Monitoring apparatus and method

DC CAFC

US 7,277,010 B2
Filed: 10/03/2002
Issued: 10/02/2007
Est. Priority Date: 03/27/1996
Status: Expired due to Fees

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1. A monitoring apparatus, comprising:

a processing device, wherein the processing device is associated with a web site, and further wherein the processing device is capable of providing audio information and video information, wherein the processing device receives audio information recorded by at least one of an audio recording device, a microphone, and a tape recorder, wherein the at least one of an audio recording device, a microphone, and a tape recorder, is located at a vehicle, and wherein the processing device is located at a location remote from the vehicle, wherein the processing device receives a signal transmitted from a communication device, wherein the communication device is located at a location remote from the processing device and remote from the vehicle, wherein the audio information is transmitted from the processing device to the communication device in response to the signal, and further wherein the audio information is transmitted to the communication device on or over at least one of the Internet and the World Wide Web.

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Abstract

Monitoring apparatus and method including a processor, associated with a web site and capable of providing audio and video, which receives audio information recorded or obtained at a vehicle or premises. The processor, located remote from the vehicle or premises, receives a signal from a device located remote from the processor and the vehicle or premises. The audio information is transmitted to the device over the Internet and/or World Wide Web in response to the signal. Monitoring apparatus and method including a processor, associated with a web site, which receives video information recorded or obtained at a vehicle or premises. The processor, located remote from the vehicle or premises, receives a signal transmitted from a device located remote from the processor and the vehicle or premises. The video information is transmitted to the device on or over the Internet and/or World Wide Web in response to the signal.

739 Citations

264 Claims

1. A monitoring apparatus, comprising:
- a processing device, wherein the processing device is associated with a web site, and further wherein the processing device is capable of providing audio information and video information, wherein the processing device receives audio information recorded by at least one of an audio recording device, a microphone, and a tape recorder, wherein the at least one of an audio recording device, a microphone, and a tape recorder, is located at a vehicle, and wherein the processing device is located at a location remote from the vehicle, wherein the processing device receives a signal transmitted from a communication device, wherein the communication device is located at a location remote from the processing device and remote from the vehicle, wherein the audio information is transmitted from the processing device to the communication device in response to the signal, and further wherein the audio information is transmitted to the communication device on or over at least one of the Internet and the World Wide Web.
- View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39)
- - 2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the at least one of an audio recording device, a microphone, and a tape recorder, is located at an interior of the vehicle.
  - 3. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the at least one of an audio recording device, a microphone, and a tape recorder, is located at an exterior of the vehicle.
  - 4. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the audio information is real-time audio information or live audio information.
  - 5. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the at least one of an audio recording device, a microphone, and a tape recorder, further comprises a storage medium for storing audio information, wherein the audio information received by the processing device is stored audio information.
  - 6. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the processing device receives video information recorded by at least one of a video recording device and a camera located at the vehicle, and further wherein the processing device transmits the video information to the communication device on or over at least one of the Internet and the World Wide Web.
  - 7. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the video information is transmitted to the processing device on or over at least one of the Internet and the World Wide Web.
  - 8. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the apparatus provides a communication link between the communication device and at least one of an intercom system or device and a telephone, wherein the at least one of an intercom system or device and a telephone is located at the vehicle.
  - 9. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the processing device transmits video information to the communication device, wherein the video information contains a photograph.
  - 10. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the processing device at least one of receives audio information from any number of at least one of audio recording devices, microphones, and tape recorders, receives video information from any number of at least one of video recording devices and cameras, and receives video conferencing information from any number of video conferencing devices, and further wherein the processing device transmits at least one of the audio information from the any number of at least one of audio recording devices, microphones, and tape recorders, the video information from the any number of at least one of video recording devices and cameras, and the video conferencing information from the any number of video conferencing devices, to the communication device on or over at least one of the Internet and the World Wide Web.
  - 11. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the processing device at least one of transmits a control signal to control an operation of the at least one of an audio recording device, a microphone, and a tape recorder, transmits a control signal to control an operation of at least one of a video recording device and a camera, transmits a control signal to control an operation of at least one of an intercom system or device and a telephone, and transmits a control signal to control an operation of a video conferencing device.
  - 12. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the vehicle is at least one of a train and a subway train.
  - 13. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the vehicle is at least one of a boat, a marine vessel, a marine vehicle, a motor boat, a sailboat, a ship, a cruise ship, a commercial boat, a military boat, an unmanned boat, and a submarine.
  - 14. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the communication device transmits a second signal at least one of to select the at least one of an audio recording device, a microphone, and a tape recorder, from which the audio information is obtained, to select at least one of a video recording device and a camera from which video information is obtained, and to select a video conferencing device from which video conferencing information is obtained.
  - 15. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the apparatus is programmed for at least one of automatic activation, self-activation, and programmed activation.
  - 16. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the communication device is a wireless device.
  - 17. The apparatus of claim 16, wherein the wireless device is at least one of a cellular telephone, a wireless telephone, a personal communications services device, and a personal digital assistant.
  - 18. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the apparatus is associated with at least one of a central security office, a security service, and a law enforcement office or agency.
  - 19. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the audio information is transmitted to the processing device on or over at least one of the Internet and the World Wide Web.
  - 20. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the audio information is at least one of encrypted, scrambled, and de-scrambled.
  - 21. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein at least one of the processing device and the communication device transmits a control signal for at least one of controlling, activating, de-activating, enabling, and disabling, an operation of the at least one of an audio recording device, a microphone, and a tape recorder.
  - 22. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the processing device transmits a second signal to the communication device, wherein the second signal contains information regarding at least one of a detected use of the vehicle, a detected unauthorized use of the vehicle, and a detected theft of the vehicle.
  - 23. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the processing device transmits a second signal to the communication device, wherein the second signal contains information regarding a detected occurrence warranting providing notice to at least one of an owner, a user, and an authorized operator, of the vehicles.
  - 24. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the processing device determines whether a transmission of the audio information to the communication device is authorized.
  - 25. The apparatus of claim 24, wherein the processing device processes information contained in at least one of an access code and a command code to determine whether the transmission of the audio information to the communication device is authorized.
  - 26. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the processing device transmits a control signal to at least one of activate, deactivate, enable, disable, and control an operation of, the at least one of an audio recording device, a microphone, and a tape recorder.
  - 27. The apparatus of claim 26, wherein the processing device transmits the control signal in response to a transmission of a second control signal from the communication device to the processing device.
  - 28. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the vehicle is at least one of a motor vehicle, an automobile, a truck, and a military vehicle.
  - 29. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the vehicle is at least one of a commercial vehicle, a tractor trailer, commercial equipment, and industrial equipment.
  - 30. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the vehicle is at least one of a snowmobile, a jetski, a scooter, a motorcycle, a minibike, a go-cart, a moped, and an unmanned vehicle.
  - 31. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the vehicle is at least one of a mass transportation vehicle, a bus, and a school bus.
  - 32. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the vehicle is at least one of an aircraft, an airplane, a jet, and a commercial aircraft.
  - 33. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the vehicle is at least one of a helicopter, a glider, a spacecraft, a space shuttle, a satellite, an unmanned aircraft, and a military aircraft.
  - 34. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the communication device is at least one of a computer, a telephone, a digital telephone, a cordless telephone, a television, a digital television, a display telephone, a video telephone, and a watch.
  - 35. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the communication device is an interactive television.
  - 36. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the communication device is a personal computer or a home computer.
  - 37. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the communication device is a cellular telephone.
  - 38. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the communication device is a personal digital assistant.
  - 39. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the communication device is at least one of a wireless telephone and a personal communications services device.

