ALARM DEVICE
United States Patent 3832705
A personal security device that is readily carried by hand and that includes an alarm activating unit that can be preset and restrained by a finger so that when released the activating unit automatically separates from the alarm device setting off a signal generator to produce continuous alarm signals.
US Patent References:
Hand operated electric light signal device
Sage - March 1942 - 2277866
Combination horn and flashlight
Meyers - July 1959 - 2893344
Portable containers provided with theft alarm devices
Donaldson - March 1960 - 2927311
BURGLAR ALARM SWITCH
Shimada - December 1971 - 3631271
PURSE THEFT ALARM
Dixon - October 1972 - 3701140
Hand operated electric light signal device
Sage - March 1942 - 2277866
Combination horn and flashlight
Meyers - July 1959 - 2893344
Portable containers provided with theft alarm devices
Donaldson - March 1960 - 2927311
BURGLAR ALARM SWITCH
Shimada - December 1971 - 3631271
PURSE THEFT ALARM
Dixon - October 1972 - 3701140
Inventors:
King, Barry B. (Victor, NY)
King, Ralph E. (Rochester, NY)
King, Ralph E. (Rochester, NY)
Application Number:
05/369871
Publication Date:
08/27/1974
Filing Date:
06/14/1973
View Patent Images:
Export Citation:
Primary Class:
Other Classes:
340/321, 340/384.700
International Classes:
G08B15/00; G08B15/00
Field of Search:
340/280,321,384E
Primary Examiner:
Habecker, Thomas B.
Claims:
What is claimed is
1. An alarm device comprising:
2. An alarm device in claim 1 wherein:
3. An alarm device as defined in claim 2 wherein:
4. An alarm device as defined in claim 2 wherein:
5. An alarm device as defined in claim 1 wherein:
6. An alarm device as defined in claim 5 wherein:
7. An alarm device as defined in claim 6 including:
8. An alarm device as defined in claim 1 wherein:
9. An alarm device as defined in claim 8 wherein:
10. An alarm device as defined in claim 9 wherein:
11. An alarm device as defined in claim 10 wherein:
12. An alarm device comprising:
13. An alarm device as defined in claim 12 wherein:
14. An alarm device as defined in claim 13 including:
15. An alarm device comprising:
16. An alarm device as defined in claim 15 wherein:
17. An alarm device as defined in claim 16 wherein:
18. An alarm device as defined in claim 17 wherein:
1. An alarm device comprising:
2. An alarm device in claim 1 wherein:
3. An alarm device as defined in claim 2 wherein:
4. An alarm device as defined in claim 2 wherein:
5. An alarm device as defined in claim 1 wherein:
6. An alarm device as defined in claim 5 wherein:
7. An alarm device as defined in claim 6 including:
8. An alarm device as defined in claim 1 wherein:
9. An alarm device as defined in claim 8 wherein:
10. An alarm device as defined in claim 9 wherein:
11. An alarm device as defined in claim 10 wherein:
12. An alarm device comprising:
13. An alarm device as defined in claim 12 wherein:
14. An alarm device as defined in claim 13 including:
15. An alarm device comprising:
16. An alarm device as defined in claim 15 wherein:
17. An alarm device as defined in claim 16 wherein:
18. An alarm device as defined in claim 17 wherein:
Description:
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
This invention pertains in general to alarm devices, and more particularly to personal hand carried devices that can be readily set off to generate alarm signals in the event of an attack.
Muggings, a type of robbery wherein a victim is physically assaulted or restrained while being robbed, have been increasing in occurrence over the years and may now account to well over one half the robberies in the United States. The victims are those that are burdened with packages that impede their defense, individuals traveling alone, particularly at night, and the elderly who are too feeble to defend themselves. The muggings occur outdoors in the streets and also indoors in common walkways, or hallways. The chances of being mugged are substantially increased in, or near, high crime areas, such as, older city residential areas, slums, and poorly lighted streets.
Often an attack on a victim is made by two muggers, one who surprises the victim from behind by locking an arm chokingly around the victim's neck, while the other empties the victim's pockets. The attack often occurs as a surprise even though the victim may be guarding against such a possibility. In most cases, the victim can do little, if anything, to fend off the attack. It would be highly desirable if some sort of simple and inexpensive device could be provided for persons that are succeptable to muggings that can be set off in the event of an attempted attack and thereby act as a deterent to such muggings. The alarm device should be inexpensive, small, light weight, and portable, so that it can be readily carried in the palm of the hand or fit within a purse. Furthermore, the alarm device must be capable of being set off even in the event of a complete surprise attack.
It is therefore an object of this invention to provide a new and improved alarm device that is relatively inexpensive, small, light weight and readily portable by hand.
It is also an object of this invention to provide a new and improved alarm device that is capable of being set off even in the event of a complete surprise attack and in cases therein the victim is virtually incapacitated.
It is also an object to this invention to provide a new and improved alarm device that is capable of being immediately set off in the event of an attack to provide a continuous alarm signal which can not be stopped without destroying the alarm device.
It is also an object of this invention to provide a new and improved alarm device that can be preset so that the mere release thereof will set off the unit.
It is also an object of this invention to provide a new and improved alarm device that is physically small so that it can be carried wihtin the palm of the hand, that will be set off by merely releasing the alarm device, and that has a shape that allows the alarm device to roll away from the victim and out of the reach of the attacker in the event the alarm is dropped.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES
FIG. 1 is a side view of a first embodiment of the alarm device of the invention including a spherical housing.
