U.S. patent application number 10/406613 was filed with the patent office on 2006-12-21 for authorized personnel biometric detection system preventing unauthorized use of aircraft and other potentially dangerous instruments.
Invention is credited to Michael Recce.
Application Number | 20060285725 10/406613 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 25328900 |
Filed Date | 2006-12-21 |
United States Patent
Application |
20060285725 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Recce; Michael |
December 21, 2006 |
AUTHORIZED PERSONNEL BIOMETRIC DETECTION SYSTEM PREVENTING
UNAUTHORIZED USE OF AIRCRAFT AND OTHER POTENTIALLY DANGEROUS
INSTRUMENTS
Abstract
An authorized pilot detection system and method for controlling
a variety of potentially dangerous instrumentalities such as
aircraft, land vehicles, amphibious vehicles and other
hand-controllable equipment, is disclosed. The system with respect
to aircraft includes an interlock for enabling/disabling one of a
control wheel and a joystick for controlling movement of an
aircraft; a biometric grip detector arranged on said one of a
control and joy stick, said biometric grip detector comprising a
plurality of pressure sensors for sensing a handgrip of a user on
said one of a control wheel and joystick; a comparator for
comparing a pressure signature profile compiled from an output from
the plurality of pressure sensors with at least one pressure
signature profile including: (a) hand position of the user's
handgrip on said one of a control wheel and joystick as indicated
by a change in pressure on at least one of the plurality of
pressure sensors; (b) pressure as a function of position on the
control wheel and joystick; and (c) pressure as a function of time.
A control unit may disable the interlock to permit at least partial
manual control of movement of the aircraft by the control wheel/joy
stick when the comparator indicates that the signature profile
matches at least one pressure signature profile in storage.
Authorized access to other hand operated equipment such as power
tools and heavy equipment are prevented according to the present
invention.
Inventors: |
Recce; Michael; (South
Orange, NJ) |
Correspondence
Address: |
KLAUBER & JACKSON
411 HACKENSACK AVENUE
HACKENSACK
NJ
07601
US
|
Family ID: |
25328900 |
Appl. No.: |
10/406613 |
Filed: |
April 3, 2003 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
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09858682 |
May 16, 2001 |
6563940 |
|
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10406613 |
Apr 3, 2003 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
382/115 ;
340/5.52 |
Current CPC
Class: |
E05F 15/40 20150115;
B60R 25/2027 20130101; B60R 25/252 20130101; E05Y 2900/55 20130101;
E05Y 2800/426 20130101; G07C 9/37 20200101; B60R 25/04 20130101;
E05F 15/00 20130101; B60R 25/042 20130101; F41A 17/066 20130101;
B60R 25/2045 20130101; E05F 15/695 20150115 |
Class at
Publication: |
382/115 ;
340/005.52 |
International
Class: |
G06K 9/00 20060101
G06K009/00; G05B 19/00 20060101 G05B019/00 |
Claims
1. An authorized pilot detection system for controlling an
aircraft, said system comprising: an interlock for
enabling/disabling one of a control wheel and a joystick for
controlling movement of an aircraft; a biometric grip detector
arranged on said one of a control and joy stick, said biometric
grip detector comprising a plurality of pressure sensors for
sensing a handgrip of a user on said one of a control wheel and
joystick; comparator means for comparing a pressure signature
profile compiled from an output from the plurality of pressure
sensors with at least one pressure signature profile comprising:
(a) hand position of the user's handgrip on said one of a control
wheel and joystick as indicated by a change in pressure on at least
one of the plurality of pressure sensors; (b) pressure as a
function of position on said one of a control wheel and joystick;
and (c) pressure as a function of time; control means for disabling
the interlock to allow control of movement of the aircraft by said
one of a control wheel and joy stick when said comparator means
indicates that the signature profile compiled by said comparator
means matches at least one pressure signature profile in storage,
wherein said comparator means compares signature profiles sensed by
the biometric grip detector at predetermined intervals during
operation, and wherein said control means enables the interlock to
prevent navigation of the aircraft by steering said one a control
wheel and joystick, and said control means activates at least one
of an autopilot, a flight director and a flight management system
to control navigation of the aircraft automatically when a
signature profile compiled by said comparator means does not match
said at least one signature profile in storage.
2. The system according to claim 2, wherein said control means
automatically broadcasts a distress signal to at least one air
controller tower indicating unauthorized control of the aircraft
has been attempted.
3. The system according to claim 2, wherein said control means
automatically activates a first camera in a cockpit area and
broadcasts video of a flight crew after unauthorized control of the
aircraft has been attempted.
4. The system according to claim 3, wherein said control means also
activates at least a second camera in the passenger area and
broadcasts video of passengers of the passengers on the
aircraft.
5. The system according to claim 2, wherein said control means
automatically disables an on/off switch of a transponder of the
aircraft when unauthorized control of the aircraft has been
attempted, said transponder remaining on until a reset code is
entered, said reset code not being provided to said pilot.
6. The system according to claim 2, wherein said control means
automatically turns a transponder on if an unauthorized control of
the aircraft has been attempted and automatically disables an
on/off switch of a transponder of the aircraft when unauthorized
control of the aircraft has been attempted, said transponder
remaining on until a reset code is entered, said reset code not
being provided to said pilot.
7. The system according to claim 1, wherein each authorized user
has a signature profile of a first grip for normal operation of the
aircraft, and at least one predetermined distress grip which causes
the control means to broadcast that the aircraft is being navigated
under duress.
8. The system according to claim 1, wherein the interlock is
enabled by one of a central site and an air traffic control
center.
9. The system according to claim 1, wherein the aircraft steering
is hydraulically actuated, and the interlock disables said one of a
joystick and control wheel from actuating the aircraft
steering.
10. The system according to claim 1, wherein the aircraft is
electronically controlled by a fly-by-wire system, and the
interlock disables electrical control signals from said one of a
control wheel and joystick.
11. A system for preventing unauthorized use of a power tool, said
system comprising: a biometric grip detector arranged on said power
tool, said biometric grip detector comprising a plurality of
pressure sensors for sensing a handgrip of a user on said one power
tool; comparator means for comparing a pressure signature profile
compiled from an output from the plurality of pressure sensors with
at least one pressure signature profile comprising: (a) hand
position of the user's handgrip on said power tool as indicated by
a change in pressure on at least one of the plurality of pressure
sensors; (b) pressure as a function of position on said power tool;
and (c) pressure as a function of time; control means for disabling
the interlock for a predetermined amount of time to allow operation
of said power tool when said comparator means indicates that the
signature profile compiled by said comparator means matches at
least one pressure signature profile in storage, and wherein said
comparator means compares signature profiles sensed by the
biometric grip detector at predetermined intervals during
operation.
