Abstract: A sound generating analog synthesizer that is comprised of potentiometers, a switch or switches and a set of patch jacks has a control system that can be operated in three modes, a manual mode, an automatic mode, and a guided mode; wherein manual mode allows potentiometer and switch positions as well as patch cable connections to be set by hand; wherein automatic mode, automatically sets patch connections as on or off, as well as set potentiometer positions and switch states with electromechanical or electrical devices; and wherein the guided mode provides at least one visual information on how to change the potentiometer positions, switch states, and patch jack connections such that a previously obtained sound can be reproduced.

Abstract: Methods of identifying available connector ports on rack mounted equipment use an image capture device to capture an image of a front face of an equipment rack. The captured image is compared to at least one stored image. A patch cord insertion status of at least one connector port included on an item of equipment that is mounted on the equipment rack is then determined based at least in part on the comparison of the captured image to the at least one stored image.

Abstract: Packaging process tools and systems, and packaging methods for semiconductor devices are disclosed. In one embodiment, a packaging process tool for semiconductor devices includes a mechanical structure for supporting package substrates or integrated circuit die during a packaging process for the integrated circuit die. The mechanical structure includes a low thermal conductivity material disposed thereon.

Abstract: An indicator lamp is disclosed, in particular for an electromechanical command device. The indicator lamp includes a housing and a light source, which is arranged in the housing and emits light when supplied with energy. Furthermore, a lens arrangement is provided, including a first lens unit, which is arranged in the propagation direction of the light emitted by the light source and is built such that light beams emitted by the light source exit substantially parallel from a side of the first lens unit that faces away from the light source. The lens arrangement includes a second lens, which is arranged on the side of the first lens unit that faces away from the light source and is built such that some of the light beams exiting from the first lens unit are directed with respect to the propagation direction towards a transparent side surface of the housing.

Abstract: The label assembly is comprised of a flexible body with a front and back surface and includes a proximal end and a distal end. The distal end of the flexible body is affixed to the electronic device. A label is attached to the front surface of the flexible body and includes a visual representation of a connection of the electronic device that corresponds to an actual connection of the electronic device as well as an identification mark associated with the visual representation of the connection. The flexible body of the label assembly includes a status indicator displaying a status based on electrical signals associated with the actual connection of the electronic device, and the flexible body includes an electrical connector connecting the status indicator of the flexible body and the electrical signals associated with the actual connection of the electronic device.

Abstract: A programmable light timer for implementing a timing pattern is described. The programmable light timer comprises a memory storing a plurality of timing patterns, each timing pattern being associated with a unique timing pattern code and having one or more on/off settings for a time period; and a user interface enabling the selection of a timing pattern code associated with a timing pattern of the plurality of timing patterns.

Abstract: In one general aspect, a request to determine a status of a first of a plurality of advertising devices is received. The advertising devices are spatially separated. Operating conditions of the first advertising device are identified. The status of the first advertising device is determined based, at least in part, on the operating conditions. A presentation including information indicating the status of the first advertising device is transmitted.

Abstract: Timeline presentations of process control system alarms are described. An operator interface apparatus for a process control system is described that includes an operator display module to present an operator application on a display. The operator interface also includes an alarm presentation interface to be presented on the display via the operator application. The alarm presentation interface includes a timeline to graphically indicate a temporal relationship of a plurality of active alarms of the process control system.

Abstract: A user interface comprising a display arranged to display visual content and a tactile surface arranged to convey a tactile representation, wherein said tactile representation is based on said visual content. This has the advantage of enabling a user to perceive content being displayed to him with less cognitive effort.

Abstract: An electronic device for providing tactile feedback is provided. The electronic device may provide tactile feedback using any suitable approach, including for example vibration, heat, electrical, visual, or any other type of feedback. The electronic device may provide tactile feedback in response to detecting any particular status of the electronic device, receiving any particular input, or detecting any suitable communication received by the electronic device. For example, the electronic device may provide tactile feedback in response to identifying the current network of the device, the status of a particular electronic device component, or any other electronic device status; in response to receiving a particular type of communication or in response to receiving a communication from a particular contact; or in response to receiving a particular user input or to detecting a user's finger on a particular portion of the electronic device.

Abstract: This invention relates to mirror assemblies for vehicles and in particular to interior rearview minor assemblies having touch screen inputs corresponding to elements representing a symbol. The symbols are located behind a reflective element and not visible until activated by selection of the corresponding input or other means.

