Lamp Dimmer Structure Patents (Class 323/905)
  • Patent number: 9741161
    Abstract: A method, system and medical imaging device include accessing a 3D medical imaging dataset and generating a volume-rendered image from the 3D medical imaging dataset. Generating the volume-rendered image includes calculating a shading for the volume-rendered image based on a first light source, a second light source, and a third light source. The second light source and the third light source are both positioned differently than the first light source. The method, system, and medical imaging device also include displaying the volume-rendered image.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2017
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventor: Gerald Schroecker
  • Patent number: 8988058
    Abstract: A two-wire load control device (such as, a dimmer switch) for controlling the amount of power delivered from an AC power source to an electrical load (such as, a high-efficiency lighting load) includes a thyristor coupled between the source and the load, a gate coupling circuit coupled between a first main load terminal and the gate of the thyristor, and a control circuit coupled to a control input of the gate coupling circuit. The control circuit generates a drive voltage for causing the gate coupling circuit to conduct a gate current to thus render the thyristor conductive at a firing time during a half cycle of the AC power source, and to allow the gate coupling circuit to conduct the gate current at any time from the firing time through approximately the remainder of the half cycle, where the gate coupling circuit conducts approximately no net average current to render and maintain the thyristor conductive.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2015
    Assignee: Lutron Electronics Co., Inc.
    Inventors: Robert C. Newman, Jr., Chris J. Salvestrini, Matthew V. Harte
  • Patent number: 8963449
    Abstract: A light emitting diode (LED) lighting system includes a power factor correction (PFC) controller that determines at least one power factor correction control parameter from phase delays of a phase modulated signal. In at least one embodiment, a peak voltage of the phase modulated signal is a PFC control parameter used by the PFC controller to control power factor correction and generation of a link voltage by a PFC LED driver circuit. The phase delays. are related to a peak voltage of the phase modulated signal. Thus, in at least one embodiment, detecting the phase delay in one or more cycles of the phase modulated signal allows the PFC controller to determine the peak voltage of the phase modulated signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2015
    Assignee: Cirrus Logic, Inc.
    Inventor: John L. Melanson
  • Patent number: 8957662
    Abstract: A two-wire load control device (such as, a dimmer switch) for controlling the amount of power delivered from an AC power source to an electrical load (such as, a high-efficiency lighting load) includes a thyristor coupled between the source and the load, a gate coupling circuit coupled between a first main load terminal and the gate of the thyristor, and a control circuit coupled to a control input of the gate coupling circuit. The control circuit generates a drive voltage for causing the gate coupling circuit to conduct a gate current to thus render the thyristor conductive at a firing time during a half cycle of the AC power source, and to allow the gate coupling circuit to conduct the gate current at any time from the firing time through approximately the remainder of the half cycle, where the gate coupling circuit conducts approximately no net average current to render and maintain the thyristor conductive.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2015
    Assignee: Lutron Electronics Co., Inc.
    Inventors: Robert C. Newman, Jr., Christopher J. Salvestrini, Matthew V. Harte
  • Patent number: 8892913
    Abstract: A load control device for control of the power delivered from an AC power source to an electrical load comprises a power supply and a microprocessor that is able to operate the load control device in a low-power mode. The load control device may further comprise at least one visual indicator controlled by the microprocessor to provide visual feedback, where the microprocessor illuminates the visual indicator when the load is on and to turns the visual indicator off when the load is off during the low-power mode. The load control device may comprise a communication circuit coupled to the microprocessor for transmitting and/or receiving digital messages the microprocessor cause the communication circuit to draw less current from the power supply during the low-power mode. The microprocessor may operate in the low-power mode if the magnitude of a voltage of the power supply drops below a predetermined threshold.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2014
    Assignee: Lutron Electronics Co., Inc.
