Background Art Most hazards, both indoor and outdoor, which can lead to personal injury and property damage, are typically not apparent. For example, the existence of fixed hazards, such as mine shafts, abandoned wells, or quicksand in an area may not be well mapped and are not always readily apparent. Transient hazards such as flash floods, glare or black ice or the presence of airborne contaminants are even harder to detect prior to exposure to the hazardous situation. The absence of such effective warning can cause property damage, injuries and even death.

While warning signs can be posted, they are not always effective. Signs can only communicate a finite amount of information. Signs can fall down, be stolen or otherwise be rendered ineffective, especially under transient hazardous conditions. Transient hazardous warning signs are often ignored when they are permanently posted. What is needed is a system that can transmit relevant information about a hazard to an individual quickly, effectively, and in a content-accessible format. It should also support interactive requests for the transmittal of additional information in sufficient detail as may be needed at the time.

Brief Description Of Drawings For a more complete understanding of the present invention and advantages thereof, reference is now made to the following descriptions, taken in conjunction with the following drawings, in which like reference numerals represent like parts, and in which: FIG. 1 depicts an overall hazard warning system in accordance with the present invention; FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing in more detail various components of the FIG. 1 hazard warning system; FIG. 3 is a flowchart showing a preferred process in accordance with the present invention and suitable for use in the FIG. 1 hazard warning system; and FIG. 4 is a flowchart further illustrating additional operating characteristics of the hazard warning system device.

Disclosure of Invention Turning first to the nomenclature of the specification, the detailed description which follows is represented largely in terms of processes and symbolic representations of operations by conventional computer components, including a central processing unit ("CPU") or processor associated with a general purpose computer system, memory storage devices for the CPU, and connected pixel-oriented display devices and output capabilities for audiovisual or multimedia. These operations include the manipulation of data bits by the CPU and the maintenance of these bits within data structures resident in one or more of the memory storage devices. Such data structures impose a physical organization upon the collection of data bits stored within computer memory and represent specific electrical or magnetic elements. These symbolic representations are the means used by those skilled in the art of computer programming and computer construction to most effectively convey teachings and discoveries to others skilled in the art.

In addition, it should be understood that the programs, processes, methods, system, apparatus, etc. described herein are but an example of one implementation of the present invention and are not related or limited to any particular computer, apparatus or computer language. Rather, various types of general purpose computing machines or devices may be used with programs constructed in accordance with the teachings described herein.

Similarly, it may prove advantageous to construct a specialized apparatus to perform the method steps described herein by way of dedicated computer systems with hardwired logic or programs stored in non-volatile memory, such as read only memory. Also, similarly, embedding these computational processes within another type of user device, such as a telephone, messaging device, location device, entertainment device, etc., may be advantageous.

FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary embodiment in accordance with the present invention.

FIG. 1 shows a user 102 carrying the user device 104. User 102 is in close proximity to a hazard warning system device 106 which is installed near a hazard 108 (in this example, hazard 108 is a mineshaft).

User device 104 is preferably designed such that it can be carried easily on or by a person, such as in a hand, pocket or purse, or can be worn or attached elsewhere on the person, an item of clothing, etc. User device 104 comprises a wireless transceiver for communicating with hazard warning system device 106. Additional descriptions of user device 104 can be found in conjunction with FIGS. 2-4.

Hazard warning system device 106 can be implemented as a fixed or movable transmitter or transceiver that is located at a hazard or other area of concern. Hazard warning system device 106, in one embodiment is operable to send information concerning the hazard 108. Additional details concerning hazard warning system device 106 can be found in conjunction with FIG. 2-4.

Hazard 108 in this example is an open mineshaft. Many other types of hazards and unsafe conditions, fixed and movable, persistent or transient, can be guarded by the present invention. These include such hazards as the presence of quicksand, glare or black ice, flash flooding, etc. They can also include the presence of airborne contaminants such as C02, CO or contaminants that could cause allergic reactions such as peanuts, nitrates, and MSG.

Work place hazards could also be protected by the present invention, including hazardous areas, and limited or controlled access areas.

In operation, a details specific to the nature of the hazard 108 are transferred to the hazard warning system device 106 and the hazard warning system device 106 is placed in proximity to the hazard 108 and activated. The hazard warning system device 106, at a minimum is operable to send basic information about hazard 108 to the user device 104 of a user 102. As user 102 with user device 104 approaches the vicinity of a marked hazard 108, hazard warning system device 106 detects the presence of user device 104 and transmits the information about the hazard 108 to user device 104. The amount of information, data transfer rate, and access to additional local or externally stored information content may further depend on specific capabilities of hazard warning system device 106 and user device 104.