Abstract: A remotely controlled electronic display sign which operates with a plasma display and which provides for humidity and heat control and the like allowing the sign to be used in various environments. The sign is essentially self-contained and includes those components necessary for enabling a display of desired material from a remote control source or one located at the sign. A controller in or associated with the sign is accessible either electrically, or through satellite transmission or other wireless transmission from the remote source which allows the display of the sign to be changed at will. Thus, an operator at a remote source may, with the aid of a pre-prepared graphic design, transmit that design to the controller at or associated with the sign for display of that graphic information and potentially with sound.

Abstract: Provided is a system, a tool and a method for communicating with a faulted circuit indicator (FCI), the faulted circuit indicator including a detection circuit for monitoring an electrical conductor of a power system. The system includes a display and a first light emitting diode associated with the display. The first light emitting diode generates an optical FCI status signal in response to an occurrence of a fault in the electrical conductor. The system also includes a first microcontroller operatively coupled to the display and the detection circuit, and a handheld user command tool adapted to optically signal the display. The handheld user command tool may be also adapted to generate an optical serial communication. The optical serial communication may provide data and/or commands for operation of the faulted circuit indicator. The display may be integrated into the FCI. The FCI may be an overhead FCI.

Abstract: A programmable graphical display switch is described herein that provides users with a way of controlling other devices and for customizing how that control is initiated and communicated to a user.

Abstract: An electronic device for providing tactile feedback is provided. The electronic device may provide tactile feedback using any suitable approach, including for example vibration, heat, electrical, visual, or any other type of feedback. The electronic device may provide tactile feedback in response to detecting any particular status of the electronic device, receiving any particular input, or detecting any suitable communication received by the electronic device. For example, the electronic device may provide tactile feedback in response to identifying the current network of the device, the status of a particular electronic device component, or any other electronic device status. As another example, the electronic device may provide tactile feedback in response to receiving a particular type of communication, or in response to receiving a communication from a particular contact.

Abstract: An instrument cluster for use in a passenger vehicle includes a translucent sheet. The sheet is located in front of at least one of an appliqué, a display face, and a pointer of the instrument cluster. Indicia are embedded in the translucent sheet. The indicia has a first visual state and a second visual state, the indicia being more noticeable in its second visual state than in its first visual state.

Abstract: A device for displaying measuring values is provided, comprising a device for displaying measuring values having a control unit (22) and having a digital display unit (21), which is controlled by the control unit (22), wherein the control unit (22) is embodied in such a manner that a measuring value detected by the measuring value detection unit are displayed on the display unit (21) as actual value (I) and as a preset set value (S) in such a manner that the position of the actual value (I) relative to the set value (S) is a function of the difference between the set value and the actual value.

Abstract: A haptic/tactile input in which the behavior and/or appearance of the mechanical user interface input is configured to be adapted to the function and context of an electronic device to give feedback and cues to the user. The mechanical input for example, buttons, sliders, levers, and other input devices are made appear on the surface of the user interface when needed.

Abstract: An alarm indicating output appliance can be releasably affixed to a mounting plate. The plate carries wire receiving terminals which couple to the appliance. In the absence of the appliance, at least two of the terminals can be short circuited.

Abstract: Provided is a system, a tool and a method for communicating with a faulted circuit indicator (FCI), the faulted circuit indicator including a detection circuit for monitoring an electrical conductor of a power system. The system includes a display and a first light emitting diode associated with the display. The first light emitting diode generates an optical FCI status signal in response to an occurrence of a fault in the electrical conductor. The system also includes a first microcontroller operatively coupled to the display and the detection circuit, and a handheld user command tool adapted to optically couple with the display. The handheld user command tool is also adapted to generate an optical serial communication. The optical serial communication provides data and commands for operation of the faulted circuit indicator. The display may be remote or integrated into the FCI.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a control panel assembly in which a light emitted from a single lamp is prevented from being dispersed nearby. A control panel assembly for a laundry machine, the control panel assembly includes a lamp supporter in which a plurality of lamps are installed to display functions selected by a user; a deco formed corresponding to the plurality of the lamps, the deco including a plurality of light-emitting holes through which a light emitted from each of the lamps passes; a light window including a light dispersion preventing part provided between the lamp supporter and the deco to prevent the light emitted from each of the lamps from being emitted through the other light-emitting holes except a single light-emitting hole corresponding each of the lamps.