12. The system according to claim 11, wherein said power tool is a
one of a chainsaw, bandsaw, rivet gun, nail gun, sander, tile
cutter, jackhammer.
13. A system for preventing unauthorized use of mobile equipment,
said system comprising: an interlock for enabling/disabling an
accelerator/throttle and a braking system, to prevent movement of
the heavy equipment; a biometric grip detector arranged on one of a
steering wheel and a joystick, said biometric grip detector
comprising a plurality of pressure sensors for sensing a handgrip
of a user on said one of a steering wheel and joystick; comparator
means for comparing a pressure signature profile compiled from an
output from the plurality of pressure sensors with at least one
pressure signature profile comprising: (a) hand position of the
user's handgrip on said one of a steering wheel and joystick as
indicated by a change in pressure on at least one of the plurality
of pressure sensors; (b) pressure as a function of position on said
one of a control wheel and joystick; and (c) pressure as a function
of time; control means for disabling the interlock to allow
throttle/accelerator to cause the heavy equipment to move when said
comparator means indicates that the signature profile compiled by
said comparator means matches at least one pressure signature
profile in storage, wherein said comparator means compares
signature profiles sensed by the biometric grip detector at
predetermined intervals during operation, and wherein said control
means enables the interlock to prevent movement of the heavy
equipment by engaging a braking system and optionally disengaging
the throttle/accelerator automatically when a signature profile
compiled by said comparator means does not match said at least one
signature profile in storage.
14. A method for detecting pilot authorization for controlling an
aircraft, said method comprising the steps of: (a) providing an
interlock for enabling/disabling one of a control wheel and a
joystick for controlling movement of an aircraft; (b) providing a
biometric grip detector arranged on said one of a control and joy
stick, said biometric grip detector comprising a plurality of
pressure sensors for sensing a handgrip of a user on said one of a
control wheel and joystick; (c) comparing by comparator means a
pressure signature profile compiled from an output from the
plurality of pressure sensors with at least one pressure signature
profile comprising: (i) hand position of the user's handgrip on
said one of a control wheel and joystick as indicated by a change
in pressure on at least one of the plurality of pressure sensors;
(ii) pressure as a function of position on said one of a control
wheel and joystick; and (iii) pressure as a function of time; (d)
disabling the interlock by a control means to permit at least
partial manual control of the aircraft by said one of a control
wheel and joy stick only when said comparator means indicates that
the signature profile compiled by said comparator means matches at
least one pressure signature profile in storage.
15. The method according to claim 14, wherein said comparator means
compares signature profiles sensed by the biometric grip detector
at predetermined intervals during operation.
16. The method according to claim 14, wherein said control means
enables the interlock to prevent navigation of the aircraft by
steering said one a control wheel and joystick, and said control
means activates at least one of an autopilot, a flight director and
a flight management system to control navigation of the aircraft
automatically and disregard manual attempts at maneuvering when a
signature profile compiled by said comparator means does not match
said at least one signature profile in storage.
17. The method according to claim 14, wherein said control means
automatically broadcasts a distress signal to at least one air
controller tower indicating unauthorized control of the aircraft
has been attempted.
18. The method according to claim 14, wherein said control means
automatically activates a first camera in a cockpit area and
broadcasts video of a flight crew after unauthorized control of the
aircraft has been attempted.
19. The method according to claim 18, wherein said control means
also activates at least a second camera in the passenger area and
broadcasts video of passengers of the passengers on the
aircraft.
20. The system according to claim 14, wherein said control means
automatically disables an on/off switch of a transponder of the
aircraft when unauthorized control of the aircraft has been
attempted, said transponder remaining on until a reset code is
entered, said reset code not being provided to said pilot.
21. The system according to claim 14, wherein said control means
automatically turns a transponder on if an unauthorized control of
the aircraft has been attempted and automatically disables an
on/off switch of a transponder of the aircraft when unauthorized
control of the aircraft has been attempted, said transponder
remaining on until a reset code is entered, said reset code not
being provided to said pilot.
22. The method according to claim 14, wherein each authorized user
has a signature profile of a first grip for normal operation of the
aircraft, and at least one predetermined distress grip which causes
the control means to broadcast that the aircraft is being navigated
under duress.
23. The method according to claim 14, wherein the interlock is
enabled by one of a central site and an air traffic control
center.
24. The method according to claim 14, wherein the aircraft steering
is hydraulically actuated, and the interlock disables said one of a
joystick and control wheel from actuating the aircraft
steering.
25. The method according to claim 14, wherein the aircraft is
electronically controlled by a fly-by-wire system, and the
interlock disables electrical control signals from said one of a
control wheel and joystick.
26. A method for preventing unauthorized use of a power tool, said
method comprising the steps of: (a) arranging a biometric grip
detector on said power tool, said biometric grip detector
comprising a plurality of pressure sensors for sensing a handgrip
of a user on said one power tool; (b) providing an output of the
handgrip sensed by the pressure sensors by comparator means for
comparing a pressure signature profile compiled from an output from
the pressure sensors with at least one pressure signature profile
comprising: (i) hand position of the user's handgrip on said power
tool as indicated by a change in pressure on at least one of the
plurality of pressure sensors; (ii) pressure as a function of
position on said power tool; and (iii) pressure as a function of
time; control means for disabling the interlock for a predetermined
amount of time to allow operation of said power tool when said
comparator means indicates that the signature profile compiled by
said comparator means matches at least one pressure signature
profile in storage, and wherein said comparator means compares
signature profiles sensed by the biometric grip detector at
predetermined intervals during operation.
27. The method according to claim 26, wherein said power tool is a
one of a chainsaw, bandsaw, rivet gun, nail gun, sander, tile
cutter, jackhammer, torch.
28. A method for preventing unauthorized use of mobile equipment,
said method comprising: (a) providing an interlock for
enabling/disabling an accelerator/throttle and a braking system, to
prevent movement of the heavy equipment; (b) arranging a biometric
grip detector on one of a steering wheel and a joystick, said
biometric grip detector comprising a plurality of pressure sensors
for sensing a handgrip of a user on said one of a steering wheel
and joystick; (c) comparing by comparator means an output of the
pressure sensors with a pressure signature profile from storage,
said pressure signature profile comprising: (i) hand position of
the user's handgrip on said one of a steering wheel and joystick as
indicated by a change in pressure on at least one of the plurality
of pressure sensors; (ii) pressure as a function of position on
said one of a control wheel and joystick; and (iii) pressure as a
function of time; control means for disabling the interlock to
allow throttle/accelerator to cause the heavy equipment to move
when said comparator means indicates that the signature profile
compiled by said comparator means matches at least one pressure
signature profile in storage.