    Inventors: Robert C. Newman, Jr., Christopher J. Salvestrini
  • Patent number: 8629660
    Abstract: A boost regulator is provided that has increased efficiency. The increased efficiency is provided by incorporating a sensing circuit that senses when the current in the boost regulator's inductor is near zero or when the voltage at its switching node is near zero or virtual ground. A switching signal is provided to the boost regulator's switching transistor when the near zero current or voltage is sensed. Switching at the near zero current or voltage moment (the “critical conduction moment”) helps to eliminate or minimize the power loss associated with switching the transistor at a time other than during the critical conduction moment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2014
    Assignee: Maxim Integrated Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Mehmet K. Nalbant
  • Patent number: 8604645
    Abstract: A supply arrangement, a supply unit and a method in which a switching element is connected in series to an operating voltage and an electrical load, wherein a supply unit supplies an electronic unit with power independently of the switching state of the switching element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2013
    Assignee: Enocean GmbH
    Inventor: Holger Alfons Eggert
  • Patent number: 8593129
    Abstract: A switching power supply includes a switch and a controller for dimming control of the switching power supply. The controller includes a phase angle measurement block and a drive logic block. The phase angle measurement block is coupled to receive an input sense signal. The phase angle measurement block generates a phase angle signal representative of a phase angle of an input voltage of the power supply in response to the input sense signal. The drive logic block is coupled to control switching of the switch. The drive logic block controls the switch in a closed loop dimming control when the phase angle is less than or equal to a phase threshold and in a open loop dimming control when the phase angle is greater than the phase threshold.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2013
    Assignee: Power Integrations, Inc.
    Inventors: Yury Gaknoki, Mingming Mao
  • Patent number: 8593842
    Abstract: A dimming power supply includes a power source, a transformer, a full bridge rectifier and a control switch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2013
    Assignee: Innovate, LLC
    Inventors: Laurence P. Sadwick, Mohammad M. Mojarradi
  • Patent number: 8294372
    Abstract: An online time dimmer is disclosed, which comprises a base, an electric circuit unit lodged in the base and a top cover joined with the base correspondingly. The electric circuit unit is functionally made up of a dimmer circuit and a time circuit, and structurally comprises a power switch and a time switch, which are activated by a switch button and a time button respectively. When in use, one end of the unit connects electrically to a power supply through electric wires and a plug, while the other end to a lighting load through electric wires. Once depressing the switch button will in turn press the power switch, which activates power-on, power-off and the adjustment of brightness operated on the lighting load through the dimmer circuit. And depressing the time button will in turn press the time switch, which enables the time circuit to operate time setting on the lighting load.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2012
    Assignee: Sun-Lite Sockets Industry, Inc.
    Inventor: Wen-Ho Yang
  • Patent number: 8242766
    Abstract: A controller for dimming control of a switching power supply includes a phase angle measurement block and a drive logic block. The phase angle measurement block is to be coupled to receive an input sense signal. The phase angle measurement block generates a phase angle signal representative of a phase angle of an input voltage of the power supply in response to the input sense signal. The drive logic block is to be coupled to control switching of a switch included in the power supply. The drive logic block controls the switch in a closed loop dimming control when the phase angle is less than or equal to a phase threshold and in a open loop dimming control when the phase angle is greater than the phase threshold.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Assignee: Power Integrations, Inc.
    Inventors: Yury Gaknoki, Mingming Mao
  • Patent number: 8040078
    Abstract: A LED dimming circuit is provided. The LED dimming circuit has an LED driver, an LED dimmer, and at least one LED light source. A resistor is connected between a dimming control output of the LED dimmer and dimming control input of the LED dimmer. The LED dimming circuit may optionally include a fluorescent slide dimmer. The fluorescent slide dimmer may have a first connection to the dimming control input of the LED dimmer and a second connection to a circuit common of the LED dimmer. A method of providing an LED dimming circuit for dimming at least one LED light source using a fluorescent dimmer is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2011
    Assignee: Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V.
    Inventors: David W. Knoble, Khosrow Jamasbi
  • Patent number: 8003904
    Abstract: A dimmer switch includes a first switch for coupling to a power source, a second switch, a dimmer module, and a main actuator movable between an operational position and a disconnected position. The main actuator includes a first switch actuator and a second switch actuator. The first switch may be a normally-closed air-gap switch including a lever in contact with the first switch actuator. Movement of the main actuator between the operational position and the disconnected position is effective to open the switch. The main actuator is pivotally and slidably coupled to a frame. A coupling between the main actuator and the frame includes a pivot in a pivot holder; a partial cylindrical surface of the pivot is in contact with a surface of the pivot holder which includes a first portion having a partial cylindrical surface and a second portion having a ramp surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2011
    Assignee: Leviton Manufacturing Co., Inc.
