Periodic Or Flashing Patents (Class 340/331)
  • Patent number: 5686881
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a first automatic phone light system (110) functioning to turn a light (14) ON, in response to a telephone call received by a telephone line (16A), for a preset period of time predetermined by a timer (24) when a photocell (20) detects darkness in a room. The first automatic phone light system (110) comprises a housing (12) having a converter module (22) electrically connected to the light (14) having the timer (24) with the photocell (20) electrically connected therebetween. The converter module (22) is electrically connected to power connector (18A) which is electrically connectable to power (18). A power switch (18B) is electrically connected between the power connector (18A) and the converter module (22). A first telephone line connector receptacle (116AAA) is electrically connected to the converter module (22).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 11, 1997
    Inventor: John G. Ridout
  • Patent number: 5684452
    Abstract: A multi-purposes warning device includes a battery container, a tube threadedly engaged to an end of the battery container and a flash bulb disposed in the tube, a bracket pivotally engaged to the tube and a flashlight head pivotally engaged to the bracket, a socket slidably mounted to the battery container and the tube, three feet each has an end pivotally connected to the socket and a stick respectively and pivotally connected between the inner side of each of the feet and an outer periphery of the battery container, such that the three feet can be arranged to be a triangle warning sign and the flash bulb provides a flash light.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 4, 1997
    Inventor: Shiunn-terny Wang
  • Patent number: 5659287
    Abstract: There is provided a synchronous strobe system for synchronizing a flash rate of a plurality of strobe devices positioned along a loop of an alarm system. After the alarm system is energized and activated, a control panel of the synchronous strobe system will transmit a synchronization signal or pulse along the loop at periodic time intervals. Each synchronization signal is detected by a electronic circuit of the strobe device, including a microcontroller. Upon detection of each synchronization signal, the microcontroller determines whether to operate the strobe device in Sync required mode or Sync not required mode. For Sync required mode, the synchronization signal must be detected by the strobe device to flash a strobe light of the strobe device. Otherwise, the microcontroller waits for the next synchronization signal before attempting to flash the strobe light.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 1995
    Date of Patent: August 19, 1997
    Assignee: General Signal Corporation
    Inventors: Richard Joseph Donati, John Finley Zeigler, III
  • Patent number: 5644291
    Abstract: A system and method for generating and broadcasting emergency lighting signals wherein the lights are synchronized such that when a first light is energized with a packet of short, rapid bursts, a second light begins to flash before the first light is de-energized. Control circuitry connected to the power source selectively controls the packetized energization of the light sources and includes timing circuitry for periodically energizing a first of the light sources for a first duration and for energizing a second of the light source for a second duration. The second duration overlaps, but is not coincident with the first duration in a repeating pattern such that the first and second sources are periodically energized simultaneously before the first source is de-energized.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 1995
    Date of Patent: July 1, 1997
    Assignee: Federal Signal Corporation
    Inventor: Jacek J. Jozwik
  • Patent number: 5642092
    Abstract: An automatic evacuation assistance system, for assisting animals or people in existing a structure includes an event detector, such as a smoke detector for providing an event detection signal. The event detection signal is received by an exit control device which is coupled to an exit opening, for allowing the exit opening to open, providing an exit path to the outside of a structure. A sensory attractant transmitter transmits a sensory attractant in the form of a sound, smell, or visual signals to attract the person or animals to the exit path and exit opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 1995
    Date of Patent: June 24, 1997
    Inventors: Grace Dunne, Kathleen M. Stanton
  • Patent number: 5640141
    Abstract: A surveillance and alarm device for room spaces, comprising an infrared radar for controlling the lights as well as a fire and burglar alarm. A basic alarm is provided with a light controller to be connected in series with a ceiling light fixture in a room under surveillance, and is further provided with a microprocessor or some other intelligent control circuit, adapted to control the alarm actions of said device either on the basis of a command issued by a lamp light switch or a wireless remote controller or on the basis of a command issued by a key switch. The light controller included in the basic alarm switches on said lighting fixture as someone enters a room under surveillance or flashes said lighting fixture in connection with an alarm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 1994
    Date of Patent: June 17, 1997
    Inventor: Matti Myllymaki
  • Patent number: 5638047
    Abstract: A remote annunciator system in which the emission of an acoustic signal by a first annunciator is detected by an acoustic signal detector which causes a radio frequency transmitter to transmit a radio frequency signal. A radio frequency receiver which receives the signal operates a second annunciator which is remote from the first annunciator, to cause the second annunciator to emit an audible or visual signal. Preferably, the radio frequency signal is encoded and is decoded at the receiver, and if the first annunciator can emit two different accoustic signals, the transmitted signal is encoded dependent upon which acoustic signal is emitted and the receiver decoder causes the second annunciator to emit an audible signal or a visual signal which depends on the transmitted signal encoding.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 1995
    Date of Patent: June 10, 1997
    Assignee: Fred M. Schildwachter & Sons, Inc.
