阅读说明：本技术 具有内置安全系统的便携设备 (Portable device with built-in security system ) 是由 M·尼特尔 S·约瑟夫 于 2018-02-16 设计创作，主要内容包括：一种具有内置安全系统的便携设备,包括安全单元10,安全单元10具有容纳在集成单元中的部件,其中所述部件包括具有光传感器2的摄像头1、速度传感器4、距离传感器9、GPS追踪器8、用于发送和接收数字数据的转发器7、微控制器15和与微控制器15、摄像头1、速度传感器4、距离传感器9、GPS跟踪器8和转发器7电连通的可再充电电源5,以监控便携设备的位置和内容物,并向用户提供实时反馈。(A portable device with a built-in security system comprising a security unit 10, the security unit 10 having components housed in an integrated unit, wherein the components include a camera 1 with a light sensor 2, a speed sensor 4, a distance sensor 9, a GPS tracker 8, a transponder 7 for sending and receiving digital data, a microcontroller 15 and a rechargeable power supply 5 in electrical communication with the microcontroller 15, the camera 1, the speed sensor 4, the distance sensor 9, the GPS tracker 8 and the transponder 7 to monitor the location and contents of the portable device and provide real-time feedback to a user.)

1. A portable device, comprising:

one or more accelerometers;

one or more range sensors configured to detect a range to a nearby object or obstacle;

one or more computer-readable media configured to store computer-executable instructions and a plurality of preprogrammed conditions; and

one or more processors, wherein the computer-executable instructions are configured for execution by the one or more processors to cause the portable device to:

accessing a first pre-programmed condition from a plurality of pre-programmed conditions;

accessing sensor data associated with one or more distance sensors and one or more accelerometers;

determining satisfaction of a first preprogrammed condition based at least in part on the accessed sensor data;

generating and sending a notification to the electronic user device indicating satisfaction of the first preprogrammed condition based at least in part on the determination;

receiving a first command from an electronic user device; and is

The first command is executed.

2. The portable device of claim 1, wherein the one or more distance sensors comprise an ultrasonic sensor, a laser sensor, a GPS sensor, or a combination thereof.

3. The portable device of claim 1, wherein the first preprogrammed condition is preprogrammed by a user associated with the electronic user device.

4. The portable device of claim 1, wherein the first pre-programmed condition is pre-programmed by default.

5. The portable device of claim 1, wherein the first preprogrammed condition comprises a change in speed, a change in distance, or a change in speed and distance.

6. The portable device of claim 1, further comprising an audio device configured to generate one or more audible responses, wherein execution of the first command comprises issuing an alarm or playing one or more pre-recorded sounds.

7. The portable device of claim 1, further comprising a barometer, a gyroscope, or an altitude sensor, wherein the one or more processors further cause the system to:

accessing additional sensor data associated with a barometer, a gyroscope, or an altitude sensor; and

wherein the determination of the satisfaction of the first pre-programmed condition is also based at least in part on the additional sensor data.

8. The portable device of claim 1, further comprising a GPS sensor, wherein the one or more processors further cause the system to:

accessing GPS sensor data associated with a GPS sensor; and

wherein the determination of the satisfaction of the first pre-programmed condition is also based at least in part on the GPS sensor data.

9. The portable device of claim 1, further comprising a motion detector sensor, wherein the one or more processors further cause the system to:

accessing motion sensor data associated with a motion detector sensor; and

wherein the determination of the satisfaction of the first pre-programmed condition is also based at least in part on the motion sensor data.

10. The portable device of claim 10, wherein the motion detector sensor is a Passive Infrared (PIR) motion detector.

11. The portable device of claim 1, further comprising an external camera on an outer surface of the portable device.

12. The portable device of claim 1, further comprising:

an internal camera located on an inner surface of the portable device; and

a light sensor located on an interior surface of the portable device.

13. The portable device of claim 13, wherein the internal camera is configured to record video data when the portable device is not in the closed position.

14. The portable device of claim 1, wherein the portable device is one or more of: a suitcase, a backpack, a musical instrument box, a golf bag, or a briefcase.