Abstract: An alarm indicating output appliance can be releasibly affixed to a mounting plate. The plate carries wire receiving terminals which couple to the appliance. In the absence of the appliance, at least two of the terminals can be short circuited.

Abstract: A control panel of a laundry processing machine includes a control substrate having LEDs, a transparent window having transparent protrusions formed to be corresponded to the LEDs, and a display cover having a plurality of ribs which are protruded at a surface of the display cover and placed between the transparent protrusions, thereby one of lights emitted from the LEDs is directed to the corresponding transparent protrusions without being spread elsewhere.

Abstract: An LED interface circuit provides connection options for one or more types of LEDs. In an embodiment, the circuit includes an input node that receives an LED control signal, and an output that has a first output node, and a second output node. A driving circuit is disposed between the input header and the output. The driving circuit has a non-inverted input node and an inverted output node. In an embodiment, the inverted output node is capable of sinking current. The non-inverted input node is coupled to the input header and to the first output node, while the inverted output node is coupled to the second output node. The output of the LED interface circuit is capable of driving a plurality of different types of LED displays.

Abstract: A signaling control device apparatus (10) comprises at least one LED (20) having a light emitting surface (18). A sensor (24) is set to detect an external light load (16) directed to the light emitting surface (18) and generate a control signal indicative of a presence of the light load (16). An electrical control system (14) detects the control signal indicative of the light load (16) and sources an elevated current to the LED (20) while the light load (16) is present. The elevated current increases the contrast ratio making the signal perceivable by the users as being in a particular state.

Abstract: A remotely controlled electronic display sign which operates with a plasma display and which provides for humidity and heat control and the like allowing the sign to be used in various environments. The sign is essentially self-contained and includes those components necessary for enabling a display of desired material from a remote control source or one located at the sign. A controller in or associated with the sign is accessible either electrically, or through satellite transmission or other wireless transmission from the remote source which allows the display of the sign to be changed at will. Thus, an operator at a remote source may, with the aid of a pre-prepared graphic design, transmit that design to the controller at or associated with the sign for display of that graphic information and potentially with sound.

Abstract: A method and a circuit is disclosed that facilitates identifying a remote end and optionally an intermediate location of an installed cable, such as a cable for carrying data, without the need to disconnect the cable. One or more circuits may be connected across two wires along the length of a cable. Each circuit includes a power connector, a switching circuit and an indicator, such as a light emitting diode (LED), connected across the two wires included in a cable. The circuit is configured such that the indicator in each circuit connected to the two wires is illuminated in responsive to a nominal DC voltage applied to the power connector in any circuits connected across the two wires without disrupting any data being carried thereby. In one embodiment of the invention, the circuit is directly into a cable connector. In an alternate embodiment of the invention, the circuit is configured to be retrofit in the field for use with existing cables.

Abstract: An LED backlight structure for setting voltages and currents for LEDs. Red LEDs are connected in series between a first voltage regulator and a first controllable current source, green LEDs are connected in series between a second voltage regulator and a second controllable current source, blue LEDs are connected in series between a third voltage regulator and a third controllable current source. The current sources may be linear current regulators controlled to balance the three colors to achieve a target light output of the board using a light detection chamber. PWM controllers control transistor switches connected in parallel across groups of LEDs, where the duty cycles set the average current through each group of LEDs. The control values used to achieve target light characteristics are stored in memory. The PWM controller may control brightness levels of the LEDs. The backlight may be for an LCD television.

Abstract: The instrument panel for a vehicle, comprises at least one liquid crystal display, which is characterized in that the display is of the positive transparent type, and in that its rear face, with respect to the position of the driver, is illuminated by daylight. In particular, it is mounted on the dashboard projecting therefrom, the rear face being illuminated by the light from the windshield of the vehicle. The instrument panel also comprises a device of illumination for use by night.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for providing a tracer function for networked cable systems used in information technology. A self contained and self powered indicator circuit is described that enables tracing the location of both ends of a networked cable without the use of external test equipment.

Abstract: A programmable LED display system is disclosed. The system includes a programmable controller; a driver operative to generate a control signal in response to a signal provided by the programmable controller; and a display device operative to provide a visual representation of the state of the system in response to the control signal. The system also includes means for determining which state condition is displayed when more than one state condition exists.

