GB2481400A - Security system providing protection against the theft of valuables - Google Patents

Security system providing protection against the theft of valuables Download PDF

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Publication number
GB2481400A
GB2481400A GB1010426.3A GB201010426A GB2481400A GB 2481400 A GB2481400 A GB 2481400A GB 201010426 A GB201010426 A GB 201010426A GB 2481400 A GB2481400 A GB 2481400A
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United Kingdom
Prior art keywords
motion detection
motion
detection sensor
security system
sensor unit
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Withdrawn
Application number
GB1010426.3A
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GB201010426D0 (en
Inventor
Philip Simmonds
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
TADPOLE SECURITY PRODUCTS Ltd
Original Assignee
TADPOLE SECURITY PRODUCTS Ltd
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
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Publication date
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Priority to GB1010426.3A priority Critical patent/GB2481400A/en
Publication of GB201010426D0 publication Critical patent/GB201010426D0/en
Publication of GB2481400A publication Critical patent/GB2481400A/en
Withdrawn legal-status Critical Current

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Classifications

    • G—PHYSICS
    • G08—SIGNALLING
    • G08B—SIGNALLING OR CALLING SYSTEMS; ORDER TELEGRAPHS; ALARM SYSTEMS
    • G08B13/00—Burglar, theft or intruder alarms
    • G08B13/02—Mechanical actuation
    • G08B13/14—Mechanical actuation by lifting or attempted removal of hand-portable articles
    • G08B13/1436—Mechanical actuation by lifting or attempted removal of hand-portable articles with motion detection
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G08—SIGNALLING
    • G08B—SIGNALLING OR CALLING SYSTEMS; ORDER TELEGRAPHS; ALARM SYSTEMS
    • G08B13/00—Burglar, theft or intruder alarms
    • G08B13/02—Mechanical actuation
    • G08B13/14—Mechanical actuation by lifting or attempted removal of hand-portable articles
    • G08B13/1427—Mechanical actuation by lifting or attempted removal of hand-portable articles with transmitter-receiver for distance detection
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G08—SIGNALLING
    • G08B—SIGNALLING OR CALLING SYSTEMS; ORDER TELEGRAPHS; ALARM SYSTEMS
    • G08B21/00—Alarms responsive to a single specified undesired or abnormal condition and not otherwise provided for
    • G08B21/02—Alarms for ensuring the safety of persons
    • G08B21/0202—Child monitoring systems using a transmitter-receiver system carried by the parent and the child
    • G08B21/0227—System arrangements with a plurality of child units
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G08—SIGNALLING
    • G08B—SIGNALLING OR CALLING SYSTEMS; ORDER TELEGRAPHS; ALARM SYSTEMS
    • G08B21/00—Alarms responsive to a single specified undesired or abnormal condition and not otherwise provided for
    • G08B21/02—Alarms for ensuring the safety of persons
    • G08B21/0202—Child monitoring systems using a transmitter-receiver system carried by the parent and the child
    • G08B21/0238—Child monitoring systems using a transmitter-receiver system carried by the parent and the child adding new units to the system
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G08—SIGNALLING
    • G08B—SIGNALLING OR CALLING SYSTEMS; ORDER TELEGRAPHS; ALARM SYSTEMS
    • G08B21/00—Alarms responsive to a single specified undesired or abnormal condition and not otherwise provided for
    • G08B21/02—Alarms for ensuring the safety of persons
    • G08B21/0202—Child monitoring systems using a transmitter-receiver system carried by the parent and the child
    • G08B21/0241—Data exchange details, e.g. data protocol
    • G08B21/0258—System arrangements wherein both parent and child units can emit and receive
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G08—SIGNALLING
    • G08B—SIGNALLING OR CALLING SYSTEMS; ORDER TELEGRAPHS; ALARM SYSTEMS
    • G08B25/00—Alarm systems in which the location of the alarm condition is signalled to a central station, e.g. fire or police telegraphic systems
    • G08B25/01—Alarm systems in which the location of the alarm condition is signalled to a central station, e.g. fire or police telegraphic systems characterised by the transmission medium
    • G08B25/10—Alarm systems in which the location of the alarm condition is signalled to a central station, e.g. fire or police telegraphic systems characterised by the transmission medium using wireless transmission systems

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  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Child & Adolescent Psychology (AREA)
  • General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Business, Economics & Management (AREA)
  • Emergency Management (AREA)
  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Computer Networks & Wireless Communication (AREA)
  • Burglar Alarm Systems (AREA)
  • Alarm Systems (AREA)

Abstract

A security system 100 comprises at least one motion detector sensor unit 110 for affixing to an object or valuable. The motion detector sensor unit 110 comprises a motion detector 114 and RF transmitter circuitry 112. The motion detector 114 is arranged to cause the RF transmitter circuitry 112 to wirelessly transmit a motion detected signal upon movement of the object or valuable to which it the sensor unit 110 is attached. The security system further comprises a master communication unit 130. The master communication unit 130 comprises RF receiver circuitry 132, and a signal processing module 134. The signal processing module 134 of the control unit is arranged to receive, via the RF receiver circuitry 132, motion detected signals transmitted by the at least one motion detection sensor unit 110, and upon receipt of a motion detected signal to activate an alarm or notify a user that a motion detected signal has been received. The motion detector 114 may comprise a vibration or tilt sensor. Each motion detector sensor unit 110 may be assigned a unique sensor identification.