15. A method, comprising:

accessing a first pre-programmed condition from a plurality of pre-programmed conditions;

accessing sensor data associated with one or more range sensors and one or more accelerometers, wherein the one or more range sensors are configured to detect a range to a nearby object or obstacle;

determining satisfaction of a first preprogrammed condition based at least in part on the accessed sensor data;

generating and sending a notification to the electronic user device indicating satisfaction of the first preprogrammed condition based at least in part on the determination;

receiving a first command from an electronic user device; and is

The first command is executed.

16. The method of claim 15, wherein the one or more distance sensors comprise an ultrasonic sensor, a laser sensor, a GPS sensor, or a combination thereof.

17. The method of claim 15, wherein the first preprogrammed condition is preprogrammed by a user associated with the electronic user device.

18. The method of claim 15, wherein the first pre-programmed condition is pre-programmed by default.

19. The method of claim 15, wherein the first preprogrammed condition comprises a change in speed, a change in distance, or a change in speed and distance.

20. The method of claim 15, wherein the execution of the first command comprises issuing an alarm or playing one or more pre-recorded sounds, an audio device configured to produce one or more audible responses.

21. The method of claim 15, further comprising:

accessing additional sensor data associated with a barometer, a gyroscope, or an altitude sensor; and

wherein the determination of the satisfaction of the first pre-programmed condition is also based at least in part on the additional sensor data.

22. The method of claim 15, further comprising:

accessing GPS sensor data associated with a GPS sensor; and

wherein the determination of the satisfaction of the first pre-programmed condition is also based at least in part on the GPS sensor data.

23. The method of claim 15, further comprising:

accessing motion sensor data associated with a motion detector sensor; and

wherein the determination of the satisfaction of the first pre-programmed condition is also based at least in part on the motion sensor data.

24. The method of claim 23, wherein the motion detector sensor is a Passive Infrared (PIR) motion detector.

25. The method of claim 15, wherein the external camera is located on an external surface of the portable device.

26. The method of claim 15, wherein the internal camera is located on an internal surface of the portable device, and wherein the optical sensor is located on the internal surface of the portable device.

27. The method of claim 26, wherein the internal camera is configured to record video data when the portable device is not in the closed position.

28. The method of claim 15, wherein the portable device is one or more of: a suitcase, a backpack, a musical instrument box, a golf bag, or a briefcase.

Technical Field

The present invention relates generally to portable devices having at least one built-in embedded security unit for monitoring the contents therein. More particularly, the present invention relates to a portable device having a security system for monitoring the belongings therein in real time and securely.

Background

Everyone wants to know what happens to their luggage when it is checked at the airport. Due to security regulations, the transportation security administration ("TSA") must be able to open and inspect your luggage, which is mostly out of your face, and items may be misplaced or stolen. The package carrier may also detect your luggage, steal your valuables, or throw the luggage into the room, thereby abusing your suitcase. Even if your handbag has the lock, the lock is also very easily broken by the thief.

Another big problem when travelling is the loss of luggage. It is an inconvenient matter to reach a new travel destination and your suitcase is lost on the way.

U.S. publication No. 2015/0136552 to Mercado discloses a luggage tracking and surveillance system device having a replaceable zipper pull and an internally retained fastening member. The replaceable zipper pull has a touch sensor, a power system, a GPS and a system for communicating with the retaining fastener. The fastening member includes a camera, a GPS, a touch sensor, a power supply system, and a system for communicating with the zipper pull.

U.S. patent No.8,964,037 to Petricoin jr discloses a battery powered camera mounted inside a suitcase. The security system includes a switch center, a camera, a controller for storing data, a motion detector, a touch sensor, a motion sensor, and weight sensors located at various locations within the surface of the suitcase.

U.S. patent publication No. 2015/0337565 to DiBella et al is a security device that may be added to luggage.

It is known in the art that luggage pieces exist with cameras, but most of these cameras are detachable and do not allow users to constantly view their luggage and contents and constantly monitor them.

The present invention solves these problems by providing a portable device with a built-in security system. The system includes a security unit having all of the components housed in an integrated unit embedded in the portable device. These components include cameras with light sensors, speed sensors, distance sensors, GPS trackers, microcontrollers, transponders, and rechargeable power supplies that provide users with real-time images of their portable devices and the status of the contents therein.

