Occupancy status indicator

Abstract

Abstract A system is disclosed for indicating the status of a person relative to a workspace. A motion detector senses the entry and exit of the person through a entryway of the space and distinguishes the difference between the person's presence when moving and when stationary. An indicator automatically displays a constant green light to announce the person's presence, a flashing green light when the telephone is being used, a flashing amber light for short duration absences, a constant amber light for long duration absences and an intermittent red light and beeper for emergencies. A controller houses a preprogrammed microprocessor, a communications link and three illuminated buttons corresponding in color to the lights of the indicator and functioning in tandem with them. The green button activates the “Do not disturb” display, the amber button the long duration absence display and the red button the emergency alarm. In a second embodiment, a computer is connected to the controller for entering whereabouts messages and for receiving status indications and whereabouts messages from other workspaces. Occupancy status indications may be expressed by the indicator lights and beeper and/or as graphics on the computer monitor. In a third embodiment, the program is loaded into the computer. All manual commands are entered by combinations of “hot keys” on its keyboard and selected indicator settings may be changed from remote locations. In all three embodiments, a silent alert may be sent to selected, remote locations by use of a concealed switch.

Inventors

• 👤 Ralph W. Thacker

Bibliographic Details