FIG. 2 is a top view of FIG. 1.
FIG. 3 is an illustration of the alarm device of FIG. 1 carried within the palm of a hand and restrained from activation by a finger.
FIG. 4 is an exploded side view of the alarm device of FIG. 1 with the two hemispheres forming the spherical housing separated.
FIG. 5 is an exploded view of the alarm device of FIG. 1 with the two hemispheres forming the spherical housing separated and rotated to show an inside view of the alarm device.
FIG. 6 is a cut away view of one of the hemispheres showing the alarm device release mechanism.
FIG. 7 is a side view of a pushbutton assembly forming a part of the alarm device release mechanism.
FIG. 8 is a top view of the alarm device of FIG. 1 with the pushbutton removed.
FIG. 9 is a block diagram of the electrical alarm signal generating means included in the first embodiment of the invention.
FIG. 10 is an electrical schematic diagram of a dual oscillator circuit for use in the alarm signal generator of FIG. 9 for generating a modulated alarm signal.
FIG. 11 is a side view of second embodiment of the alarm device of the invention including a cylindrical housing.
FIG. 12 is a cut away side view of the alarm device of FIG. 11 disclosing the alarm device release mechanism and the pneumatic alarm signal generating means.
FIG. 13 is a partial side view of the alarm device of FIG. 11 with the pushbutton removed.
FIG. 14 is an exploded view of a portion of the alarm release mechanism of FIG. 11.
FIG. 15 is a cut away view of the alarm device of FIG. 11 taken along lines A--A.
FIG. 16 is a cut away view of the alarm device of FIG. 11 taken along lines B--B.
FIG. 17 is an end view of the alarm device of FIG. 11.
FIG. 18 is an exploded view of the pneumatic signal generating means including a reservoir and an acoustical transducer.
FIG. 19 is a bottom view of the acoustical transducer of FIG. 18.
FIG. 20 is a side view of the acoustical transducer of FIG. 18 with a plug and a diaphram removed.
FIG. 21 is a cut away view of the acoustical transducer of FIG. 18 along lines C--C with the plug removed.
FIG. 22 is a plane view of a purse including the alarm device of the invention.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
A personal security alarm device that can be enclosed within a housing of a size for conveniently carrying within a hand, or can be included within a hand carried purse, or like item. The alarm device includes an alarm signal generating means that is set off by an alarm actuation means. The alarm actuation means includes a manually operated actuating unit that extends from the housing or purse. The actuating unit has a first, or locked, position wherein the signal generating means is prevented from generating an alarm signal and a second, or release, position that, if manually unrestrained, the actuating unit will spring away from the housing and set off the alarm generating means to produce a continuous alarm signal. While the alarm device in storage, or not in use, the actuating unit is positioned in the locked condition. When put in use the actuating unit is positioned in the release position and is manually restrained from activation while in the release position by pressure from a finger. In the event of an attack, the finger is released or the alarm unit is merely dropped and the actuating unit automatically separates from the alarm device setting off the alarm. In the event that no attacks occur, the actuating unit is returned to the locked condition. Hence, as can be seen, the alarm device of the invention can be preset, and in the event of the attack, even a complete surprise attack, the preset alarm can be set off by the mere movement of a finger or by dropping the device, which can be a result of automatic reflex or involuntary action.
If the alarm device is to be carried in the palm of the hand, the housing of the alarm device can have at lease one dimension having a generally circular configuration, such as for example a spherical or sylindrical shape, so that when the alarm device is dropped, or thrown, it can roll away from the person being attacked putting the alarm device away from the convenient reach of the attacker. The attacker is therefor faced with ignoring the alarm, or releasing the victim to silence the alarm. In any event, an alarm signal will be generated even if the victim can not cry out for help.
In a first embodiment of the invention, the alarm signal generating means comprises an oscillator circuit, a battery and a speaker. The alarm actuation means includes a switch including a first position for disabling the alarm signal generating means and resilient means for switching the switch to a second position for operating the signal generating means. The actuating unit, when in the lock position, maintains the switch in the first position and when in the release position enables the switch under the force of the resilient means to switch to the second position.
In a second embodiment of the invention, the signal generating means comprises a reservoir of pressurized gas having a valve for the release of pressurized gas therefrom, and a transducer that is responsive to pressurized gas flow therethrough to produce an alarm signal. The alarm actuation means, under the control of the actuation unit, operates the valve so that the transducer produces the alarm signal. The valve can be of the type that engages the transducer and is responsive to a force therefrom to open the valve. In such an arrangement the alarm actuation means, when actuated by the actuating unit, forces the transducer against the valve to actuate the alarm signal generating means.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
In accordance with a first embodiment of the invention illustrated in FIGS. 1-10, the personal security or alarm device includes a spherical hollow shaped housing 10. The housing 10 is of a size that can conveniently be carried within the palm of a hand (as illustrated in FIG. 3), having a diameter in the order of three inches. The housing 10 can be made of plastic, or metal, and should preferably be of sufficient strength to resist damage by stomping by foot. The housing 10 can be formed with a plurality of openings 12 throughout the circumference, or if greater strength is desired, only in the general location of a sound transducer contained therein. The spherical housing 10 is formed of two hemispheres 14 and 16 that are fastened together to form the sphere by any convenient means such as for example a ring 18 (FIGS. 4 and 5) that fits within the hemispheres 14 and 16 that is secured thereto by a plurality of fastening devices such as the screws 20. Extending from within the hemisphere 14 is an activation unit or pushbutton 22 that forms a portion of the alarm release mechanism.