    Inventors: Leslie M. Orloff, Gary Paley, David T. Waugh
  • Patent number: 5633623
    Abstract: A safety device in the form of a compact, battery-operated, personal signalling system for providing light signals for personnel monitoring and detection purposes while operating under hazardous conditions. The device includes a light source that can emit either visible light or non-visible infrared light as periodic flashes. A light emission multiplier is provided between the light source and a protective, overlying panel to increase the visibility of the emitted light. The light emission multiplier is in the form of a thin sheet of vinyl plastic that includes a plurality of pyramidal microprisms on an outwardly facing surface. The microprisms operate to multiply the number of light emission points, thereby increasing the visibility of the safety device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 1995
    Date of Patent: May 27, 1997
    Inventor: James P. Campman
  • Patent number: 5621379
    Abstract: An emergency locator signal light system, suitable for installation at a residence or business, which in a monitor mode is responsive to the dialing of a predetermined emergency telephone number, such as "911", to enter a command mode. In the command mode, the system is responsive to predetermined tone dialing signal sequences, which are herein termed "Star Codes", to activate an included signal light device. Exemplary "Star Codes" are "*1" for a medical emergency, whereupon red and white lights alternately flash; "*2" for a fire emergency, whereupon a white light flashes; and "*3" for a police emergency, whereupon blue and white lights alternately flash. The "Star Codes" can be dialed either locally from any telephone set or other dialing device at the residence or business from which the "911" emergency call is placed, or by an emergency telecommunicator who makes a decision to activate the flashing lamps in view of the nature of a particular emergency following a verbal description by an emergency caller.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 15, 1997
    Inventor: Sean Collins
  • Patent number: 5602522
    Abstract: A visual signaling system is provided incorporating strobe light means which emits flashes of light at a constant rate, as distinguished from a random rate, despite variations in input voltage applied to the system. The system enables predetermined signals to be perceived by persons in high decibel areas or by heating impaired persons, and multiple signaling units may be incorporated in a multistation system whereby the strobe lights in each of the signaling units all flash simultaneously at a synchronized rate, as distinguished from independently or at random rates.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 1994
    Date of Patent: February 11, 1997
    Assignee: Gentex Corporation
    Inventor: John R. Pacelli
  • Patent number: 5596310
    Abstract: A level of received light detected by a light-receiving means (R) is given to both an indication controller (11) and a transmitter (13). The indication controller (11) obtains a flashing frequency corresponding to the given received light level, and flashes an LED (12) at the frequency obtained. The received light level transmitted from a transmitter (13) is demodulated and decoded in a receiver (4) and then given to an indication controller (3). The indication controller (3) obtains a flashing frequency corresponding to the given received light level, and flashes an LED (2) at the frequency obtained. Thus, the operator can recognize the received light level readily and reliably.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 1995
    Date of Patent: January 21, 1997
    Assignee: Atsumi Electric Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Yuji Itoh
  • Patent number: 5586048
    Abstract: An intelligent wall switch incorporates a passive infrared sensor and a pressure pulse-wave sensor. A microcontroller monitors the sensor signals generated by the infrared sensor and the pressure pulse-wave sensor and calculates a weighted sum of the signals generated by the sensors. If the weighted sum calculated by the microcontroller exceeds a preset threshold the intelligent wall switch generates a signal indicative of human presence.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 1994
    Date of Patent: December 17, 1996
    Assignee: Vigilight Inc.