40. A monitoring apparatus, comprising:
- at least one of an audio recording device, a microphone, and a tape recorder, wherein the at least one of an audio recording device, a microphone, and a tape recorder, is located at a vehicle, and further wherein the at least one of an audio recording device, a microphone, and a tape recorder, records audio information; and
  
  a transmitter, wherein the transmitter transmits the audio information to a processing device, wherein the processing device is associated with a web site, and further wherein the processing device is capable of providing audio information and video information, wherein the processing device is located at a location remote from the vehicle, and further wherein the audio information is received by the processing device, wherein the processing device receives a signal transmitted from a communication device, wherein the communication device is located at a location remote from the processing device and remote from the vehicle, wherein the processing device transmits the audio information to the communication device in response to the signal, and further wherein the audio information is transmitted to the communication device on or over at least one of the Internet and the World Wide Web.
- View Dependent Claims (41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50, 51, 52, 53, 54, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59)
- - 41. The apparatus of claim 40, wherein the at least one of an audio recording device, a microphone, and a tape recorder, is located at an interior of the vehicle.
  - 42. The apparatus of claim 40, wherein the at least one of an audio recording device, a microphone, and a tape recorder, is located at an exterior of the vehicle.
  - 43. The apparatus of claim 40, wherein the at least one of an audio recording device, a microphone, and a tape recorder, further comprises:
    - a storage medium for storing audio information.
  - 44. The apparatus of claim 43, wherein the audio information transmitted to the processing device is stored audio information.
  - 45. The apparatus of claim 40, wherein the audio information is real-time audio information or live audio information.
  - 46. The apparatus of claim 40, wherein the at least one of an audio recording device, a microphone, and a tape recorder, is at least one of pivotable, moveable, and moveable along at least one of a track and a guiding device.
  - 47. The apparatus of claim 40, further comprising:
    - at least one of an intercom system or device and a telephone, wherein the at least one of an intercom system or device and a telephone is located at the vehicle, and further wherein the at least one of an intercom system or device and a telephone facilitates communication between a user of the communication device and an individual located at the vehicle.
  - 48. The apparatus of claim 40, wherein the apparatus transmits at least one of the audio information, video information, and video conferencing information, to the processing device on any number of communication channels on or over at least one of the Internet and the World Wide Web.
  - 49. The apparatus of claim 40, further comprising:
    - at least one of a video recording device and a camera located at the vehicle, wherein the at least one of a video recording device and a camera records video information, wherein the apparatus transmits the video information to the processing device, and further wherein the video information is transmitted from the processing device to the communication device, wherein the video information is transmitted to the communication device on or over at least one of the Internet and the World Wide Web.
  - 50. The apparatus of claim 40, wherein the apparatus at least one of transmits audio information from any number of at least one of audio recording devices, microphones, and tape recorders, transmits video information from any number of at least one of video recording devices and cameras, and transmits video conferencing information from any number of video conferencing devices.
  - 51. The apparatus of claim 40, wherein an operation of at least one of the at least one of an audio recording device, a microphone, and a tape recorder, at least one of a video recording device and a camera, at least one of an intercom system or device and a telephone, and a video conferencing device, is controlled by a control signal transmitted from the processing device.
  - 52. The apparatus of claim 40, wherein the vehicle is at least one of a motor vehicle, an automobile, a mass transportation vehicle, a truck, a tractor trailer, a bus, a school bus, a commercial vehicle, commercial equipment, industrial equipment, a military vehicle, a snowmobile, a jetski, a scooter, a motorcycle, a minibike, a go-cart, a moped, and an unmanned vehicle.
  - 53. The apparatus of claim 40, wherein the vehicle is at least one of a train and a subway train.
  - 54. The apparatus of claim 40, wherein the vehicle is at least one of an aircraft, an airplane, a jet, a helicopter, a glider, a spacecraft, a space shuttle, a satellite, an unmanned aircraft, a commercial aircraft, and a military aircraft.
  - 55. The apparatus of claim 40, wherein the vehicle is at least one of a boat, a marine vessel, a marine vehicle, a motor boat, a sailboat, a ship, a cruise ship, a commercial boat, a military boat, an unmanned boat, and a submarine.
  - 56. The apparatus of claim 40, wherein the apparatus is programmed for at least one of automatic activation, self-activation, and programmed activation.
  - 57. The apparatus of claim 40, wherein the audio information is transmitted to the processing device on or over at least one of the Internet and the World Wide Web.
  - 58. The apparatus of claim 40, wherein the audio information is at least one of encrypted, scrambled, and de-scrambled.
  - 59. The apparatus of claim 40, further comprising:
    - a control device located at the vehicle, wherein the control device is capable of at least one of activating, deactivating, enabling, disabling, and controlling an operation of, the at least one of an audio recording device, a microphone, and a tape recorder, and further wherein the control device determines whether access to the apparatus is authorized, and further wherein the audio information is transmitted to the processing device if access to the apparatus is authorized.

60. A monitoring method, comprising:
- receiving audio information with a processing device, wherein the processing device is associated with a web site, and further wherein the processing device is capable of providing audio information and video information, wherein the audio information is recorded by at least one of an audio recording device, a microphone, and a tape recorder, and further wherein the audio information is transmitted to the processing device from a transmitter, wherein the at least one of an audio recording device, a microphone, and a tape recorder, and the transmitter are located at a vehicle, and further wherein the processing device is located at a location remote from the vehicle;
  
  receiving a signal transmitted from a communication device, wherein the signal is received by the processing device, and further wherein the communication device is located at a location remote from the processing device and remote from the vehicle; and
  
  transmitting the audio information from the processing device to the communication device in response to the signal, wherein the audio information is transmitted to the communication device on or over at least one of the Internet and the World Wide Web.

61. A monitoring apparatus, comprising:
- a processing device or server computer, wherein the processing device or server computer receives video information recorded by at least one of a video recording device and a camera, wherein the at least one of a video recording device and a camera is located at a vehicle, and wherein the processing device or server computer is located at a location remote from the vehicle, wherein the processing device or server computer receives a signal transmitted from a communication device, wherein the communication device is located at a location remote from the processing device or server computer and remote from the vehicle, wherein the video information is transmitted from the processing device or server computer to the communication device in response to the signal, and further wherein the video information is transmitted to the communication device on or over at least one of the Internet and the World Wide Web.
- View Dependent Claims (62, 63, 64, 65, 66)
- - 62. The apparatus of claim 61, wherein the communication device is a wireless device, and further herein the wireless device is at least one of a cellular telephone, a wireless telephone, a personal communications services device, and a personal digital assistant.
  - 63. The apparatus of claim 61, wherein the communication device is a wireless device.
  - 64. The apparatus of claim 61, wherein the communication device is a cellular telephone.
  - 65. The apparatus of claim 61, wherein the communication device is a personal digital assistant.
  - 66. The apparatus of claim 61, wherein the communication device is at least one of a wireless telephone and a personal communications services device.