Abstract: A position dependent information retrieval system is disclosed including a light source having a driver and an encoder. The driver and the encoder are coupled to the light source so that the light source produces a modulated light signal in accordance with a predetermined signature. The system also includes a receiver having a photosensitive detector capable of detecting the modulated light signal and a decoder capable of decoding the predetermined signature. A controller is communicatively coupled to the receiver, a memory and output device. The controller is arranged to receive the decoded predetermined signature, based upon the decoded predetermined signature, obtain at least one localized message in the memory, and output the localized message using the output device.

Abstract: An apparatus for a model toy train includes a circuit configured to supply an output signal to energize at least one stationary light to simulate a light having movement like a mars unit light display.

Abstract: A high resolution and high definition digital display system which is computer operated and includes a high resolution display panel in the form of a television system. A computer in the housing controls the generation of a display on the display screen with X-Y coordinate signals. The display system has digital recording capability such that a signal from a remote source can be received and recorded in digital format. The display system is also constructed so that a removable drawer containing the electronic components can be removed for servicing without the need for transport of the entire display system.

Abstract: A visible indicator for an instrument cluster is backlit with an electroluminescent (EL) film. A mounting plate is located a first distance from a light source and includes a first aperture. A translucent lens is located adjacent to the mounting plate. An EL film is located adjacent to the translucent lens and includes a second aperture having a laser-cut first shape. A lens is located a second distance from the EL film and includes a sandblasted inner surface facing the EL film.

Abstract: A portable sign system being self-contained and having a digital display panel which can be hydraulically raised to a suitable height and subsequently be rotated by a worm gear which is manually driven or electrically driven by a motor. A broad based upper assembly having an UHMW plastic stabilizing plate and rotation plates and attached worm gear drive serves as a rotatable and stabile mount for a digital or other display panel and an attached solar array. The digital display panel is automatically locked in azimuthal position by the worm gear drive without a conscious operator effort. Azimuth orientation of the digital display panel can be effected by a hand crank, manually by an electrical switch, automatically by an onboard computer control or by remote control.

Abstract: A programmable LED display system is disclosed. The system includes a programmable controller, a driver operative to generate a control signal in response to a signal provided by the programmable controller, and a display device operative to provide a visual representation of the state of the system in response to the control signal. The system also includes means for determining which state condition is displayed when more than one state condition exists.

Abstract: The optical indicator unit of a program-controlled household appliance includes one or more indicator elements for the display of information in plain text. Each indicator element includes a matrix with 5×8 pixels for the display of a character. Each indicator element is assigned a functional element/actuator belonging to the household appliance. The element/actuator and also at least one operating state of the element/actuator is represented in the indicator element by an initial letter or a symbol. Depending on a size of the display, a plurality of actuators can be indicated at the same time. The invention can be applied particularly well in testing and in servicing.

Abstract: An emergency traffic signal device comprising a plurality of elongated display units that are affixed to the traffic signal around the three traffic lights thereon and comprise arrays of LEDs capable of displaying graphic directional instructions in the form of moving chevrons or arrows that indicate the need to move laterally to the side of the road in response to preemptive signals detected by a controller. The display units are mounted on channel-shaped bodies to be retrofitted to the signal, or are installed as original equipment on new signals, preferably in a continuous band around the traffic lights. Alternatively, message display panels, also responsive to the controller, are applied to one or both of the upper and lower sides of the traffic signal, and additional arrays of LEDs are provided in the positions of two of the traffic lights to emit standard color lights during normal operation and to display graphic directional symbols in response to emergency signals.

Abstract: An electroluminescent dashboard control circuit for automobile in which a voltage comparator is used to control the operation of different colors of electroluminescent lamps subject to the voltage level of inputted voice signal received from a microphone, and a switch is used to select full-light or auto operation mode.

Abstract: A controller input/output module visual indicator and safety means including a light redirector, terminal block assembly and at least one circuit having at least one light emitting diode or like light transmission means positioned distally from terminal block assembly. Each light redirector is configured to receive light from each corresponding light transmission means on a proximate end and redirect the light information to a distal end adjacent to the terminal block assembly for viewing by the control operator. An optional shield or side barrier may optionally be coupled to the circuit to provide operator safety from the high voltage signals which may exist on each input/output module.