    Inventor: Michael Coveley
  • Patent number: 5583480
    Abstract: A visual display unit simulating a known OEM (original equipment manufacture) auto anti-theft alarm embodying a rotating on-off switch for a flashing LED which is not applicable for OEM use, but usable for the simulated unit since the locked auto in which the unit is observed prevents inspection that would reveal its true nature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 10, 1996
    Inventor: Joseph Bartos
  • Patent number: 5570077
    Abstract: A drive circuit for use with an ambient condition detector limits heat dissipation and associated temperature rises in the presence of varying RMS values of an applied AC signal. The drive circuit includes a voltage doubler with a current regulator located between first and second storage elements. In the presence of a sensed ambient condition, which exceeds a predetermined threshold the regulator is enabled permitting one of the storage elements to be charged to a voltage on the order of twice the peak value of the applied AC voltage. A digital timer is used to trigger a flashable visual indicator from the stored DC voltage. The regulator provides a substantially constant DC voltage to the visual indicator in the presence of a varying AC line voltage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 29, 1996
    Assignee: BRK Brands, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael A. Swieboda
  • Patent number: 5565839
    Abstract: A preferred form of a battery-powered, portable flashing superluminescent light-emitting diode safety warning light 10 is described having a single SLD 40 mounted at a shallow angle of between 3 and 22 degrees on a reflective printed circuit board 54. The SLD 40 has a narrow optical band width that is directed to a thin right angle lens 24 that is mounted in a curved condition between sidewalls 16 and 18. The lens 24 has a smooth outer surface 62 and a grooved inner surface 64. The inner surface 64 has parallel "V" shaped grooves formed therein that form linear prisms 76 that extend in a curved contour between the sidewalls 16 and 18. The light 10 has a battery-powered electrical circuit 50 for pulsing the SLD 40 at a frequency of between 1 and 3 Hz and with a pulse width of between 10 and 50 percent of the frequency period. The electrical circuit 50 utilizes a NPN transistor 98 that is mounted backwards for turning the SLD 40 OFF and ON during the duty cycle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 15, 1996
    Assignee: Grafon Corporartion
    Inventor: Glen T. Poss
  • Patent number: 5561414
    Abstract: A bicycle warning signal control device including a light emitting control circuit mounted within a casing and installed in a mounting hole on the rear side of a saddle, the light emitting control circuit comprising a control IC connected to a DC power supply through a vibration switch and at least one lamp controlled by the control IC to give a flashing warning signal when the vibration switch is vibrated during the running of the bicycle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 1, 1996
    Assignee: Yu Hsiang Chiu Enterprise Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Min-Yu Chin
  • Patent number: 5559492
    Abstract: In a building fire alarm system, the light strobes of a network of strobes are synchronized to flash simultaneously. Each strobe has a charging circuit to charge a capacitor which discharges through a flash tube. Once a capacitor is charged, the charging circuit is disabled. A synchronization pulse is applied through common power lines to trigger discharge of each strobe capacitor through the flash tube followed by recharging of the capacitor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 24, 1996
    Assignee: Simplex Time Recorder Co.
    Inventors: Albert J. Stewart, Lawrence G. Stanley
  • Patent number: 5552767
    Abstract: An assembly for detecting and signalling when an object enters a work zone including a plurality of transmitter-sensor pairs serially connected along a section of the work zone perimeter for detecting when an object passes therethrough. Once an object is detected, an optical warning signal is activated. The optical warning signal includes a primary strobe and a plurality of relay strobes positioned throughout the work zone. The primary strobe flashes at a predetermined flash rate which is detected by a photoelectric sensor in a nearby relay strobe. The nearby relay strobe begins flashing at the predetermined flash rate thereby activating another relay strobe in close proximity. This cascading strobe effect saturates the work zone.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 1994
    Date of Patent: September 3, 1996
    Inventor: John R. Toman
  • Patent number: 5521578
    Abstract: A combination address display device and doorbell control assembly are provided wherein the doorbell control assembly controls the supply of power to a backlighting assembly of the display device from existing wiring for the doorbell. The display device comprises a flat modular housing which pivots open to permit insertion of a display sandwich therein. The latter includes a sheet containing address numerals and the like a well as protective and appearance enhancing sheets. The backlighting assembly includes a reflector element having stepped openings therein in registration with the address numerals. The doorbell assembly includes a pair of lighted pushbuttons for controlling actuation of the doorbell and a lamp that directs a light beam below the assembly for use in finding one's keys or a similar purpose.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 1994
    Date of Patent: May 28, 1996
    Inventor: Ivan DelValle
  • Patent number: 5477205
    Abstract: An alarm system incorporates a three-position wall switch which replaces a conventional two position switch, connected in circuit with a conventional exterior light fixture. The conventional light bulb in the exterior fixture is replaced by an adapter to which is connected an alarm unit and which receives the exterior light bulb. The three-position switch operates the light bulb at one half normal intensity in its normal mode and in its alarm position illuminates the bulb at its rated intensity and at the same time activates the alarm unit. The alarm may include a strobe light and horn for providing a visual and audible alarm. The alarm unit fits within the exterior light fixture and may include an auxiliary switch to allow it to be enabled or disabled as desired, while allowing the light bulb to provide two levels of brightness.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 1993