The information sent can be as simple as a brief text message displayed on user's user device 104. Or it can be a content accessible message such as prerecorded audio/visual or multimedia message sent to a properly equipped user device 104. In another or additional very simple form, hazard warning system device 106 may cause user device 104 to display flashing lights, make sounds indicative of danger, vibrate, or otherwise provide warning in a form accessible to the user 102. In any case, the user 102 can make note of the pending danger.

Additionally, in the case of a mineshaft or other similar type of hazard, information such as a map of where the mine shaft hazard 108 is located, a short history of mining in this immediate area, Internet web links to relevant websites about mining, etc., can also be transmitted and made accessible in a personalized manner to user 102. In one embodiment,

user 102 may send a request to hazard warning system device 106 for more information.

The type and amount of information sent to user 102 depends, in great part, on the capability of user device 104. Should user 102 desire additional information concerning hazard 108, user 102 can make a request via suitably equipped user device 104, and this request is transmitted to the hazard warning system device 106. If such information requested is stored within the hazard warning system device 106, that information is transmitted to the user device 104. If the requested information is not stored in the hazard warning system device 106, but is retrievable from an external information source 110 using communications services supported by the hazard warning system device 106, the request is forwarded to external information source 110. The external information source 110 processes the request and forwards information back to hazard warning system device 106 for retransmittal to the user device 104 or via other internal means of display organic to the hazard warning system device 106.

Additional information can be made available and transmitted at no charge or optionally for a fee. However, when external information sources 110, integral communications services, or owner of requested information require payment for information usage/retrieval, user 102 can make payment via the user device 104.

Alternatively, information can be provided under the sponsorship of external commercial or another type of organization which agrees to underwrite the use of the wireless communications service or external information provisioning in exchange for other considerations, for example, marketing information, advertising, or promotional information also sent to the hazard warning system device 106 for integral display or for transmission to the user device 104 for display to the user 102.

Hazard warning system device 106 may also be operable to record the sequential number and, if necessary, the identification of each proximate user 102. Time information and additional information, examples of which may include: Duration of time a user 102 remains in proximity to the hazard 108, information requests made by user 102 and the disposition of such requests, amounts and sources of information furnished, fees paid (if any), etc. This information can be stored at hazard warning system device 106 or can be transmitted by wireless means or over a wired connection 229, to a remote server 232. This remote server can also be used to update the warning message or other software of hazard warning system device 106.

FIG. 2 illustrates a more detailed embodiment of personal user device 104 and

associated components ot the hazard warning system device 106 according to the present invention. Referring to FIG. 2, user device 104 is preferably a short-range wireless system with user display 202; user input/output device (s) 204, which can also include audio input/output (e. g., speaker, microphone, earphone jack, etc.) 206; processor 208; internal memory 210; wireless transceiver 212; power source 214; and antenna (s) 216.

In one embodiment, an individual hazard warning system device 106 comprises a wireless transceiver 218, antenna (s) 220, a processor 222, internal memory 224, optionally a display device 226, optionally an input/output mechanism 228, and optional self-contained power source 230. In addition, wireless or wired connectivity with external information sources 110 is supported via a remote server 232 using transceiver 218 for wireless communications via antenna 220 or wired communications via wireline 229.

Processor 208, under the control of an operating system, controls the operation of user device 104 and is used to retrieve, process, store, and display data. Memory 210 may be a random access memory ("RAM"), read-only memory ("ROM"), or other types of memory.

Processor 208 is typically implemented as a microprocessor, such as those manufactured by INTEL, MOTOROLA, or HITACHI. Processor 208 may include an arithmetic logic unit to assist in performing mathematical operations. Processor 208 communicates control, address, and data signals with an operating system and with the remaining components of user device 104. Processor 208 interprets and executes instructions that have been fetched or retrieved from memory 210 and may be implemented as a single integrated circuit or as a combination of integrated circuits, as a microcontroller, a digital signal processor (DSP), a field programmable grid array (FPGA), an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), as remotely commanded circuitry hosted on hazard warning system remote server 232 or hosted on a remote server associated with information services 110, etc.

I/O devices 204 may include any peripheral that allows data to be exchanged between user device 104 and user 102. This includes information entry and viewing of information entered into, or viewed on user device 104 and may include such devices as a keyboard or other tactile capability; a vibrating element; audio transducer 206; a monitor; a printer; a modem; a RF transmitter; a pointing device, such as a mouse; a floppy disk drive; a mass storage device, such as a hard disk drive or memory stick; and the like.

Wireless transceiver 212, in conjunction with communication programs stored in

memory 210, allows user device 1U4 to receive messages trom hazard warning system device 106 and to send request for additional information to hazard warning system device 106.