Description

SECURITY SYSTEM, COMMUNICATION UNIT AND MOTION DETECTION
SENSOR UNIT
Field of the invention
The field of the invention relates to a security system, a communication unit and a motion detector sensor unit. In particular, the field of the invention relates to an instant response security system capable of being functional when members of the public or other authorised persons are present.
Background of the Invention
Conventional security systems that detect a presence of an intruder are well known, and provide protection against theft of valuable objects and the like when a home owner is away, or in a case of commercial/industrial premises out of business hours. Such systems operate by detecting a presence of an intruder, for example by way of infra-red sensors or door/window sensors, and upon the detection of an intruder trigger an alarm. Such systems have proven to be effective and reliable, and as such provide an effective deterrent to would be intruders.
However, a problem with such security systems is that typically they are not able to differentiate between an intruder and an authorised person such as, say, a home owner or a visitor/guest or, in a case of commercial/industrial premises, employees, etc. Accordingly, in order to prevent such security systems inadvertently triggering an alarm when authorised persons are present, they must be switched off or otherwise disabled. Within relatively small premises, to which few (if any) strangers (e.g. visitors) have access, the presence of an authorised person may be sufficient to provide protection against the theft of valuable objects whilst a security system as mentioned above is switched off. However, for larger premises and/or premises to which large numbers of visitors or the like have access, such as art galleries, museums, etc., it is often not possible for authorised persons alone, such as employees, etc., to be able to provide adequate protection for valuable items and the like. Accordingly, there is often a need for alternative security systems that provide protection against the theft of valuable objects that do not simply detect the presence of people.
Such alternative security systems are also known, and for example may be implemented within art galleries, museums etc. in order to allow visitors to view art work and museum pieces whilst also providing protection against the theft of such art work and museum pieces. However, such known alternative security systems are typically complex and expensive, often forming an integrated part of an overall security system. In particular, such systems are typically too expensive for private/residential use, or even for use within small businesses, and are typically too complex for a home owner or small business owner to quickly and easily install themselves.
However, home owners and small businesses may own, or may be in possession of, valuable objects that need to be protected against theft. Furthermore, it may be desirable or necessary for such valuable objects to be moved around within the premises, or new objects may be obtained and other objects may be sold or otherwise no longer possessed. Accordingly, it has been identified that a need therefore exists for a security system that provides protection against the theft of valuable objects in the presence of persons, that is affordable for home owners, small businesses and the like, and which is preferably simple to install and set up by the home owner/business owner themselves.
Thus, there exists a need for a security system with which at least some of the above mentioned shortcomings of past and present security system techniques and/or mechanisms are alleviated.
Summary of the Invention
Accordingly, the invention seeks to mitigate, alleviate or eliminate one or more of the abovementioned disadvantages, either singly or in any combination.
According to a first aspect of the invention, there is provided a security system comprising at least one motion detection sensor unit for affixing to an object. The at least one motion detection sensor unit comprises radio frequency (RF) transmitter circuitry and a motion detection component, the motion detection component being arranged to cause the RF transmitter circuitry to transmit a motion detected signal upon detection of motion of the motion detection component. The security system further comprises at least one master communication unit comprising RF receiver circuitry and a signal processing module. The signal processing module of the control unit is arranged to receive, via the RF receiver circuitry, motion detected signals transmitted by the at least one motion detection sensor unit, and upon receipt of a motion detected signal to initiate a motion detection procedure.
In this manner, by affixing a motion detection sensor unit to an object to be protected, any subsequent movement or motion of the object will cause a corresponding movement/motion of the motion detection sensor unit. Upon detection of such a movement/motion of the motion detection sensor unit, the motion detection component will cause the RF transmitter circuitry of the motion detection sensor unit to transmit a motion detected signal. The motion detected signal will then be received by the RF receiver circuitry of the master communication unit, and provided to the signal processing module, which may then initiate a motion detection procedure, such as activate an alarm or notify a user that a motion detected signal has been received. In this manner, the security system may be active without, say, an alarm being triggered just by the presence of a person within the vicinity of an object being protected. Only if the object is moved, for example picked up, will a signal be sent to the master communication unit for the appropriate action to be taken.
In one optional example embodiment of the invention, the at least one motion detection sensor unit(s) may comprise a unique sensor identifier, and the motion detection component thereof may be arranged to cause the RF transmitter circuitry to transmit a motion detected signal comprising the unique sensor identifier therefore, upon detection of motion by the motion detection component. In this manner, the master communication unit is able to identify a motion detection sensor unit from which a received motion detected signal was transmitted and thus determine a likely location of an object to which the sensor was affixed, that has moved.