As illustrated by the exploded views of FIG. 4 and 5, the first embodiment of the alarm device includes an electrical sound generating means having a battery 24 and a normally closed spring actuated switch 26 within the hemisphere 14, and an oscillator and a speaker combination 30 within the hemisphere 16. The battery and the oscillator and the speaker can be conveniently mounted within the hemispheres 14 and 16, respectively, by putty or cement or a bracket (not shown). Preferably, the battery and oscillator-speaker combination 30 should be mounted in a foam rubber type of material to absorb shock. The switch 26 is mounted in place by a bracket 28 secured to the hemisphere 14. The oscillator-speaker combination 30 is connected to the switch 26 and the battery 24 via the wires 32 and 34 in a manner as illustrated by the schematic diagram of FIG. 9. The oscillator 50 and speaker 52 can be a commercially available unit for producing a single frequency alarm signal, or can have the double oscillator configuration of FIG. 10 to produce a modulated alarm signal.
As illustrated in FIGS. 6 and 7, the alarm activation unit or pushbutton 22 includes a circular cap 36 and a elongated rod 38 extending therefrom and that has a substantially smaller diagram than the cap 36. A pin 40 extends through and beyond the rod 38 near the end opposite the cap 36. Resilient means, such a coil spring 42, is attached to one end of the rod 38. The pushbutton 22 is positioned in the hemisphere 14 by inserting the spring 42 and the rod 38 through an opening 44 with the ends of the pin 40 aligned with the keyways 46. After the pushbutton 22 is so inserted, it is rotated approximately ninety degrees so that the ends of the pin 40 engage the inner surface of the hemisphere 14 and prevent the pushbutton 22 from releasing, defining a first or locked position of the pushbutton. If desired, a groove can be formed within the hemisphere 14 to further capture the ends of the pin 40. When the pushbutton 22 is inserted into the hemisphere 14 as illustrated in FIG. 6, the spring 42 engages the plunger 48 of the switch 26 to operate the switch 26 and disconnect the oscillator 50 from the battery 24.
As long as the pushbutton 22 is in the off or locked condition (the pin 40 is not aligned with the keyways 46), the switch 26 remains open and the alarm device is deactivated. Prior to entering a potentially dangerous area, or to going out at night, the user will rotate the pushbutton 22 so that the pin 40 is aligned with the keyway 46 with a finger as illustrated in FIG. 3 while simultaneously maintaining the pushbutton 22 depressed (defined as a second or release position of the pushbutton). In this release position the pushbutton 22 is preset for actuating the alarm device. The alarm device is now carried in the palm of the hand with one finger continuously depressing the pushbutton 22. Should the person be attacked, he need merely release the pushbutton 22 by dropping the alarm device. The pushbutton 22 under the force of the spring 42 will automatically spring out of the housing 10 allowing the switch 26 to close to set off the alarm device. The attacker is now faced with the decision to continue the attack, or to silence the alarm device. The spring 42 should be of sufficient strength to propel the pushbutton 22 (when released) a sufficient distance so that it can not be conveniently picked up and used to shut off the alarm device. Although the pushbutton 22 is illustrated as being coupled with the switch 26 via the spring 42, it should be understood that if the spring mechanism within the switch 26 is sufficiently strong, the switch spring can be used to propel the pushbutton 22 and the spring 42 eliminated. Further, the spherical shape of the housing 10 allows the alarm to roll away when so thrown by the carrier thereby putting the alarm device out of the easy reach of the attacker. The alarm device, when released, immediately produces a continuous distress alarm signal. Others in the vicinity can respond to the alarm signals by quickly summoning the police. Furthermore, the alarm signal may be a sufficient distraction to the attacker to allow the victim to defend himself, escape, or even cause an abandonment of the attack.
It is desireable that the alarm device generates a distinct sound that can be associated with a distress condition. Such a distress signal can be generated by the use of a dual oscillator circuit such as that illustrated in FIG. 10. The first oscillator circuit includes the transistors 54 and 56, an acoustical transducer 58, resistors 60, 62, and 64, and a capacitor 66. The first oscillator circuit also shares a resistor 68 and a capacitor 70 with the second oscillator circuit, which includes the transistors 72 and 74, resistors 76, 78, 80 and 81 and a capacitor 82. The resistive and the capacitive components in the first and second oscillator circuits are selected so that the first oscillator circuit generates a high frequency audio carrier signal and the second oscillator circuit generates a lower frequency switching signal. The second signal modulates the first signal because the two oscillator circuits share the common emitter resistor 68. The capacitor 70 provides a low impedance path for the first (higher frequency) signal. The transistor 56 drives the acoustical transducer 58, which can be, for example, a small loudspeaker of the type used in small portable transistor radios. A loud modulated sound is generated by the oscillator circuits that has a characteristic intermittent nature designed to attract attention.
