Abstract: A generator and battery charging unit is operable on a wheeled apparatus, including rollerblades and skateboards. The charging unit is operable while the wheeled apparatus is used to provide fresh power to a rechargeable battery. A charging base holds one or more batteries for charging. The charging base receives electric current produced by a generator powered by motion of the wheels. For this purpose, a stepper motor is mounted to the wheeled apparatus and connected to the charging base. The stepper motor has a shaft that communicates with a wheel on the apparatus. The shaft is rotatable with the wheel to power the stepper motor and generate electric current. The electric current is passed to the charging base to charge one or more batteries in the charging base. In addition to the charger, the stepper motor may be connected to an output jack or an accessory to be operated by current from the stepper motor.

Abstract: A lighting apparatus for use in pools, ponds or other environments includes a series of lights. The lights are powered by a small generator, with no dependence on electricity from external sources, such as nearby outlets or junction boxes. The generator includes a stepper motor having a shaft, and a turbine connected on the shaft. The lights are electrically connected to the stepper motor. The turbine is rotatable with the shaft of the stepper motor to generate an output voltage to illuminate the lights.

Abstract: A system for monitoring activity includes a detector located in a desired area, such as shower, and a receiver installed in an area remote from the detector, such as a powder room. The detector detects movement in the shower and sends an activation signal to the receiver. The receiver receives the activation signal and sends an alarm indication signal to a signal device. The signal device produces an alarm signal to notify any individual at the remote area that the shower is occupied. The system may also include a detector mounted to a delivery receptacle, such as a mailbox. The detector detects motion in the delivery receptacle and sends a signal to a receiver to activate a signal device. The signal device produces an alarm to notify individuals that the receptacle had been opened.

Abstract: A device used as a toy or novelty item has a handle and one or more LEDs that are powered by a stepper motor that is configured to operate as a generator. The stepper motor is embedded within a protective housing element and is rotatably connected with the handle. The housing element extends from the handle and rotates with the stepper motor about the hand-held handle to generate electric current. The LEDs are electrically connected to the stepper motor and extend along the housing element. The device may be used as a hand-held toy so that the LEDs illuminate when the element is twirled or spun relative to the handle. The device may also be used as the handle of a jump rope. When the jump rope is twirled or spun between the handles, the stepper motors generate current which illuminates the LEDs to create an entertaining effect.