In one optional example embodiment of the invention, the signal processing module of the at least one master communication unit may be arranged to pair with the at least one motion detection sensor unit, and upon receipt of a motion detected signal comprising a unique sensor identifier corresponding to a motion detection sensor unit paired therewith, to initiate a motion detection procedure.
In one optional example embodiment of the invention, the signal processing module of the at least one master communication unit may be further arranged to be paired with at least one control unit, and upon receipt of commands from the at least one control unit via the RF transmitter circuitry, the signal processing module of the at least one master communication unit may be arranged to perform at least one from a group consisting of: pairing with at least one motion detection sensor unit; enabling/disabling an initiation of a motion detection procedure upon receipt of a motion detected signal; and resetting of the security system.
In one optional example embodiment of the invention, the at least one master communication unit may further comprise integrated alarm functionality, and the motion detection procedure may comprise logic for activating the integrated alarm functionality. In this manner, the master communication unit may be able to operate as a standalone alarm system.
In one optional example embodiment of the invention, the at least one master communication unit may further comprise at least one external communication module for enabling communication with at least one external device via an external communication channel. For example, upon receipt of a motion detected signal, the signal processing module of the at least one master communication unit may be arranged to provide an indication of the receipt of a motion detected signal via the at least one external communication module to at least one from a group consisting of: an external alarm system interface; a user notification system interface; a computer system interface; and a surveillance system interface. In one example, such an alarm notification may be relayed to a person using any suitable communication means, such as by way of an automated SMS message.
In one optional example embodiment of the invention, the security system may comprise a plurality of master communication units operably coupled together to form a network thereof.
In one optional embodiment of the invention, the security system may comprise a plurality of motion detection sensor units, each motion detection sensor unit being arranged to pair with at least one of the master communication units.
According to a second aspect of the invention, there is provided a master communication unit for use within the security system of the first aspect of the invention. The master communication unit comprises radio frequency (RF) receiver circuitry and a signal processing module, the signal processing module of the control unit being arranged to receive, via the RF receiver circuitry, motion detected signals transmitted by the at least one motion detection sensor unit, and upon receipt of a motion detected signal to initiate a motion detection procedure.
According to a third aspect of the invention, there is provided a motion detection sensor unit for use within the security system of the first aspect of the invention. The motion detection sensor unit comprises radio frequency (RF) transmitter circuitry and a motion detection component, the motion detection component being arranged to cause the RF transmitter circuitry to transmit a motion detected signal upon detection of motion by the motion detection component.
According to a fourth aspect of the invention, there is provided a method for initiating a motion detection procedure. The method comprises, at a motion detection sensor unit affixed to an object, detecting motion of the motion detection sensor unit and transmitting a motion detected signal in response to the detection of motion of the motion detection sensor unit. The method further comprises, at a master communication unit, receiving the motion detected signal, and initiating the motion detected procedure in response to receiving the motion detected signal.
These and other aspects, features and advantages of the invention will be apparent from, and elucidated with reference to, the embodiments described hereinafter.
Brief Description of the Drawings
Embodiments of the invention will be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: FIG. 1 illustrates an example of a security system adapted in accordance with some example embodiments of the present invention.
FIG. 2 illustrates an example of a security system adapted in accordance with some alternative embodiments of the present invention.
FIG. 3 illustrates an example of a simplified flowchart of a method for initiating a motion detection procedure according to some example embodiments of the present invention.
Detailed Description
Referring now to the drawings, and initially to FIG. 1, an example of a security system 100 is described in accordance with some embodiments of the invention. For the example illustrated in FIG. 1, the security system 100 comprises a plurality of motion detection sensor units 110 for affixing to objects for which protection, for example against theft, is desired. Each motion detection sensor unit 110 comprises radio frequency (RF) transmitter circuitry 112 and a motion detection component 114. Although two motion detection sensor units 110 are illustrated in FIG. 1, it will be appreciated that the present invention is not limited to a security system 100 comprising two motion detection sensor units 110. Indeed it is contemplated that a security system adapted in accordance with embodiments of the present invention may comprise substantially any required number of motion detection sensor units, for example ranging from a single motion detection sensor unit up to, say, potentially hundreds or even thousands of motion detection sensor units.