    Date of Patent: December 19, 1995
    Inventor: Lawrence J. Burns
  • Patent number: 5477208
    Abstract: An emergency flasher circuit for use with motor vehicles comprising an emergency switch, a signal generator for generating a signal having a frequency of approximately 10 Hz, and logic circuitry for selectively applying the signal to the headlight(s), and/or to one or both of the left and right turn indicator lights, for alerting other drivers to the presence of the motor vehicle. Alternatively, an optical shutter may be connected to the logic circuitry, and the headlight(s) or one or both of the left and right turn indicator lights for causing light generated by the headlight(s) and/or the turn indicator lights to flash at approximately 10 Hz upon activation of the horn switch, for alerting other drivers to the presence of the motor vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 1994
    Date of Patent: December 19, 1995
    Inventors: Steven Henderson, David Kernaghan
  • Patent number: 5475361
    Abstract: The reflector of a strobe warning light for mounting on a wall has reflective surfaces for enhancing the amount of light projected into a sector defined by a horizontal reference plane and a vertical reference plane that intersect at the lamp axis, the lamp being oriented horizontally. Two wing-like reflective surfaces reflect light into a zone of the sector from 10 degrees to 40 degrees from the horizontal reference plane. Two other wing-like reflectors that adjoin the first two reflect light generally parallel to the lamp axis in opposite directions to increase the light intensity as the light is viewed from the sides. The wing-like reflective surfaces are located in diagonally opposite quadrants with respect to the horizontal reference plane and a plane at the lamp centerline perpendicular to the lamp axis, thereby leaving openings in the remaining two quadrants. A concave reflective surface behind the vertical reference plane reflects light away from the wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 1993
    Date of Patent: December 12, 1995
    Assignee: Wheelock, Inc.
    Inventors: John W. Curran, Luy Nguyen, Joseph Kosich
  • Patent number: 5469346
    Abstract: A device which can be set to start a light flashing unattended at a predetermined time. The device includes a light and a battery, together with a small electronic clock. The clock has a display for displaying a time, a memory for holding a settable alarm time, and alarm output terminals for outputting a signal at a pre-established time stored in the memory. An electronic control circuit receives the signal from the clock at the pre-established time, and causes the light to begin flashing at that time. In the embodiment shown here, the control circuit flashes the light for a predetermined time, and then turns the light off. In this embodiment the device includes a casing, and a switch mounted in the casing and electrically connected between the battery and the light. By this switch, the light can be turned on and off in a manner generally conventional for a flashlight.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 1993
    Date of Patent: November 21, 1995
    Assignee: Paul R. Haut
    Inventors: Paul R. Haut, William Schuster
  • Patent number: 5469157
    Abstract: A barricade light is retrofitted to receive a light emitting diode circuit. The circuit includes both a pulse activated switch and light sensitive switch for operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 1994
    Date of Patent: November 21, 1995
    Assignee: CBD, Inc.
    Inventors: Thom D. Carpenter, Lee R. Heimann
  • Patent number: 5453729
    Abstract: A solar warning device and in particular to one including: a solar chip device having a mushroom-like top with an annular flange and a rectangular recess for receiving solar cells, said rectangular recess being filled with silicon for fixing the solar cells in position, said solar chip device further having two downwardly extending legs; a reflecting device having a cylindrical casing with reflecting lines at an inner surface and a neck at a top, a light mounting disposed within said cylindrical casing and having a top plate, a base plate, a light-emitting diode fixing plate, and a pillar, said fixing plate being formed with a plurality of holes for keeping light-emitting diodes in place, a printed circuit board mounted under the base plate of said light mounting, and a conducting pin mounted on a positive pole of said printed circuit board and extending downwardly through said cylindrical casing; and a fixing device having a cylinder provided at a top with external threads adapted to engage with internal thr
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 1993
    Date of Patent: September 26, 1995
    Inventor: Chiu-Tsai Chu
  • Patent number: 5446349
    Abstract: A strobe alarm circuit which utilizes an optocoupler in the DC-to-DC converter portion of the circuit for repetitively connecting and disconnecting an energy-storing inductor across a DC power source. The light-emitting diode portion of the optocoupler is connected in parallel with a resistor network which continuously monitors the current flowing through the inductor; when the inductor current has attained a value at which the sum of the voltages developed across the resistors of the network is sufficient to turn on the LED, the switch portion of the optocoupler is turned on and disconnects the inductor from across the source. A thermistor connected in parallel with one of the resistors of the resistor network compensates for changes in values of the elements of the optocoupler which may occur due to temperature changes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 1994
    Date of Patent: August 29, 1995
    Assignee: Wheelock Inc.