In accordance with a second embodiment of the invention illustrated in FIGS. 11-21, the alarm signal generating means includes an aerosol container 70 and a pneumatic acoustical transducer 72. The container 70 and the transducer 72 are commercially available devices. The container 70 includes a valve 74 that extends out from the container that when depressed, releases pressurized gas from the container through the valve 74. The transducer 72 fits over the end of the container 70 so that the valve 74 fits into a groove 80 (FIGS. 19-21). When the transducer 72 and container 70 are forced together, the top end of the groove 80 engages the valve 74 and depresses the valve thereby causing high velocity gas from the container 70 to flow into the two ring cavities 82 and 84 in the transducer. The cavities 82 and 84 are covered by a thin sheet of metal, or diaphram 86, which is held in place by a plug 88 that screws into the transducer 72. The rush of the gas through the cavities 82 and 84 and along the diaphram 88 produces a screaming type alarm signal out of the transducer outlet or horn 90.
The container 70 and the transducer 72 are illustrated in FIGS. 11-17 as contained within a cylindrical housing 92. As in the case of the spherical housing of FIGS. 1-10, the size of the cylindrical housing 92 is such that it can be conveniently carried within the palm of the hand, such as for example being approximately 2 inches in diameter. The housing 92 should also be of sufficient strength to resist destruction by stomping by foot. The housing 92 includes a plurality of openings 94 throughout its circumference, or if greater strength is desired, only in the location of the transducer 72. The housing 92 can be conveniently sealed after assembly at opposite ends by the end plates 96 and 98 fastened to the housing 92 by the screws 100.
An alarm activation unit, such as a pushbutton 102, extends out from the housing and forms a part of the alarm release mechanism. The pushbutton 102 includes a circular cap 104 and a first elongated rod 106 extending therefrom having a substantially smaller diameter than the cap 104. A second elongated rod 108 having a substantially smaller diameter than the first rod 106 extends from the first rod and includes a detent finger 110 at the end thereof. A pin 112 extends through the first rod 106 near the end opposite the cap 104. Resilient means, such as a coil spring 114, fits over the detent finger 110 and the second rod 108 and engages the end of the first rod 106. The pushbutton 102 and the spring 114 are inserted into the housing 92 through an opening 116 (FIG. 13) with the ends of the pin 112 aligned with the keyway 118. The spring 114 is compressed between the end of the rod 113 and a plunger rod 122. After the pushbutton 102 is so inserted, it is rotated 90° to a lock position wherein the ends of the pin 112 engage the inner surface of the housing 92 and prevents the pushbutton 102 from being released under the force of the spring 114.
When the pushbutton 102 is inserted into the housing 92, the detent finger 110 engages a cavity 120 in the rod 122 of the plunger 122. The plunger rod 122 is mounted to fit loosely in a hole 126 extending through a circular wall 128. The wall is secured to the inner cylindrical surface of the housing 92, generally normal to the cylindrical axis and adjacent the hole 116. A portion of the wall 128 is cut away to allow clearance for the pin 112 (as illustrated in FIG. 14) so that the pushbutton 102 can be rotated. A circular piston 130 is attached to the other end of the rod 122 and includes a rim 132 for capuring the free end of the transducer 72. A coil spring 134 is placed between the piston 130 and the wall 128.
When initially assmebling the alarm device of FIGS. 11-21 the spring 134 is placed around the rod 122. The end of the rod 122 is inserted through the opening 126 in the wall 128 and the spring 134 is depressed. The pushbutton 102 and spring 114 are inserted through the keyway 116 so that the detent finger 110 engages the cavity 120 in the rod 122 and the pushbutton 102 is then rotated 90°. The detent finger 110 engages the wall 128 and prevents the plunger 124 from moving under the force of the compressed spring 134. The transducer 72 is placed over the container 70 and inserted into the housing 92 so that the end of the transducer 72 fits wihtin the rim 132. The housing 92 is now sealed at opposite ends.
As in the case of the first embodiment of FIGS. 1-10, the pushbutton 102 of the second embodiment of FIGS. 11-21 is preset for actuation by rotating the pushbutton 102 until the pin 112 is aligned with the keyways 118 (release position), however maintaining the pushbutton 102 depressed so that the detent finger 110 continues to engage the cavity 120. The alarm device is carried in the palm of the hand with a finger continuously depressing the pushbutton 102. Should an attack occur, the pushbutton 102 need merely be released and the detend finger 110 will automatically spring away from the rod 122 causing the plunger 124, under the resilient force of the spring 134, to force the transducer 72 against the container 70 and set off the alarm device to produce a shrill shreek. The alarm device will continue to provide the alarm signal until either the container 70 is emptied or the alarm device is destroyed. As in the case of the spherical alarm device, the cylindrical shaped alarm is also capable of rolling away when released or thrown.
Although the alarm device of the invention has been described in the contex of a spherical or cylindrical unit that can be carried within the palm of the hand, the alarm device of the invention can also be used in a variety of other ways, such as for example being built within a purse 170 as illustrated in FIG. 22. The transducer of the alarm device can be mounted within the purse adjacent the holes 172. In the case of an alarm device including the electrical signal generating means of FIGS. 1-10, two pushbuttons 174 and 176, or a single pushbutton can be used. One pushbutton 176 is located in the purse handle 178, and the other pushbutton 174 is located in the body of the purse 170. In the case of the alarm device including the pneumatic signal generating means, a single pushbutton 174 is used. The pushbutton 174 and 176 can be preset to the release position as previously described above and held in place by a finger as the purse 170 is carried. In the event of a purse snatch, the preset pushbutton will be released and the alarm will automatically go off. The robber, as a result, will run off with a screaming purse, which will force the robber to immediately stop and empty the purse, empty the purse in flight, or simply get rid of the purse. In any event, the noise of the alarm will produce an embarrassing situation for the purse snatcher, perhaps to the point of foiling the robbery attempt. Quite often a purse snatcher will cut through the purse strap in an attempt to snatch a purse. In such a case two sets of wires can be provided from the switch 176 (a complete circuit through each half of the strap) so that shen one half of the strap is cut, the alarm circuit can be completed through the other half of the strap.