    Inventor: Yun Wu
  • Patent number: 7960963
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for providing a selected amount of power from a power source to a load produce a pseudo random code sequence of different type bits, in which one type of the different type bits is used to control application of power from the source to the load so that the power applied to the load corresponds to the total of the number of the bits of one type applied to the load in a given time period. A plurality of code sequences is provided, with each corresponding to a different power level, and a sequence can be selected to provide a selected power level to the load.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2011
    Assignee: National Semiconductor Corporation
    Inventor: Richard F. Zarr
  • Patent number: 7924584
    Abstract: A power supply and methods are provided. The power supply includes a bi-forward converter and a feed forward circuit. The bi-forward converter is operable to convert an input voltage into an output voltage. The feed forward circuit is operable to detect a peak voltage associated with the input voltage, and the bi-forward converter is further operable to adjust the output voltage responsive to the peak voltage detected by the feed forward circuit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2011
    Assignee: Marvell International Ltd.
    Inventors: Hubertus Notohamiprodjo, Liang Chen
  • Patent number: 7834560
    Abstract: A dimming system and method of operating the same are provided. The dimming system includes a first terminal configured to operatively connect to a first conductive line, a second terminal configured to operatively connect to a second conductive line, and a third terminal configured to operatively connect to a third conductive line. The first conductive line is configured to connect to a load, the second conductive line is configured to supply an alternating current, and the third conductive line is configured to connect to a current path. The dimming system further includes a controller operatively connected to at least one of the first, second and third terminals for controlling operation of the dimming system. The first and second terminals are configured for electrically connecting to a primary power supply and the first and third terminals are configured for electrically connecting to a secondary power supply.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Assignee: Leviton Manufacturing Co., Inc.
    Inventors: Michael Ostrovsky, Parimal R. Patel, Eugene Frid
  • Patent number: 7804255
    Abstract: A dimming system and method of operating the same are provided. The dimming system includes a first terminal configured to operatively connect to a first conductive line, a second terminal configured to operatively connect to a second conductive line, and a third terminal configured to operatively connect to a third conductive line. The first conductive line is configured to connect to a load, the second conductive line is configured to supply an alternating current, and the third conductive line is configured to connect to a current path. The dimming system further includes a controller operatively connected to at least one of the first, second and third terminals for controlling operation of the dimming system. The first and second terminals are configured for electrically connecting to a primary power supply and the first and third terminals are configured for electrically connecting to a secondary power supply.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2010
    Assignee: Leviton Manufacturing Company, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael Ostrovsky, Parimal R. Patel, Eugene Frid
  • Patent number: 7546473
    Abstract: A power supply for a two-wire load control device supplies power to a microprocessor, which in turn controls the power supply. The power supply comprises an energy storage element, e.g., a capacitor, for producing a DC voltage for powering the microprocessor. The power supply comprises a high impedance circuit for allowing the energy storage element to receive energy at a first rate before the DC voltage is produced and the microprocessor is powered. The power supply further comprises a low-impedance circuit, i.e., a resistor in series electrical connection with a controllably conductive device, for allowing the energy storage element to receive energy at a second rate greater than the first rate. After starting up, the microprocessor is operable to selectively enable and disable the second energy-receiving circuit by rendering the controllably conductive device conductive and non-conductive, respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 9, 2009
    Assignee: Lutron Electronics Co., Inc.
