Abstract: An illumination device having a first light source, a second light source, whose luminous color differs from that of said first light source, and a controller for controlling the illuminating condition of each of the first light source and the second light source is configured. The controller turns on the first light source so that the light intensity of the first light source gradually increases at an early stage of a turning-on operation. Moreover, the controller turns on the second light source when the light intensity of the first light source gradually increases after a lapse of a predetermined time from the start of the turning-on of the first light source.

Abstract: A light display power box receives a string of clear and a string of colored lights thereby displaying clear and colored lights simultaneously to form selected light display patterns. The light display power box includes a plurality of outlets for receiving at least one string of clear lights and at least one string of colored lights. Additionally, the light display power box includes electronic circuitry including a microprocessor programmed to receive, process, and use received command signals to program selected light patterns. In one embodiment, a remote control transmitter transmits wireless command signals associated with selected light patterns to a sensor unit housed within or in proximity to the light display power box.

Abstract: A voltage sensor (10) for monitoring electronic ignition circuits (1) which contains a plurality of igniters (4) connected to an ignition line (3) and an ignition device (2) connected to the ignition line (3) to program the electronic igniters (4). The voltage sensor (10) can be connected separately to the ignition line and contains a voltage measuring device (15) for measuring the voltage (U2) on the ignition line (3) at the voltage sensor (10). The voltage sensor (10) also contains a communications device (15, 17, 18, 19) for receiving a start signal from the ignition device (2) triggering the start of the voltage measurement and for transmitting to the ignition device (2) a measured value determined during the voltage measurement.

Abstract: An inverter apparatus for driving a plurality of lamp units including a plurality of lamps is provided. The inverter apparatus includes a plurality of inverters. Each inverter includes a delay block delaying an input ON/OFF signal to generate an output ON/OFF signal and an inverting block controlling the lighting of the corresponding lamp unit based on the output ON/OFF signal. The plurality of inverters includes a first inverter receiving the input ON/OFF signal from an external device and a second inverter receiving the input ON/OFF signal from one of the plurality of inverters.

Abstract: An apparatus for operating a plurality of discharge lamps is to be designed so as to be more cost-effective. A first current control device, in particular a heat-sensitive resistor having a positive temperature coefficient, is connected in parallel with a first contact device for electrically connecting a first discharge lamp. Furthermore, a second contact device for electrically connecting a second discharge lamp is connected in parallel with a second current control device, the first and second contact devices being connected in series. A defined preheating period for the lamps can therefore be achieved. By using a sequential starting capacitor in parallel with one of the lamps, impermissible load current surges may be avoided.

Abstract: This invention relates to a driver circuit for driving at least one light source to light in various illuminating patterns according to a predetermined switching operation, and luminous shoes having the driver circuit. A driving means for driving at least one light source in various illuminating patterns, includes a power source for energizing the driving means; a switch for applying a power provided by the power source to the driving means by means of being actuated by an outside action; a control unit for controlling an illuminating pattern to illuminate at least one light source; at least one control switch set up outside of the control unit and connected to the control unit for setting a predetermined illuminating pattern to change the fixed illuminating pattern in the control unit.

Abstract: A control device and signaling are provided to operate selected numbers of the ballasts in a multi-ballast, multi-lamp luminaire. The luminaire has a control input for receiving a control signal from a wall switch, for example. The number of ballasts operated by the luminaire increases or decreases sequentially in response to one of consecutive pulses, signal level transitions or interrupts in the control signal. The control device can be programmable or hard-wired to the relays (e.g., a counter and decoder) to allow for a more economical implementation. Different subsets of the ballasts can be selected via the programmable integrated circuit to distribute the burn times of the lamps.