Hence, in accordance to the invention, when a person leaves work at night or enters a dangerous area, the person need merely preset the pushbutton in the alarm device to the release position. The alarm device is set off by merely releasing the pushbutton. If the person reached a safe location, the pushbutton is returned to the deactivated of lock position and the alarm device can be stored until needed at a later date. In the event of an attack, the alarm device is easily set off. The alarm device will continue to produce distress signals until destroyed, or the aerosol container emptied, or the battery discharged. In any event, the distress signals will distract the attacker even to the point of attempting to destroy the device. The distraction may allow the victim the opportunity to escape or to protect himself. The attacker is forced with the decision to continue the mugging during the distress signals or to abandon the attack. The distress signals will attract attention of others so that help can be much more quickly summoned, and even perhaps resulting in the capture of the mugger. In the case of the purse snatcher, the alarm signal will draw attention to the robber as he attempts to flee with the purse. Rather than facing the possibility of capture, the purse snatcher may abandon the robbery. In any event, the alarm device of the invention provides an arrangement for summoning help even in the case of a complete surprise attack.
This invention pertains in general to alarm devices, and more particularly to personal hand carried devices that can be readily set off to generate alarm signals in the event of an attack.
Muggings, a type of robbery wherein a victim is physically assaulted or restrained while being robbed, have been increasing in occurrence over the years and may now account to well over one half the robberies in the United States. The victims are those that are burdened with packages that impede their defense, individuals traveling alone, particularly at night, and the elderly who are too feeble to defend themselves. The muggings occur outdoors in the streets and also indoors in common walkways, or hallways. The chances of being mugged are substantially increased in, or near, high crime areas, such as, older city residential areas, slums, and poorly lighted streets.
Often an attack on a victim is made by two muggers, one who surprises the victim from behind by locking an arm chokingly around the victim's neck, while the other empties the victim's pockets. The attack often occurs as a surprise even though the victim may be guarding against such a possibility. In most cases, the victim can do little, if anything, to fend off the attack. It would be highly desirable if some sort of simple and inexpensive device could be provided for persons that are succeptable to muggings that can be set off in the event of an attempted attack and thereby act as a deterent to such muggings. The alarm device should be inexpensive, small, light weight, and portable, so that it can be readily carried in the palm of the hand or fit within a purse. Furthermore, the alarm device must be capable of being set off even in the event of a complete surprise attack.
It is therefore an object of this invention to provide a new and improved alarm device that is relatively inexpensive, small, light weight and readily portable by hand.
It is also an object of this invention to provide a new and improved alarm device that is capable of being set off even in the event of a complete surprise attack and in cases therein the victim is virtually incapacitated.
It is also an object to this invention to provide a new and improved alarm device that is capable of being immediately set off in the event of an attack to provide a continuous alarm signal which can not be stopped without destroying the alarm device.
It is also an object of this invention to provide a new and improved alarm device that can be preset so that the mere release thereof will set off the unit.
It is also an object of this invention to provide a new and improved alarm device that is physically small so that it can be carried wihtin the palm of the hand, that will be set off by merely releasing the alarm device, and that has a shape that allows the alarm device to roll away from the victim and out of the reach of the attacker in the event the alarm is dropped.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES
FIG. 1 is a side view of a first embodiment of the alarm device of the invention including a spherical housing.
FIG. 2 is a top view of FIG. 1.
FIG. 3 is an illustration of the alarm device of FIG. 1 carried within the palm of a hand and restrained from activation by a finger.
FIG. 4 is an exploded side view of the alarm device of FIG. 1 with the two hemispheres forming the spherical housing separated.
FIG. 5 is an exploded view of the alarm device of FIG. 1 with the two hemispheres forming the spherical housing separated and rotated to show an inside view of the alarm device.
FIG. 6 is a cut away view of one of the hemispheres showing the alarm device release mechanism.
FIG. 7 is a side view of a pushbutton assembly forming a part of the alarm device release mechanism.
FIG. 8 is a top view of the alarm device of FIG. 1 with the pushbutton removed.
FIG. 9 is a block diagram of the electrical alarm signal generating means included in the first embodiment of the invention.
FIG. 10 is an electrical schematic diagram of a dual oscillator circuit for use in the alarm signal generator of FIG. 9 for generating a modulated alarm signal.
FIG. 11 is a side view of second embodiment of the alarm device of the invention including a cylindrical housing.
FIG. 12 is a cut away side view of the alarm device of FIG. 11 disclosing the alarm device release mechanism and the pneumatic alarm signal generating means.
FIG. 13 is a partial side view of the alarm device of FIG. 11 with the pushbutton removed.
FIG. 14 is an exploded view of a portion of the alarm release mechanism of FIG. 11.
FIG. 15 is a cut away view of the alarm device of FIG. 11 taken along lines A--A.