The purpose of the device of the invention is to protect people's property from theft and to protect their property from security. Users of portable devices with built-in security systems (including portable bags such as luggage, handbags, backpacks, briefcases, golf bags, etc.) can view cameras from any personal digital assistant or computer at any time to see who opened the luggage or other portable device and take their possession of their property.

One object of the present invention is to deter theft and enable thieves to thrive before opening a package.

Another object of the invention is to let the package handler know to handle your luggage more cautiously while being watched.

It is another object of the present invention to track your luggage and/or contents to monitor whether any items are stolen.

It is a further object of the present invention to provide a monitoring system and alarm system for users to alert them when their carry-on bag is opened and to allow them to see the person who opened the carry-on bag.

Another object is to provide a musical instrument box having built-in safety units both inside and outside to monitor the position and state of musical instruments stored therein.

It is another object of the present invention to provide a backpack having built-in security units both inside and outside the backpack to monitor the location and status of the backpack and the contents therein.

It is yet another object of the present invention to provide a backpack having a built-in security element both inside and outside the backpack, wherein the external security element helps prevent cheating because it provides an image to the user from behind when the backpack is worn on the back.

It is another object of the present invention to provide a briefcase with a built-in security unit both inside and outside the briefcase to monitor the location and status of the briefcase and the contents therein.

It is another object of the present invention to provide a golf bag having built-in safety units both inside and outside the briefcase to monitor the location and status of the golf bag and its contents.

Disclosure of Invention

These and other obvious objects are generally achieved in the present invention by a portable device comprising at least one built-in non-removable embedded security unit for monitoring the contents of the portable device.

Each security unit includes a camera, a rechargeable power source, lights, speed and distance sensors, a microcontroller and a speaker/receiver. At least one security unit is built-in and embedded in the outer surface of the carrying case, and at least one security unit is built-in and embedded in the inner surface of the carrying case. This allows the user to access views inside and outside the carry bag.

The built-in security unit has a transponder for transmitting and receiving digital data to the central processor and storing the digital data externally of the unit.

The inventive device uses a WiFi and/or bluetooth connection to communicate with a remote control such as a mobile phone and/or a Personal Digital Assistant (PDA). The remote control allows the user to turn on or off the sensors, cameras, alarms and messages. PDA devices can also be used to turn sensors, cameras, alarms and messages on or off.

A user may use a PDA to access a web-based platform that allows the user to track the portable device and monitor the contents therein. The system detects when the portable device is turned on by a light sensor and when the device is removed from the user by an undesirable distance by a distance sensor and is programmed to send an alert to the owner of the portable device.

Other objects, features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description of the preferred embodiments of the invention, which is to be taken in an illustrative and not a limiting sense, when considered in connection with the accompanying drawings.

Drawings

Fig. 1 shows an embedded camera according to the invention; FIG. 1A is a pictorial representation of an external view of a portable device in a closed position and an embedded security unit in accordance with the present invention; FIG. 1B is a diagram of an internal view of a portable device in an open position and an embedded security unit according to the present invention;

FIG. 2A is an illustration of an embodiment of the present invention wherein the portable device with built-in security system is a musical instrument box in an open position; FIG. 2B is a view of the present embodiment in the closed position;

FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of the present invention in which the portable device with built-in security system is a backpack;

FIG. 4A is an illustration of an embodiment of the present invention wherein the portable device with a built-in security system is a briefcase in the open position; FIG. 4B is a view of the present embodiment in the closed position;

FIG. 5 is a schematic view of an embodiment of the present invention wherein the portable device with a built-in security system is a golf bag; and

fig. 6 is a schematic diagram of a security monitoring system according to the present invention.

Detailed Description

The invention describes a portable device with a built-in security unit. The security unit enables users to monitor the status, location and contents of their portable devices. The components of the apparatus of the invention are indicated by reference numerals as follows and are shown in the drawings:

1-a camera;

2-a light sensor on the camera;

3-shatter-proof/bulletproof glass covers the camera lens;

4-a speed sensor;

5-a rechargeable power source;

6-USB charging port;

7-a repeater;

8-a GPS tracker;

9-a distance sensor;

10-a security unit;

11-secure digital memory card;

12-speaker/receiver;

13-hard plastic outer surface of safety unit;

14-solar panels;

15-a microcontroller;

16-a camera lens;

17-remote control;

18-Personal Digital Assistant (PDA);

19-central processor (remote);

20-outer surface of Portable bag

25-inner cavity of portable bag; and

30-inner surface of handbag.