    Inventor: Robert C Newman
  • Patent number: 7489499
    Abstract: A captured offset linear guide system for a lighting control device includes a faceplate having an elongated slot, a knob, an offset member, and a linear potentiometer. The offset member allows the linear potentiometer to be offset from the elongated slot of the faceplate to prevent dirt and dust from collecting on the potentiometer. Also, the offset linear guide system prevents insertion of an object into the internal structure of the lighting control device where it might come into contact with energized electrical components. The faceplate includes two guide rails, which hold the offset member close to the faceplate and allow for easy assembly of the faceplate to the lighting control device. Further, the faceplate includes an alignment rail, which prevents the offset member from rotating and further constrains the offset member to move in a straight line within the slot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2009
    Assignee: Lutron Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Ryan L Abel
  • Patent number: 7479744
    Abstract: A circuit for controlling the power in a load supplied by an A.C. voltage and directly connected to a first terminal of application of the A.C. voltage, including two isolated-gate bipolar transistors, connected in anti-parallel between a second terminal of application of the A.C. voltage and the load; circuitry for detecting the zero crossing of the A.C. supply voltage in a first direction; circuitry for generating, at each period of the supply voltage, a pulse of predetermined duration for controlling a first one of said transistors, the time of occurrence of the pulse being conditioned by the detection of the zero crossing of the A.C. voltage and by a desired power reference setting a variable delay of occurrence of the pulse with respect to the detected zero crossing; and circuitry for inverting and transferring said pulse to the second transistor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2009
    Assignee: STMicroelectronics S.A.
    Inventors: Raynald Achart, Laurent Gonthier
  • Patent number: 7441923
    Abstract: An operating room light fixture with a light fixture housing, in which at least one lighting unit with at least one light source is arranged, with a handle, which is arranged on a side of the light fixture housing facing the operating area, wherein the handle comprises a control element for setting and/or adjusting the luminous intensity of the light source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2008
    Assignee: Dräger Medical AG & Co. KGaA
    Inventors: Margret Hünerbein, Ryzard Kummerfeld, Georg Schlör, Joachim Schröter, Ingolf Diez
  • Patent number: 7401944
    Abstract: An operating room light fixture having a first lighting unit including a first light source and an external reflector, a second lighting unit including a second light source and an internal reflector, and a control unit. The second lighting unit is positioned in front of the first lighting unit with respect to the direction in which the light emerges from the light fixture. The control unit may be actuated by a rotary element located in a handle of the light fixture. A heat reflection filter may be provided for adjusting the color temperature of the light fixture to a desired value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2008
    Assignee: Dräger Medical AG & Co. KGaA
    Inventors: Margret Hünerbein, Ryzard Kummerfeld, Georg Schlör, Joachim Schröter, Ingolf Diez
  • Patent number: 7388337
    Abstract: A fluorescent lamp lighting apparatus according to the present invention comprises an initial illuminance correction control circuit which sets a fluorescent lamp to an initial illuminance correction control lighting mode, a switching portion which changes the fluorescent lamp from the initial illuminance correction control lighting mode to an external control dimming mode when a predetermined external dimming signal is detected, and a control portion which gradually dimming so as to achieve a dimming level of a switched mode when switching the initial illuminance correction control lighting mode and the external control dimming mode, and control so as to achieve a dimming level corresponding to a cumulative lighting time of the fluorescent lamp when the changed mode is the initial illuminance correction control lighting mode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2008
    Assignee: Toshiba Lighting & Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Koji Takahasi, Toshiyuki Hiraoka, Noriyuki Kitamura, Naoko Iwai, Kazuyuki Uratani, Shinji Nogi, Toru Ishikita, Isao Yamazaki
  • Patent number: 7371963
    Abstract: An object of the present invention is to provide a photovoltaic power generation system which is capable of achieving system linkage of a plurality of solar cell strings having different output voltages to a commercial electric power system with ease, and which enables efficient use of the maximum output electric power. It is a photovoltaic power generation system characterized by disposing voltage regulating means that regulates a DC voltage outputted from non-standard solar cell string between a standard solar cell string and electric power converting means, and regulating an output voltage of the non-standard solar cell string to the side of an output voltage of the standard solar cell string by the use of the voltage regulating means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2008
    Assignee: Kyocera Corporation
    Inventors: Takashi Suenaga, Taneo Higuchi
  • Patent number: 7288902
    Abstract: A method and system allow a lighting device having light sources with multiple color temperatures to vary a color temperature of the lighting device in response to changing dimming levels. The light sources are non-incandescent light sources, such as light emitting diodes and/or gas-discharge lights. A dimmer circuit provides a dimming signal that indicates a selected dimming level. The lighting device includes a light source driver and a light source driver controller that cooperate to vary drive currents to the light sources in response to the selected dimming level. By varying the drive currents in different relative amounts, the color temperature of the lighting device changes in response to dimming level changes. In at least one embodiment, changes in the color temperature of the lighting device in response to the dimming level changes simulates the color temperature changes of an incandescent light source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2007
    Assignee: Cirrus Logic, Inc.