FIG. 16 is a cut away view of the alarm device of FIG. 11 taken along lines B--B.
FIG. 17 is an end view of the alarm device of FIG. 11.
FIG. 18 is an exploded view of the pneumatic signal generating means including a reservoir and an acoustical transducer.
FIG. 19 is a bottom view of the acoustical transducer of FIG. 18.
FIG. 20 is a side view of the acoustical transducer of FIG. 18 with a plug and a diaphram removed.
FIG. 21 is a cut away view of the acoustical transducer of FIG. 18 along lines C--C with the plug removed.
FIG. 22 is a plane view of a purse including the alarm device of the invention.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
A personal security alarm device that can be enclosed within a housing of a size for conveniently carrying within a hand, or can be included within a hand carried purse, or like item. The alarm device includes an alarm signal generating means that is set off by an alarm actuation means. The alarm actuation means includes a manually operated actuating unit that extends from the housing or purse. The actuating unit has a first, or locked, position wherein the signal generating means is prevented from generating an alarm signal and a second, or release, position that, if manually unrestrained, the actuating unit will spring away from the housing and set off the alarm generating means to produce a continuous alarm signal. While the alarm device in storage, or not in use, the actuating unit is positioned in the locked condition. When put in use the actuating unit is positioned in the release position and is manually restrained from activation while in the release position by pressure from a finger. In the event of an attack, the finger is released or the alarm unit is merely dropped and the actuating unit automatically separates from the alarm device setting off the alarm. In the event that no attacks occur, the actuating unit is returned to the locked condition. Hence, as can be seen, the alarm device of the invention can be preset, and in the event of the attack, even a complete surprise attack, the preset alarm can be set off by the mere movement of a finger or by dropping the device, which can be a result of automatic reflex or involuntary action.
If the alarm device is to be carried in the palm of the hand, the housing of the alarm device can have at lease one dimension having a generally circular configuration, such as for example a spherical or sylindrical shape, so that when the alarm device is dropped, or thrown, it can roll away from the person being attacked putting the alarm device away from the convenient reach of the attacker. The attacker is therefor faced with ignoring the alarm, or releasing the victim to silence the alarm. In any event, an alarm signal will be generated even if the victim can not cry out for help.
In a first embodiment of the invention, the alarm signal generating means comprises an oscillator circuit, a battery and a speaker. The alarm actuation means includes a switch including a first position for disabling the alarm signal generating means and resilient means for switching the switch to a second position for operating the signal generating means. The actuating unit, when in the lock position, maintains the switch in the first position and when in the release position enables the switch under the force of the resilient means to switch to the second position.
In a second embodiment of the invention, the signal generating means comprises a reservoir of pressurized gas having a valve for the release of pressurized gas therefrom, and a transducer that is responsive to pressurized gas flow therethrough to produce an alarm signal. The alarm actuation means, under the control of the actuation unit, operates the valve so that the transducer produces the alarm signal. The valve can be of the type that engages the transducer and is responsive to a force therefrom to open the valve. In such an arrangement the alarm actuation means, when actuated by the actuating unit, forces the transducer against the valve to actuate the alarm signal generating means.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
In accordance with a first embodiment of the invention illustrated in FIGS. 1-10, the personal security or alarm device includes a spherical hollow shaped housing 10. The housing 10 is of a size that can conveniently be carried within the palm of a hand (as illustrated in FIG. 3), having a diameter in the order of three inches. The housing 10 can be made of plastic, or metal, and should preferably be of sufficient strength to resist damage by stomping by foot. The housing 10 can be formed with a plurality of openings 12 throughout the circumference, or if greater strength is desired, only in the general location of a sound transducer contained therein. The spherical housing 10 is formed of two hemispheres 14 and 16 that are fastened together to form the sphere by any convenient means such as for example a ring 18 (FIGS. 4 and 5) that fits within the hemispheres 14 and 16 that is secured thereto by a plurality of fastening devices such as the screws 20. Extending from within the hemisphere 14 is an activation unit or pushbutton 22 that forms a portion of the alarm release mechanism.
As illustrated by the exploded views of FIG. 4 and 5, the first embodiment of the alarm device includes an electrical sound generating means having a battery 24 and a normally closed spring actuated switch 26 within the hemisphere 14, and an oscillator and a speaker combination 30 within the hemisphere 16. The battery and the oscillator and the speaker can be conveniently mounted within the hemispheres 14 and 16, respectively, by putty or cement or a bracket (not shown). Preferably, the battery and oscillator-speaker combination 30 should be mounted in a foam rubber type of material to absorb shock. The switch 26 is mounted in place by a bracket 28 secured to the hemisphere 14. The oscillator-speaker combination 30 is connected to the switch 26 and the battery 24 via the wires 32 and 34 in a manner as illustrated by the schematic diagram of FIG. 9. The oscillator 50 and speaker 52 can be a commercially available unit for producing a single frequency alarm signal, or can have the double oscillator configuration of FIG. 10 to produce a modulated alarm signal.