Abstract: A multiple lamp instant start ballast system has multiple fluorescent lamps and a ballast. The lamps have substantially similar current characteristics. The ballast has a ballast circuit operable to supply instant start starting voltages and operating currents, with the voltages and currents being approximately equal in magnitude and differing in phase by 360°/n, where n is the number of lamps. By connecting the ballast output leads to the first end of each lamp, the second ends of the lamps may be connected together creating a balanced n-phase system. Thus, wiring between the ballast and the second ends of the lamps is unnecessary. An improved light fixture adds a chassis and lamp sockets to the multiple lamp instant start ballast system described. The standard wire-way and wire-way cover are obviated since no wiring need be run to the second ends of the lamps. Wiring may be reduced by locating the ballast adjacent to the lamp first ends.

Abstract: A light socket is disclosed that has a built-in integrated circuit for rectifying the alternating current received from an electrical outlet and limiting the direct current produced. The light socket is specifically suited for low-current, low-voltage applications such as supplying DC to a string of ornamental lights. The integrated circuit has a diode with a modified cathode that acts as a fuse as it is rectifying the alternating current. The cathode is formed of a plurality of electrically parallel conductors. Excessive current blows out at least some of these conductors in the same way a conventional fuse blows. Various embodiments add other current-limiting elements, elements for producing full wave or near will wave rectification, and for opening the circuit when they detect extraneous currents.

Abstract: In a system and method for providing a uniform light source for color correction processes, the system includes a plurality of flashlamps for generating a theoretical point light source. The system further includes a power supply for sequentially activating each of the plurality of flashlamps. The system also includes an element for integrating the light generated by the plurality of lamps. The plurality of flashlamps are mounted in the integrating element so as to direct the substantially uniform light generated thereby out from the integrating element.

Abstract: A plurality of energy emitters, such as flash tubes for visibile light or speakers for audio emissions, are placed in communication with an appropriate trigger circuit, one circuit for each of the energy emitters. Each trigger circuit is placed in communication with a timing circuit which communicates sequentially with each of the trigger circuits and is in communication with means to adjust an input energy level delivered to the timing circuit. When a trigger circuit is in communication with the timing circuit, energy is delivered to the trigger circuit to cause the transmission of input energy through the trigger circuit sufficient to cause the emission of energy by the energy emitter. A plurality of energy collectors appropriate to the nature of the emitted energy, are maintained in spatial arrangement to the energy emitter for the purpose of recovering spurious or nonfocused energy released by the emitter and from other sources of spurious energy within the system.

Abstract: A light module for use with a plurality of light sources mounted to footwear, includes a power supply, an oscillator circuit, a power supply transmission circuit and a switch. The oscillation circuit supplies power to the light sources to sequentially cause illumination of the light sources. The switch has an open condition and a closed condition. A power transistor of the power supply transmission circuit has an input connected with the switch, and an output path connected between the power supply and the oscillation circuit for supplying power from the power supply to the oscillation circuit when the switch is closed and for terminating over time the supply of power from the power supply to the oscillation circuit when the switch is open. A bypass circuit includes diodes connected between the oscillation circuit and the switch to disable the oscillation circuit in order to continuously illuminate the light sources when the switch is closed. The bypass circuit is disabled when the switch is open.

Abstract: A control circuit for controlling a decorative light string by using a number of three-wire flashing control lamps is disclosed. In the circuit, a common contact of latter switching type three-wire flashing control lamp is connected to a normal open contact of former three-wire flashing control lamp. A normal closed contact of each three-wire flashing control lamps is connected with a light string including a plurality of regular lamps electrically connected in series. A two-wire flashing control lamp is further connected between the normal open contact of one of the switching type three-wire flashing control lamp and the light string connected thereto.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a multiple flash/single lamp circuit for fast sequential strobing. More particularly, the present invention comprises a flashlamp, a pair of capacitors, a voltage multiplier and regulator to charge the capacitors, a pair of trigger circuits to discharge the capacitors and a controller to selectively activate each trigger circuit to activate the flashlamp.