As shown in fig. 1, the safety unit 10 has the following components: a camera 1 having a light sensor 2, a speed sensor 4, a distance sensor 9, a GPS tracker 8, a transponder 7 for transmitting and receiving digital data, a rechargeable power supply 5 in electrical communication with the microcontroller 15, the camera 1, the speed sensor 4, the distance sensor 9, the GPS tracker 8 and the transponder 7.

The main component of the security unit of the invention is a camera 1 with a light sensor 2. Typically, when the carrying case is in the open position, a light sensor senses a change in light and is triggered to turn on the camera 1 in the security unit 10. When the portable bag is closed, the interior is dark, and the light sensor is triggered to close the camera. Embodiments with light sensors are used in both cases where the security unit is embedded in the inner and outer surfaces of the portable device.

The camera itself cannot be removed from the security unit embedded in the carrying case. The size of the camera is preferably a dime or smaller, similar in size to cameras used in mobile devices. The power supplies are substantially the same size. The camera may be hidden or in plan view. Typically, the camera in the external unit is to deter potential thieves, while the internal unit is hidden or less visible. The lens 16 of the camera 1 is covered by shatterproof and bulletproof glass 3. The lens 16 is also waterproof and antifogging. The lens 16 may also be an infrared lens and a night vision lens.

The camera itself has a 360 degree panoramic view, similar to a camera built into the rear of a motor vehicle for viewing the surroundings when backing. Due to the wide field of view of the camera itself, the user does not need to control the angle or reposition the camera. The only control over the camera is to turn it on or off to capture a photograph or streaming video. Any number of hidden/wireless cameras currently on the market can be used with the present invention, as long as they are built-in and not mobile. The configuration and size of the camera head depends on the portable device and may vary. The Camera that can be used for the security unit includes Lentenda Mini Remote SPY Camera for Iphone Android Ipad Pc MiniWifi Ip Wireless spread Camera Remote Cam.

As shown in fig. 1, all of the components of the security unit 10 are housed in an integrated unit having shatterproof and bulletproof glass 3 overlying a camera lens 16 and a hard plastic outer surface 13. A built-in hard plastic outer shell protects the security unit and is embedded in the portable bag. Preferably, the hard plastic shell is elongated, less than 1/2 inches, and the entire safety unit is approximately 4 inches by 3 inches.

The sensors used in the present invention include light sensors, speed sensors, distance sensors, and in suitcase embodiments, height sensors. While these are the preferred sensors for use in the present invention, other sensors or devices that perform the same function may be used. Typically, a sensor is a transducer, but the main difference is that a transducer is a device capable of converting energy from one form to another, whereas a sensor is a device capable of detecting physical quantities and converting data into electrical signals.

Generally, a light sensor is an electronic device for detecting light. Several types of light sensors are known and can be used in the present invention. A photocell or photoresistor is a small sensor that changes its resistance when light impinges on it. CCDs (charge coupled devices) transmit electrical signals, typically found in digital cameras and night vision devices. The photomultiplier tube detects and multiplies the light.

Motion detector sensors are known for advanced security systems and include Passive Infrared (PIR) motion detectors. These sensors "see" the infrared energy emitted by the intruder's body heat. When an intruder walks into the field of view of the detector, the sensor detects a sharp increase in infrared energy. These sensors may be integrated into the security unit.

In embodiments where the carry bag is a luggage or suitcase, the security unit further comprises a height sensor. Altitude is typically determined based on a measurement of atmospheric pressure. The higher the altitude, the lower the pressure. Barometers and gyroscopes are used for barometric pressure measurements. The height sensor is preferably pre-programmed so that the camera is turned off once the carry bag reaches a height of 5000 feet. The camera can then be programmed to turn on and off at certain heights. During in-flight storage, nobody will open the luggage at more than 10,000 feet, and if the camera is off, the life of the power battery will be saved.