29. The method according to claim 28, wherein said comparator means
compares signature profiles sensed by the biometric grip detector
at predetermined intervals during operation.
30. The method according to claim 28, wherein said control means
enables the interlock to prevent movement of the heavy equipment by
engaging a braking system and optionally disengaging the
throttle/accelerator automatically when a signature profile
compiled by said comparator means does not match said at least one
signature profile in storage.
Description
RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application is a continuation-in-part of application
Ser. No. 09/858,682 filed May 16, 2001, the disclosure of which is
incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Applicant claims
the benefit hereof under 35 U.S.C. .sctn.120.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] 1. Field of the Invention
[0003] The present invention relates to security systems for
preventing unauthorized access and/or use of certain machinery
and/or equipment. More particularly, the present invention relates
to preventing access and/or use of aircraft and potentially
dangerous instruments.
[0004] 2. Description of the Related Art
[0005] The tragic events that took place on Sep. 11, 2001 in the
United States resulted in more than 3,000 lives lost because of the
unauthorized hijacking of aircraft and the subsequent use of the
aircraft as weapons to cause massive amounts of fatalities.
Aircraft, as well as other common carriers (e.g. trains, buses,
cruise ships, tractor trailers) are all necessary instruments of
modern day life, yet if commandeered by terrorists, can cause
substantial casualties of men, women and children.
[0006] Despite the best efforts of airlines and airports to screen
passengers, there may never be an absolute way to prevent future
atrocities. Furthermore, evidence has surfaced that plans were made
to hijack tractor-trailers carrying hazardous materials, such as
nuclear waste, and crash/explode these trucks in heavily populated
areas to maximize injury and death to civilians.
[0007] In addition, in a somewhat different vein, every year
children are severely injured/killed by handling dangerous
instruments used in normal day to day activities, such as power
tools, electric saws, drills, rivet guns, etc. because the adult
owner of the tool either fails to keep the tools away from a
child's access, whether that be momentary or ongoing.
[0008] All too often there are tragic news reports of people who
are gravely injured or killed by gunshots fired by a person who is
not the owner or an authorized user of the firearm. Some of these
tragedies are accidental, such as when a child finds a parent's
firearm and accidentally discharges it at his/herself or at
friends. Other tragedies concern firearms, which are taken during
burglaries, which are subsequently, used in future robberies and/or
homicides. On more than one occasion, a perpetrator has been known
to wrestle the gun from an officer's holster and use it against the
officer.
[0009] Regardless of the specific cause, it is evident that many of
these incidents could be avoided if the firearm could only be fired
by the owner or other authorized user of the gun. In fact, there is
in fact a current effort by citizens and lawmakers to require the
inclusion of trigger locks on handguns.
[0010] U.S. Pat. No. 4,970,819 to Mayhak discloses a system for
sensing the grip pattern of the hand of a potential user of a
firearm and permits the firing thereof if it senses a particular
grip pattern of an authorized user, which it has been programmed to
recognize. The system includes grip pattern sensing means on the
handgrip of the firearm, a simulated neural network memory capable
of recognizing a particular grip pattern and a microprocessor for
accessing the neural network to inquire whether it recognizes the
grip pattern being sensed by the sensing means. The microprocessor
also controls means for permitting and preventing actuation of the
firing mechanism of the firearm to allow the firearm to be
discharged only when the grip pattern sensed by the sensing means
is that of the authorized user which the simulated neural network
memory has been programmed to recognize.
[0011] According to the '819 patent, "a simulated neural network
does not possess a memory in the sense that a computer has a
memory. Instead, the training of a pattern recognition neural
network involves repeatedly subjecting its input neurons to signals
corresponding to the pattern, including variations thereof. This
establishes interconnections between the input neurons, the hidden
neurons and the output neuron, so that, eventually, when the
trained network is subjected to a pattern signal the output is
either "yes" or "no" that it is or is not the pattern it has been
trained to recognize. A trained neural network will exhibit a
particular pattern of interconnections between neurons therein and
the pattern of connection strengths between neurons is equivalent
to memory for that network" (col. 3 lines 34-48 of the '819
patent).
[0012] Furthermore, according to the '819 disclosure, once the
neural network has been trained to recognize a particular pattern,
it can do so even though it later is presented with small
variations or incomplete information about that pattern. The neural
network is thus ideally suited for recognizing a particular
handgrip pattern impressed on sensing means 23 even though the
authorized user may place his hand in a slightly different location
or apply slightly different pressures with each grip. The neural
network can be trained to take such variations into account and
still distinguish the grip pattern for which it is programmed from
grip patterns created by others who are not authorized to use the
firearm" (from col. 3 lines 11-26 of the '819 Patent).
[0013] U.S. Pat. No. 5,603,179 discloses a "safety mechanism for a
firearm consisting of a specialized scanning mechanism built into
the firearm's trigger. The scanner is programmed to read the unique
fingerprints of a given individual. The device is also capable of
holding the programmed print information for more than one person,
so that multiple people would he able to use the firearm. However,
usage is limited to only those persons whose handprints have been
prestored in the scanner. The scanner mechanism is connected to the
firearm's safety lock. The safety is prevented from being released
without proper authorization from the scanner. When a person grips
the weapon and places his finger on the trigger, the pressure of
the finger on the trigger activates the scanner, and the scanner
reads the fingerprint to determine if the scanned fingerprint
matches one of the pre-stored fingerprint images. If the individual
is an authorized user, the scanner transmits a signal to the
safety, releasing this device and activating the firearm for use"
(from abstract of the '179 patent).
[0014] U.S. Pat. No. 5,316,479 to Wong discloses a firearm training
system, "which allows the measurement and display as a function of
time of the hand grip force pattern applied to the grip of a
firearm by a weapon hand of a shooter. This permits the detection
of variations in the individual handgrip forces in the pattern
during firing of the weapon. This firearm training system
preferably also provides for the detection and display as a
function of time of the position of the firearm trigger. The system
includes separate force transducers for the side and front-to-back
grip forces applied to the side surfaces and one of the front and
back surfaces of the grip respectively as well as a trigger
position sensor. A relative value of the hand grip forces detected
by the transducers and a relative trigger position detected by the
sensor are graphically displayed by the system as a function of
time.
[0015] Wong discloses a method of training a shooter by determining
the grip pattern of the shooter's weapon hand on a firearm by
detecting a front-to-back grip force and a side grip force applied
by the weapon hand and graphically displaying as a function of time
a relative value of the front-to-back and side grip forces
respectively. Thus, the system provides for a more effective
training of a shooter, which substantially translates into cost
savings in terms of training time and ammunition, especially since
the firearm training system and method may effectively be used
under both dry and live fire conditions" (See abstract of the '479
patent). The time period disclosed by Wong is relatively fixed, for
example, 100 ms snapshot for each user training with the weapon.