Abstract: A light socket is disclosed that has a built-in integrated circuit for rectifying the alternating current received from an electrical outlet and limiting the direct current produced. The light socket is specifically suited for low-current, low-voltage applications such as supplying DC to a string of ornamental lights. The integrated circuit has a diode with a modified cathode that acts as a fuse as it is rectifying the alternating current. The cathode is formed of a plurality of electrically parallel conductors. Excessive current blows out at least some of these conductors in the same way a conventional fuse blows. Various embodiments add other current-limiting elements, elements for producing full wave or near full wave rectification, and for opening the circuit when they detect extraneous currents.

Abstract: A ballast circuit for a plurality of serially connected, high pressure gas discharge lamps comprises an electromagnetic ballast arrangement receptive of an input power signal, providing an output ballast voltage for driving the plurality of lamps, and providing an open circuit ballast voltage when the lamps are disconnected from the arrangement. A first ignitor circuit is connected between the ballast arrangement and the first lamp, and produces at least one ignitor pulse of high voltage and high frequency compared to the open circuit ballast voltage, to initiate starting of the first lamp. A second ignitor circuit is connected between the first lamp and a second lamp so as to be supplied with current through the first lamp. The second circuit produces at least one ignitor pulse of high voltage and high frequency compared to the open circuit ballast voltage after the first lamp begins to start and drops substantially in impedance, to initiate starting of the second lamp.

Abstract: A new and improved outdoor lighting control system for an outdoor lighting system network for automatically sensing, conveying, and recording data relevant to the operation of the lighting system network so that both control and maintenance can be performed more efficiently. At each of plural lamp locations in the network, there is a controller module that receives electric power input and that supplies electric power to the remaining lamp locations. Each controller module has a first relay to deliver current to one or more outdoor illumination lamps at the controller module's location, and a second relay for switching electric power on to a succeeding lamp location. A first current sensor monitors current to the lamps at each lamp location, and a second current sensor monitors current to the remaining locations. The network's power lines form portions of a bi-directional data link via which data is transmitted from each controller module to a command station, and vice versa.

Abstract: A basic circuit (10) includes an oscillator (11) whose frequency can be set via a frequency-determining component (15). At outputs (A1-A5), the basic circuit (10) cyclically generates pulses by which consumers (L1-L5) are driven. A switch (18) is connected in parallel to the frequency-determining component (15), said switch being controlled by the outputs (A1-A5) and changing the oscillator frequency during an output pulse. Thus, the output pulses change the oscillator frequency and thus their own pulse duration themselves.

Abstract: A flashing control circuit for a decorative light string is disclosed. The flashing control circuit includes a number of flashing control bulbs arranged on the decorative light string sequentially at a suitable interval. Each of the flashing control bulbs are electrically connected with a series light string which includes a number of light bulbs connected in series. All the light bulbs are arranged on the decorative light string sequentially at interval according to the arranged sequence of the flashing control bulbs.

Abstract: A discharge lamp lighting device includes first voltage source of a high voltage capable of increasing lamp current, the voltage value of which being sequentially variable, and second voltage source of a low voltage capable of decreasing the lamp current, the voltage value of which being sequentially variable, lighting connection of the first and second voltages sources to a discharge lamp being alternately changed over for its stable lighting, whereby the stable lighting of the lamp can be made with any current limiting element minimized and a response to variation in outputs over a wide range as well as any radiant noise can be effectively improved.

Abstract: In accordance with the present invention, a hybrid sequence start circuit is provided for operating a plurality of instant start lamps. The circuit utilizes two coils, a primary and a secondary, and an electronic switch to start a plurality of series-connected, instant start lamps in sequence. When the circuit is energized, the electronic switch causes open circuit voltage to be applied to a first lamp by placing a low impedance across the other lamps, causing the first lamp to strike. The first lamp then conducts current, causing a starting capacitor in parallel with a second lamp to be charged, eventually, causing the second lamp to strike. The current through the second lamp shunts current away from the switch, and when this current drops below a predefined threshold level, the switch opens, effectively removing both the low impedance and the starting capacitor from the circuit.

