초록 ▼

The present invention is generally directed to a system and method for monitoring the level of light surrounding an automatic teller machine (ATM). In accordance with one aspect of the invention, a system includes a plurality of light sensors disposed in varying locations around the ATM. Preferably,

The present invention is generally directed to a system and method for monitoring the level of light surrounding an automatic teller machine (ATM). In accordance with one aspect of the invention, a system includes a plurality of light sensors disposed in varying locations around the ATM. Preferably, some sensors will be disposed near the ATM, while others will be dispersed at various distances surrounding the ATM, in order to effectively monitor the lighting around the ATM. A circuit is provided within the ATM in communication with the sensors. In addition, a radio frequency (RF) transmitter is disposed within the ATM, and is configured to communicate the status of the sensors to a remotely located receiver. Finally, a receiver is interfaced to a telephone line forming part of a public switched telephone network (PSTN), wherein the receiver is configured to receive the status of the sensors communicated from the RF transmitter and to communicate the status information to a remote system via the PSTN. A method is also provided for monitoring lighting conditions surrounding an automatic teller machine. The method includes the steps of disposing a plurality of light sensors around the ATM and communicating the status of the light sensors from the sensors to a computer within the ATM. The method further includes the step of communicating the status of the light sensors from the ATM to a remote system via a public switched telephone network. In accordance with the preferred embodiment, the last step further includes the step of communicating the status of the light sensors via an RF transmitter from the ATM machine to a remote receiver.

대표청구항 ▼

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] A system for monitoring the level of light in an area comprising:a plurality of light gauges disposed in varying locations around the area, wherein each light gauge includes a light sensor, a central processing unit, a memory, and a radio frequency (RF) transmitter dispos

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] A system for monitoring the level of light in an area comprising:a plurality of light gauges disposed in varying locations around the area, wherein each light gauge includes a light sensor, a central processing unit, a memory, and a radio frequency (RF) transmitter disposed to intercommunicate;a first light gauge of the plurality of the light gauges being configured as a master light gauge and the remainder of the plurality of light gauges being configured as slave light gauges, wherein the RF transmitter of the master light gauge may communicate with the RF transmitters of the slave gauges; anda telecommunications interface disposed in communication with the central processing unit of the master light gauge, the telecommunications interface being configured to communicate information relating to an output value of the light sensors of the plurality of light gauges to a central station.