Wong provides feedback so that a shooter can see a "correct" way to
hold the weapon and pull the trigger, as opposed to "incorrect"
grips that could impair accuracy. Thus, Wong teaches a shooter how
to conform to a predetermined method of holding and firing a
weapon.
[0016] Accordingly, there exists a need to prevent unauthorized
access to potentially dangerous instruments, which includes items
that could be used as a weapon, such as aircraft and power tools
from unauthorized use.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0017] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a
system and method prevents unauthorized control of an aircraft by
using biometric sensing to detect the grip of the pilot, or
co-pilots. If the system does not recognize the user attempting to
control the aircraft, the plane automatically overrides
instructions and uses the autopilot system to bring the plane to
its intended destination. Optionally, the plane may also notify FAA
or other authorities that unauthorized users have attempted to fly
the aircraft, permitting the military time to scramble any jet
fighters that might be needed to intercept the aircraft.
[0018] In another embodiment of the invention, power tools are
provided with biometric detection to enable their actuation, so
that the tool would be inoperable if an unauthorized user, such as
for example a child, attempted to operate it.
[0019] In another embodiment, construction sites, long considered
an attractive nuisance for children, are prevented from
unauthorized use. Whether that unauthorized use is a teenager
operating a bulldozer, or someone with a more sinister purpose in
mind, both types of unauthorized use are effectively thwarted.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0020] FIG. 1 is an elevational view of a firearm of an embodiment
of the present invention.
[0021] FIG. 2 illustrates a block diagram of the device according
to the present invention.
[0022] FIG. 3 illustrates a graph of the measured pressure versus
time.
[0023] FIGS. 4A, 4B and 4C illustrate variations of the present
invention where the unauthorized user prevention device is
connected to several types of safety mechanisms used in
semi-automatic weapons.
[0024] FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating a method for unauthorized
user prevention according to the present invention.
[0025] FIG. 6 illustrates an embodiment of the unauthorized user
prevention device of the present invention used as an anti-theft
device in an automobile.
[0026] FIG. 7 illustrates an embodiment of the unauthorized user
prevention device of the present invention used to permit keyless
entry by a recognized grip of the door handle.
[0027] FIG. 8 illustrates an embodiment of the unauthorized user
prevention device in a yoke of an aircraft.
[0028] FIG. 9 illustrates a block diagram illustrating one of many
ways that the unauthorized user prevention device could be used for
control of aircraft.
[0029] FIG. 10 illustrates an embodiment of the unauthorized user
prevention device used as a safety for a power tool.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0030] It should be noted that the following description and
drawings are for purposes of illustration, not limitation. For
example, the weapon prevention device is not limited to a handgun,
and could also be used with a rifle or shotgun. In addition, the
present invention is not limited to firearms or even devices that
propel projectiles. For example, taser guns, acoustic wave weapons,
laser weapons would be within the spirit of the invention and the
scope of the appended claims. In addition, virtually any handheld
or hand controlled device that a user must grip could be used for
the prevention of unauthorized access, and there is no requirement
that such device must primarily comprise a weapon. For example, the
invention could also be used as an anti-theft device in automobiles
where the authorized user(s) grip on the steering wheel could be
recognized as a signature, which overrides an ignition or fuel
cutoff switch. In addition, in the embodiments used to prevent
unauthorized access/use of aircraft, the aircraft can be an
airplane, jet, private plan, helicopter, ultralight, commercial or
non-commercial aircraft. So long as the device has a potentially
dangerous capability if used (or misused), such as aircraft, due to
the sheer impact that can be caused even without explosion of the
fuel, as well as the vessels carrying combustible fuel, radioactive
waste, traveling on land, sea, air, or any combination thereof.
With regard to power tools, by way of illustration and not
limitation, drills, saws, torches, nail guns, paint sprayers, stamp
machines, cutting machines, whether the tools are handheld or
stationary, so long as there is a manual control or identity
verification to obtain access, all of these items fall within the
spirit of the invention and the scope of the appended claims.
[0031] Finally, it is noted that U.S. Pat. Nos.: (1) 6,185,851 B1,
(2) 5,316,479, (3) 5,603,179, and (4) 4,870,819 are hereby
incorporated by reference as disclosing background material
regarding safety locks, trigger locks, and
electronic/electro-mechanical pressure detection systems known in
the prior art.
[0032] FIG. 1 shows a firearm 100, which in this particular example
is a handgun having a revolver design. The firearm is provided with
a handgrip 120 and is fired when firing mechanism 130 is actuated.
The firing mechanism 130 includes trigger 140, which is pivotally
mounted in the frame of the gun at 150. Movement of the trigger 140
will cause a hammer 160 to be cocked and released, thus firing a
bullet (not shown) stored in the cylinder 170.
[0033] The firearm 100 is provided with equipped with a safety,
which is moved in and out of position to prevent and permit the
actuation of the firing mechanism 130. As shown here, the safety is
a sliding latch member 180 adapted to engage a portion 190 on
trigger 140, which extends under the latch member 180. Latch member
180 is biased by a spring 185 to a position in which it is it is
adjacent to portion 190, thereby preventing trigger 140 from being
pulled, in which case it pivots around pivot 150 into the fired
position. In effect, latch member 180 prevents actuation of the
firing mechanism. This handgun is further provided with a solenoid
195 into which an end of latch member 180 is placed. When
energized, solenoid retracts latch member 180, overcoming biasing
force of spring 185, which removes the latch member 180 from the
path of portion 190. With latch member 180 out of the path of
portion 190, the trigger can be pulled, actuating the firing
mechanism to discharge the firearm. The retraction of the solenoid,
or any type of interlock system, is dependent upon recognition of
the users as being authorized to use the weapon.
[0034] FIG. 2 provides a block diagram of illustrating how the
unauthorized user device of the present invention can operate.
Sensor array 125, which is arranged in the handle of the weapon and
may also be arranged in the trigger, or are part of a special
retrofit grip for weapons made prior to the present invention,
provide feedback information regarding the position, pressure, and
duration of a person gripping the handle of the weapon. For all of
the discussion in this application, the term "handgrip" is defined
as the grip applied to the handle of a device (presumably but not
necessarily limited to a weapon) that may also include the pressure
asserted on the trigger as well as the pressure asserted on the
handle of the weapon. The output from the sensors is provided to
comparator 210, which compares these values with values previously
stored in storage member 215.