Turning now to hazard warning system device 106, processor 222 controls the operation of hazard warning system device 106. Any necessary programs needed to control hazard warning system device 106 are stored in memory 224 or are retrievable from or by way of remote server 232. Memory 224 is also operable to store text and/or audiovisual or multimedia messages, which can be sent to the personal user device 104. Therefore, Memory 224 may be any combination of random access memory (RAM), read only memory (ROM), flash memory usable for program storage, program operation, message storage, etc.

Processor 222 is typically implemented as a microprocessor, such as those manufactured by INTEL, MOTOROLA, or HITACHI. Processor 222 may include an arithmetic logic unit to assist in performing mathematical operations. Processor 222 communicates control, address, and data signals with an operating system and with the remaining components of hazard warning device 106. Processor 222 interprets and executes instructions that have been fetched or retrieved from memory 224 and may be implemented as a single integrated circuit, as a combination of integrated circuits, as a microcontroller, digital signal processor (DSP), a field programmable grid array (FPGA), an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), remotely commanded circuitry hosted on remote server 232, etc. as a microcontroller, a digital signal processor (DSP), a field programmable grid array (FPGA), an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), as remotely commanded circuitry hosted on hazard warning system remote server 232 or hosted on a remote server associated with information services 110, etc.

Transceiver 218 is operable to send information to and receive information from user device 104. Remote server 232 is operable to receive information from and to send updated information to hazard warning device 106. Remote server 232 can interface with hazard warning system device 106 using a direct hardwire hook-up 229 or using wireless means via antenna 220, and can also communicate with other external information sources 110 in similar fashion. Other integral wireless communications methods may also be used for connectivity including for example, cellular telephony, CDPD, LMDS, satellite communications, wireless LAN (for example, IEEE 802.11 and variants) IEEE 802.15 [Bluetooth], etc. Alternatively, hazard warning system device 106 may achieve connectivity by utilizing external communications capabilities in the possession of the user, such as a

suitably equipped user device 104, cellular telephony, automotive telematics services, Land Mobile Radio, satellite telephony, and so forth. Remote server 232 can also directly access external information sources 110.

Hazard warning system device 106 is operable to be powered by a self-contained power source 230 such as batteries, solar power, etc.; electric utility service (if available); a generator; or, any other method to provide power.

In one embodiment, the user 102, after receiving the basic level of warning information from hazard warning system device 106, may request additional information.

This information could be obtained from remote server 232 and sent to the hazard warning system device 106. In another embodiment, hazard warning system device 106 is operable to send additional information per the request of the remote server 232. This could be for such things as logging the number of people who pass hazard warning system device 106 or checking the identity of each person that passes hazard warning system device 106 if personal user device 104 is equipped to send personal information. This could be useful in an industrial setting where management could track which workers strayed too close to hazardous sites or to monitor access to a site restricted to authorized personal.

As discussed earlier, hazards can be categorized at least into categories of fixed or movable hazards, and as persistent or transient in nature. The category of fixed and persistent hazard is exemplified by the example of an open mineshaft. The category of a fixed transient hazard may be exemplified by a roadway bridge which most of the year is relatively safe, but under specific limited meteorological conditions is subject to highly dangerous glare (or black) ice. Another example may be a roadway bridge that on rare occasions is historically swept away by extreme flash flooding. Other categories of hazards 108 for which this invention is useful will also be apparent to those practiced in the art.

Again, for example, hazard warning system device 106 can be provided or placed near a fixed mineshaft which would be expected to remain dangerous for many years. In another embodiment, hazard warning system device 106 can be placed near a roadway where glare/black ice may form. Then, in conjunction with inputs from an ice detection (e. g., temperature, humidity, or other mechanism [s]) sensor, hazard warning system device 106 can be used to alert people about transient hazards. Although examples of outdoor hazards have been supplied above, many beneficial applications of this invention will be found in indoors, including industrial, situations. For example, present safety practices require industrial workers and/or safety and maintenance personnel to maintain constant

vigilance tor anomalous conditions or ror normally sate equipment mat is rendered temporarily unsafe due to in-process maintenance. Such conditions are typically accomplished by manual processes, and as such are subject to compromise and danger due to the inherent nature of persons to make mistakes under conditions of stress, fatigue, etc.

This invention can easily be implemented widely and in diverse forms in industry. It may be readily seen by those practiced in the art that invention is suitable for application to operations/practices such as"electrical lock-out/tag-out,""confined spaces,""no-lone zone,""overhead crane operations,"and many other potentially hazardous workplace conditions.

FIG. 3 is a flowchart illustrating a method in accordance with the present invention suitable for use in the FIG. 1 apparatus whereby hazard warning system device 106 detects the user device 104, transmits a warning of the proximate hazard 108, determines whether the user desires additional information and, if so, processes such additional information request or other user input into format suitable for retransmission to external information sources.