Abstract: An operation panel 30 is provided with a plurality of operation buttons 36. A string-like resistor body 41 is held in a resistor holding plate 31. The resistor body 41 has a tube-like elastic outer resistor member 42, an inner resistor member 43 loosely arranged within the outer resistor member and insulating spacers 44 arranged between the inner resistor member and the outer resistor member at predetermined intervals in the longitudinal direction of the inner resistor member so that the inner periphery of the outer resistor member 42 and outer periphery of the inner resistor member 43 are constantly separated from each other. A control unit 53 is provided to produce an operation signal.

Abstract: A vertical series of electrical heat sensors adhered to the outer surface of a water heater tank. The sensors are electrically connected to a corresponding vertical series of display lights in reverse order. Heated water fills the tank from the top down. The sensors are activated from the top down based on the amount of hot water in the tank. The lights are correspondingly activated from the bottom up, showing the tank “filling-up” with hot water. The lights can be labeled such as “Full”, “Half Full”, etc. The sensors can be provided in sequence on a rod with magnets. Thus, the rod can be quickly attached to the tank, holding the sensors in a vertical line in the correct order. Displays can be remote from the tank via wiring or radio signaling, allowing them to be mounted in each bathroom or elsewhere.

Abstract: A modular warning signal light system comprising at least one support. The at least one support having at least one module receiving port. The module receiving ports constructed and arranged to removably receive the support engagement member of a module. Each module having at least one visible side. The at least one visible side having at least one light emitting diode light source engaged thereto. The at least one light emitting diode light source, module and support all in independent electrical communication with a controller. The controller constructed and arranged to selectively activate the at least one support, the at least one module, the at least one light emitting diode light source, and any combinations thereof to create at least one warning light signal.

Abstract: A single LED combined with a dark-colored reflective cavity, a diffusing graphic overlay, and a dark tinted window, provides a backlighted indicator with low power requirements. The design exhibits high visual contrast between on and off conditions, giving daylight visibility. The diffusing overlay and the window are nested and individually attached to a housing with adhesives, thus providing a double barrier against liquid penetration. Thus, the indicator can be used outdoors and under conditions of limited power. For example, the indicator may be part of a customer terminal mounted outdoors at retail establishments, such as gasoline stations.

Abstract: A wireless remote-control transmitter includes means for entering an identification code so that only an authorized operator can use the device. Use as a keyless entry system provides the owner of a vehicle equipped with a wireless receiver with an additional keypad-operated transmitter which may be vehicle mounted to perform some or all of the same functions as those available through an existing remote. In this embodiment, the keypad may be mounted behind a small section of the vehicle's window glass, with command inputs being sensed using electrical, magnetic, or optical detection techniques. To save on battery power, the system automatically powers down during periods of nonuse, with some form of wake-up signal being used to enter operational modes requiring increased power consumption.

Abstract: The device includes a visible light source and a transmissive/reflective layer on a vehicle. The layer is between the source and an observer and transmits emergency warning signals of various colors to the observer. In addition, the layer reflects ambient light so that when the light source is not illuminated the appearance of the device is changed and the emergency warning colors, if any, of the device are masked.

Abstract: A system for verifying the operability of one or more HVAC devices in a communication network includes a network control device that sends a particular type of message to the HVAC devices. Each HVAC device receiving the message will initiate a clearly visible display on the HVAC device if the message is appropriately processed within the receiving HVAC device. Each HVAC device may be visually checked to confirm that it is in fact responding to the message from the network control device.

Abstract: The invention relates to a vehicle control panel for an automotive vehicle having at least one multifunctional setting switch and a mode selector for setting the control panel to operate in any one of at least two modes, wherein in a first mode of operation of the control panel the multifunctional setting switch controls a parameter of an audio system of the vehicle, and, in a second mode of operation of the control panel the multifunctional setting switch controls a parameter of a climate control of the vehicle.

Abstract: A control lever for earth moving machines a plurality of control pushbuttons able to be connected to a plurality of devices of an earth moving machine and to be selectively activated between a condition of operation and a condition of non operation of the related device, and a plurality of visual indicators operatively connected each to one of the pushbuttons to visually indicate the condition of the related pushbutton. Said visual indicators are each constituted by a light source which is lighted when the related pushbutton is in the operating condition, and is turned off when the related pushbutton is in the non operating condition. The visual indicators are positioned in correspondence with a summit area of the lever, and have a mutual disposition similar to that of the respective pushbuttons to be easily associated visually to the related pushbutton.