[0035] When the comparator 210 finds a match (according to a
predetermined variation either built into the device or chosen by
user according to a sensitivity switch (not shown)) of the output
with a value in storage, the comparator indicates this match to the
control unit 220. The indication that there is a match could be,
for example, a logic 1 or a logic 0 that is received by the control
unit. In turn, the control unit will signal release interlock 230
so that the weapon can be fired.
[0036] In the case of the example illustrated in FIG. 1, the
control unit/cpu 220 would energize the solenoid 195 and retract
the latch member 180. It is possible that the control unit (which
may or may not be separate from the cpu) could be programmed to
have a limited sequence in which the weapon could be used, and once
that time has passed, the control unit would again lock the
interlock 230 and prevent the firing of the weapon.
[0037] The control unit/cpu 220 processes the electrical signals to
develop a pressure signal profile including:
[0038] 1) hand position of the user's handgrip on the particular
device as indicated by a change in pressure on the sensor
array/pressure sensors; and
[0039] 2) pressure as a function of position on the gun handle;
and
[0040] 3) pressure as a function of time.
[0041] With regard to the three items disclosed above to develop a
pressure signal profile, items 1 and 2 provide information
regarding the area over which pressure is exerted by a given
person, i.e.--the outline of the hand, the outline of the fingers
(item 1) pressure on the handgrip, as manifested by the position of
the hand on the handgrip, and any variances in the pressure applied
by over the area (item 2) during a time interval. Item 3 shows
pressure as a function of time, which is also critical because the
time dimension magnifies the differences between individuals.
[0042] The pressure signature profile can permit a user to wear
thin gloves and still be recognized as the authorized user, which
would not be possible in fingerprint recognition systems of the
prior art.
[0043] Together, the three elements of the profile (items 1-3)
provide a unique pressure signal profile that no more than 1% of
the population-at-large would possess. The sensors, including the
piezoelectrics described above, produce a continuous analog output
signal that varies in repeatable manner with applied load, and has
a unique output for each level of applied pressure. The "pressure
signature profile" is a composite signal that includes voltage
changes, oscillation frequency changes, and frequency composition
changes. The identification of an individual is performed using a
statistical classifier that includes a set of computed weights and
thresholds that separate the "pressure signature" of an individual
from that of the rest of the population.
[0044] When a force is applied to the handgrip the sensors output
an electrical signal to the control unit. In one embodiment the
control unit may be a microprocessor or digital signal processor
located within the firearm, for example, within the handgrip. The
control unit compares it to the signal stored as the pressure
profile of the lawful owner or authorized user. The microprocessor
simultaneously reads the signals from all of the sensors and
continuously searches for the dynamic pattern corresponding to the
valid "pressure signature." Components of the sensor signal are
multiplied by the computed weights and stored thresholds are
applied. If the signal exceeds these computed thresholds then the
firearm is allowed to fire during predetermined time interval (e.g.
500 milliseconds).
[0045] A motion sensor (not shown) could also be included, both to
begin the process by activating the device, and after a certain
period of time without any motion, to end it. Since a firearm is
typically pointed down while in a holster, a predetermined tilt
angle could be programmed in to activate the detection, or the mere
squeezing of the grip while induce a voltage in the piezoeletric
type sensors that could turn on the device.
[0046] In the above embodiment, to insure that only the lawful
owner or other authorized user can fire the handgun, the handgrip
120 of the firearm 100 is provided under its surface with an array
of sensors 125 that are provided on all four sides of the handgrip
120. However, while providing sensors on all four sides of the
handgrip (and including a large number of them) will tend to allow
a greater degree of sensitivity in terms of detection as to whether
a user is authorized, there is not an absolute requirement that
sensors must be arranged on all sides of the item being gripped,
nor must the sensor total a particular number. In one aspect of the
invention, a number of sensors (less than 20) are used in locations
that maximally distinguish between subject's hand size and pressure
patterns.
[0047] In another aspect of the invention, a high density of
pressure sensors are used to full and uniformly cover the grip area
of the handgun, or item to be gripped, as the case may be.
[0048] In another embodiment, suitable sensors include a sensing
element into which a piezoelectric element has been embedded.
Suitable piezoelectric elements include quartz crystals. Other
suitable piezoelectric materials including lead titinate and lead
zirconate, could be used in either a crystalline or film form. The
pressure signal could also be measured using strain gauges or
micro-machined pressure sensors (MEMS).
[0049] Systems employing piezoelectric materials, such as the
crystals described above, produce an electrical output when they
experience a change in load, i.e., pressure. Making use of this
phenomenon, an embodiment of the present invention includes the
transmission of electrical signal from the sensors, in response to
pressure applied when a person grips the handle of the firearm, to
a control unit located within the firearm. A purpose-built
electronic circuit is used to convert the voltage and frequency
changes measured from the sensors into a digital signal read by the
processor. An electrostrictive system could also be employed.
[0050] In addition, the sensors could comprise acoustic resonators,
which sense the resonance properties in the pressure differential
caused by the particular grip. Acoustic resonance is a known
phenomenon exhibited by an acoustic system, in which the response
of the system to sound waves becomes very large when the frequency
of the sound approaches a natural vibration frequency of the air in
the system.
[0051] This "pressure signature" signal is programmed into the
handgun by an independent station that is held by the authority
that registers handguns. Such authority, for example, could be a
state or local entity, or even an authorized third party. The owner
of the handgun fires the gun ten to twenty times, and the pressure
patterns unique to that individual are computed by a
purposely-built data acquisition and analysis system. It is
protected from abuse by one of several possible mechanisms,
including encryption of the stored signal and tamper detection
systems that can completely disable the firearm.
[0052] Grip pattern signals from sensing means 125 are fed from the
firearm 100 over a line 129 to the host computer. A jack 131 in the
butt of firearm handgrip 120 permits line 129 to be connected to
the firearm.
[0053] The pressure sensors and central processing unit/control
unit within the handgun are powered by a power source, typically a
battery system (not shown) that could be located in the ammunition
clip of the handgun. This arrangement allows the battery to be
recharged in empty ammunition clips that are not in use.
[0054] It is understood by persons of ordinary skill in the art
that a power source could be arranged in any internal location of
the weapon/device, such as in the handle. There could be a small
external plate that may allow the gun to be recharged while either
in a carrying case or holster. In a "wrap around" version, where
the unauthorized user prevention device is fitted onto or around a
handle of the weapon, the power source would be external to the
weapon handle but would be at least partially covered by the wrap
around material, that could be, for example, a flexible material
such as a plastic or a rubber.
[0055] Furthermore, in order to reduce the need to charge or
replace batteries, there can be a motion sensor (not shown)
arranged in or on the weapon, the motion sensor turning on the
power only when the handgun is not stationary.