Abstract: A lighting circuit module including a switch, a control unit controlled by the switch, an oscillatory resistor connected to the control unit, a plurality of bulbs, and a plurality of amplification elements controlled by the control unit to drive the bulbs, the control unit including a time sequence circuit controlled by the oscillatory resistor to provide a time sequence pulse signal, a trigger circuit controlled by the switch to provide a trigger signal, a counter circuit controlled by the trigger signal of the trigger circuit to count the time sequence pulse signal of the time sequence circuit, a cycle time circuit, a timer circuit controlled by the counter circuit and the cycle time circuit to control a driver circuit, a driver circuit controlled by the timer circuit and the counter circuit to drive the bulbs through the amplification elements.

Abstract: A high pressure gas discharge lamp includes first and second discharge devices electrically connected in series within an outer envelope. The discharge devices each include a discharge vessel enclosing a discharge space with an ionizable fill and first and second discharge electrode assemblies. The first discharge electrode assemblies of the discharge devices are connected so as to receive a starting pulse and lamp operating voltage. Each discharge vessel includes a first wall portion spaced from the first discharge electrode assembly and defining an ionizable gap therebetween. A conductive element bridges the discharge devices at the first wall portions and capacitively couples the first discharge electrode assemblies to induce ionization in one of the discharge devices in the ionizable gap between the first wall portion and first discharge electrode assembly.

Abstract: An electronic AC light dimmer, lighting system and method are disclosed that provide two-channel operation by allowing independent control of positive and negative half cycles of AC power. In one embodiment, the dimmer comprises a positive half-cycle control circuit for controlling an mount of current flowing through the dimmer during positive half-cycles and a negative half-cycle control circuit for controlling an mount of current flowing through the dimmer during negative half-cycles. In a further embodiment of the invention, the dimmer is wired to at least two light bulbs that are part of a common circuit, and a channel selection circuit. Preferably, the channel selection circuit comprises at least two diodes, each diode connected in series with one of the bulbs. The action of the dimmer and the diodes provides two channels, each channel being associated with either positive or negative half cycles.

Abstract: A piece of footwear (12) includes a stroboscopic display device (10). The display device (10) includes a plurality of light emitting diodes (LEDs) (14) along a single array. The plurality of LEDs 14 are strobed or switched on and off through a set non-random fashion such that the plurality of LEDs (14) display a two-dimensional graphic image when the footwear (12) is moved through a step. A control (16) calculates the velocity of the step to determine the rate at which the LEDs (14) are to be strobed.

Abstract: An enhanced method and apparatus for driving an immersed flashing light system used for enhancing algae growth is disclosed. The flashing light system includes a plurality of light source elements that are arranged to illuminate the algae. The light source elements are electrically connected to form ".eta." banks of light source elements. Power is supplied to each bank of light sources in a predetermined sequence at regular intervals to substantially evenly supply each bank of light source elements with a series of power pulses while maintaining a substantially continuous load on the power supply. The power pulses are substantially half cycles of a square wave.

Abstract: A staged selection type Christmas light controller circuit is provided. The light controller includes a rectifier, a current-limiter, a voltage regulator, a separator, a power stage generator, a selector switch, an oscillator, an integrated circuit controller, a driver, and a plurality of Christmas lights. The rectifier, the current-limiter, and the voltage regulator are connected in series with a power plug for providing DC voltage to the power input pin of the integrated circuit controller. A separator circuit is connected with the output end of the rectifier or the current-limiter and is coupled to the selection trigger pin of the integrated circuit controller through the power stage generator and the selector switch. An oscillator is coupled to the integrated circuit controller and the Christmas light sets are coupled to the controller through a driver.

Abstract: A flashtube circuit includes a switch which in a first position regulates the storage over time of energy in a first energy storage device and in a second position allows the transfer of energy from the first energy storage device to a second energy storage device. A microcontroller receives the input voltage and then samples and digitizes it for input into a lookup table. The microcontroller repeatedly cycles the switch between flashes by controlling the time the switch is in its first position. The lookup table output provides the signal for determining the time the switch remains in its first position. The time interval from the last flash controls the time the switch is in its second position. The cycling of the switch is controlled accordingly such that the second energy storage device acquires the predetermined amount of energy for the flash just as the triggering circuit is initiated by the microcontroller.