67. A monitoring apparatus, comprising:
- a processing device, wherein the processing device is associated with a web site, and wherein the processing device receives video information recorded by at least one of a video recording device and a camera, wherein the at least one of a video recording device and a camera is located at a vehicle, and wherein the processing device is located at a location remote from the vehicle, wherein the processing device receives a signal transmitted from a communication device, wherein the communication device is located at a location remote from the processing device and remote from the vehicle, wherein the video information is transmitted from the processing device to the communication device in response to the signal, and further wherein the video information is transmitted to the communication device on or over at least one of the Internet and the World Wide Web.
- View Dependent Claims (68, 69, 70, 71, 72, 73, 74, 75, 76, 77, 78, 79, 80, 81, 82, 83, 84, 85, 86, 87, 88, 89, 90, 91, 92, 93, 94, 95, 96, 97, 98, 99, 100, 101, 102, 103, 104, 105, 106, 107, 108, 109, 110)
- - 68. The apparatus of claim 67, wherein the at least one of a video recording device and a camera is located at an interior of the vehicle.
  - 69. The apparatus of claim 67, wherein the at least one of a video recording device and a camera is located at an exterior of the vehicle.
  - 70. The apparatus of claim 67, wherein the video information is real-time video information or live video information.
  - 71. The apparatus of claim 67, wherein the at least one of a video recording device and a camera further comprises a storage medium for storing video information, wherein the video information received by the processing device is stored video information.
  - 72. The apparatus of claim 67, wherein the processing device receives audio information recorded by at least one of an audio recording device, a microphone, and a tape recorder, located at the vehicle, and further wherein the processing device transmits the audio information to the communication device on or over at least one of the Internet and the World Wide Web.
  - 73. The apparatus of claim 72, wherein the audio information is real-time audio information or live audio information.
  - 74. The apparatus of claim 72, wherein the at least one of an audio recording device, a microphone, and a tape recorder, further comprises a storage medium for storing audio information, wherein the audio information received by the processing device is stored audio information.
  - 75. The apparatus of claim 72, wherein the at least one of an audio recording device, a microphone, and a tape recorder, is located at an interior of the vehicle.
  - 76. The apparatus of claim 72, wherein the at least one of an audio recording device, a microphone, and a tape recorder, is located at an exterior of the vehicle.
  - 77. The apparatus of claim 72, wherein the audio information is transmitted to the processing device on or over at least one of the Internet and the World Wide Web.
  - 78. The apparatus of claim 67, wherein the apparatus provides a communication link between the communication device and at least one of an intercom system or device and a telephone, wherein the at least one of an intercom system or device and a telephone is located at the vehicle.
  - 79. The apparatus of claim 67, wherein the apparatus provides video conferencing between a user of the communication device and an individual located at the vehicle via a video conferencing device.
  - 80. The apparatus of claim 67, wherein the processing device at least one of receives video information from any number of at least one of video recording devices and cameras, receives audio information from any number of at least one of audio recording devices, microphones, and tape recorders, and receives video conferencing information from any number of video conferencing devices, and further wherein the processing device transmits at least one of the video information from the any number of at least one of video recording devices and cameras, the audio information from the any number of at least one of audio recording devices, microphones, and tape recorders, and the video conferencing information from the any number of video conferencing devices, to the communication device on or over at least one of the Internet and the World Wide Web.
  - 81. The apparatus of claim 67, wherein the processing device transmits video information from two or more video recording devices or cameras to the communication device, and further wherein the video information is received by the communication device in at least one of a split-screen format and a multiple screen format.
  - 82. The apparatus of claim 67, wherein the processing device at least one of transmits a control signal to control an operation of the at least one of a video recording device and a camera, transmits a control signal to control an operation of at least one of an audio recording device, a microphone, and a tape recorder, transmits a control signal to control an operation of at least one of an intercom system or device and a telephone, and transmits a control signal to control an operation of a video conferencing device.
  - 83. The apparatus of claim 67, wherein the vehicle is at least one of a train and a subway train.
  - 84. The apparatus of claim 67, wherein the vehicle is at least one of a boat, a marine vessel, a marine vehicle, a motor boat, a sailboat, a ship, a cruise ship, a commercial boat, a military boat, an unmanned boat, and a submarine.
  - 85. The apparatus of claim 67, wherein the communication device transmits a second signal at least one of to select the at least one of a video recording device and a camera from which the video information is obtained, to select at least one of an audio recording device, a microphone, and a tape recorder, from which audio information is obtained, and to select a video conferencing device from which video conferencing information is obtained.
  - 86. The apparatus of claim 67, wherein the apparatus is programmed for at least one of automatic activation, self-activation, and programmed activation.
  - 87. The apparatus of claim 67, wherein the communication device is a wireless device.
  - 88. The apparatus of claim 87, wherein the wireless device is at least one of a cellular telephone, a wireless telephone, a personal communications services device, and a personal digital assistant.
  - 89. The apparatus of claim 67, wherein the apparatus is associated with at least one of a central security office, a security service, and a law enforcement office or agency.
  - 90. The apparatus of claim 67, wherein the video information is transmitted to the processing device on or over at least one of the Internet and the World Wide Web.
  - 91. The apparatus of claim 67, wherein the video information is at least one of encrypted, scrambled, and de-scrambled.
  - 92. The apparatus of claim 67, wherein at least one of the processing device and the communication device transmits a control signal for at least one of controlling, activating, de-activating, enabling, and disabling, an operation of the at least one of a video recording device and a camera.
  - 93. The apparatus of claim 67, wherein the processing device transmits a second signal to the communication device, wherein the second signal contains information regarding at least one of a detected use of the vehicle, a detected unauthorized use of the vehicle, and a detected theft of the vehicle.
  - 94. The apparatus of claim 67, wherein the processing device transmits a second signal to the communication device, wherein the second signal contains information regarding a detected occurrence warranting providing notice to at least one of an owner, a user, and an authorized operator, of the vehicle.
  - 95. The apparatus of claim 67, wherein the processing device determines whether a transmission of the video information to the communication device is authorized.
  - 96. The apparatus of claim 95, wherein the processing device processes information contained in at least one of an access code and a command code to determine whether the transmission of the video information to the communication device is authorized.
  - 97. The apparatus of claim 67, wherein the processing device transmits a control signal to at least one of activate, deactivate, enable, disable, and control an operation of, the at least one of a video recording device and a camera.
  - 98. The apparatus of claim 97, wherein the processing device transmits the control signal in response to a transmission of a second control signal from the communication device to the processing device.
  - 99. The apparatus of claim 67, wherein the vehicle is at least one of a motor vehicle, an automobile, a truck, and a military vehicle.
  - 100. The apparatus of claim 67, wherein the vehicle is at least one of a commercial vehicle, a tractor trailer, commercial equipment, and industrial equipment.
  - 101. The apparatus of claim 67, wherein the vehicle is at least one of a snowmobile, a jetski, a scooter, a motorcycle, a minibike, a go-cart, a moped, and an unmanned vehicle.
  - 102. The apparatus of claim 67, wherein the vehicle is at least one of a mass transportation vehicle, a bus, and a school bus.
  - 103. The apparatus of claim 67, wherein the vehicle is at least one of an aircraft, an airplane, a jet, and a commercial aircraft.
  - 104. The apparatus of claim 67, wherein the vehicle is at least one of a helicopter, a glider, a spacecraft, a space shuttle, a satellite, an unmanned aircraft, and a military aircraft.
  - 105. The apparatus of claim 67, wherein the communication device is at least one of a computer, a telephone, a digital telephone, a cordless telephone, a television, a digital television, a display telephone, a video telephone, and a watch.
  - 106. The apparatus of claim 67, wherein the communication device is an interactive television.
  - 107. The apparatus of claim 67, wherein the communication device is a personal computer or a home computer.
  - 108. The apparatus of claim 67, wherein the communication device is a cellular telephone.
  - 109. The apparatus of claim 67, wherein the communication device is a personal digital assistant.
  - 110. The apparatus of claim 67, wherein the communication device is at least one of a wireless telephone and a personal communications services device.