The security system 100 further comprises at least one master communication unit (MCU) 120 comprising RF receiver circuitry 122 and signal processing logic 124, which in one example may be of a form of one or more digital signal processors (DSPs) The motion detection component 114 of each motion detection sensor unit 110 is arranged to cause the RF transmitter circuitry 112 of the motion detection sensor unit 110 to transmit a motion detected signal upon detection of motion by the motion detection component 114. For example, the motion detection component 114 may comprise a vibration/tilt sensor (not shown) and a message generation component or function (not shown), for example in the form of an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC) or microcontroller coupled to a memory that stores a unique identifier, and upon the vibration/tilt sensor detecting a vibration or change in orientation of the motion detection sensor unit 110, the message generation component may generate a motion detected message to the RF transmitter circuitry 112 for transmission within an RF signal via an antenna 116. The signal processing logic 124 of the MCU 120 is arranged to receive, via an antenna 125 and the RF receiver circuitry 122, one or more motion detected signals transmitted by the one or more motion detection sensor units 110, and upon receipt of such a motion detected signal to initiate a motion detection procedure, for example as described in greater detail below.
Thus, by affixing a motion detection sensor unit 110 to an object to be protected, any subsequent movement or motion of the object will cause a corresponding movement/motion of the motion detection sensor unit 110. Upon detection of such a movement/motion of the motion detection sensor unit 110, the motion detection component 114 will cause the RF transmitter circuitry 112 of the motion detection sensor unit 110 to transmit a motion detected signal. The motion detected signal will then be received by the RF receiver circuitry 122 of the MCU 120, and provided to the signal processing logic 124, which may then initiate a motion detection procedure, such as activate an alarm or notify a user that a motion detected signal has been received. In this manner, the security system may be active without, say, an alarm being triggered just by the presence of a person within the vicinity of an object being protected. Only if the object is moved, for example picked up, will a signal be sent to the MCU for the appropriate action to be taken.
In one example, a motion detection sensor 110 may be affixed to an object to be protected in any suitable manner. For example, a motion detection sensor 110 may be substantially permanently affixed to an object by way of an adhesive or other generally permanent manner, such as by being integrated within a part of the object itself. Alternatively, a motion detection sensor 110 may be removably or detachably affixed to an object, for example by way of a screw or other removable mechanical fixing such as hook and loop fasteners, for example VeIcroTM. Alternatively, a motion detection sensor 110 may be removably affixed to an object in such a manner as to substantially avoid marking or damaging the object, for example simply using a putty-like pressure-sensitive adhesive such as BIu-TakTM, or an adhesive tape.
In accordance with some example embodiments of the present invention, each motion detection sensor unit 110 may comprise a substantially unique sensor identifier, and the motion detection component 114 thereof may be arranged, upon detection of motion of the motion detection sensor unit 110, to cause the RF transmitter circuitry 112 to transmit a motion detected signal comprising the unique sensor identifier. In this manner, upon receipt of a motion detected signal, the signal processing logic 124 of the MCU 120 is able to identify from the unique sensor identifier, the motion detection sensor unit 110 from which the signal was transmitted.
The signal processing logic 124 of the MCU 120 may be arranged to pair with the one or more motion detection sensor unit(s) 110, for example by way of a registration procedure whereby motion detection sensor units 110 being paired with the MCU 120 may register their unique sensor identifiers with the MCU 120. In this manner, upon receipt of a motion detected signal comprising a unique sensor identifier corresponding to a motion detection sensor unit 110 paired therewith, the signal processing module 124 may initiate a motion detection procedure. Conversely, if the MCU receives a motion detected signal comprising a unique identifier that does not correspond to a motion detection sensor unit 110 paired therewith, the signal processing module 124 may be arranged to ignore the received signal, or to initiate a different procedure to the motion detection procedure initiated upon receipt of a motion detected signal from a motion detection sensor unit paired therewith.
It is further contemplated that the signal processing module 124 of the MCU may be further arranged to be paired with at least one control unit, such as the control unit 130 illustrated in FIG. 1. For the illustrated example, the control unit 130 comprises RF transmitter circuitry 132 and a user interaction component 134 with which a user is able to input commands. For example, the control unit 130 may comprise a fob or the like, and the user interaction component 134 may comprise one or more buttons (not shown) that a user is able to depress in order to input one or more commands. The user interaction component 134 may further comprise conversion logic (not shown), for example in a form of an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC) or microcontroller, arranged to interpret input from a user (i.e. one or more buttons being depressed) and to convert the interpreted input into control commands, which may then be provided to the RF transmitter circuitry 132 for transmission within an RF signal via an antenna 136. Accordingly, the signal processing module 124 of the MCU 120 may be arranged to receive, via the antenna 125 and RF receiver circuitry 122, control commands transmitted by the control unit 130, and upon receipt of such commands, to perform appropriate actions. In addition, in some examples, the control unit may comprise a display to identify the message and/or the object that the motion detection sensor unit was affixed to. In some examples, the control unit may be portable, for example in a form of a mobile phone handset, a laptop or a personal digital assistant (PDA), such that an owner of objects can receive massage updates whilst on the move. In one example, a user may be able to input, by way of example only, a command for one or more of: (i) the MCU 120 to pair and/or unpair with one or more motion detection sensor units; (ii) the MCU 120 to enable or disable initiation of a motion detection procedure upon receipt of a motion detected signal (namely to activate or deactivate the security system); (iii) the MCU 120 to reset the security system (for example to turn off any alarm system or the like that has been activated as part of a motion detection procedure), etc. Thus, the signal processing module 124 of the MCU 120 may be arranged, upon receipt of commands from the control unit 130, to perform at least one of: (i) pairing and/or un-pairing with at least one motion detection sensor unit; (ii) enabling/disabling the initiation of a motion detection procedure upon receipt of a motion detected signal; and (iii) resetting of the security system.