As illustrated in FIGS. 6 and 7, the alarm activation unit or pushbutton 22 includes a circular cap 36 and a elongated rod 38 extending therefrom and that has a substantially smaller diagram than the cap 36. A pin 40 extends through and beyond the rod 38 near the end opposite the cap 36. Resilient means, such a coil spring 42, is attached to one end of the rod 38. The pushbutton 22 is positioned in the hemisphere 14 by inserting the spring 42 and the rod 38 through an opening 44 with the ends of the pin 40 aligned with the keyways 46. After the pushbutton 22 is so inserted, it is rotated approximately ninety degrees so that the ends of the pin 40 engage the inner surface of the hemisphere 14 and prevent the pushbutton 22 from releasing, defining a first or locked position of the pushbutton. If desired, a groove can be formed within the hemisphere 14 to further capture the ends of the pin 40. When the pushbutton 22 is inserted into the hemisphere 14 as illustrated in FIG. 6, the spring 42 engages the plunger 48 of the switch 26 to operate the switch 26 and disconnect the oscillator 50 from the battery 24.
As long as the pushbutton 22 is in the off or locked condition (the pin 40 is not aligned with the keyways 46), the switch 26 remains open and the alarm device is deactivated. Prior to entering a potentially dangerous area, or to going out at night, the user will rotate the pushbutton 22 so that the pin 40 is aligned with the keyway 46 with a finger as illustrated in FIG. 3 while simultaneously maintaining the pushbutton 22 depressed (defined as a second or release position of the pushbutton). In this release position the pushbutton 22 is preset for actuating the alarm device. The alarm device is now carried in the palm of the hand with one finger continuously depressing the pushbutton 22. Should the person be attacked, he need merely release the pushbutton 22 by dropping the alarm device. The pushbutton 22 under the force of the spring 42 will automatically spring out of the housing 10 allowing the switch 26 to close to set off the alarm device. The attacker is now faced with the decision to continue the attack, or to silence the alarm device. The spring 42 should be of sufficient strength to propel the pushbutton 22 (when released) a sufficient distance so that it can not be conveniently picked up and used to shut off the alarm device. Although the pushbutton 22 is illustrated as being coupled with the switch 26 via the spring 42, it should be understood that if the spring mechanism within the switch 26 is sufficiently strong, the switch spring can be used to propel the pushbutton 22 and the spring 42 eliminated. Further, the spherical shape of the housing 10 allows the alarm to roll away when so thrown by the carrier thereby putting the alarm device out of the easy reach of the attacker. The alarm device, when released, immediately produces a continuous distress alarm signal. Others in the vicinity can respond to the alarm signals by quickly summoning the police. Furthermore, the alarm signal may be a sufficient distraction to the attacker to allow the victim to defend himself, escape, or even cause an abandonment of the attack.
It is desireable that the alarm device generates a distinct sound that can be associated with a distress condition. Such a distress signal can be generated by the use of a dual oscillator circuit such as that illustrated in FIG. 10. The first oscillator circuit includes the transistors 54 and 56, an acoustical transducer 58, resistors 60, 62, and 64, and a capacitor 66. The first oscillator circuit also shares a resistor 68 and a capacitor 70 with the second oscillator circuit, which includes the transistors 72 and 74, resistors 76, 78, 80 and 81 and a capacitor 82. The resistive and the capacitive components in the first and second oscillator circuits are selected so that the first oscillator circuit generates a high frequency audio carrier signal and the second oscillator circuit generates a lower frequency switching signal. The second signal modulates the first signal because the two oscillator circuits share the common emitter resistor 68. The capacitor 70 provides a low impedance path for the first (higher frequency) signal. The transistor 56 drives the acoustical transducer 58, which can be, for example, a small loudspeaker of the type used in small portable transistor radios. A loud modulated sound is generated by the oscillator circuits that has a characteristic intermittent nature designed to attract attention.
In accordance with a second embodiment of the invention illustrated in FIGS. 11-21, the alarm signal generating means includes an aerosol container 70 and a pneumatic acoustical transducer 72. The container 70 and the transducer 72 are commercially available devices. The container 70 includes a valve 74 that extends out from the container that when depressed, releases pressurized gas from the container through the valve 74. The transducer 72 fits over the end of the container 70 so that the valve 74 fits into a groove 80 (FIGS. 19-21). When the transducer 72 and container 70 are forced together, the top end of the groove 80 engages the valve 74 and depresses the valve thereby causing high velocity gas from the container 70 to flow into the two ring cavities 82 and 84 in the transducer. The cavities 82 and 84 are covered by a thin sheet of metal, or diaphram 86, which is held in place by a plug 88 that screws into the transducer 72. The rush of the gas through the cavities 82 and 84 and along the diaphram 88 produces a screaming type alarm signal out of the transducer outlet or horn 90.
The container 70 and the transducer 72 are illustrated in FIGS. 11-17 as contained within a cylindrical housing 92. As in the case of the spherical housing of FIGS. 1-10, the size of the cylindrical housing 92 is such that it can be conveniently carried within the palm of the hand, such as for example being approximately 2 inches in diameter. The housing 92 should also be of sufficient strength to resist destruction by stomping by foot. The housing 92 includes a plurality of openings 94 throughout its circumference, or if greater strength is desired, only in the location of the transducer 72. The housing 92 can be conveniently sealed after assembly at opposite ends by the end plates 96 and 98 fastened to the housing 92 by the screws 100.