    Inventor: John L. Melanson
  • Patent number: 7120035
    Abstract: An integrated circuit inverter controller that includes at least one input pin that is configured to receive two or more input signals. The input pin may be multiplexed so that the appropriate input signal is directed to appropriate circuitry within the controller to support two or more functions of the controller. Alternatively, the input signals may be present in differing time periods so that a single pin can support two or more functions. Multifunctional or multitasked pins reduce the overall pin count of the inverter controller.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2006
    Assignee: O2Micro International Limited
    Inventors: Yung-Lin Lin, Da Liu
  • Patent number: 7102902
    Abstract: The AC output from a source is rectified and applied to a resistor/Zener diode circuit connection which determines the magnitude of the rectified voltage applied via a circuit to a first MOSFET device. The inverted output of the first MOSFET device is applied to the gate electrode of a second MOSFET device in a manner such that the second MOSFET device is ON even when the AC output passes through zero. The output of the second MOSFET device is connected to a resistor which determines the magnitude of the load applied to the dimmer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2006
    Assignee: Ledtronics, Inc.
    Inventors: Emery Alan Brown, Pervaiz Lodhie
  • Patent number: 6982858
    Abstract: An electronic power-saving power control circuit for connection between a single-phase power supply and a lighting fixture to control the output of power supply to the lighting fixture is disclosed to include a CPU (central processing unit), a power voltage detector, a silicon controlled semiconductor circuit, a current phase detector, a trigger circuit, a resistor, a current detector, and a DC power supply circuit. The electronic power-saving power control circuit saves the consumption of power supply by dropping the voltage without affecting normal working of the lighting fixture at the load and, achieves an overcurrent protection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2006
    Assignee: Digitek Technology Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Te-Fu Shih
  • Patent number: 6975078
    Abstract: A dimming-control lighting apparatus for an incandescent electric lamp with less accompanying color temperature change, using a dimming power source installed in TV studios or theater stages, is disclosed. The voltage of the first filament whose rated voltage is lower than the maximum output voltage of a dimming power source rapidly rises to the sawtooth voltage of the dimming power source, and after the first filament reaches a constant color temperature, the output of the second filament having the same rated voltage as the maximum output voltage of the dimming power source is delayed to thereby light the second filament.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2005
    Assignees: Nippon Hosos Kyokai, Marumo Electric Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Naoki Yanai, Saburo Kimura, Hiroshi Kita, Hidemitsu Yamazuka
  • Patent number: 6900993
    Abstract: An integrated circuit inverter controller that includes at least one input pin that is configured to receive two or more input signals. The input pin may be multiplexed so that the appropriate input signal is directed to appropriate circuitry within the controller to support two or more functions of the controller. Alternatively, the input signals may be present in differing time periods so that a single pin can support two or more functions. Multifunctional or multitasked pins reduce the overall pin count of the inverter controller.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2005
    Assignee: O2Micro International Limited
    Inventors: Yung-Lin Lin, Da Liu
  • Patent number: 6856519
    Abstract: An integrated circuit inverter controller that includes at least one input pin that is configured to receive two or more input signals. The input pin may be multiplexed so that the appropriate input signal is directed to appropriate circuitry within the controller to support two or more functions of the controller. Alternatively, the input signals may be present in differing time periods so that a single pin can support two or more functions. Multifunctional or multitasked pins reduce the overall pin count of the inverter controller.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2005
    Assignee: O2Micro International Limited
    Inventors: Yung-Lin Lin, Da Liu
  • Patent number: 6609804
    Abstract: A low voltage ceiling or wall mounted light fixture for residential and commercial lighting includes a plurality of high lumen white LED lights incorporated within the fixtures, a light color diffusion panel and a household current to low voltage DC converter within the fixture to convert the AC current to low voltage DC current, reducing the power required for illumination without replacement of the LED lights.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2003
    Inventors: Steven T. Nolan, Donald R. Hebert
  • Patent number: 6469457
    Abstract: Improvements to lighting systems, especially for entertainment and architectural applications are disclosed, including apparatus that permit a user to readily field-configure power distribution to branch circuits to be dimmed or un-dimmed, single- or multi-phase, as required; communication of data over existing power wiring by variations in output of dimmers; and improved methods for generating, managing, and distributing data specifying the physical and electrical configurations of a lighting system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2002