By enabling a user to control the MCU 120 in this manner, the user is able to not only activate/deactivate the security system 100 and to reset the security system 100 after the motion of an object has been detected, but also to enable additional motion detection sensor units 110 to be paired with the MCU 120, or for paired motion detection sensor units 110 to be un-paired.
Accordingly, the number of motion detection sensor units 110 within the security system 100 may be increased or decreased as required by a user, thereby providing a flexible and expandable security system 100. Furthermore, the use of RF signals to communicate between the motion detection sensor units 110 and the MCU 120 means that the number of motion detection sensor 1 5 units 110, and their installation/affixing to objects, is not limited or restricted by physical (wired) connections. In one example, the RF power of the motion detection sensor units can be controlled to enable their range of operation, and therefore their application, to be increased or decreased accordingly to a respective user's needs. Such power control of an RF amplifier is known and will therefore not be described further here.
It is contemplated that each control unit 130 may also comprise a unique identifier that is transmitted within control command signals, and each control unit 130 may be paired within one or more MCUs 120, for example by way of a registration procedure whereby control units 130 being paired with an MCU 120 may register their control unit identifiers with the MCU 120. In this manner, upon receipt of a control command signal comprising a unique identifier corresponding to a control unit 130 paired therewith, the signal processing module 124 of the MCU 120 may perform the appropriate action in accordance with the received control command. Conversely, if the MCU receives a control command signal comprising a unique identifier that does not correspond to a control unit 130 paired therewith, the signal processing module 124 of the MCU 120 may be arranged to a ignore the received signal. In this manner, only control units 130 paired with the MCU 120 may be used to control the MCU 120, for example to activate/deactivate/reset the security system 100.
It will be appreciated that once a motion detected signal has been received by the MCU 120, if the motion detection sensor unit 110 that transmitted the received signal is subsequently removed from the object it is affixed to, or deactivated (e.g. intentionally damaged), such an action will not affect the MCU 120, and as such may not cancel or otherwise reverse any action initiated by the MCU 120 as part of the motion detection procedure initiated upon receipt of the motion detected signal. In particular, since typically a motion detection sensor unit 110 may not be removed or deactivated without the motion detection sensor unit 110 being moved (in particular if the sensor unit 110 is affixed such that movement of the object is required to access it), then any attempt to remove or deactivate the sensor unit 110 will cause a motion detected signal to be transmitted. In order to prevent an intruder or other unauthorised person tampering with the MCU 120, the MCU 120 may be located in a remote and generally inaccessible location. The use of RF signals to communicate between the motion detection sensor units 110 and the control unit 130 substantially alleviates the need for wires to be operably coupled between the sensor units 110 and the control unit 130, which may otherwise hinder or complicate such remote location of the MCU 120.
It is contemplated that the MCU 120 may comprise a low powered module that may be operably coupled to, and thereby powered by in normal operating conditions, a mains power supply (not shown). Furthermore, the MCU 120 may comprise a backup battery power supply (not shown) such that, in the event of a failure of the mains power supply, the MCU 120 remains powered by the backup battery power supply. Furthermore, upon subsequent reinstatement of the mains power supply, the backup battery power supply may be recharged (and subsequently its charge maintained) by the mains power supply.
For the example embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1, the MCU 120 further comprises integrated alarm functionality. Specifically for the illustrated example, the MCU 120 comprises integrated audible alarm functionality 126 and integrated visual alarm functionality 128.
Accordingly, the motion detection procedure initiated by the signal processing module 124 of the MCU 120, upon receipt of a motion detected signal may comprise activating the audible and/or visual integrated alarm functionality 126, 128. In this manner, the MCU 120 may operate as a standalone alarm system.
Additionally or alternatively, the MCU 120 may further comprise one or more external communication modules, for example as illustrated generally at 140, for enabling communication with at least one external device via one or more external communication channels, such as illustrated generally at 145. Accordingly, upon receipt of a motion detected signal, the signal processing module 124 of the MCU 120 may be arranged to provide an indication of a receipt of a motion detected signal via the one or more external communication modules 140 to one or more of: (i) an external alarm system interface; (ii) a user notification system interface; (iii) a computing system interface; and (iv) a surveillance system interface.
For example, and as illustrated in FIG. 1, the external communication module 140 may be operably coupled to an external alarm system interface 150 via a communication channel 145.
Such a communication channel may comprise any suitable form, for example a wired communication channel comprising an Ethernet or coaxial cable, an optical communication channel comprising a fibre optic cable, a wireless communication channel comprising RF or microwave transceivers, etc., or any combination of such communication channels. In this manner, the signal processing module 124 of the MCU 120 is able to interface with an external alarm system interface and upon receipt of a motion detected signal, provide an indication of the receipt of such a signal to the external alarm system interface 150. In this manner, the MCU 120 may be implemented as a wired/wireless peripheral device linked into a hard-wired alarm system. For example, the MCU 120 may be installed along with, and as part of, a comprehensive alarm system.