Abstract: An electronic display for amusement or ornamentation includes a CMOS counter chip connected to a low voltage DC source, with each counter output connected directly to one of a plurality of LEDs. An antenna wire, which can be a short length of wire or a wire hook is connected directly to the trigger input of the chip, and the ambient field-induced AC voltage on the antenna is sufficient to actuate the counter chip and cause the LEDs to flicker sequentially as the counter outputs are incremented. The LEDs may be embodied in a wide variety of decorative arrays to represent objects, images, and icons. The visual effect is not monotonous, due to the natural variations of the ambient field about the ornament. The invention also comprises a Christmas tree light assembly, including a plurality of ornaments, each constructed as described and including a hook-shaped antenna wire for hanging on a Christmas tree. Each ornament may be powered by an individual battery included therein.

Abstract: A sequentially shifting control circuit for extendible light strings which includes a main controller in one end, a backward signal-generating circuit in the other end and a plurality of bidirectional shifting control units therebetween. Each bidirectional shifting control unit has a plurality of lights connected thereto, thereby constituting and enabling an extendible light string to be sequentially flashed in a forward direction or a backward direction or in both directions simultaneously. Only three conductive lines are required: one for positive power, one for ground, and one for transmitting different control signals which are represented and distinguished by different voltage ranges, voltage levels, and waveform periods, and are mixed together according to a same signal (synchronous signal) to transmit.

Abstract: The invention relates to a power supply and control unit for a light system, especially an airport approach light system, for making a number of lights go on and out as a progressive light front. The invention is also concerned with a lighting unit (1) suitable for use in combination with this power supply and control unit.

Abstract: A half-bridge inverter is powered from a constant-magnitude DC supply voltage and provides at the inverter's output a first AC output voltage that is describable as a modified squarewave voltage. This first AC voltage is applied across a series-combination of a tank inductor and a tank capacitor, the junction between which is clamped to the DC supply voltage. As a result, a second AC voltage gets established across the tank capacitor; which second AC voltage is also describable as a modified squarewave voltage. However, the phasing of the second AC voltage is delayed by roughly 90.degree. degrees with respect to the first AC voltage; which results in the voltage across the tank inductor being of approximately sinusoidal waveform.

Abstract: An ornamental lighting control system capable of controllably adjusting the intensity of the lights over a relatively long period of time. The fully electronic means for gradually energizing the lights includes a ramp voltage generator whose output is synchronized to a power line zero crossing by a detector means coupled to the ramp voltage generator. The ramp means, in combination with a triangular wave generator and a comparator, achieve adjustable long time constants for controllable fading of the associated lights. The lighting control system can, additionally, be configured to compensate for any non-linearities in the incandescent light strings driven by the system.

Abstract: A music initiated Christmas light set controller includes a casing in which is disposed a circuit board. The circuit board is connected to a plurality of light sets and includes a bridge rectifier, a voltage regulator circuit, a music generating integrated circuit (IC), a piezo-electric transducer, an alternative switch IC, and a plurality of thyristors. The casing includes a loudspeaker aperture for output of music, a volume control knob connected to a variable resistor for controlling the volume of music, and a knob for alternative selection of the lighting inside. A bridge rectifier is coupled to 110 volt A.C. power for providing full-wave rectification thereof. The output of the bridge rectifier is coupled to a voltage regulation circuit for dropping and filtering the voltage to form a stable voltage for application to a music IC and also provide a signal voltage to an alternative switch IC.

Abstract: There is disclosed festoon lighting of the kind referred to whose lampholder fittings comprise a lampholder base including a cylindrical shroud extending from a channel in which a cable may be laid, pins projecting into said channel and a cap having a plurality of angularly spaced depending lugs each with a radially directed tooth on its free end, the cap and base being interengageable by axial pressure to cause the pins to penetrate the cores of a cable laid in said channel and to force the lugs through apertures in a part integral with said shroud whereby the teeth engage with shoulders on the underside of said apertures, the lugs being a close fit within the apertures such that passage of the teeth through the apertures involve elastic deformation of the parts.