[0056] FIG. 3 shows a graph of pressure versus time. A person of
ordinary skill in the art would know the values in p.s.i. or its
metric equivalent for the given timeframe. On the Y-axis are the
separate pressure sensor and the X-axis represents time. It can be
seen at approximately 160 ms the several are indicating a change in
pressure differential by the voltage change, which would occur when
a user grips the handle and causes, for example, piezoelectric
material to resonate at a particular frequency that causes a
voltage change sensed by a comparator.
[0057] As previously disclosed, this detected grip may be from the
pressure applied to the handle and may or may not include, the
actual pulling of the trigger (to the extent it would be movable
despite having an interlock preventing movement sufficient to fire
the weapon. It is also within the spirit and scope of the invention
that the trigger may contain pressure sensors as well, and the
pressure signature profile would be the outputs of the sensors from
the handle and on the trigger. In addition, when the user pulls on
the trigger, that action could either activate the unauthorized
prevention device to turn on/supply power to the control unit/cpu,
etc.
[0058] As shown in FIG. 3, there are elevated levels of pressure
sensed by the pressure sensors while pressure is applied. The
duration of the grip, the duration of the elevated pressure levels,
and the specific sensors which sense the elevated pressure are used
in determining the pressure signature profile.
[0059] According to the present invention, a pressure signature
profile is based on the above three items that are feed back to the
control unit/cpu from the sensors. According to the present
invention, persons applying the same amount of pressure but at
different points in time and at different locations on the handle
would have a different pressure signature signal profiles than the
example shown in FIG. 3. Accordingly, such a pressure signal
profile would be compared against the profile(s) in storage to
determine whether a user is authorized.
[0060] It is envisioned that only a limited number of attempts
would be permitted before "locking out" the device until reset by a
central controller. This would reduce the possibility of someone
attempting to apply various positions and pressures until they
stumble upon a successful outcome.
[0061] According to the present invention, even with a 1% chance of
two people having the same pressure profile signature, the odds of
a child having a pressure signature profile which matches that of
an adult would be significantly less than 1%; in fact the odds
would be nearly astronomical. A young child normally has a much
smaller hand than that of the average adult (both length and girth
of fingers and palm), so that the many of the pressure sensors
experiencing a change in pressure when a child squeezes the handle
would be not be the same as when an adult squeezes the handle.
Factoring in the third item (time) with the other two items, the
device would effectively prevent children from being able to fire
the weapon. Finally, a limited number of retries would prevent a
more mature child (i.e. teenager) from trying to figure out the
pattern.
[0062] FIG. 4A shows one way that the present invention may work on
a semi-automatic weapon 400, having an internal trigger lock 410.
The trigger 420 would be prevented from movement by a safety latch
425, which is received in a through-hole of the trigger lock 410.
On the opposite end, the latch extends from solenoid 430 and after
a matching pressure profile is detected, the solenoid would retract
the latch 425, thus permitting the trigger to be moved back toward
the handle to fire the weapon.
[0063] The solenoid would be controlled by a control unit/cpu 440
similar to the description of the unauthorized user prevention
device described for a revolver. The user's grip of the handle
would be sensed in a similar manner as described above. A battery
(not shown) could be in the ammunition clip or separately located
in a compartment.
[0064] Further, the solenoid would remain extended in the case of a
dead battery, so that if a child should inadvertently find a weapon
stored somewhere in the house for a period of time where it was
unattended or forgotten, there would be no possibility of firing
the weapon. As a precaution for the authorized user, battery
indicators (not shown), which are known in the art, are envisioned
as an optional feature. The indicator might comprise a display
and/or beep when the power is low (similar to some smoke detectors)
to warn the authorized user of an impending deactivation of the
weapon.
[0065] It should also be noted that in any of the above variations
of the present invention, a solenoid is not the only way to
extend/retract a latch, and any other suitable switching device
could be employed. By way of illustration and not limitation, a
motor, a relay, or any type of electromechanical switch could serve
as a substitute for the solenoid. Reliability and a quick response
time to activate/deactivate the switch are far more important than
whether the switch is, for example, a solenoid.
[0066] FIG. 4B shows a semi-automatic pistol 440 having an external
safety latch 445 that is pivotable against the portion 448 of
trigger 450 in a locked position so as to prevent the weapon from
being fired. The user prevention device according to the present
invention may use a any known device, such as a motor, magnet,
spring loaded switch, relay or any electromechanical switch to move
the external safety latch from the locked position against the
portion 448 of the trigger to an unlocked position shown in FIG.
4B. The signal to move the safety latch would be from the control
unit/cpu after detecting that the user is authorized.
[0067] A external system similar to U.S. Pat. No. 6,185,852 could
also be used to prevent the latch from movement, except that
instead of using a "blocking disk" which is a shield that covers
the external access to the latch, a magnet can hold the safety
latch in the locked position until a signal is received by the
control unit after a user's pressure signature is a match.
[0068] FIG. 4C shows a push-button type safety switch 460 that
prevents the trigger from being activated. This type of switch can
be blocked internally, by a rod/latch system connected to a
solenoid, or any other type of electromechanical switch that in one
position would prevent the switch from being moved to an unlocked
position.
[0069] FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating the steps of a method for
preventing an unauthorized user from operating a device.
[0070] At step 510, the storage of an authorized user's pressure
signature profile based on (1) position of a user's hand on a
handle of the device; (2) pressure as a function of position on the
handle of the device; and (3) pressure as a function of time. While
it is envisioned in this embodiment that the storage is in the
device, it could be remotely stored, and even transmitted via RF to
a central unit.
[0071] At step 520, there is sensing the pressure of a user
gripping the handle of the device to compile a pressure signature
based on the criteria recited in step 510.
[0072] At step 530, there is a comparing the pressure profile in
step 520 with pressure profiles in storage.
[0073] At step 540, there is deactivating the safety interlock of
the device if the comparison in step 530 finds a matching profile
in storage.
[0074] Although not shown in FIG. 5, there is an optional step 525,
which is a decision box that asks whether the number of previous
non-matching attempts has exceeded a predetermined threshold. If
the answer to step 525 is no, the flowchart would proceed to step
530. If the answer to step 525 is yes, the flowchart would proceed
to a step parallel to step 540 (i.e. step 540B), which would
permanently disable the weapon until reset by an authorized agent,
such as a gun dealer, and/or state agency, etc. This version would
also include an additional substep, which would be to update a
counter if the user is unauthorized. This method will prevent an
unauthorized user from trying to guess the pressure profile
signature of an authorized user.
[0075] FIG. 6 shows a different application of an authorized user
prevention device according to the present invention. A steering
wheel 610 of a vehicle may either have sensors built in, or a
steering wheel cover (not shown) could be attached over the
steering wheel.