Alternatively, the MCU 120 may be retro-fitted and interfaced with an existing alarm system. In this manner, part of the motion detection procedure initiated by the signal processing module 124, upon receipt of a motion detected signal, may comprise signalling to an external alarm signal 150 that the movement/motion of a motion detection sensor unit 110 has been detected.
Additionally or alternatively, and as also illustrated in FIG. 1, the external communication module 140 may be operably coupled to an external network interface 152 via a suitable communication channel 145. For example, the external communication module 140 may be operably coupled to one or more of a local area network (LAN) (wired or wireless), wide area network (WAN) such as the Internet, etc. In this manner, the signal processing module 124 of the MCU 120 is able to interface with one or more remote computing systems via the external network(s) 152. Alternatively, and as illustrated at 156, the external communication module 140 may be operably coupled to a local computing system via a suitable communication channel, such as an Ethernet, Universal Serial Bus (USB) or wireless (e.g. BluetoothTM) connection or the like, substantially directly. In this manner, the local or remote computing system 152, 156 may comprise a user notification system whereby, upon receipt of an indication that a motion detection signal has been received from the signal processing module 124, the local or remote computing system 152, 156 may cause a message to be sent to a user, for example byway of electronic mail (email), short message service (SMS) message, multimedia message service (MMS), etc., in order to notify the user that the motion of a motion detection sensor unit has been detected. In addition or alternatively, the local or remote computing system(s) 152, 156 may comprise event logging functionality for logging reported events, such as the detection of a motion or movement of a motion detection sensor unit.
It is further contemplated that the external communication module 140 may be operably coupled via a communication channel 145, for example substantially directly to a dedicated user notification system, as illustrated generally at 154. For example, the external communication module 140 may be operably coupled to an SMS interface of a GSM (Global System of Mobile communication) or 3G (3rd Generation of mobile communication systems) enabled device (not shown).
Additionally or alternatively, the external communication module 140 may be operably coupled to a surveillance system interface, as illustrated at 158, and upon receipt of a motion detected signal, the signal processing logic 124 of the MCU 120 may be arranged to provide an indication of the receipt of a motion detected signal to the surveillance system interface 158 in order to activate or otherwise influence a surveillance system such as a closed circuit television (CCTV) system. Alternatively, the external communication module 140 may be operably coupled to a law enforcement (e.g. police) computer network. -10-
Referring now to FIG. 2, there is illustrated an example of a security system 200 in accordance with some alternative example embodiments of the present invention. Once again, the security system 200 comprises a plurality of motion detection sensor units 110 for affixing to objects for which protection is desired, such as the motion detection sensor units of FIG. 1. The security system 200 of FIG. 2 further comprises a plurality of MCUs 120, 220, for example such as the MCU of FIG. 1, each MCU 120, 220 being arranged to receive motion detected signals transmitted by one or more of the motion detection sensor units 110, and upon receipt of a motion detected signal to initiate a motion detection procedure.
For the example illustrated in FIG. 2, the MCUs 120, 220 are operably coupled to one another to form a network of MCUs, and for the illustrated example are operably coupled in a serial configuration to form a string' of MCUs 120, 220. The MCUs 120, 220 may be operably coupled to one another in any suitable manner. For example, the MCUs may be wirelessly coupled to one another, for example by way of wireless LAN or BluetoothTM connections. Alternatively, the MCUs may be operably coupled to one another by way of Ethernet or similar connections. It is contemplated that the MCUs are not limited to being operably coupled in the configuration illustrated in FIG. 2, and may be alternatively operably coupled to one another in any suitable configuration, such as, by way of example only, in a web' configuration whereby the MCUs are typically operably coupled to a plurality of other MCUs, a cart wheel' configuration whereby a central MCU provides a hub' MCU to which all other MCUs are operably coupled, etc. For the example illustrated in FIG. 2, each MCU 120, 220 is associated with one or more groups 210, 225, for example each group relating to a zone' such as, say, one or more rooms in a building, one or more floors of a building, or a respective building itself. For example, MCUs 120 are each associated with a single zone 210. In this manner, motion detection sensor units 110 located within such a zone 210 may be paired with the appropriate MCU 120, and thereby associated with the respective zone 210 through association with the corresponding MCU 120.
Alternatively, the MCU 220 may be associated with two groups 225. In this manner, motion detection sensor units 110 located within, say, two zones may be paired with the MCU 220, and associated with a corresponding one of the groups 225 as part of the pairing processes. For example, each zone associated with the MCU 220 may be assigned a group identifier, and upon being paired with the MCU 220, a motion detection sensor unit 110 may be associated with at least one group identifier.
Additionally or alternatively, it is contemplated that such groups may be associated with other characteristics of objects to which the motion detection sensor units 110 are affixed, and are not limited to just being associated with zones or other object location characteristics. For example, groups may additionally or alternatively be associated with types of objects, associated with ownership or responsibility of objects, etc. By associating motion detection sensor units 110 with one or more groups in this manner, when a motion detected signal is received by an MCU 120, 220, the group(s) with which the motion detection sensor unit 110 from which the signal was transmitted may be identified, and one or more appropriate motion detection procedure(s) initiated thereafter based on the associated group(s).