    Inventor: Michael Callahan
  • Patent number: 6459250
    Abstract: A circuit board provides a first elevation adapted for printing and bonding of conductor and resistor traces and monolithic ceramic capacitors, and provides through holes adapted for locating conductors. A second elevation is adapted for location and containment of a semiconductor quadrac. A third elevation is adapted for location and containment of a circuit board which is selectively adjustable through an R-C network coupled between the semiconductor quadrac and an input power source. An electric phase control uses mechanical movement for actuation. Provision is provided for mounting the phase control mechanism and the circuit so as to be manually accessed. A planar switch cover plate is adapted for sliding engagement, in parallel juxtaposition, with the mounting devices, the switch cover plate further adapted for engagement with the phase control mechanism for actuation through sliding engagement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2002
    Inventor: Ralph K. Davis
  • Patent number: 6400098
    Abstract: A dimmer for controlling AC power to a lighting load provides a leading power factor by initiating conduction through an electronic switch at each zero crossing of the line current. The dimmer delivers current to the lighting load in a sequence of pulses where each pulse corresponds to a portion of one AC half wave. A variable resistance that alters a voltage signal delivered to an integrated circuit permits the user to determine the duration of each pulse and thus vary the power delivered to the lighting load. The dimmer is provided with over current protection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2002
    Assignee: Sonlex Limited
    Inventor: King Kwok Pun
  • Patent number: 6356038
    Abstract: An AC controller which provides programmable switching of AC power flow, together with producing a source of DC power for operating the AC controller. The AC controller is connected in series with only one side of the AC power source and the AC load. The AC controller utilizes a thyristor for AC power control switching. During the operation, the AC controller steals a small portion of each half-cycle of the AC power to provide DC power to the AC controller. The AC controller enables the flow of AC current by providing a gate current pulse at any predetermined time during the half cycle. Once the thyristor is ON, the AC current flows through the thyristor until the AC cycle is at or near zero. To provide an OFF state, the AC controller does not provide a gate current pulse. The AC controller uses an microcontroller for the programmable capability.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 20, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2002
    Inventor: Richard A. Bishel
  • Patent number: 6211627
    Abstract: Improvements to lighting systems, especially for entertainment and architectural applications are disclosed, including apparatus that permit a user to readily field-configure power distribution to branch circuits to be dimmed or un-dimmed, single- or multi-phase, as required; communication of data over existing power wiring by variations in output of dimmers; and improved methods for generating, managing, and distributing data specifying the physical and electrical configurations of a lighting system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2001
    Inventor: Michael Callahan
  • Patent number: 6144568
    Abstract: The invention relates to a circuit arrangement for operating electrical lamps which encompasses an invertor (WR) with oscillation build-up circuit (trigger generator), comprising diac (DC1) and drive circuit. The drive circuit comprises a high-pass filter, in particular an RC high-pass filter (R1, C1). As a result, the trigger initiation is shifted closer to the zero crossing of the supply voltage. This means, in turn, that a more sinusoidal power supply current consumption with a smaller proportion of harmonics is obtained. In addition, more stable lamp operation is achieved in combination with power supply segment control dimmers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2000
    Assignee: Patent-Treuhand-Gesellschaft fuer elektrische Gluehlampen mbH
    Inventors: Felix Franck, Theodor Kiermeier
  • Patent number: 6144539
    Abstract: An arrangement for protecting low-voltage control circuitry from externally applied high voltages comprises a voltage source (30) and a current-sourcing circuit (40). Current-sourcing circuit (40) provides current to an external controller (18) in a normal manner when an external source of high voltage is not applied to the output connections (42,44), protects itself (40) and the voltage source (30) from damage when an external source of high voltage is applied to the output connections (42,44), and provides current to the external controller (18) in a normal manner after the external source of high voltage is subsequently removed from the output connections (42,44). The arrangement may be employed as the dimming interface circuit (900) of an electronic dimming ballast (60) for gas discharge lamps to protect ballast circuitry from damage due to wiring errors during installation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2000
    Assignee: Osram Sylvania Inc.