The speed sensor 4 is pre-programmed so that the camera is turned off once the portable pack reaches a speed of 150 miles per hour. The security unit may include an accelerometer to determine velocity.

The distance sensor 9 is pre-programmed to track the distance required by the portable bag and is used in conjunction with the GPS tracker 8 to monitor the position of the portable bag. When the selected distance is reached, an alert is sent, either by a text message or as a ping on the personal digital assistant device.

The distance sensor may be an ultrasonic sensor that measures a distance to an object by using a sound wave. It measures distance by emitting sound waves at a particular frequency and listening for sound wave bounce. By recording the elapsed time between the generated sound wave and the bounced sound wave, the distance between the sonar transducer and the object can be calculated. The ultrasonic transducer emits a high frequency sound pulse and then calculates the time required for the acoustic echo to reflect back. The sensor has 2 openings in its front face. One opening transmits ultrasound waves (e.g., a micro-speaker) and the other receives them (e.g., a micro-microphone).

Laser sensors are used to detect small objects or where the position is precise. They are designed as full beam sensors, retro-reflective sensors or diffuse reflective sensors. The laser consists of light waves of the same wavelength with a fixed phase ratio (coherence).

The invention also includes a Global Positioning System (GPS) sensor. A GPS sensor is a receiver with an antenna that uses a satellite-based navigation system with a network of multiple satellites orbiting the earth to provide position, velocity, and timing information. The orbits are arranged so that at least four satellites are "visible" in the sky at any time, anywhere on the earth. The GPS receiver locates four or more of these satellites, calculates the range to each satellite, and uses this information to infer its location. Typically, GPS itself does not require an internet connection, but if it is used in a smartphone, it does so because of the need to access geographical map data.

The transponder 7 transmits and receives digital data collected from the security unit. The transponder 7 transmits the digital data to a remote central processor 19, wherein the user can access the central processor 19 through the personal digital assistant device 18 to view the transmitted digital data. A transponder is a wireless communication, monitoring or control device that can pick up and automatically respond to incoming signals. This term is an abbreviation of the words reflector (reflector) and transponder (responder). The transponder may be either passive or active.

The rechargeable power source 5 may be selected from a variety of sources, including a rechargeable battery, such as lithium or NiCd, or solar powered.

The power source is in electrical communication with the camera 1, the speed sensor 4, the distance sensor 9, the GPS tracker 8 and the transponder 7 via a wired or wireless connection.

The safety unit further comprises a charging port 6 for the rechargeable power supply.

In an alternative embodiment, the solar panel 14 is located on the outer surface 20 of the carry bag and is in electrical communication with the rechargeable power source 5.

The invention comprises a remote control of the security unit for communication with the transponder 7. Communication is via Wi-Fi or bluetooth depending on the distance and whether the device used has been paired with a security device.

A portable device according to the present invention includes a portable bag having open and closed positions. FIG. 1A shows the carry bag as a suitcase/luggage case having a closed position with an outer surface 20. The security element 10 of the present invention is embedded within and on the outer surface 20. The security unit is flush on the outer surface 20 and preferably visible to the naked eye to act as a deterrent to potential thieves. The security unit 10 may be located anywhere on the outer surface 20, preferably at the top of the portable device near the handle.

In an alternative embodiment, the solar panel 14 is located on an outer surface for recharging the power source 5.

FIG. 1B shows the carrying case in an open position. The lumen 25 is shown having an inner surface 30. The security element 10 of the present invention is embedded within and embedded within the inner surface 30. A maximum of five security units 10 may be built into and embedded in the interior surface 30 of the luggage or suitcase.

In all embodiments of the present invention, at least one security unit 10 is built into and embedded in the outer surface 20 of the carrying case, and at least one security unit 10 is built into and embedded in the inner surface 30 of the carrying case.