[0076] The unauthorized user prevention device could be located
anywhere in the automobile, for example, in the steering column,
under the dashboard, under the hood, in the trunk, etc. The device
could be powered by the vehicle's battery. Similar to the pressure
profile used for preventing unauthorized users from activating a
weapon, a pressure profile from squeezing the steering wheel based
on the three items (position, pressure and time) can be stored.
There can be an ignition cutoff switch 620, fuel cutoff switch,
etc. that would only be deactivated when the user squeezing the
steering wheel matches a profile in storage, thus being an
authorized user. The user could squeeze the wheel with a "secret
handshake" (which can also be used with a weapon) that could be
anywhere from just one finger to all ten. The number of
possibilities, based on in part on the number of sensors and the
number of combinations of fingers squeezing different areas at
different pressure for different time periods would result in the
chance of an unauthorized user gaining access as extremely remote
being one in thousands or tens of thousands, as opposed to one in
one hundred. A control unit or cpu 630 would compare the profiles
and deactivate the interlock.
[0077] FIG. 7 also shows how the unauthorized user prevention
device could work on a "keyless" door handle 710. A series of
sensors 720 could be embedded in the door handle (it could also be
a round knob (not shown) or a long handle (French style). Similar
to the above device descriptions, the user gripping the door would
create a pressure profile based on position, pressure and time.
This profile could be compared with stored pressure profiles that
would release the lock if the person gripping the door handle
matches one of the profiles in storage. The cpu or control unit
could be remotely located, and the sensor feedback could be
transmitted to the control unit by wire, fiber optics, or RF.
[0078] With regard to unauthorized use of an aircraft, it should be
understood by a person of ordinary skill in the art the present
invention is not limited to any particular type of aircraft. For
example, while the embodiments refer to airplanes, the aircraft can
be a helicopter, commercial jumbo jet, cargo jet, private aircraft,
electric/motorized hang-gliders, military aircraft, etc. In
addition, the steering control of the aircraft may be hydraulically
actuated, such as in most aircraft manufactured, for example, by
the Boeing.RTM. Corporation, and fly-by-wire systems.
[0079] FIGS. 8A-8C illustrate an embodiment of the present
invention used in the yolk of an aircraft. It is understood by
persons of ordinary skill in the art that the control grip could be
either a conventional set of flight controls, or the increasingly
common "fly-by-wire" systems.
[0080] The following description of primary flight controls, as
published on the Internet by tpub.com and incorporated by reference
in its entirety as background material, include the ailerons,
elevator and rudder. The movement of the yoke or control stick
directly affects both the ailerons and elevator. The ailerons are
operated by a lateral (side-to-side) movement of a control stick
805 (shown in FIG. 8C) or a turning motion of the yoke 801,802,803
(shown in FIGS. 8A and 8B).
[0081] Ailerons are connected to work simultaneously but in
opposite directions to each other. For example, if one aileron
moves downward (thereby increasing lift on a wing), the other
aileron will move upward (decreasing lift on an opposing wing (e.g.
left versus right). The purpose of the aileron is to control roll
of the aircraft due to unequal forces on the wings.
[0082] The elevators are controlled by moving the control stick or
yoke according to "fore-and-aft" movement. Pulling back on the yoke
or control stick raises the elevators, so as to cause the aircraft
to ascend. Pushing the yoke or control stick forward lowers the
elevators, causing the aircraft to descend (or dive, as the case
may be).
[0083] The rudder is manipulated by foot pedals so as to move the
aircraft about a vertical axis. Moving the rudder to the left will
steer the aircraft to the left, and moving the rudder to the right
will steer the aircraft to the right. Stepping on the left or right
rudder pedal will control movement of the rudder to the left or
right, respectively. Most flight control systems for heavier and
supersonic aircraft have power-assisted boost to help the pilot
control the aircraft which is typically a hydraulic assist, but
electric servo motors can also be used.
[0084] A basic autopilot system can be defined as a system that
maintains stable altitude of an aircraft in flight by the automatic
operation of the hydraulic actuators and/or electric servomotors.
Autopilot systems control at least two axes of flight, one being
the pitch (actuated by the elevator) and roll (actuated by the
ailerons). The autopilot system may include a yaw damper for rudder
control.
[0085] Autopilot can be a stand-alone system, but it may also be
coupled to a flight management system or flight director. A flight
management system can be defined as a complex system that is
capable of being programmed with complex flight plan, included but
not limited to landmarks, navigation frequencies, communication
frequencies, flight profiles, route times, altitude and headings.
Inputs can be accepted from the Global Positioning System (GPS),
navigation systems, and even crew inputs. Flight Management Systems
(FMS) can operate either in an advisory fashion, or can command the
aircraft in conjunction with coupling to the autopilot. A Flight
Director, on the other hand, is typically an aid to navigation
system permitting the integration of several sources of information
to provide the pilot with direction (information) about flying the
aircraft. Flight Director typically has a vertical mode and a
lateral mode, and inputs from computers, navigation frequencies,
gyros, and compasses can be used, among others. The Flight Director
can be used with the autopilot either engaged or disengaged.
[0086] According to an aspect of the present invention, an
identification process for authorization of the pilot and/or
co-pilot will be made according to the sensing of the grip on the
yoke or control stick of the aircraft. The frequency that the
pressure signature profile is compared is a matter of design
choice, and can vary greatly.
[0087] Typically, the sensors would be placed along the areas of
the yoke 806, 807, 808, where the pilot would typically hold onto
the yoke. The sensors would also be placed along areas of the
control stick.
[0088] In a first mode, if it appears after a predetermined number
of retries that the grip on the yoke is unauthorized, the detection
system can signal the Flight Management System and Auto Pilot that
control of the aircraft, including its flight path, is to be
followed by the preprogrammed inputs and manual manipulation of the
yoke is ignored. There can be either a mechanical or electrical
disengagement of the yoke/control stick from the hydraulic
systems/electric servomotors that control the flight plan. In more
sophisticated aircraft, even landing can be performed without pilot
interaction, and in the case where it is determined that an
unauthorized person is attempting to pilot the craft, these
controls can either be automatically engaged, or if already
engaged, can ignore attempts for disengagement by the unauthorized
persons.
[0089] Upon notification that unauthorized users are detected, it
is within the spirit and scope of the invention to automatically
radio air traffic control for notification that the authorized
pilots are no longer in control of the aircraft. In a more
sophisticated embodiment, the air traffic control system could, for
example, turn on cameras placed in the cockpit and passenger areas
of the aircraft to observe whether the plane is actually hijacked.