111. A monitoring apparatus, comprising:
- at least one of a video recording device and a camera, wherein the at least one of a video recording device and a camera is located at a vehicle, and further wherein the at least one of a video recording device and a camera records video information; and
  
  a transmitter, wherein the transmitter transmits the video information to a processing device, wherein the processing device is associated with a web site, wherein the processing device is located at a location remote from the vehicle, and further wherein the video information is received by the processing device, wherein the processing device receives a signal transmitted from a communication device, wherein the communication device is located at a location remote from the processing device and remote from the vehicle, wherein the processing device transmits the video information to the communication device in response to the signal, and further wherein the video information is transmitted to the communication device on or over at least one of the Internet and the World Wide Web.
- View Dependent Claims (112, 113, 114, 115, 116, 117, 118, 119, 120, 121, 122, 123, 124, 125, 126, 127, 128, 129, 130, 131, 132, 133, 134, 135, 136)
- - 112. The apparatus of claim 111, wherein the at least one of a video recording device and a camera is located at an interior of the vehicle.
  - 113. The apparatus of claim 111, wherein the at least one of a video recording device and a camera is located at an exterior of the vehicle.
  - 114. The apparatus of claim 111, wherein the at least one of a video recording device and a camera further comprises:
    - a storage medium for storing video information.
  - 115. The apparatus of claim 114, wherein the video information transmitted to the processing device is stored video information.
  - 116. The apparatus of claim 111, wherein the video information is real-time video information or live video information.
  - 117. The apparatus of claim 111, wherein the at least one of a video recording device and a camera is at least one of pivotable, moveable, and moveable along at least one of a track and a guiding device.
  - 118. The apparatus of claim 111, further comprising:
    - at least one of an audio recording device, a microphone, and a tape recorder, located at the vehicle, wherein the at least one of an audio recording device, a microphone, and a tape recorder, records audio information, wherein the apparatus transmits the audio information to the processing device, and further wherein the audio information is transmitted from the processing device to the communication device, wherein the audio information is transmitted to the communication device on or over at least one of the Internet and the World Wide Web.
  - 119. The apparatus of claim 118, wherein the audio information is real-time audio information or live audio information.
  - 120. The apparatus of claim 118, wherein the at least one of an audio recording device, a microphone, and a tape recorder, is located at an interior of the vehicle.
  - 121. The apparatus of claim 118, wherein the at least one of an audio recording device, a microphone, and a tape recorder, is located at an exterior of the vehicle.
  - 122. The apparatus of claim 118, wherein the at least one of an audio recording device, a microphone, and a tape recorder, is at least one of pivotable, moveable, and moveable along at least one of a track and a guiding device.
  - 123. The apparatus of claim 118, wherein the audio information is transmitted to the processing device on or over at least one of the Internet and the World Wide Web.
  - 124. The apparatus of claim 111, further comprising:
    - at least one of an intercom system or device and a telephone, wherein the at least one of an intercom system or device and a telephone is located at the vehicle, and further wherein the at least one of an intercom system or device and a telephone facilitates communication between a user of the communication device and an individual located at the vehicle.
  - 125. The apparatus of claim 111, further comprising:
    - a video conferencing device located at the vehicle, wherein the video conferencing device facilitates a video conference between a user of the communication device and an individual located at the vehicle.
  - 126. The apparatus of claim 111, wherein the apparatus transmits at least one of the video information, audio information, and video conferencing information, to the processing device on any number of communication channels on or over at least one of the Internet and the World Wide Web.
  - 127. The apparatus of claim 111, wherein the apparatus at least one of transmits video information from any number of video recording devices or cameras, transmits audio information from any number of at least one of audio recording devices, microphones, and tape recorders, and transmits video conferencing information from any number of video conferencing devices.
  - 128. The apparatus of claim 111, wherein the apparatus transmits video information from two or more video recording devices or cameras to the processing device in at least one of a split-screen format and a multiple screen format.
  - 129. The apparatus of claim 111, wherein an operation of at least one of the at least one of a video recording device and a camera, at least one of an audio recording device, a microphone, and a tape recorder, at least one of an intercom system or device and a telephone, and a video conferencing device, is controlled by a control signal transmitted from the processing device.
  - 130. The apparatus of claim 111, wherein the vehicle is at least one of a motor vehicle, an automobile, a mass transportation vehicle, a truck, a tractor trailer, a bus, a school bus, a commercial vehicle, commercial equipment, industrial equipment, a military vehicle, a snowmobile, a jetski, a scooter, a motorcycle, a minibike, a go-cart, a moped, and an unmanned vehicle.
  - 131. The apparatus of claim 111, wherein the vehicle is at least one of a train and a subway train.
  - 132. The apparatus of claim 111, wherein the vehicle is at least one of an aircraft, an airplane, a jet, a helicopter, a glider, a spacecraft, a space shuttle, a satellite, an unmanned aircraft, a commercial aircraft, and a military aircraft.
  - 133. The apparatus of claim 111, wherein the vehicle is at least one of a boat, a marine vessel, a marine vehicle, a motor boat, a sailboat, a ship, a cruise ship, a commercial boat, a military boat, an unmanned boat, and a submarine.
  - 134. The apparatus of claim 111, wherein the apparatus is programmed for at least one of automatic activation, self-activation, and programmed activation.
  - 135. The apparatus of claim 111, wherein the video information is transmitted to the processing device on or over at least one of the Internet and the World Wide Web.
  - 136. The apparatus of claim 111, further comprising:
    - a control device located at the vehicle, wherein the control device is capable of at least one of activating, deactivating, enabling, disabling, and controlling an operation of, the at least one of a video recording device and a camera, and further wherein the control device determines whether access to the apparatus is authorized, and further wherein the video information is transmitted to the processing device if access to the apparatus is authorized.

137. A monitoring method, comprising:
- receiving video information with a processing device, wherein the processing device is associated with a web site, wherein the video information is recorded by at least one of a video recording device and a camera, and further wherein the video information is transmitted to the processing device from a transmitter, wherein the at least one of a video recording device and a camera and the transmitter are located at a vehicle, and further wherein the processing device is located at a location remote from the vehicle;
  
  receiving a signal transmitted from a communication device, wherein the signal is received by the processing device, and further wherein the communication device is located at a location remote from the processing device and remote from the vehicle; and
  
  transmitting the video information from the processing device to the communication device in response to the signal, wherein the video information is transmitted to the communication device on or over at least one of the Internet and the World Wide Web.
- View Dependent Claims (138)
- - 138. The method of claim 137, wherein the communication device is a wireless device, and further herein the wireless device is at least one of a cellular telephone, a wireless telephone, a personal communications services device, and a personal digital assistant.