For example, one or more of the MCUs 120, 220 may be operably coupled to one or more external devices via one or more external communication channels, as illustrated generally at 145 and described in greater detail above. Accordingly, upon receipt of a motion detected signal, an MCU 120, 220 may be arranged to indicate to, say, an external alarm system, a computing system, a surveillance system, etc., that a motion detected signal has been received, and with which group(s) the received signal is associated.
Thus, example embodiments of a security system in accordance with the present invention have been described, whereby an instant response audible/visual alarm system may be provided capable of being fully functional when members of the public or other authorised persons are present. It is anticipated that such a system may be of particular benefit when implemented within homes or other buildings containing valuable objects, whereby such objects may be afforded a level of protection from, say, theft, even when a more traditional intruder alarm is switched off.
Additionally or alternatively it is anticipated that such a system may provide protection to objects that are located in areas that may not be covered by a more traditional intruder alarm, such as objects located within outbuildings or otherwise located remotely from, for example, the main buildings of a property. Such objects may comprise, by way of example only, plant or agricultural machinery, gardening items, boats, caravans, etc. Furthermore, it is anticipated that such a system may also be of particular benefit for providing a level of protection for items that are, say, presented as part of moveable displays, for example at trade shows/fairs and exhibitions, or are on display to the public in venues such as art galleries, museums etc. Referring now to FIG. 3, there is illustrated an example of a simplified flowchart 300 of a method for initiating a motion detection procedure according to some example embodiments of the present invention. For the illustrated example, the method starts with steps performed by a motion detection sensor unit, indicated generally at 310. In particular, the method starts at step 315 with detecting motion of the motion detection sensor unit that is affixed to an object that is moved. A motion detected signal is then transmitted at step 320 in response to the detection of motion of the motion detection sensor unit.
The method of FIG. 3 then moves on to steps performed by a master communication unit, indicated generally at 325. In particular, the method moves on to step 330 with a receipt by the master communication unit of a wireless motion detected signal. Next, at step 335, a motion detection sensor unit identifier is extracted from the wirelessly received signal. The extracted motion detection sensor unit identifier is then used to determine whether the received motion detected signal was transmitted by a sensor unit paired with the master communication unit, in step 340. If the extracted motion detection sensor unit was transmitted by a sensor unit paired with the master communication unit, the method moves on to step 345, where the master communication -12 -unit initiates a motion detection procedure. For example, in response thereto, the master communication unit may activate integrated alarm functionality, as indicated generally at 350, and/or the master communication unit may provide an indication of receipt of a motion detected signal to one or more external devices, as indicated generally at 355. The method then ends at step 360. Referring back to step 340, if the extracted motion detection sensor unit was transmitted by a sensor unit that was not paired with the master communication unit, the method moves straight to step 360 and ends.
Although the invention has been described in connection with some embodiments, it is not 1 0 intended to be limited to the specific form set forth herein. Rather, the scope of the invention is limited only by the claims. Additionally, although a feature may appear to be described in connection with particular embodiments, one skilled in the art would recognize that various features of the described embodiments may be combined in accordance with the invention.
Furthermore, although individually listed, a plurality of means, elements or method steps may be implemented by, for example, a single component or element. Additionally, although individual features may be included in different claims, these may possibly be advantageously combined, and the inclusion in different claims does not imply that a combination of features is not feasible and/or advantageous. Also, the inclusion of a feature in one category of claims does not imply a limitation to this category, but rather the feature may be equally applicable to other claim categories, as appropriate.
Furthermore, various functional components and modules have been illustrated and described as separate logic elements to facilitate understanding of the inventive concept.
However, it will be appreciated that the present invention is not limited to the specific distribution of functionality as illustrated and described herein, and such functionality may be combined into fewer physical elements than illustrated and described, or may be distributed amongst more physical elements than illustrated and described, without departing from the inventive concept. For example, the signal processing module 124 and external communication module(s) 140 of the MCU 120 illustrated in FIG. 1 have been illustrated and described as separate functional modules.
However, it will be appreciated that such functional modules may be implemented by way of a single element such as, say, a single integrated circuit device or the like.
Furthermore, the order of features in the claims does not imply any specific order in which the features must be performed and in particular the order of individual steps in a method claim does not imply that the steps must be performed in this order. Rather, the steps may be performed in any suitable order. In addition, singular references do not exclude a plurality. Thus, references to a', an', first', second', etc. do not preclude a plurality.
Thus, a security system, master communication unit and motion detection sensor unit therefor, have been described that may alleviate at least some of the shortcomings of past and present techniques and/or mechanisms. -13-