    Inventors: Kenneth J. Bocan, David M. Stuntz
  • Patent number: 5446440
    Abstract: A centrally powered, low voltage emergency sign and control circuit using high voltage AC power simultaneously providing continuous low voltage DC power to a plurality of emergency signs connected in parallel through a plurality of branch circuits and to continuously charge a single battery backup to all of the emergency signs should AC power fail. Each emergency sign is illuminated by electroluminescent diodes which are individually connected in parallel and in series throughout the emergency sign. When a fire alarm or emergency situation exists, the control circuit pulses the low voltage DC power to the emergency signs causing the LEDs to flash regardless if the control circuit is powered by high voltage AC power or backup battery power.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 1993
    Date of Patent: August 29, 1995
    Assignee: Lederlite Corporation
    Inventors: Cornel T. Gleason, John L. Davis
  • Patent number: 5446439
    Abstract: An emergency lighting controller includes a first circuit responsive to an alarm signal or warning signal. The first circuit accepts positive or negative polarity input signals and detects the presence or absence of a signal in order to produce an output signal clearing a monostable timer circuit. The monostable timer circuit produces a predetermined duration signal upon receiving an alarm signal. In accordance with the predetermined duration signal produced by the monostable timer circuit, an astable timer or oscillator circuit activates and deactivates an output control circuit in accordance with the frequency and duty cycle settings of the astable timer circuit. The output control circuit switches power on and off to a relay or a lighting circuit to provide a visual indicator of an emergency state that may require evacuation of the premises.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 1993
    Date of Patent: August 29, 1995
    Assignee: Smartronics, Inc.
    Inventors: John C. Kramer, Robert O. Melvin
  • Patent number: 5438313
    Abstract: An emergency flasher circuit for use with motor vehicles comprising an emergency switch, a signal generator for generating a signal having a frequency of approximately 10 Hz, and logic circuitry for selectively applying the signal to the headlight(s), and/or to one or both of the left and right turn indicator lights, for alerting other drivers to the presence of the motor vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 1994
    Date of Patent: August 1, 1995
    Inventors: Steven Henderson, David Kernaghan
  • Patent number: 5422623
    Abstract: An emergency signalling system is disclosed that incorporates an emergency signalling device including a light source and reflector mounted for relative rotation in incremental steps in either clockwise or counterclockwise directions. A programmable control unit of the signalling system provides digital signals to a drive source for controlling the speed and direction of the relative rotation. In response to the digital signals, the signalling device executes a variety of different visual patterns. The signalling system can be programmed from a keyboard preferably integrated into a control head mounted to a dashboard area of a vehicle incorporating the emergency signalling system. Virtually any type of visual warning pattern based on the relative rotation of a light source and reflector can be executed by the signalling device if properly programmed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 1993
    Date of Patent: June 6, 1995
    Assignee: Federal Signal Corporation
    Inventors: Joseph F. Bader, Ward Gieffers, Michael Benner, Kent A. Kekeis, Dennis J. Hilburger
  • Patent number: 5406129
    Abstract: A flashing locator switch control includes an audible alert circuit with the switch and flasher to provide assurance to the user that the outside light is operating to flash on and off and by which to test the outside light at any time day or night.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 1994
    Date of Patent: April 11, 1995
    Assignee: CPX Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Brian W. Gilmartin, Frank J. Gilmartin
  • Patent number: 5400019
    Abstract: A portable traffic control device for temporary use capable of both automatic and manual operation which portable control device can be raised or lowered by hand and having a horizontal boom which folds down to a vertical position and with an adjustable and collapsible tripod stand and an electrical control circuit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 1993
    Date of Patent: March 21, 1995
    Inventor: Alfonso J. Riscoe, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5400009
    Abstract: A strobe alarm system which includes multiple normally self-timed strobe circuits connected in a common loop to a fire alarm control panel, and a sync control circuit, which may be incorporated in the fire alarm control panel, for causing the strobes to flash in synchronism at a predetermined rate which will insure that a person viewing the multiple strobes would not see flash rates higher than the predetermined synchronized rate, which is preferably less than five flashes per second. The sync control circuit does not interfere with the supervision functions of the alarm system, and when an alarm condition is present it supplies power to the strobe circuits which it then interrupts once every flash cycle to cause a sync trigger circuit in each strobe to fire its flashtube, and to reset the internal timer of each strobe to ready it for arrival of the next sync signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 1993
    Date of Patent: March 21, 1995
    Assignee: Wheelock Inc.