139. A monitoring apparatus, comprising:
- a processing device, wherein the processing device is associated with a web site, and further wherein the processing device is capable of providing audio information and video information, wherein the processing device receives audio information recorded by at least one of an audio recording device, a microphone, and a tape recorder, wherein the at least one of an audio recording device, a microphone, and a tape recorder, is located at a premises, and wherein the processing device is located at a location remote from the premises, wherein the processing device receives a signal transmitted from a communication device, wherein the communication device is located at a location remote from the processing device and remote from the premises, wherein the processing device determines whether a transmission of the audio information to the communication device is authorized, and further wherein the processing device transmits the audio information to the communication device in response to the signal if the processing device determines that the transmission of the audio information to the communication device is authorized, and further wherein the audio information is transmitted to the communication device on or over at least one of the Internet and the World Wide Web.
- View Dependent Claims (140, 141, 142, 143, 144, 145, 146, 147, 148, 149, 150, 151, 152, 153, 154, 155, 156, 157, 158, 159, 160, 161, 162, 163, 164, 165, 166, 167, 168, 169, 170, 171)
- - 140. The apparatus of claim 139, wherein the at least one of an audio recording device, a microphone, and a tape recorder, is located at an interior of the premises.
  - 141. The apparatus of claim 139, wherein the at least one of an audio recording device, a microphone, and a tape recorder, is located at an exterior of the premises.
  - 142. The apparatus of claim 139, wherein the audio information is real-time audio information or live audio information.
  - 143. The apparatus of claim 139, wherein the at least one of an audio recording device, a microphone, and a tape recorder, further comprises a storage medium for storing audio information, wherein the audio information received by the processing device is stored audio information.
  - 144. The apparatus of claim 139, wherein the processing device receives video information recorded by at least one of a video recording device and a camera located at the premises, and further wherein the processing device transmits the video information to the communication device on or over at least one of the Internet and the World Wide Web.
  - 145. The apparatus of claim 139, wherein the apparatus provides a communication link between the communication device and at least one of an intercom system or device and a telephone, wherein the at least one of an intercom system or device and a telephone is located at the premises.
  - 146. The apparatus of claim 139, wherein the processing device transmits video information to the communication device, wherein the video information contains a photograph.
  - 147. The apparatus of claim 139, wherein the processing device at least one of receives audio information from any number of at least one of audio recording devices, microphones, and tape recorders, receives video information from any number of at least one of video recording devices and cameras, and receives video conferencing information from any number of video conferencing devices, and further wherein the processing device transmits at least one of the audio information from the any number of at least one of audio recording devices, microphones, and tape recorders, the video information from the any number of at least one of video recording devices and cameras, and the video conferencing information from the any number of video conferencing devices, to the communication device on or over at least one of the Internet and the World Wide Web.
  - 148. The apparatus of claim 139, wherein the processing device at least one of transmits a control signal to control an operation of the at least one of an audio recording device, a microphone, and a tape recorder, transmits a control signal to control an operation of at least one of a video recording device and a camera, transmits a control signal to control an operation of at least one of an intercom system or device and a telephone, and transmits a control signal to control an operation of a video conferencing device.
  - 149. The apparatus of claim 139, wherein the premises is at least one of a commercial structure, a commercial equipment, an industrial facility, an industrial structure, a manufacturing facility, a manufacturing equipment, a manufacturing machine, a drilling platform, a drilling rig, an oil drilling platform, an off-shore drilling platform, an off-shore drilling rig, an excavation equipment, a construction equipment, a mining platform, a mining equipment, an assembly facility, an assembly line, an assembly line equipment, an assembly equipment, an industrial robotic equipment, a mass production facility, and a production facility.
  - 150. The apparatus of claim 139, wherein the communication device transmits a second signal at least one of to select the at least one of an audio recording device, a microphone, and a tape recorder, from which the audio information is obtained, to select at least one of a video recording device and a camera from which video information is obtained, and to select a video conferencing device from which video conferencing information is obtained.
  - 151. The apparatus of claim 139, wherein the apparatus is programmed for at least one of automatic activation, self-activation, and programmed activation.
  - 152. The apparatus of claim 139, wherein the communication device is a wireless device.
  - 153. The apparatus of claim 139, wherein the apparatus is associated with at least one of a central security office, a security service, and a law enforcement office or agency.
  - 154. The apparatus of claim 139, wherein the audio information is transmitted to the processing device on or over at least one of the Internet and the World Wide Web.
  - 155. The apparatus of claim 139, wherein the audio information is at least one of encrypted, scrambled, and de-scrambled.
  - 156. The apparatus of claim 139, wherein at least one of the processing device and the communication device transmits a control signal for at least one of controlling, activating, de-activating, enabling, and disabling, an operation of the at least one of an audio recording device, a microphone, and a tape recorder.
  - 157. The apparatus of claim 139, wherein the processing device transmits a second signal to the communication device, wherein the second signal contains information regarding at least one of a detected use of the premises, a detected unauthorized use of the premises, and a detected theft of the premises.
  - 158. The apparatus of claim 139, wherein the processing device transmits a second signal to the communication device, wherein the second signal contains information regarding a detected occurrence warranting providing notice to at least one of an owner, a user, and an authorized operator, of the premises.
  - 159. The apparatus of claim 139, wherein the processing device processes information contained in at least one of an access code and a command code to determine whether the transmission of the audio information to the communication device is authorized.
  - 160. The apparatus of claim 139, wherein the processing device transmits a control signal to at least one of activate, deactivate, enable, disable, and control an operation of, the at least one of an audio recording device, a microphone, and a tape recorder.
  - 161. The apparatus of claim 160, wherein the processing device transmits the control signal in response to a transmission of a second control signal from the communication device to the processing device.
  - 162. The apparatus of claim 139, wherein the premises is a residential premises or a home.
  - 163. The apparatus of claim 139, wherein the premises is a residential building.
  - 164. The apparatus of claim 139, wherein the premises is a commercial premises.
  - 165. The apparatus of claim 139, wherein the premises is at least one of a commercial building and a commercial office.
  - 166. The apparatus of claim 139, wherein the communication device is at least one of a computer, a telephone, a digital telephone, a cordless telephone, a television, a digital television, a display telephone, a video telephone, and a watch.
  - 167. The apparatus of claim 139, wherein the communication device is an interactive television.
  - 168. The apparatus of claim 139, wherein the communication device is a personal computer or a home computer.
  - 169. The apparatus of claim 139, wherein the communication device is a cellular telephone.
  - 170. The apparatus of claim 139, wherein the communication device is a personal digital assistant.
  - 171. The apparatus of claim 139, wherein the communication device is at least one of a wireless telephone and a personal communications services device.