Microprocessors typically have no RAM, ROM, and IO pins. It typically uses its pins as a bus to connect peripheral devices such as RAM, ROM, serial ports, digital and analog IO. For this reason, it can be expanded at the board level. The microcontroller is "monolithic" with the processor, RAM, IO on one chip, so you cannot (say) increase the amount of available RAM or the number of IO ports. The control bus is internal and not suitable for circuit board designers. Typically, this means that microprocessors can often be built into larger general-purpose applications than microcontrollers. Microcontrollers are often used for more specialized applications, such as the applications used in the present invention. However, in some applications, a microprocessor may be used.

The microcontroller of the invention has the following characteristics: typically 8 to 32 bits, running at speeds below 200MHz, using little power, supplying current to operate the LEDs, being a useful interface with sensors and motors, limiting RAM and flash memory storage.

The security unit of the portable device further includes a Secure Digital (SD) memory card 11. The secure digital memory card 11 preferably has a capacity of between 4GB and 32 GB. The size of the SD card is typically a dime, which may be pre-programmed to take a series of pictures when the camera is activated. The user may have the option of selecting the number of pictures taken or consecutive pictures or video until the movement stops and the camera is turned off.

A speaker/receiver 12 is present on the security unit. The speaker can be used to sound an alarm to prevent a potential thief from stealing the contents or the carrying case itself. The owner of the carrying bag may also send a pre-recorded sound to the carrying bag, such as "immediately put down" or "i see you," again to prevent a potential thief from stealing the carrying bag or its contents. This functionality would be disabled for safety reasons when the carry bag is on an airplane.

In an alternative embodiment, multiple security elements may be incorporated, particularly where the device may be opened. For example, if the luggage piece has a double opening, one camera could be built on the side and one on the front, as shown in FIG. 1A. At least two cameras are preferred because the luggage case can be opened in these two places. In a luggage embodiment, up to five cameras may be built into the inner surface of the carry bag for maximum viewing. The location of the security unit will be one in front, one behind, one on each side, one in the middle of the inside.

Fig. 2A is an illustration of an embodiment of the present invention wherein the portable device with built-in security system is a musical instrument box in an open position. The security unit 10 is located in the middle of the article. The camera 1 of the unit is visible. Fig. 2B is the embodiment in the closed position, showing the security unit 10 on the outer surface, with the camera 1 visible to the naked eye. The owner of the item can program the system so that if the item is opened, sharp music can be streamed from the speaker, sufficient to be heard over 20 feet.

Fig. 3 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of the present invention in which the portable device with built-in security system is a backpack. The backpack itself may have a strong back and be made of ballistic resistant material. As shown, multiple security units 10 are built into the entire area on the back and sides of the backpack. A camera 5 and a charging USB port 6 for power supply are shown. Not shown but included in this embodiment is the security unit 10 on the inner surface.

The security unit may also be used to prevent cheating in case the carry bag is a backpack. Young students can monitor their digital devices, observe the camera in the security unit, and see if someone is approaching from behind. Just as if there were eyes behind their brain.

Fig. 4A is an illustration of an embodiment of the invention in which the portable device with a built-in security system is a briefcase in the open position. The security unit 10 is located in the middle of the article. The camera 1 of the unit is visible. Fig. 4B is the embodiment in the closed position, showing the security unit 10 on the outer surface, with the camera 1 visible to the naked eye. A camera 5 and a charging USB port 6 for power supply are shown.

In embodiments where the carry bag is a handbag or purse, the security unit may be built into the interior and exterior surfaces as described in other embodiments.

Fig. 5 is a schematic view of an embodiment of the present invention wherein the portable device with a built-in security system is a golf bag. One or more security units may be built into the golf bag. As shown in fig. 5, there are safety units 10 at the top of the golf bag, one on the front bag, one on the side bag, and one at the bottom of the bag. Each unit provides a different perspective to the user. It enables owners to monitor the golf bag and contents not only when they leave the bag for use of the washroom or even at the golf course itself.

Once the suitcase is opened, the light triggers a light sensor on the camera to activate the camera to begin taking pictures/video. Using the remote control device, the user can automatically turn on the camera, whether all or only select digits. The cameras may also be activated by corresponding sensors. The camera in the security unit may be manually set or set to be activated by a light sensor.

The camera on the outside of the carrying case may be turned on at all times, depending on the needs of the user.