    Inventors: Joseph Kosich, Edward V. Applegate
  • Patent number: 5400008
    Abstract: A location marker includes a casing, a switch assembly and a lens enclosing a flashable strobe lamp. The location marker is powered by batteries and an electronic circuit that converts the battery voltage to a trigger voltage for illumination of the strobe lamp. The switch assembly is non-intrusive and maintains water tight integrity inside the casing. The switch assembly futher includes a magnetically operable switch for selectively connecting and disconnecting two pairs of terminals. An R.F. transmitting location marker is also employed using a transmitter circuit and an antenna.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 1992
    Date of Patent: March 21, 1995
    Inventor: James T. Toohey
  • Patent number: 5371489
    Abstract: An alerting apparatus includes a pair of separate first and second lights capable of providing respective illuminations that are different from one another, an electrical power supply cord connected to the first and second lights for providing a supply of electrical power to activate the lights, and a motion detector connected to the electrical power supply cord and the first and second lights for activating the first and second lights for predetermined times in response to sensing motion in a predetermined area. The first light can provide a constant white illumination, while the second light can provide a flashing red illumination. Also, an alarm can be connected to the motion detector and the electrical power supply.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 1992
    Date of Patent: December 6, 1994
    Inventors: Lee J. Carroll, Diana D. Harahan
  • Patent number: 5355116
    Abstract: A strobe alarm circuit includes a voltage source circuit which has a capacitor connected across its output terminals. The voltage source circuit is connected to a flash circuit which includes a flashtube shunted by a trigger circuit. The trigger circuit causes the flashtube to flash when the voltage across the voltage source circuit capacitor reaches a predetermined threshold firing voltage. A resistor divider network is employed in the trigger circuit to ensure that the flashtube is triggered at virtually the same instant as the voltage across the capacitor exceeds the trigger threshold value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 1993
    Date of Patent: October 11, 1994
    Assignee: Wheelock
    Inventors: Ed Applegate, Joseph Kosich, John W. Curran
  • Patent number: 5355119
    Abstract: Apparatus and method for controlling a signal device for energization by an electrical source. The apparatus includes circuitry for producing digital cycles on an output line wherein each digital cycle includes a sequence of pulses and spaces, each cycle having at least two pulses that differ in duration and at least two spaces that differ in duration. The apparatus also includes circuitry connected to the output line and responsive to the circuitry for producing the digital cycles for applying electrical energization from the electrical source to the signal device in accordance with the pulses in the digital cycles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 1990
    Date of Patent: October 11, 1994
    Assignee: Public Safety Equipment, Inc.
    Inventor: Barry S. Pearlman
  • Patent number: 5349241
    Abstract: A multiple point controlled flashing locator system includes a control circuit responsive to activation of any one of a plurality of remotely located switches to override an on/off function of the outside light switch and to energize a flasher circuit to cause the outside light to flash on and off. An audible alert circuit may be provided to provide assurance to the user that the outside light is operating and by which to test the outside light at any time day or night and from any of a number of locations within the dwelling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 1992
    Date of Patent: September 20, 1994
    Assignee: CPX Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael P. Gilmartin, Bryan W. Gilmartin, Frank J. Gilmartin
  • Patent number: 5347259
    Abstract: A strobe warning light comprises an elongated strobe lamp having a longitudinal axis, a lamp support supporting the lamp in a predetermined position, and a reflector on the support that includes a first surface positioned on one side of a first reference plane that includes the lamp axis and a second surface spaced apart axially of the lamp from the first surface and positioned on the other side of the first reference plane. The first and second surfaces face generally toward each other and are configured and oriented to receive light from the lamp and reflect it in opposite directions along paths generally parallel to the lamp axis and on opposite sides of the first reference plane so that each one of the first and second surfaces directs reflected light predominantly past the other of the first and second surfaces. The reflector also has a third surface that is configured and oriented to reflect light from the lamp in divergent directions generally radially with respect to the lamp axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 1993
    Date of Patent: September 13, 1994
    Assignee: Wheelock, Inc.