172. A monitoring apparatus, comprising:
- at least one of an audio recording device, a microphone, and a tape recorder, wherein the at least one of an audio recording device, a microphone, and a tape recorder, is located at a premises, and further wherein the at least one of an audio recording device, a microphone, and a tape recorder, records audio information; and
  
  a transmitter, wherein the transmitter transmits the audio information to a processing device, wherein the processing device is associated with a web site, and further wherein the processing device is capable of providing audio information and video information, wherein the processing device is located at a location remote from the premises, and further wherein the audio information is received by the processing device, wherein the processing device receives a signal transmitted from a communication device, wherein the communication device is located at a location remote from the processing device and remote from the premises, wherein the processing device determines whether a transmission of the audio information to the communication device is authorized, and further wherein the processing device transmits the audio information to the communication device in response to the signal if the processing device determines that the transmission of the audio information to the communication device is authorized, and further wherein the audio information is transmitted to the communication device on or over at least one of the Internet and the World Wide Web.
- View Dependent Claims (173, 174, 175, 176, 177, 178, 179, 180, 181, 182, 183, 184, 185, 186, 187, 188, 189, 190)
- - 173. The apparatus of claim 172, wherein the at least one of an audio recording device, a microphone, and a tape recorder, is located at an interior of the premises.
  - 174. The apparatus of claim 172, wherein the at least one of an audio recording device, a microphone, and a tape recorder, is located at an exterior of the premises.
  - 175. The apparatus of claim 172, wherein the at least one of an audio recording device, a microphone, and a tape recorder, further comprises:
    - a storage medium for storing audio information.
  - 176. The apparatus of claim 175, wherein the audio information transmitted to the processing device is stored audio information.
  - 177. The apparatus of claim 172, wherein the audio information is real-time audio information or live audio information.
  - 178. The apparatus of claim 172, wherein the at least one of an audio recording device, a microphone, and a tape recorder, is at least one of pivotable, moveable, and moveable along at least one of a track and a guiding device.
  - 179. The apparatus of claim 172, further comprising:
    - at least one of an intercom system or device and a telephone, wherein the at least one of an intercom system or device and a telephone is located at the premises, and further wherein the at least one of an intercom system or device and a telephone facilitates communication between a user of the communication device and an individual located at the premises.
  - 180. The apparatus of claim 172, wherein the apparatus transmits at least one of the audio information, video information, and video conferencing information, to the processing device on any number of communication channels on or over at least one of the Internet and the World Wide Web.
  - 181. The apparatus of claim 172, further comprising:
    - at least one of a video recording device and a camera located at the premises, wherein the at least one of a video recording device and a camera records video information, wherein the apparatus transmits the video information to the processing device, and further wherein the video information is transmitted from the processing device to the communication device, wherein the video information is transmitted to the communication device on or over at least one of the Internet and the World Wide Web.
  - 182. The apparatus of claim 172, wherein the apparatus at least one of transmits audio information from any number of at least one of audio recording devices, microphones, and tape recorders, transmits video information from any number of at least one of video recording devices and cameras, and transmits video conferencing information from any number of video conferencing devices.
  - 183. The apparatus of claim 172, wherein an operation of at least one of the at least one of an audio recording device, a microphone, and a tape recorder, at least one of a video recording device and a camera, at least one of an intercom system or device and a telephone, and a video conferencing device, is controlled by a control signal transmitted from the processing device.
  - 184. The apparatus of claim 172, wherein the premises is at least one of a residential premises, a residential building, and a home.
  - 185. The apparatus of claim 172, wherein the premises is at least one of a commercial premises, a commercial building, and a commercial office.
  - 186. The apparatus of claim 172, wherein the premises is at least one of a commercial structure, a commercial equipment, an industrial facility, an industrial structure, a manufacturing facility, a manufacturing equipment, a manufacturing machine, a drilling platform, a drilling rig, an oil drilling platform, an off-shore drilling platform, an off-shore drilling rig, an excavation equipment, a construction equipment, a mining platform, a mining equipment, an assembly facility, an assembly line, an assembly line equipment, an assembly equipment, an industrial robotic equipment, a mass production facility, and a production facility.
  - 187. The apparatus of claim 172, wherein the apparatus is programmed for at least one of automatic activation, self-activation, and programmed activation.
  - 188. The apparatus of claim 172, wherein the audio information is transmitted to the processing device on or over at least one of the Internet and the World Wide Web.
  - 189. The apparatus of claim 172, wherein the audio information is at least one of encrypted, scrambled, and de-scrambled.
  - 190. The apparatus of claim 172, further comprising:
    - a control device located at the premises, wherein the control device is capable of at least one of activating, deactivating, enabling, disabling, and controlling an operation of, the at least one of an audio recording device, a microphone, and a tape recorder, and further wherein the control device determines whether access to the apparatus is authorized, and further wherein the audio information is transmitted to the processing device if access to the apparatus is authorized.

191. A monitoring method, comprising:
- receiving audio information with a processing device, wherein the processing device is associated with a web site, and further wherein the processing device is capable of providing audio information and video information, wherein the audio information is recorded by at least one of an audio recording device, a microphone, and a tape recorder, and further wherein the audio information is transmitted to the processing device from a transmitter, wherein the at least one of an audio recording device, a microphone, and a tape recorder, and the transmitter are located at a premises, and further wherein the processing device is located at a location remote from the premises;
  
  receiving a signal transmitted from a communication device, wherein the signal is received by the processing device, and further wherein the communication device is located at a location remote from the processing device and remote from the premises;
  
  processing the signal with the processing device;
  
  determining whether a transmission of the audio information to the communication device is authorized; and
  
  transmitting the audio information from the processing device to the communication device in response to the signal if the transmission of the audio information to the communication device is determined to be authorized, wherein the audio information is transmitted to the communication device on or over at least one of the Internet and the World Wide Web.
- View Dependent Claims (192)
- - 192. The method of claim 191, further comprising:
    - locating at least one of an audio recording device, a microphone, and a tape recorder, in a vicinity of the premises.

193. A monitoring apparatus, comprising:
- a processing device or server computer, wherein the processing device or server computer receives video information recorded by at least one of a video recording device and a camera, wherein the at least one of a video recording device and a camera is located at a premises, and wherein the processing device or server computer is located at a location remote from the premises, wherein the processing device or server computer receives a signal transmitted from a communication device, wherein the communication device is located at a location remote from the processing device or server computer and remote from the premises, wherein the processing device or server computer determines whether a transmission of the video information to the communication device is authorized, and further wherein the processing device or server computer transmits the video information to the communication device in response to the signal if the processing device or server computer determines that the transmission of the video information to the communication device is authorized, and further wherein the video information is transmitted to the communication device on or over at least one of the Internet and the World Wide Web.
- View Dependent Claims (194, 195, 196, 197)
- - 194. The apparatus of claim 193, wherein the communication device is a wireless device.
  - 195. The apparatus of claim 193, wherein the communication device is a cellular telephone.
  - 196. The apparatus of claim 193, wherein the communication device is a personal digital assistant.
  - 197. The apparatus of claim 193, wherein the communication device is at least one of a wireless telephone and a personal communications services device.