An alarm activation unit, such as a pushbutton 102, extends out from the housing and forms a part of the alarm release mechanism. The pushbutton 102 includes a circular cap 104 and a first elongated rod 106 extending therefrom having a substantially smaller diameter than the cap 104. A second elongated rod 108 having a substantially smaller diameter than the first rod 106 extends from the first rod and includes a detent finger 110 at the end thereof. A pin 112 extends through the first rod 106 near the end opposite the cap 104. Resilient means, such as a coil spring 114, fits over the detent finger 110 and the second rod 108 and engages the end of the first rod 106. The pushbutton 102 and the spring 114 are inserted into the housing 92 through an opening 116 (FIG. 13) with the ends of the pin 112 aligned with the keyway 118. The spring 114 is compressed between the end of the rod 113 and a plunger rod 122. After the pushbutton 102 is so inserted, it is rotated 90° to a lock position wherein the ends of the pin 112 engage the inner surface of the housing 92 and prevents the pushbutton 102 from being released under the force of the spring 114.
When the pushbutton 102 is inserted into the housing 92, the detent finger 110 engages a cavity 120 in the rod 122 of the plunger 122. The plunger rod 122 is mounted to fit loosely in a hole 126 extending through a circular wall 128. The wall is secured to the inner cylindrical surface of the housing 92, generally normal to the cylindrical axis and adjacent the hole 116. A portion of the wall 128 is cut away to allow clearance for the pin 112 (as illustrated in FIG. 14) so that the pushbutton 102 can be rotated. A circular piston 130 is attached to the other end of the rod 122 and includes a rim 132 for capuring the free end of the transducer 72. A coil spring 134 is placed between the piston 130 and the wall 128.
When initially assmebling the alarm device of FIGS. 11-21 the spring 134 is placed around the rod 122. The end of the rod 122 is inserted through the opening 126 in the wall 128 and the spring 134 is depressed. The pushbutton 102 and spring 114 are inserted through the keyway 116 so that the detent finger 110 engages the cavity 120 in the rod 122 and the pushbutton 102 is then rotated 90°. The detent finger 110 engages the wall 128 and prevents the plunger 124 from moving under the force of the compressed spring 134. The transducer 72 is placed over the container 70 and inserted into the housing 92 so that the end of the transducer 72 fits wihtin the rim 132. The housing 92 is now sealed at opposite ends.
As in the case of the first embodiment of FIGS. 1-10, the pushbutton 102 of the second embodiment of FIGS. 11-21 is preset for actuation by rotating the pushbutton 102 until the pin 112 is aligned with the keyways 118 (release position), however maintaining the pushbutton 102 depressed so that the detent finger 110 continues to engage the cavity 120. The alarm device is carried in the palm of the hand with a finger continuously depressing the pushbutton 102. Should an attack occur, the pushbutton 102 need merely be released and the detend finger 110 will automatically spring away from the rod 122 causing the plunger 124, under the resilient force of the spring 134, to force the transducer 72 against the container 70 and set off the alarm device to produce a shrill shreek. The alarm device will continue to provide the alarm signal until either the container 70 is emptied or the alarm device is destroyed. As in the case of the spherical alarm device, the cylindrical shaped alarm is also capable of rolling away when released or thrown.
Although the alarm device of the invention has been described in the contex of a spherical or cylindrical unit that can be carried within the palm of the hand, the alarm device of the invention can also be used in a variety of other ways, such as for example being built within a purse 170 as illustrated in FIG. 22. The transducer of the alarm device can be mounted within the purse adjacent the holes 172. In the case of an alarm device including the electrical signal generating means of FIGS. 1-10, two pushbuttons 174 and 176, or a single pushbutton can be used. One pushbutton 176 is located in the purse handle 178, and the other pushbutton 174 is located in the body of the purse 170. In the case of the alarm device including the pneumatic signal generating means, a single pushbutton 174 is used. The pushbutton 174 and 176 can be preset to the release position as previously described above and held in place by a finger as the purse 170 is carried. In the event of a purse snatch, the preset pushbutton will be released and the alarm will automatically go off. The robber, as a result, will run off with a screaming purse, which will force the robber to immediately stop and empty the purse, empty the purse in flight, or simply get rid of the purse. In any event, the noise of the alarm will produce an embarrassing situation for the purse snatcher, perhaps to the point of foiling the robbery attempt. Quite often a purse snatcher will cut through the purse strap in an attempt to snatch a purse. In such a case two sets of wires can be provided from the switch 176 (a complete circuit through each half of the strap) so that shen one half of the strap is cut, the alarm circuit can be completed through the other half of the strap.
Hence, in accordance to the invention, when a person leaves work at night or enters a dangerous area, the person need merely preset the pushbutton in the alarm device to the release position. The alarm device is set off by merely releasing the pushbutton. If the person reached a safe location, the pushbutton is returned to the deactivated of lock position and the alarm device can be stored until needed at a later date. In the event of an attack, the alarm device is easily set off. The alarm device will continue to produce distress signals until destroyed, or the aerosol container emptied, or the battery discharged. In any event, the distress signals will distract the attacker even to the point of attempting to destroy the device. The distraction may allow the victim the opportunity to escape or to protect himself. The attacker is forced with the decision to continue the mugging during the distress signals or to abandon the attack. The distress signals will attract attention of others so that help can be much more quickly summoned, and even perhaps resulting in the capture of the mugger. In the case of the purse snatcher, the alarm signal will draw attention to the robber as he attempts to flee with the purse. Rather than facing the possibility of capture, the purse snatcher may abandon the robbery. In any event, the alarm device of the invention provides an arrangement for summoning help even in the case of a complete surprise attack.