In a preferred embodiment, the host facility (e. g., company safety department, highway patrol, etc.) or organization with hazard warning responsibility places or provides in step 302 and activates in step 304 a hazard warning system device 106 in the proximity of a hazard 108. Upon its activation, hazard warning system device 106 monitors its surroundings for the presence of user device 104. Monitoring for the presence of a personal user device 104 in one embodiment comprises the hazard warning system device 106 being operable to wait for a signal from personal user device 104 before sending a warning message. Monitoring for the presence of the user device 104 can also entail sending a signal from a hazard warning system device 106 which is intended to be received by the user device 104 which, if present, can then send an acknowledgment to hazard warning system device 106 to initiate further communications. Monitoring for the presence of the user device 104 can also entail continuously sending a warning message able to be received and processed unilaterally by suitable client devices 104. This occurs in step 306.

In step 308, if no proximate user device 104 is detected, the process goes back to step 306. If the user device 104 is detected, hazard warning system device 106 may optionally determine if the hazard currently exists, as occurs in the case of a transient hazard such as glare/black ice on a highway. If the hazard does not currently exist, in step 312 optional messages or information can be sent. This can include a message such as"Ice conditions can

exist here"or some other type ot message atter which the process returns to step out. it the hazard currently exists, a warning message is sent to user device 104 in step 314. The content and format of the message is determined by both the capabilities of user device 104 and the capabilities of the hazard warning system device 106. If the user device 104 is fairly robust, the message could contain text and graphics and even audiovisual or multimedia information, if the hazard warning device 106 can provide such information. Alternatively, in conjunction with providing a warning 314, hazard warning device 106 can limit access to an area based on the privileges or rights granted to the user of specifically programmed user device 104. For example, if the hazard existed behind a door, hazard warning device 106 could send a warning to user device 104 that indicated this is a restricted area limited to authorized personal. Then, user 102 of user device 104 would have to indicate in some fashion that he or she was a user authorized to enter that area. In one embodiment, user device 104 could communicate that information to hazard warning device 106.

In step 316, it is determined whether user 102 desires additional information. If no additional information is desired, the process goes back to step 306. If additional information is desired, a request can be transmitted to hazard warning system device 106 by personal user device 104. Some or all of the additionally requested information supplied at step 320 may be purchased using electronic payments as depicted at step 318.

FIG. 4 is a flowchart further illustrating the additional operation of hazard warning system device 106 as shown within the process"A"which follows step 308 of FIG. 3. For security purposes, operation of hazard warning system device 106 may be further designed to be activated or controlled only by authorized personnel. In one embodiment, activating the device also includes activating conditional access capabilities. This allows different authorized users different access capabilities. For example, in an industrial setting, a client device in possession of a plant"Visitor"might be only able to receive hazard warning messages and request additional information as shown in FIG. 3. A low level employee of the facility might be able to access some additional system features such as downloading information concerning the number of users passing by the hazard warning system device 106 or the disposition of information requests, etc. Other workers with greater authorization might be able to alter the warning message or perform other functions the low-level worker could not.

Thus, in FIG. 3, the hazard warning system device 106 performs its normal monitoring function. This can include detecting the presence of the user device 104 in order

to send a warning message, log the number ot people with personal client devices 104 that pass by the hazard warning system device 106, record the identity of people with personal devices, provide information to users, etc.

Once the user device 104 has been detected in step 308 of FIG. 3, however, in step 402 of FIG. 4, the system further acts to monitor for whether an authorized user is present. In step 404, the hazard warning system 106 determines whether a user 102 is an authorized user. If not, the process continues with step 310 of FIG. 3. If an authorized user is detected in step 404, the level of authority is determined in step 406. By checking for authorized users and their level of authority, in step 406, the hazard warning system device 106 is detecting users that can perform maintenance or otherwise access the restricted functions of hazard warning system device 106. In any case, if no authorized user is detected, the hazard warning systems continues to perform normal functions as outlined in step 310 of FIG. 3.

If a properly authorized user is detected, in step 408 the hazard warning system device 106 permits the authorized user to execute authorized functions, such as setting additional monitoring details, performing maintenance or other functions in step 410. After that is complete, hazard warning system device 106 returns to normal operation, in step 310 of FIG. 3.

Thus, a method, system and apparatus for achieving more effective hazard warning has been disclosed which overcome the disadvantages of current warning methods. While embodiments discussing warning of fixed hazards such as a mineshaft, glare ice, and certain industrial workplace applications have been disclosed, the present invention is adaptable to a wide range of applications.