    Inventors: John G. Konopka, Sameer Sodhi
  • Patent number: 6138241
    Abstract: An apparatus for and method of inhibiting and overriding the normal operating mode of one or more input devices connected to a communications network. The present invention functions within an electrical network made up of a plurality of input devices wherein a group of input devices is capable of commanding an electrical control device to apply and remove electrical power from an electrical load connected thereto. The input devices or nodes communicate with the electrical control device over a communications network. When one of the input devices is turned off, the normal operating mode of all the other input sensors is inhibited. The electrical control device remains inhibited until all the input devices are no longer in the off position. Thus, electrical power to the load controlled by the electrical control device remains disconnected until all input devices are in the on position. Local and remote signaling, control and indication diagnostic and monitoring functions are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2000
    Assignee: Leviton Manufacturing Co., Inc.
    Inventors: David P. Eckel, Gaetano Bonasia
  • Patent number: 6107787
    Abstract: Dashboard dimmer light circuit for a vehicle, for example a car or truck. A power supply 10 provides a step-function voltage signal to an op-amp oscillator circuit 20 which provides a triangular voltage oscillation signal to an op-amp level comparator 40 which, in turn, compares the triangular voltage oscillation signal to a voltage reference for providing a pulse-width-modulated (PWM) voltage signal to a power FET driver 70 which, in turn, responds to the pulse-width-modulated voltage signal by providing a current signal to an automobile dashboard dimmer light 80. Features of the invention include a) a dashboard dimmer light having a stable oscillator frequency, b) PWM duty cycle stability in a dashboard dimmer light, c) efficient accomplishment of the invention's oscillator and level comparator functions within a single IC, d) reduction of electromagnetic interference which might otherwise intefere with other electronic equipment in the dashboard.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2000
    Assignee: Methode Electronics, Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas J. Wand
  • Patent number: 6091238
    Abstract: The present invention incorporates a system for varying the output signal and regulating the power consumed by an electrical device. It achieves its purpose by moving a magnet relative to a Hall effect sensor which is responsive to an intersecting magnetic field. The Hall effect sensor creates an electrical output signal which determines the input signal of an output element of the device. The electrical Hall effect sensor signal thereby controls the output signal emitted by the electrical output element. The magnet is moved using a movable element. Since the location and movement of the magnet regulates the Hall effect sensor output signal, the output signal of the electrical device as well as its rate of change are regulated using the movable element. In order to conserve power the Hall effect sensor element is usually not energized when the device is in the "off" mode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2000
    Assignee: Kevin McDermott
    Inventor: Damien McDermott
  • Patent number: 6072304
    Abstract: An improved trigger circuitry for a high side thyristor application having a thyristor connected to an A/C line, a capacitor connected across the A/C line to A/C neutral through impedance, an electronic switch connected from the thyristor to the junction of the capacitor and associate impedance. During the positive portion of the A/C cycle, the thyristor is triggered in quadrant III via the switch and the capacitor is charged. During the negative portion of the A/C cycle, the discharge of the capacitor triggers quadrant II of the thyristor via the switch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2000
    Assignee: Regent Lighting Corporation
    Inventor: Jeff Duve
  • Patent number: 6020659
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an electronic switch system for controlling AC power to a load. The switch has ON, OFF and RAMP down modes that can be selected by means of momentary touch switches. When put into the RAMP down mode, the power to the load decreases slowly at a gradual continuous uninterrupted predetermined rate. This switch system has particular utility in brightness control of lamps. It has been found that the use of a lamp controlled by an electronic switch of the present invention often will induce sleep for people that have difficulty going to sleep, particularly young children and older persons. Thus the electronic switch system and devices embodying this system are particularly useful in a method to induce sleep.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 1996
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2000
    Assignee: Primed Products Inc.
    Inventors: Jonathan Crowther, Earl T. Jackson
  • Patent number: 6005308
    Abstract: An electrical switch and dimmer device for controlling current applied to a load comprises a bezel assembly (16) which includes a bezel housing (17), a switch actuator (18) and a dimmer actuator (19). The bezel housing supports both switch and dimmer actuators for respective movement between first and second positions, whereby the on/off state of an electrical switch adapted to apply power to an electrical load (e.g. an electric light or fan) is controllable, as is the level of power applied to the load by the switch. The bezel housing and the switch/dimmer actuators which it supports comprise a self-contained assembly which can be releasably connected to a yoke member (20) on which an electrical switch and dimmer circuitry are mounted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 1993
    Date of Patent: December 21, 1999
    Assignee: Lutron Electronics Co., Inc.