The present invention includes a remote control 17 that can turn the safety unit components on and off as desired. For example, where the carry bag is a trunk or suitcase, the user may set the security unit to automatically close when the aircraft is accelerating or at a certain altitude or when the GPS tracker shows that it is stored under the aircraft.

There is an option to not turn on these sensors. This is important for carry-on luggage, as many items are stolen from the overhead compartment, especially when the owner cannot hold the luggage in their vicinity.

The security system of the present invention is shown in the schematic diagram of fig. 6. The remote control 17 may be paired with the security unit 10 of the portable device via bluetooth or, if too far away, may be connected via WiFi. The remote control can be used to turn the camera, sensors and alarms on and off as desired by the user.

Wi-Fi, which originally meant "wireless fidelity," was primarily to connect one or more devices to the internet or to create a local wireless network that can link multiple devices. This depends on the network signal from the central base station (or stations) being strong enough and wide enough to cover an office or home, a coffee shop or even an airport. It emits what may be considered a global intangible internet "light," and any laptop, smartphone, or tablet within its range can click in to get to the internet. Bluetooth is much shorter in range, typically around 10 to 30 feet. It involves little networking and does not rely on any central device, such as a router. It is almost always used to connect two devices together in some useful way.

Like mobile phones, W-Fi networks use radio waves to transmit information over the network. The computer or PDA includes a wireless adapter for converting data sent to a radio signal. This same signal will be sent through an antenna to a decoder known as a router. As previously described, the digital output from the security unit 10 is sent to the remote central processor 19 for storage of the image. The owner accesses these images through a web-based platform. The camera of the present invention communicates with a network platform where a user can monitor the processing and opening or storing of images of the portable device in real time. The present invention has bluetooth and Wi-Fi functionality to always feed activity from the camera for viewing through the network-based platform.

The PDA18 or any device that can access the internet can be used to access the camera feed from the secure element 10 using a web-based platform. There is a user login to view the feed from the camera.

Once the user logs into the platform, the user may perform a number of functions. The platform enables a user to view each camera feed from a security unit in the carry bag. It also enables the user to turn the security unit components on or off, similar to remote control functions. For example, a user may selectively turn a camera or sensor on or off as desired in any security unit 10 of a carrying case.

The platform also enables the user to alert or message the speaker/receiver 12 on the portable device itself. The user may send an alert or a pre-recorded voice message or command.

This platform allows users of portable devices according to the present invention to always view their packages at their choosing.

The user may view and record shots up to a certain time. Unless otherwise stated, the camera in the security unit will record continuously and be able to hold a certain number of shots, typically up to 4 days. After 4 days, it will automatically clear the saved shots unless the shots are backed up to other devices. However, the user may return and view footage, and then record and save any footage they have selected.

The user may also receive an alert on their digital device if their portable device is turned on. The user may also set an alarm to go away if the portable device is turned on, if desired. In all embodiments of the present invention, users are allowed to track their portable devices.

The following example shows how the apparatus of the invention can be used:

example 1

A person drives to the Atlantic city and places the luggage in the vehicle. The car is locked but the person knows that someone may break into the car, but they do not want to put the 49 pound trunk in the bathroom. They activate the security unit of the present invention to turn on the camera recording and start GPS tracking. They also activate the distance sensor to "PING me if my luggage is moved more than 10 feet". The user may select 10 feet, 100 feet, 1,000 feet as desired.

If a thief steals the luggage but does not open it, the user will still be informed that the luggage has been moved by the alarm/ping when it is assumed that the luggage should be locked in his or her compartment. They not only know that it was stolen, but the video records where the thief went. The thief is then being videotaped when he opens the suitcase. The digital data is all sent to the central processor for real-time access by the user, if desired. A voice alert or alarm may be sent to the portable device through speaker 12 broadcasting "why do you open my luggage? "or" this is reported to the police ".

Although the invention has been described with an example of a preferred embodiment, the invention includes other variations. For example, the security unit of the present invention may be built-in and integrated inside and outside of a motor vehicle, boat or even pet carrier.

The foregoing description of various and preferred embodiments of the invention has been provided for the purpose of illustration only, and it is to be understood that numerous modifications, variations and changes may be made without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention as set forth in the claims below.