensor  102  and/or computer device  906  for a preset period of time (e.g., one, five, ten, twenty, etc. minutes). 
       FIG. 16J  depicts Test System screen page  809 , which typically allows a user to test the operating status of devices in system  100  to make sure they may be operational, charged (in relation to battery life)), etc. Using a dropdown menu, the user may select each system device (i.e., controller  101  and/or sensors  102  to be tested. By following the instructions and/or clicking on the specified device, alarm sounds typically may be triggered if it is working. If not working, the user may seek solutions by clicking on a link to a Troubleshooting subpage. 
       FIG. 16K  depicts Alert Notification screen page  810 , which typically provides a user with a visual display notifying that a breach has occurred in system  100 . This screen flashes on and off at the same time that vibration and/or sound alarms are playing in the computer device  906 . The screen also provides pertinent information to the user as to the nature of the breach, which may include (i) the identification of the controller  101  and/or sensor  102  that has been taken (i.e., moved out of the predetermined range and/or distance) from the controller  101  and/or computer device  906 ; (ii) the object, person, and/or pet associated with the device (if it is a sensor  102 ); the time of the breach; and (iv) the parties notified of the breach. The screen may also let the user turn off all alarms. 
     As illustrated in  FIGS. 17A-17B , another implementation of the present novel technology relates automatically initiating a remote emergency call from a cellular telephone, PDA, portable computer and/or like communication device that may function like controller  101 . System  100  typically includes cellular telephone and/or other communication device (such as a PDA)  101  that has been preprogrammed with an emergency voice, text, and/or email message and/or messages  920  and which likewise includes a BLUETOOTH, infrared, and/or like communication system  307  for receiving a call and/or message initiation signal. Typically, cellular telephone and/or PDA device  101  also includes a GPS location device  1020  for assessing its location and/or providing the same as part of and/or in addition to message(s)  920 . 
     The system  100  further includes a remote actuator device  940  for signaling controller device  101  to initiate the call, text, and/or email message(s). Typically, remote actuator device  940  includes a transceiver  307  for communicating an activation signal over communication link  201  to controller  101  and/or an actuator switch  1005  for actuating the same. Transceiver  307  may be typically connected to power source  113 , such as a battery, for generating the signal. 
     In operation, remote actuator device  940 , having the form of a fob and/or like object, may be actuated by its trigger switch and/or button  1005  in an emergency situation. Transceiver  307  emits actuation signal, which may be received by cellular telephone and/or PDA device  101 , initiating telephone and/or PDA device  101  to transmit its emergency message  920 . Typically, message  920  may be a 911 call and/or the like (which may include a voice message and/or a text and/or email message), but may also be individualized in content and/or destination (e.g., a message may be sent to EMS and/or the police based on local 911 services; but may also be sent to a spouse, parent, and/or the like). Message  920  may typically include GPS location information. The message may also be different based on different “clicks” of the transceiver. For example, one click may be programmed to send a message such as “Help: I&#39;m being assaulted; cannot speak; and/or need assistance immediately at the following address;” two clicks may be programmed to send a message such as “I&#39;m in a medical crisis; cannot speak on the phone; and/or need emergency medical services immediately at the following address; and/or three clicks may be programmed to send a message such as “there is a fire; send fire rescue.” Initiation of message  920  may likewise cue controller  101  for remote querying of its location by responders and/or remote audio and/or video monitoring of the situation. Remote device  910  may be either physically activated by clicking and/or pressing a trigger switch and/or button  1005  and/or may be voice activated. For a voice activation model, the device  940  may include a microphone capable of detecting voice commands and/or sending a signal to the phone and/or PDA device  101  activating a call and/or delivery of a text and/or email message to the police, EMS, and/or other recipients  960 . 
     For alerts involving threat to life and/or limb, system  100  may need to be silently activated and/or silenced, for example using receiver/silencer device  1105  so as not to alert and/or antagonize an assailant. Receiver/silencer  1105  may receive a signal from transceiver  307  and initiate one or more commands to cell phone/PDA device  101  including, but no limited to, turning on/off the phone/PDA device  101 ; transmitting voice and/or data (e.g., text messages, emails, and/or the like); initiating silent modes for system  100  (e.g., in even of an imminent assault, dialing out and/or sending messages silently so assailant cannot hear call for help, shutting of speaker  112  so that assailant cannot hear responses from emergency services or others, activating and/or sending GPS coordinates, and/or the like), and/or the like. System  100  may also shut off voice response from a call recipient  960 . In other words, once an emergency message  920  is sent to the police, the controller  101  may need to cut off incoming conversation so as to avoid an assailant overhearing a conversation from the responder. In other implementations, the override system may not be needed for a summons to EMS not involving physical assault. 
     While the novel technology has been illustrated and described in detail in the drawings and foregoing description, the same is to be considered as illustrative and not restrictive in character. It is understood that the embodiments have been shown and described in the foregoing specifications in satisfaction of the best mode and enablement requirements. It is further understood that one of ordinary skill in the art could readily make a nigh-infinite number of insubstantial changes and modifications to the above-described embodiments and that it would be impractical to attempt to describe all such embodiment variations in the present specification. Accordingly, it is understood that all changes and modifications that come within the spirit of the novel technology are desired to be protected. 
     While a particular embodiment of the present invention has been shown and described, modifications may be made. It is therefore intended in the appended claims to cover such changes and modifications which follow in the true spirit and scope of the invention.