    Inventor: Mark P. Jongewaard
  • Patent number: 5325279
    Abstract: A portable personnel locating safety device for use in multiple-storied or high-rise buildings for attachment to a window to allow ground observers to determine in which rooms occupants are trapped, especially during a fire. The device is adhered to a window and has an aperture with an illuminating flashing light attached therethrough. The kit contains internal compartments which house rolls of tape that can be used by trapped occupants to seal cracks around doors to reduce the intake of smoke until help arrives.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 1992
    Date of Patent: June 28, 1994
    Assignees: Anthony K. Freelove, Shandal Von Wood, Mark Freelove, Martin Freelove
    Inventors: Martin Freelove, Mark Freelove
  • Patent number: 5319365
    Abstract: A portable hazard-warning light assembly (10) that is designed to warn on-coming vehicular traffic of a hazardous traffic/road condition. The assembly (10) consists of an elongated tubular body (12) having attached to its top edge (12A) a removable lens head (18) that houses an incandescent light bulb (62) that may be connected to a flasher (36). The bulb and flasher are powered by a single battery (60) that is housed within a battery compartment (20) located at the bottom edge (12D) of the body (12) and that includes a threaded battery compartment cover (28). The body (12) also has attached a slidable leg ring (34A) that has pivotally attached four retractable legs (34D) that are each supported by a leg brace (34H). To extend the legs, the ring (34A) is grasped and lowered. Conversely, to retract the legs, the ring is moved to its upward position. To apply power to the light bulb (62), the cover (28) is rotated which allows the battery (60) to move upwards and complete the electrical power circuit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 1993
    Date of Patent: June 7, 1994
    Assignee: Alltrade Inc.
    Inventor: George Hillinger
  • Patent number: 5313188
    Abstract: A flashing safety warning light in which a superluminescent light-emitting diode (SLD) light source is driven by an oscillatory drive signal at a visually imperceptible but highly efficient operating frequency, the oscillatory drive signal preferably being a pulse signal of 1 to 5 KHz to cause the SLD to be illuminated and extinguished at the oscillatory drive signal frequency, such that extinction of the SLD is not visually perceptible. The oscillatory drive signal is in turn gated on and off in accordance with a gating signal at a low, highly visually perceptible frequency in the range of 3 to 12 Hz with a pulse duty cycle of between 10 to 60% in order to cause the SLD to be visually perceived as flashing on and off at the gating signal frequency in an attention-getting manner. An implementation of the flashing safety warning light for use as a bicycle safety flasher is described, and offers enhanced warning visibility with extended battery life.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 1992
    Date of Patent: May 17, 1994
    Assignee: Bell Sports, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert S. Choi, C. Kwai Kong, Oong Choi
  • Patent number: 5313187
    Abstract: One or more superluminescent light emitting diodes (SLDS) are driven with an oscillatory square wave pulse drive signal Vd varying between OVDC and 1.8-3.2VDC at a frequency between 1Hz to 12Hz, preferably between 6Hz to 8Hz, and having a pulse duty cycle between 5% to 10%, preferably between 6% to 8%, to periodically forward bias the SLDs into illumination and produce a brilliant rapidly flashing light having high on-off contrast for enhanced visibility and perceptibility at a distance, thus being usable for battery-powered visual indicator and warning flasher applications. A low frequency oscillator stage generates an oscillatory square wave voltage signal Vo which drives a power driver stage to produce the correspondingly oscillating drive voltage signal Vd which is supplied to the SLDS.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 1990
    Date of Patent: May 17, 1994
    Assignee: Bell Sports, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert S. Choi, C. Kwai Kong, Oong Choi
  • Patent number: 5264826
    Abstract: An emergency flasher circuit for use with motorcycles and bicycles comprising an emergency switch, a signal generator for generating a signal having a frequency of approximately 10 Hz, and logic circuitry for selectively applying the signal to one or both of the left and right turn indicator lights and a headlight of a motorcycle or bicycle, for alerting drivers of motor vehicles to the presence of the motorcycle or bicycle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 1992
    Date of Patent: November 23, 1993
    Inventors: Steven Henderson, David Kernaghan
  • Patent number: 5262756