Abstract: A main power supply device uses single phase, or three phase R, S, T; through rectification and filtration; each phase produces a different D.C. voltage so as to supply a respective voltage transforming device. The rectifier output of a step-down supply of the S, T, phase, in addition to supplying an astable square wave oscillator, so as to control signal outputs via a driving circuit, also supplies a tripping device, so as to control the high A.C. output from the high-voltage transformer of the transforming device. Any abnormal load can be detected by a detecting transformer and a protective circuit, so as to control cut-off of a transistor of a switching loop. A plurality of transforming devices are of the modular plate type; trouble-shooting can be performed easily, and the speed of maintenance is increased; the working safety is also enhanced.

Abstract: In this invention, pulse generating means is adapted to emit a high-frequency pulse signal of a fixed duty ratio and a discharge tube is lighted by means of this pulse signal. The frequency of the pusle emitted by the pulse generating means is adjustable by adjusting means. Thus, one discharge tube lighting device of this invention can be used interchangeably for lighting discharge tubes varying in capacity. The lighting device is further capable of effecting adjustment of light in a wide range. Further, sequential potential forming means is adapted to allow a plurality of discharge tubes to be sequentially lighted with intervals. When a plurality of discharge tubes are to be lighted, therefore, the rectifying means necessary for the lighting is allowed to have only a small capacity. The high-voltage applying means for applying high voltage to the discharge tubes are connected to the electrodes disposed at the opposite terminals of the discharge tubes with connecting wires joined one each to the electrodes.

Abstract: A continuous tracing light controller for controlling the flashing of a plurality of bulbs comprising:a bridge rectifier for the conversion of AC to DC;an inverter phase circuit for the reverting of the above obtained DC; anda programmable central control integrated circuit having a plurality of outputs for the individual controlling of bulbs in series, a three step switch and 3 variable resistors being connected to said integrated circuit. The controller controls the lighting pattern in a fully lighted, forward tracing or backward reversing pattern. The way of controlling of the controller is by means of Pulse Width Modulation in which a pulse wave synchronized with a current is input and by use of a counting pulse to control the time sequence of the input pulse. By controlling the response time delay of the individual wave such that the individual light bulb responds at different time so as to produce visual effects for which the bulbs are lighted in a continuous tracing manner.

Abstract: For a starting device to acquire an ability to start a discharge tube efficiently, allow the light from the discharge tube to be regulated effectively over a wide range, and fit versatile use with discharge tubes of a varying kind, this invention causes the frequency of pulses of a fixed duty ratio issued by pulse generating means to be freely adjusted by adjusting means and consequently enables high-voltage applying means to apply a high voltage of a frequency proper for the pulses to the discharge tube and effect efficient and stable start of the discharge tube. Since the frequency of high voltage for application to the discharge tube is adjusted by the adjusting means, the regulation of light is attained over a wide range and the starting device itself is enabled to fit versatile use with discharge tubes of a varying kind.

Abstract: An elongated, bendable lamp is disclosed having at one of the ends a conventional lamp control switch. By means of the control exerted by the lamp control switch, a series of lamp operations, such as the unified switching on or off, twinkling, or a slow or quick interval switching on or off of the lamp in a forward or reverse direction can be conducted. The body of the lamp can be lengthened or shortened as desired by attaching other lamps or by cutting the lamp body.

Abstract: A xenon lamp apparatus for generating sequential flashes comprises a plurality of sets of lamp units which are connected in series with one another by a socket and a plug which are mounted at either end of each lamp unit. A driving circuit device is preferably provided to actuate an ignition circuit device mounted on a PCB (printed circuit board) within the lamp unit to and send out flashes by control of the driving circuit device. Various flash patterns can be obtained depending on the design of the circuit device.