In addition, the Flight Management System can also be radioed by
air traffic control and given a different flight plan than
preprogrammed, so as to steer the plane away from large populated
areas and out toward either open space or the ocean. The plane
could also be commanded to fly in a holding pattern so as to give
Air Force fighter jets sufficient time to reach the aircraft. It is
also envisioned that, upon detection of unauthorized operation, the
transponder cannot be turned off. In fact, if the transponder is
first turned off prior to an authorized person grabbing the yoke of
the aircraft, the system can automatically turn the transponder
back on once the unauthorized operator is detected. One of the
actions taken by the hijackers in the Sep. 11, 2001 attacks
allegedly included turning the transponders off so the actual path
of the highjacked planes was not identified. Thus, the present
invention would permit better tracking of an aircraft in the event
that a similar scenario is ever repeated.
[0090] As shown in FIG. 9, the output of grip sensors 900, which
may or may not be an array of sensors arranged to detect the grip
of the yoke and/or control stick, is directed to comparator 905. A
control unit/cpu 910 can then process the electrical signals to
develop a pressure signal profile including:
[0091] 1) hand position of the user's handgrip on the yoke/control
stick as indicated by a change in pressure on the sensor
array/pressure sensors; and
[0092] 2) pressure as a function of position on the yoke/control
stick; and
[0093] 3) pressure as a function of time.
[0094] The original pressure signature profile must be read into
storage 912. This can be done by physically gripping the yoke
several times under high security conditions prior to takeoff, and
such information can remain in storage area 912.
[0095] Alternatively, the signature pressure profile for each
person can be stored on a device such as a smart card, badge,
diskette, cd rom, that the pilot/co-pilot could insert into an
appropriate reader to obtain the signature profile.
[0096] It is also within the spirit of the invention and the scope
of the appended claims that a person could key in an identification
code and the pressure signature profile for that person could be
downloaded from a central site via a variety of connections such as
a wireless network, a wire network, a fiber optic connection,
combinations of two or more of the same, and the like. In a
particular aspect of the invention, it should be understood by
persons of ordinary skill in the art that different aircraft may
have different models of yokes/control sticks, so that, for
example, it would be desirable for the pressure signature profile
to be recorded for gripping each type of control mechanism used by
a particular airline. Accordingly, the information downloaded could
be specific to the particular yoke control/stick associated with
the particular aircraft, or an entire profile could be downloaded,
although this would be less efficient from a storage standpoint. In
either case, whether the profile is coming from a central site,
such as the airline itself or the FAA, or is read from a badge,
diskette, or the like, there should be an ability or functionality
to identify the profile according to the type of yoke and/or
control stick used. Further, a badge or diskette reading of a
pressure signature profile might only be permitted to be entered
when the plane is grounded, or a special code entered, so as to
prevent someone from bringing their own profile on board and trying
to load it into the system via a reader or other instrumentality
embodied in the system of that aircraft.
[0097] The control unit/CPU 910, upon receiving output of the
comparator of a comparison of a stored profile with an
instantaneous or interval-based profile, can determine whether such
access is authorized or unauthorized. In the case of an
unauthorized user, the control unit/cpu 910, may optionally perform
one, some or all of the following procedures:
[0098] (1) activate a distress signal 915, that could be directed
to an air traffic control tower, or on a military channel, other Rf
channel, special distress channel, etc.;
[0099] (2) activate autopilot if the plane was in a "manual mode",
or disabling deactivation of the autopilot if the profile does not
show authorization;
[0100] (3) activate the flight management system (FMS) by itself,
or in conjunction with, one of the autopilot and flight director.
Optionally, the FMS can receive updated instructions from a
military headquarters and/or FAA, radio tower, etc. that overrides
the previously entered flight plan and directs the plan toward open
space and/or the ocean, so as to minimize casualties and/or be
intercepted by military aircraft. On more sophisticated aircraft,
such as a Boeing 767, which can be automatically landed, it is
within the spirit of the invention and scope of the appended claims
to automatically signal the plane to land at, for example, a
military installation or particular airport or landing area, so as
to increase the possibility of a "forced landing" of the plane at a
desired location in light of the unauthorized takeover.
[0101] (4) activate/deactivate the flight director.
[0102] In all of the above cases, the activation/deactivation may
be performed via an interlock 935, with the interlock
disabling/enabling manual control of the aircraft.
[0103] In the case of dual handgrip yokes, one or both sides may
have grip detection, preferably both grips. It should also be
understood that although the shape of yoke in FIGS. 8A and 8B are
"U" shaped; they can be shaped in any form according to desire. In
addition, the control stick does not have to be a straight rod, and
can also be any space according to design choice. What is necessary
is to deploy sufficient numbers of sensors so as to detect grip
patterns along different portions of the yoke/control stick, as
pilots may prefer grabbing the yoke/control stick at different
positions.
[0104] With regard to unauthorized use of power tools, virtually
any type of tool, saw, torch, etc. that is handheld can benefit
from the present invention. FIG. 10 shows a chainsaw 1000 having a
handle 100. Sensors may be arranged at portions of the handle, or
at evenly spaced intervals, or in heavier concentrations where most
people grip the tool, etc. according to need. It should be
understood that the chainsaw is shown for illustrative purposes
only, and the use of the grip detection in any other type of power
tool, not just those that cut, is clearly within the spirit of the
invention and the scope of the appended claims.
[0105] The pressure signature profile technology can also be used
for mobile equipment, such as common carriers, buses, trains,
magnetic-levitation devices, trolleys, vans, trans, cable cars,
wagons, SUVs; hybrid vehicles (part truck-part automobile), tanks,
all within the spirit of the invention and the scope of the
appended claims.
[0106] With regard to heavy equipment the unauthorized use of which
could cause injury, such equipment includes by way of nonlimiting
example, construction equipment, such as tractors, cranes, concrete
trucks, portable drilling and mining equipment, garbage trucks,
vehicles for storage of hazardous materials, both radioactive and
non-radioactive, tractor trailers, and flatbed trucks. Also
included are cargo ships, passenger ships, boats, speed boats,
yachts, private ships, commercial ships, trawlers, tug boats,
cruise ships, ferries, and virtually any craft that can be used in
water such as amphibious vehicles. The military could also
restrict, for example, usage of a tank to a particular group of
soldiers, so that if captured by the enemy, the tank could not be
used by unauthorized persons against the rightful owner or
others.
[0107] It is to be understood that the invention is not limited to
the illustrations described and shown herein, which are deemed to
be merely illustrative of the best modes of carrying out the
invention, and which are susceptible of modification of form, size,
arrangement of parts and details of operation. The invention rather
is intended to encompass all such modifications, which are within
its spirit and scope as defined by the claims.
* * * * *