    Abstract: A solar powered warning light apparatus including a solar module that charges a single rechargeable Ni-Cad battery is operable for intermittently flashing a xenon flash tube. A recharging network of the apparatus allows the solar cell module to recharge the battery when sunlight is impinging upon the solar module for providing virtually maintenance-free and long term operation of the warning light by the battery during the dark or twilight hours when warning lights are needed to warn vehicle drivers of road hazards or environment hazards.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 1991
    Date of Patent: November 16, 1993
    Inventor: Tseng L. Chien
  • Patent number: 5189455
    Abstract: A processor for x-ray film includes stations wherein a latent image on the film is developed, fixed, washed and dried. Sensors detect operating conditions in the stations, and when a failure is detected in an operating condition, a lamp and alarm are energized in a predetermined sequence to signal an operator that a particular error exists.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 1991
    Date of Patent: February 23, 1993
    Assignee: Eastman Kodak Company
    Inventor: April M. Seim
  • Patent number: 5177461
    Abstract: A flashing alarm device responsive to audible signals produced by a smoke detector when the smoke detector senses a smoke condition, the alarm device including a circuit with a microphone portion for responding to audible signals produced by the smoke detector and an amplifier circuit portion for amplifying signals produced by the microphone, a switch circuit portion having a control input connected to the output of the amplifier circuit portion, and another circuit portion including a battery, a timer circuit, and a light bulb, the battery having a connection to the amplifier circuit and to the timer circuit, the timer circuit and the light bulb being connected in series with the switch circuit portion for energizing and de-engergizing the light bulb whenever the switch circuit portion is in its conducting condition. The device may also include a housing for the components and the device may optionally be constructed to operate on transmitted and received radio frequency signals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 1991
    Date of Patent: January 5, 1993
    Assignee: Universal Electronics Inc.
    Inventors: W. James Budzyna, William A. Johnson, David J. Howe
  • Patent number: 5175528
    Abstract: A flashing safety warning light in which a superluminescent light-emitting diode (SLD) light source is driven by an oscillatory drive signal at a visually imperceptible but highly efficient operating frequency, the oscillatory drive signal preferably being a pulse signal of 1 to 5 KHz to cause the SLD to be illuminated and extinguished at the oscillatory drive signal frequency, such that extinction of the SLD is not visually perceptible. The oscillatory drive signal is in turn gated on and off in accordance with a gating signal at a low, highly visually perceptible frequency in the range of 3 to 12 Hz with a pulse duty cycle of between 10 to 60% in order to cause the SLD to be visually perceived as flashing on and off at the gating signal frequency in an attention-getting manner. An implementation of the flashing safety warning light for use as a bicycle safety flasher is described, and offers enhanced warning visibility with extended battery life.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 1991
    Date of Patent: December 29, 1992
    Assignee: Grace Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert S. Choi, Kong C. Kwai, Choi Oong
  • Patent number: 5151679
    Abstract: A sign comprising at least one light pipe, each light pipe made of light-transmitting material, said at least one light pipe arranged to form a predetermined message or design, each light pipe having at least two ends and carrying at least one light source proximate at least one end, each light source directed towards another end of the light pipe in the direction of extension of the light pipe, a portion of the outer surface of each light pipe being translucent permitting light to exit therefrom, the sign further carrying electrical circuit means for energizing each light source, and means for mounting the at least one light pipe to form the predetermined message or design; whereby energizing of each light source causes light to be transmitted in each light pipe, light therefrom emerging through the translucent outer surface of each light pipe for the display of the predetermined message or design.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 1992
    Date of Patent: September 29, 1992
    Assignee: Frederick Dimmick
    Inventor: Frederick Dimmick
  • Patent number: 5132659
    Abstract: A novel flashing light siren alarm which, when activated, provides a bright flashing strobe light and loud siren sound which attract attention. A flashing light siren and sound alarm which includes (a) a light emitting apparatus; (b) a sound emitting apparatus; (c) a battery adapted to power the light emitting apparatus and the sound emitting apparatus; and (d) a causing which carries the light and sound emitting apparatus, and the battery.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 1990
    Date of Patent: July 21, 1992
    Inventor: Ching L. Kuo