198. A monitoring apparatus, comprising:
- a processing device, wherein the processing device is associated with a web site, and wherein the processing device receives video information recorded by at least one of a video recording device and a camera, wherein the at least one of a video recording device and a camera is located at a premises, and wherein the processing device is located at a location remote from the premises, wherein the processing device receives a signal transmitted from a communication device, wherein the communication device is located at a location remote from the processing device and remote from the premises, wherein the processing device determines whether a transmission of the video information to the communication device is authorized, and further wherein the processing device transmits the video information to the communication device in response to the signal if the processing device determines that the transmission of the video information to the communication device is authorized, and further wherein the video information is transmitted to the communication device on or over at least one of the Internet and the World Wide Web.
- View Dependent Claims (199, 200, 201, 202, 203, 204, 205, 206, 207, 208, 209, 210, 211, 212, 213, 214, 215, 216, 217, 218, 219, 220, 221, 222, 223, 224, 225, 226, 227, 228, 229, 230, 231, 232, 233, 234, 235, 236)
- - 199. The apparatus of claim 198, wherein the at least one of a video recording device and a camera is located at an interior of the premises.
  - 200. The apparatus of claim 198, wherein the at least one of a video recording device and a camera is located at an exterior of the premises.
  - 201. The apparatus of claim 198, wherein the video information is real-time video information or live video information.
  - 202. The apparatus of claim 198, wherein the at least one of a video recording device and a camera further comprises a storage medium for storing video information, wherein the video information received by the processing device is stored video information.
  - 203. The apparatus of claim 198, wherein the processing device receives audio information recorded by at least one of an audio recording device, a microphone, and a tape recorder, located at the premises, and further wherein the processing device transmits the audio information to the communication device on or over at least one of the Internet and the World Wide Web.
  - 204. The apparatus of claim 203, wherein the audio information is real-time audio information or live audio information.
  - 205. The apparatus of claim 203, wherein the at least one of an audio recording device, a microphone, and a tape recorder, is located at an interior of the premises.
  - 206. The apparatus of claim 203, wherein the at least one of an audio recording device, a microphone, and a tape recorder, is located at an exterior of the premises.
  - 207. The apparatus of claim 203, wherein the audio information is transmitted to the processing device on or over at least one of the Internet and the World Wide Web.
  - 208. The apparatus of claim 203, wherein the at least one of an audio recording device, a microphone, and a tape recorder, further comprises a storage medium for storing audio information, wherein the audio information received by the processing device is stored audio information.
  - 209. The apparatus of claim 198, wherein the apparatus provides a communication link between the communication device and at least one of an intercom system or device and a telephone, wherein the at least one of an intercom system or device and a telephone is located at the premises.
  - 210. The apparatus of claim 198, wherein the apparatus provides video conferencing between a user of the communication device and an individual located at the premises via a video conferencing device.
  - 211. The apparatus of claim 198, wherein the processing device at least one of receives video information from any number of at least one of video recording devices or cameras, receives audio information from any number of at least one of audio recording devices, microphones, and tape recorders, and receives video conferencing information from any number of video conferencing devices, and further wherein the processing device transmits at least one of the video information from the any number of at least one of video recording devices and cameras, the audio information from the any number of at least one of audio recording devices, microphones, and tape recorders, and the video conferencing information from the any number of video conferencing devices, to the communication device on or over at least one of the Internet and the World Wide Web.
  - 212. The apparatus of claim 198, wherein the processing device transmits video information from two or more video recording devices or cameras to the communication device, and further wherein the video information is received by the communication device in at least one of a split-screen format and a multiple screen format.
  - 213. The apparatus of claim 198, wherein the processing device at least one of transmits a control signal to control an operation of the at least one of a video recording device and a camera, transmits a control signal to control an operation of at least one of an audio recording device, a microphone, and a tape recorder, transmits a control signal to control an operation of at least one of an intercom system or device and a telephone, and transmits a control signal to control an operation of a video conferencing device.
  - 214. The apparatus of claim 198, wherein the premises is at least one of a commercial structure, a commercial equipment, an industrial facility, an industrial structure, a manufacturing facility, a manufacturing equipment, a manufacturing machine, a drilling platform, a drilling rig, an oil drilling platform, an off-shore drilling platform, an off-shore drilling rig, an excavation equipment, a construction equipment, a mining platform, a mining equipment, an assembly facility, an assembly line, an assembly line equipment, an assembly equipment, an industrial robotic equipment, a mass production facility, and a production facility.
  - 215. The apparatus of claim 198, wherein the communication device transmits a second signal at least one of to select the at least one of a video recording device and a camera from which the video information is obtained, to select at least one of an audio recording device, a microphone, and a tape recorder, from which audio information is obtained, and to select a video conferencing device from which video conferencing information is obtained.
  - 216. The apparatus of claim 198, wherein the apparatus is programmed for at least one of automatic activation, self-activation, and programmed activation.
  - 217. The apparatus of claim 198, wherein the communication device is a wireless device.
  - 218. The apparatus of claim 198, wherein the apparatus is associated with at least one of a central security office, a security service, and a law enforcement office or agency.
  - 219. The apparatus of claim 198, wherein the video information is transmitted to the processing device on or over at least one of the Internet and the World Wide Web.
  - 220. The apparatus of claim 198, wherein the video information is at least one of encrypted, scrambled, and de-scrambled.
  - 221. The apparatus of claim 198, wherein at least one of the processing device and the communication device transmits a control signal for at least one of controlling, activating, de-activating, enabling, and disabling, an operation of the at least one of a video recording device and a camera.
  - 222. The apparatus of claim 198, wherein the processing device transmits a second signal to the communication device, wherein the second signal contains information regarding at least one of a detected use of the premises, a detected unauthorized use of the premises, and a detected theft of the premises.
  - 223. The apparatus of claim 198, wherein the processing device transmits a second signal to the communication device, wherein the second signal contains information regarding a detected occurrence warranting providing notice to at least one of an owner, a user, and an authorized operator, of the premises.
  - 224. The apparatus of claim 198, wherein the processing device processes information contained in at least one of an access code and a command code to determine whether the transmission of the video information to the communication device is authorized.
  - 225. The apparatus of claim 198, wherein the processing device transmits a control signal to at least one of activate, deactivate, enable, disable, and control an operation of, the at least one of a video recording device and a camera.
  - 226. The apparatus of claim 225, wherein the processing device transmits the control signal in response to a transmission of a second control signal from the communication device to the processing device.
  - 227. The apparatus of claim 198, wherein the premises is a residential premises or a home.
  - 228. The apparatus of claim 198, wherein the premises is a residential building.
  - 229. The apparatus of claim 198, wherein the premises is a commercial premises.
  - 230. The apparatus of claim 198, wherein the premises is at least one of a commercial building and a commercial office.
  - 231. The apparatus of claim 198, wherein the communication device is at least one of a computer, a telephone, a digital telephone, a cordless telephone, a television, a digital television, a display telephone, a video telephone, and a watch.
  - 232. The apparatus of claim 198, wherein the communication device is an interactive television.
  - 233. The apparatus of claim 198, wherein the communication device is a personal computer or a home computer.
  - 234. The apparatus of claim 198, wherein the communication device is a cellular telephone.
  - 235. The apparatus of claim 198, wherein the communication device is a personal digital assistant.
  - 236. The apparatus of claim 198, wherein the communication device is at least one of a wireless telephone and a personal communications services device.

