G-5 Electronics

Thomas Marquardt

Robert L Gilling

Thomas A Kenny

Ernest Edmond Pacsai

Carl Szasz

Raj Chawla

Methods and systems for tracking objects. Systems of the present invention include a base station capable of transmitting and receiving signals at multiple frequencies. Each object to be tracked has attached to it what for the purpose of the present specification is referred to as an electronic tag ('E-Tag'). Each E-Tag can transmit signals that can be received and interpreted by the base station and each E-Tag can receive and interpret signals transmitted by the base station. The transmitting (and receiving) of signals between the base station and an E-Tag allows the base station to track the E-Tag, and therefore, track the object to which the E-Tag is attached. Methods utilized to track objects in accordance with the present invention vary depending on the distance of the object from a base station ('range' of the object). The distances from the base station are divided into zones with the lowest numbered zone (that is, zone) being closest to the base station and the highest numbered zone being farthest away from the base station. Typically, embodiments of the present invention are adapted to track objects in four different zones. LF and HF communications can be utilized to track objects in zonesand, triangulation can be used to track objects in zone, and global location techniques can be utilized to track objects in zone. In a typical application, zonecovers a storage enclosure such as a desk drawer, a file cabinet, or a safe for example. Zonefrequently covers a room or a building, zonecovers up to the maximum distance for which triangulation technology can be used to track an object, and zonecovers the maximum distance for which global location techniques can be used to track an object.

Object tracking

A solar powered light assembly having an integral power management system includes a means for collecting solar energy, and a plurality of energy storage devices. The device also includes a control means for selecting to charge one energy storage device and selecting to discharge one energy storage device to a predetermined level before selecting to recharge the selected discharging energy storage device. The device also includes a sensing means for sensing a predetermined charging condition and an energy charge switching means for selectively charging one of the energy storage devices. The device further includes a discharge sensing means and an energy discharge switching means for selectively discharging energy from the selected discharging energy storage device and a load switching means for delivering energy from the selected discharging energy storage device to the load for powering the solar powered device.

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Troy, MI, United States of America

Thomas Marquardt