    Inventors: Gary William Bryde, James Edgar Swain, John Roderick Woodman, Mark Andrew Cieri
  • Patent number: 5932973
    Abstract: An incandescent lamp has an attachment for connection to a two-wire electrical power line and a bulb containing a radiating element. At least two filaments are housed in the bulb and constitute the radiating element, and circuitry has an input connected to the electrical power line and an output connected to filaments. When a selection signal indicating the desired brightness is passed to circuitry, preferably along the electrical power line, and acts in such a way that circuitry selectively provides a feed to filaments on the basis of the selection signal, a change in brightness is obtained without deterioration of the color characteristics because the filaments operate under their rated operating conditions. The change in brightness will not be continuous, but discrete, but is more than acceptable for domestic requirements even with a small number of filaments.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 1996
    Date of Patent: August 3, 1999
    Assignee: STMicroelectronics, S.r.l.
    Inventor: Massimo Cecchetti
  • Patent number: 5821703
    Abstract: A lighting system made up of a plurality of light fixtures which each produce a light beam, in which each of a plurality of varying devices, each having an input and an output, and each capable of varying at least one parameter of the light beam from at least one of the light fixtures, is responsive to a first value received at the input, where the first value corresponds to the desired adjustment of a parameter of the light beam. Each of the varying devices is also capable of generating a second value which represents status information, and transmitting the second value via the output. A controller produces the first value and sends it to an output which is coupled to the input of the varying device. A monitoring device has an input and is separate from the controller, and its input is coupled to the output of the varying device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 13, 1998
    Inventors: Michael Callahan, John K. Chester, Robert M. Goddard
  • Patent number: 5811963
    Abstract: A line powered supply for a wall mounted lighting load control system includes a power MOSFET in series with a load control relay and a second MOSFET in parallel with the load control relay. When the lighting load is off, the MOSFET in parallel with the load relay is selectively opened to charge a capacitor feeding a regulator used to provide control system power. When the lights are on, the capacitor provides control system power. The MOSFET in series with the load control relay is open circuited to provide AC to recharge the capacitor whenever the regulator drop out voltage is reached. The MOSFET conducts for all but a very small portion of the AC cycle so that substantially all the AC power is applied to the lighting load. A second AC to DC power converter uses similar MOSFET switching to use partial AC voltage cycles to charge a capacitor and provide low voltage DC power from higher AC voltages.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 22, 1998
    Assignee: Novitas Incorporated
    Inventor: Brian E. Elwell
  • Patent number: 5789908
    Abstract: A dimmer rack utilizes removable connector modules for interfacing the rack to various types of standard electrical connectors in pre-existing lighting systems. The dinner rack includes a front bay for receiving dimmer modules, a rear bay for receiving the connector modules, and a patch panel for routing electrical power from the dimmer modules to the connector modules. Each connector module includes a rear panel having a connector for connecting the module to the patch panel and a front panel having a standard electrical connector for connecting the module to a lighting system. The connector modules can be fabricated with various types of standard electrical connectors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 1996
    Date of Patent: August 4, 1998
    Assignee: NSI Corporation
    Inventor: Craig LeVasseur
  • Patent number: 5751116
    Abstract: An apparatus for retrofitting an HID light fixture is described in several embodiments. The apparatus is coupled in series with the secondary winding and the HID lamp of the HID light fixture. A first retrofit capacitor replaces the light fixture capacitor of the HID light fixture. A switching device is coupled in series with a second retrofit capacitor and couples the first and second retrofit capacitors in parallel in response to a normal power mode control input so that the HID lamp provides normal intensity lighting at normal power. The switching device uncouples the first and second retrofit capacitors from being in parallel in response to a low power mode control input so that the HID lamp provides low intensity lighting at low power.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 1995
    Date of Patent: May 12, 1998
    Inventors: Larry A. Thomas, Kelly B. McMahon