Abstract: A digital control circuit for controlling the illumination of a plurality of lamp bulbs to create a decorative light display. The circuit includes a rectifier for converting alternating current to direct current as power for the digital elements of the control circuit and for the lamp bulbs of the display. The display is formed by a plurality of strings of series connected lamp bulbs each of which strings is supplied d.c. power through individual SCRs. The control circuit includes two oscillators, two decoders and a carry-out control which generate two different sequences of output signals at two different frequencies. The two sequences of output signals from the control circuit are each applied through isolating diodes and individual trigger circuits to the gate electrodes of the SCRs, causing the SCRs to conduct and illuminate each of the strings of lamps in sequences corresponding to the sequences of control circuit output signals.

Abstract: An improved decorative lighting display using LEDs, CMOS integrated circuits and high current MOS transistors. This display provides for an extremely large configuration of LEDs to be driven at low average power and at the same time allows the user to select individual lights to be constantly illuminated or flashed in response to an oscillating voltage source. Moreover, this display allows multicolor patterns to be generated using bicolor LEDs.

Abstract: An integrated circuit for driving five external signalling components such as four LEDs and a piezo horn. The integrated circuit includes three pairs of series connected transistors, each pair being connected in parallel to one another. Only three terminals are required for controlling the four LEDs and piezo horn.

Abstract: An apparatus for flash photography being of the type in which for one shot a number of different flash tubes are time-serially fired and the amount of flash light emitted from each flash tube is controlled in accordance with a respective arbitrarily chosen individual value independently of the others.In the above-described arrangement, one and the same comparator is sufficient for controlling the firing operation of all the flash tubes, thereby giving an advantage of simplifying the construction of the apparatus.

Abstract: The arrangement of this invention includes circuitry for sequentially lighting a series of lamps, followed by extinguishing them in unison; said circuitry including, in association with each lamp, at least one bi-metallic element for controlling the opening or closing of a switch.

Abstract: An electronic flash device fires one or a pair of flash tube sequentially for continuous shooting photography with a motor driven photographic camera, for substantially continuous illumination or for sequential illuminations at intervals, as well as fire the flash tube a single time for one shot photography. The flash device is provided with a main capacitor and an auxiliary capacitor which selectively energize the flash tube or tubes. The auxiliary capacitor is charged by the main capacitor and discharged to energize the flash tube for a small amount of flash light and short-time restoration of the flash firing circuit. When a pair of flash tubes are employed, they are alternatively actuated for the sequential firing and one of them is actuated for the single time firing. The pair of flash tubes are coupled with each other through a commutation capacitor and switch elements for quick repetition of their firings.

Abstract: The present invention is an improved decorative light set with clusters of light bulbs, an electric circuit and a d.c. power source for actuating the bulbs of clusters of the light bulbs and the electric circuit, wherein the circuit has two oscillators for producing pulses, a comparator for comparing the pulses of the two oscillators, a decoder actuated by the comparator. Random output signals are output by the decoding means for lighting the bulbs randomly as if the light set is sparkling and twinkling without using a long extending wire from a power source.

Abstract: A fluorescent light source and power supply adapted therefore in which a set of three D.C. mercury discharge paths are provided adjacent each other in a single tubular envelope. A cathode is provided at the base end of each path and a single anode at the other end. The three discharge paths are isolated longitudially extended semi-circular glass insulator partitions. The power supply provides D.C. voltage across the anode and cathodes and a switching circuit which transfers energy from a transformer during portions of the switching cycle to efficiently power the tube.

Abstract: A flashtube circuit includes a switch which in a first position regulates the storage over time of energy in a first energy storage device and in a second position allows the transfer of energy from the first energy storage device to a second energy storage device. A microcontroller receives the input voltage and then samples and digitizes it for input into a lookup table. The microcontroller repeatedly cycles the switch between flashes by controlling the time the switch is in its first position. The lookup table output provides the signal for determining the time the switch remains in its first position. The time interval from the last flash controls the time the switch is in its second position. The cycling of the switch is controlled accordingly such that the second energy storage device acquires the predetermined amount of energy for the flash just as the triggering circuit is initiated by the microcontroller.