237. A monitoring apparatus, comprising:
- at least one of a video recording device and a camera, wherein the at least one of a video recording device and a camera is located at a premises, and further wherein the at least one of a video recording device and a camera records video information; and
  
  a transmitter, wherein the transmitter transmits the video information to a processing device, wherein the processing device is associated with a web site, wherein the processing device is located at a location remote from the premises, and further wherein the video information is received by the processing device, wherein the processing device receives a signal transmitted from a communication device, wherein the communication device is located at a location remote from the processing device and remote from the premises, wherein the processing device determines whether a transmission of the video information to the communication device is authorized, and further wherein the processing device transmits the video information to the communication device in response to the signal if the processing device determines that the transmission of the video information to the communication device is authorized, and further wherein the video information is transmitted to the communication device on or over at least one of the Internet and the World Wide Web.
- View Dependent Claims (238, 239, 240, 241, 242, 243, 244, 245, 246, 247, 248, 249, 250, 251, 252, 253, 254, 255, 256, 257, 258, 259, 260, 261)
- - 238. The apparatus of claim 237, wherein the at least one of a video recording device and a camera is located at an interior of the premises.
  - 239. The apparatus of claim 237, wherein the at least one of a video recording device and a camera is located at an exterior of the premises.
  - 240. The apparatus of claim 237, wherein the at least one of a video recording device and a camera further comprises:
    - a storage medium for storing video information.
  - 241. The apparatus of claim 237, wherein the video information transmitted to the processing device is stored video information.
  - 242. The apparatus of claim 237, wherein the video information is real-time video information or live video information.
  - 243. The apparatus of claim 237, wherein the at least one of a video recording device and a camera is at least one of pivotable, moveable, and moveable along at least one of a track and a guiding device.
  - 244. The apparatus of claim 237, further comprising:
    - at least one of an audio recording device, a microphone, and a tape recorder, located at the premises, wherein the at least one of an audio recording device, a microphone, and a tape recorder, records audio information, wherein the apparatus transmits the audio information to the processing device, and further wherein the audio information is transmitted from the processing device to the communication device, wherein the audio information is transmitted to the communication device on or over at least one of the Internet and the World Wide Web.
  - 245. The apparatus of claim 244, wherein the audio information is real-time audio information or live audio information.
  - 246. The apparatus of claim 244, wherein the at least one of an audio recording device, a microphone, and a tape recorder, is located at an interior of the premises.
  - 247. The apparatus of claim 244, wherein the at least one of an audio recording device, a microphone, and a tape recorder, is located at an exterior of the premises.
  - 248. The apparatus of claim 244, wherein the at least one of an audio recording device, a microphone, and a tape recorder, is at least one of pivotable, moveable, and moveable along at least one of a track and a guiding device.
  - 249. The apparatus of claim 244, wherein the audio information is transmitted to the processing device on or over at least one of the Internet and the World Wide Web.
  - 250. The apparatus of claim 237, further comprising:
    - at least one of an intercom system or device and a telephone, wherein the at least one of an intercom system or device and a telephone is located at the premises, and further wherein the at least one of an intercom system or device and a telephone facilitates communication between a user of the communication device and an individual located at the premises.
  - 251. The apparatus of claim 237, further comprising:
    - a video conferencing device located at the premises, wherein the video conferencing device facilitates a video conference between a user of the communication device and an individual located at the premises.
  - 252. The apparatus of claim 237, wherein the apparatus transmits at least one of the video information, audio information, and video conferencing information, to the processing device on any number of communication channels on or over at least one of the Internet and the World Wide Web.
  - 253. The apparatus of claim 237, wherein the apparatus at least one of transmits video information from any number of video recording devices or cameras, transmits audio information from any number of at least one of audio recording devices, microphones, and tape recorders, and transmits video conferencing information from any number of video conferencing devices.
  - 254. The apparatus of claim 237, wherein the apparatus transmits video information from two or more video recording devices or cameras to the processing device in at least one of a split-screen format and a multiple screen format.
  - 255. The apparatus of claim 237, wherein an operation of at least one of the at least one of a video recording device and a camera, at least one of an audio recording device, a microphone, and a tape recorder, at least one of an intercom system or device and a telephone, and a video conferencing device, is controlled by a control signal transmitted from the processing device.
  - 256. The apparatus of claim 237, wherein the premises is at least one of a residential premises, a residential building, and a home.
  - 257. The apparatus of claim 237, wherein the premises is at least one of a commercial premises, a commercial building, and a commercial office.
  - 258. The apparatus of claim 237, wherein the premises is at least one of a commercial structure, a commercial equipment, an industrial facility, an industrial structure, a manufacturing facility, a manufacturing equipment, a manufacturing machine, a drilling platform, a drilling rig, an oil drilling platform, an off-shore drilling platform, an off-shore drilling rig, an excavation equipment, a construction equipment, a mining platform, a mining equipment, an assembly facility, an assembly line, an assembly line equipment, an assembly equipment, an industrial robotic equipment, a mass production facility, and a production facility.
  - 259. The apparatus of claim 237, wherein the apparatus is programmed for at least one of automatic activation, self-activation, and programmed activation.
  - 260. The apparatus of claim 237, wherein the video information is transmitted to the processing device on or over at least one of the Internet and the World Wide Web.
  - 261. The apparatus of claim 237, further comprising:
    - a control device located at the premises, wherein the control device is capable of at least one of activating, deactivating, enabling, disabling, and controlling an operation of, the at least one of a video recording device and a camera, and further wherein the control device determines whether access to the apparatus is authorized, and further wherein the video information is transmitted to the processing device if access to the apparatus is authorized.

262. A monitoring method, comprising:
- receiving video information with a processing device, wherein the processing device is associated with a web site, wherein the video information is recorded by at least one of a video recording device and a camera, and further wherein the video information is transmitted to the processing device from a transmitter, wherein the at least one of a video recording device and a camera and the transmitter are located at a premises, and further wherein the processing device is located at a location remote from the premises;
  
  receiving a signal transmitted from a communication device, wherein the signal is received by the processing device, and further wherein the communication device is located at a location remote from the processing device and remote from the premises;
  
  processing the signal with the processing device;
  
  determining whether a transmission of the video information to the communication device is authorized; and
  
  transmitting the video information from the processing device to the communication device in response to the signal if the transmission of the video information to the communication device is determined to be authorized, wherein the video information is transmitted to the communication device on or over at least one of the Internet and the World Wide Web.
- View Dependent Claims (263, 264)
- - 263. The method of claim 262, further comprising:
    - locating at least one of a video recording device and a camera in a vicinity of the premises.
  - 264. The method of claim 262, wherein the communication device is a wireless device, and further wherein the wireless device is at least one of a cellular telephone, a wireless telephone, a personal communications services device, and a personal digital assistant.

Specification

Resources

Litigation Campaign Assessment

Litigation Data

Current Assignee
Joao Control and Monitoring Systems LLC (Raymond Anthony Joao)
Original Assignee
Raymond Anthony Joao
Inventors
Joao, Raymond Anthony
Primary Examiner(s)
TRIEU, VAN THANH

Application Number

US10/263,554
Publication Number

US 20030067541A1
Time in Patent Office

1,825 Days
Field of Search

340/425.5, 340/426, 340/428, 340/429, 340/430, 340/539.1, 340/539.11, 340/539.13, 340/539.14, 340/539.16, 340/539.17, 340/539.25, 340/905, 340/988, 340/989, 340/994, 340/426.13, 340/426.16, 455/414.1, 455/466, 370/310, 370/313, 370/401, 701/201, 701/209, 701/213, 395/200.34, 395/200.36, 395/200.57, 434/252, 434/307.R
US Class Current

340/539.25
CPC Class Codes

B60R 2325/304   Boats

B60R 25/102   a signal being sent to a re...

B60R 25/252   Fingerprint recognition

B60R 25/257   Voice recognition

B60R 25/33   of global position, e.g. by...

B60W 2556/50   of positioning data, e.g. G...

Monitoring apparatus and method

First Claim

2 Assignments

Litigations

2 Petitions

Accused Products

Abstract

739 Citations

264 Claims

Specification

Solutions

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Monitoring apparatus and method

First Claim

2 Assignments

Subscription Required

Subscription Required

Litigations

2 Petitions

Subscription Required

Accused Products

Subscription Required

Abstract

739 Citations

264 Claims

Specification

Subscription Required

Solutions

Use Cases

Quick Links