Claims (13)

  1. CLAIMS1. A security system comprising: at least one motion detection sensor unit for affixing to an object, the at least one motion detection sensor unit comprising radio frequency (RF) transmitter circuitry and a motion detection component, the motion detection component being arranged to cause the RF transmitter circuitry to wirelessly transmit a motion detected signal upon detection of motion of the motion detection component; and at least one master communication unit comprising RF receiver circuitry and a signal processing module, the signal processing module of the control unit being arranged to receive, via the RF receiver circuitry, motion detected signals transmitted by the at least one motion detection sensor unit, and upon receipt of a motion detected signal to initiate a motion detection procedure.
  2. 2. The security system of Claim 1 wherein a number of the at least one motion detection sensor unit(s) comprise(s) a unique sensor identifier, and the motion detection component thereof is arranged to cause the RF transmitter circuitry to transmit a motion detected signal comprising the unique sensor identifier upon detection of motion by the motion detection component.
  3. 3. The security system of Claim 2 wherein the signal processing module of the at least one master communication unit is arranged to pair with the at least one motion detection sensor unit, and upon receipt of a motion detected signal comprising the unique sensor identifier corresponding to a motion detection sensor unit paired therewith, to initiate a motion detection procedure.
  4. 4. The security system of any preceding Claim wherein the signal processing module of the at least one master communication unit is further arranged to be paired with at least one control unit.
  5. 5. The security system of Claim 4 wherein upon receipt of at least one command from the at least one control unit via the RF transmitter circuitry, the signal processing module of the at least one master communication unit is arranged to perform at least one operation from a group consisting of: pairing with at least one motion detection sensor unit; enabling the initiation of a motion detection procedure upon receipt of a motion detected signal; disabling the initiation of a motion detection procedure upon receipt of a motion detected signal; and resetting of the security system.
    -14 -
  6. 6. The security system of any preceding Claim wherein the at least one master communication unit further comprises integrated alarm functionality, and the motion detection procedure comprises activating the integrated alarm functionality.
  7. 7. The security system of any preceding Claim wherein the at least one master communication unit further comprises at least one external communication module for enabling communication with at least one external device via an external communication channel.
  8. 8. The security system of Claim 7 wherein, upon receipt of a motion detected signal, the signal processing module of the at least one master communication unit is arranged to provide an indication of the receipt of a motion detected signal via the at least one external communication module to at least one from a group consisting of: an external alarm system interface; a user notification system interface; a computer system interface; and a surveillance system interface.
  9. 9. The security system of any preceding Claim wherein the security system comprises a plurality of master communication units operably coupled together to form a network thereof.
  10. 10. The security system of Claim 9 wherein the security system comprises a plurality of motion detection sensor units, each motion detection sensor unit being arranged to pair with at least one of the master communication units.
  11. 11. A master communication unit for use within the security system of Claim 1, the master communication unit comprising radio frequency (RF) receiver circuitry and a signal processing module, the signal processing module of the control unit being arranged to receive, via the RF receiver circuitry, motion detected signals transmitted by the at least one motion detection sensor unit, and upon receipt of a motion detected signal to initiate a motion detection procedure.
  12. 12. A motion detection sensor unit for use within the security system of Claim 1, the motion detection sensor unit comprising radio frequency (RF) transmitter circuitry and a motion detection component, the motion detection component being arranged to cause the RF transmitter circuitry to wirelessly transmit a motion detected signal upon detection of motion by the motion detection component.
  13. 13. A method for initiating a motion detection procedure, the method comprising, at a motion detection sensor unit affixed to an object: detecting motion of the motion detection sensor unit; and -15-wirelessly transmitting a motion detected signal in response to the detection of motion of the motion detection sensor unit; wherein the method further comprises, at a master communication unit: receiving the motion detected signal, and initiating the motion detection procedure in response to receiving the motion detected signal.*::r: INTELLECTUAL . ... PROPERTY OFFICE Application No: GB1010426.3 Examiner: Richard Kersiake Claims searched: 1-13 Date of search: 13 October 2010 Patents Act 1977: Search Report under Section 17 Documents considered to be relevant: Category Relevant to claims Identity of document and passage or figure of particular relevance X 1,2,6,7 & 11-13 at US2009/023 1129 Al least (EDWARDS et al.) See whole document, especially figure 1 and paragraphs 11 & 12 X 1-3,6&11-l3at WOO1/13344A1 least (MEILI) See whole document, especially figure 1 and page 3, lines 4-24 X 1,2,6&11-l3at US5001461A least (VROOM et al.) See whole document X 1,2,6 & 11-13 at U52003/0107485 Al least (ZORATTI) See whole document, especially paragraphs 39-X 1,2,6&11-l3at EP0097742A1 least (LEMELSON) See whole document, especially page 5, line 1 -page 7, line 20 X 1,2,6&11-l3at JP2003099862A least (OHM) See figure 1 & EPO abstract X 1,6,7&11-l3at W02008/019339A2 least (ANDERSON) See paragraphs 24-32 & 38 X 1,6&11-l3atleast US5963131A (D'ANGELO et al.) See whole document, especially figures 3 & 4 and column 7, line 65 -column 8, line 37 X 1,6&11-l3atleast U55877686A (IBEY et al.) See whole document Categories: X Document indicating lack of novelty or inventive A Document indicating technological background and/or state step of the art.Y Document indicating lack of inventive step if P Document published on or after the declared priority date but combined with one or more other documents of before the filing date of this invention.same category.& Member of the same patent family E Patent document published on or after. but with priority date earlier than, the filing date of this application.Intellectual Property Office is an operating name of the Patent Office www.ipo.gov.uk *::r: INTELLECTUAL . ... PROPERTY OFFICEField of Search:Search of GB, EP. WO & US patent documents classified in the following areas of the UKCX Worldwide search of patent documents classified in the following areas of the IPC GO8B The following online and other databases have been used in the preparation of this search report EPODOC,WPI International Classification: Subclass Subgroup Valid From GO8B 0013/14 01/01/2006 GO8B 0025/10 01/01/2006 Intellectual Property Office is an operating name of the Patent Office www.ipo.gov.uk
GB1010426.3A 2010-06-22 2010-06-22 Security system providing protection against the theft of valuables Withdrawn GB2481400A (en)

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Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
GB1010426.3A GB2481400A (en) 2010-06-22 2010-06-22 Security system providing protection against the theft of valuables

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GB2481400A true GB2481400A (en) 2011-12-28

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CN103377531A (en) * 2012-04-28 2013-10-30 北京中软冠群软件技术有限公司 Equipment and method for burglary prevention of precious property
WO2014009581A1 (en) * 2012-07-09 2014-01-16 Joaquin Jerez Aragones Personal anti-theft device
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US20030107485A1 (en) * 2001-12-07 2003-06-12 Michael Zoratti Fire hydrant anti-tamper device
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DE102012005476A1 (en) * 2012-03-17 2013-09-19 Abb Ag Motion or presence detector system
CN103377531A (en) * 2012-04-28 2013-10-30 北京中软冠群软件技术有限公司 Equipment and method for burglary prevention of precious property
WO2014009581A1 (en) * 2012-07-09 2014-01-16 Joaquin Jerez Aragones Personal anti-theft device
CN106558173A (en) * 2015-09-29 2017-04-05 哈尔滨东方报警设备开发有限公司 A kind of vibrations detecting alarm based on STC85C92

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