Condition Responsive Patents (Class 362/276)
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Patent number: 7450028Abstract: A LED operation light, comprising at least two power sources, at least one of which is an adjustable power source, at least two LED units, and measuring and control means. The LED units, which comprise one or more LED components, emit light in response to power received from the power source. The LED components have been arranged to produce emission of light color components of at least two different wavelengths. The measuring means have been arranged to measure light emission of the LED unit and, based on measurement data, to generate control information to be sent to the adjustable power source to adjust the magnitude of power to be supplied to the LED unit. The light emission of the LED component changes as the received power changes, which again results in a change in the correlation between the emitted light color components, and therefore in the color temperature.Type: GrantFiled: June 28, 2004Date of Patent: November 11, 2008Assignee: Planmeca OyInventor: Christian De Godzinsky
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Patent number: 7445350Abstract: A light panel includes an outer layer, a first proximity switch, an electroluminescent element and a base portion. The outer layer includes a translucent portion. The first proximity switch is disposed beneath the outer layer and has first and second electrically conductive switch portions that are arranged to form an electric field that emanates through the outer layer when the first proximity switch is energized. The electroluminescent element is disposed beneath the outer layer to provided backlighting to the outer layer. One of the first and second electrically conductive switch portions of the first proximity switch forms at least a portion of an electrode of the electroluminescent element. The base portion is disposed beneath the electroluminescent element and the first proximity switch.Type: GrantFiled: August 22, 2005Date of Patent: November 4, 2008Assignee: Nissan Technical Center North America, Inc.Inventors: Heather S. Konet, Jason M. Gray, Michael R. Miller, Jennifer J. Sterling
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Patent number: 7441935Abstract: A display apparatus including a liquid crystal display (LCD) panel, a light source unit including a plurality of point light sources to provide light to the LCD panel and divided into a plurality of light source areas, a plurality of light source driving parts to supply electric power to the plurality of light source areas, a brightness sensor to sense a brightness of the light source unit, and a light source controller to control the light source driving part based on the brightness sensed by the brightness sensor so that the light source unit provides light of uniform brightness.Type: GrantFiled: July 25, 2006Date of Patent: October 28, 2008Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., LtdInventor: Young-kook Kim
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Patent number: 7441360Abstract: A picture display frame includes front and rear sides. A recess is disposed within the rear side of the display frame. A volatile material holder is disposed within the recess of the rear side. The volatile material holder includes a reservoir and a vapor permeable membrane. A slot is disposed in a side wall of the display frame in communication with a portion of the recess. The portion of the recess is adapted to hold a decorative element.Type: GrantFiled: March 31, 2006Date of Patent: October 28, 2008Assignee: S.C. Johnson & Son, Inc.Inventors: Jeffrey J. Christianson, Simon M. Conway, Stacey L. Forkner, Kristopher W. Gerulski, Kara L. Lakatos, Stephen B. Leonard, Heather R. Schramm
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Publication number: 20080259607Abstract: The present invention is achieved with the object of providing an illumination system formed of an LED light emitting body and a socket which can appropriately release heat from LED chips. This object is achieved in the following manner. A heat conducting layer 12 made of diamond is provided on a substrate 11, and on top of this, a conductive layer 13 having a predetermined pattern is formed. LED chips 16 are mounted in predetermined positions on the conductive layer 13. Terminals of the conductive layer 13 and electrodes of the LED chips 16 are connected to each other. A connector part 14 for the connection to a socket is provided in an end portion of the substrate 11. The heat conducting layer 12 on the connector part 14 makes thermal contact with the heat conducting layer provided on the inner surface of the opening of the socket. A current is supplied to respective LED chips 16 through the conductive layer 13 from the socket, and respective LED chips 16 emit light.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 5, 2008Publication date: October 23, 2008Applicant: YANCHERS Inc.Inventors: Junichi Shimada, Yoichi Kawakami
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Publication number: 20080259606Abstract: A light fixture for house number plates has a control circuit to automatically detect light in response the light intensity of sunshine to control timing of activation of the light fixture to illuminate a house number plate. It has a lamp which can be driven by electric power converted through a solar energy panel to meet environmental protection requirement. An overload protection circuit is provided to increase the life span of the light fixture. The light fixture is coupled with the house number plate to provide effective illumination and environmental protection.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 18, 2007Publication date: October 23, 2008Inventor: Lung-Hsien Chen
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Patent number: 7438439Abstract: A temperature adjusting device of the present invention is provided with: an LED light source 11r, 11g and 11b, a temperature sensor 9 for detecting an ambient temperature of the LED light source 11r, 11g and 11b, a cooling fan for cooling the LED light source 11r, 11g and 11b, a driving circuit 22 for driving the cooling fan 20, a control unit 4 that controls a voltage to be applied to the cooling fan 20 so as to set the ambient temperature within a predetermined range based upon the results of detection by the temperature sensor 9 and a heater placed near the LED light source 11r, 11g and 11b, and in this arrangement, the control unit is designed to control the applied voltage to the heater so as to reduce the heating value of the heater in cooperation with lighting of the LED light source 11r, 11g and 11b.Type: GrantFiled: September 19, 2006Date of Patent: October 21, 2008Assignee: Noritsu Koki Co., Ltd.Inventor: Shoichi Nakano
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Patent number: 7438438Abstract: A motion-activated decorative lighting fixture with a PIR motion detector having an adjustable field of view hidden behind a decorative slotted wall of the fixture body. The lighting fixture includes a motion detector housing that forms an integral part of the fixture body. The housing includes a slotted vertically extending exterior wall around the housing with an array of elongate vertically extending slots horizontally spaced apart from one another and extending along at least a portion of the wall. One or more PIR sensors are disposed within the housing, and a segmented Fresnel lens array is disposed within the housing behind the slots to direct infra-red energy from a monitored field of view to a sensor. The lens array includes a plurality of columns of lenslets, which are divided into at least two sets of columns, the columns of the first set alternating with the columns of the second set so as to form an alternating sequence of columns.Type: GrantFiled: July 3, 2006Date of Patent: October 21, 2008Assignee: EML Technologies LLCInventor: Donald R. Sandell
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Publication number: 20080247165Abstract: A method and apparatus for increasing the visibility in the visible spectrum of a laser pointer on a target. The laser pointer provides a laser source or sources of at least two distinct visible colors. The visibility of at least one of the laser source colors on the target is determined. The laser source color is selected from the given colors based on the determined visibility. The selected laser source color is directed to the target.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 4, 2007Publication date: October 9, 2008Applicant: INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MACHINES CORPORATIONInventor: Mark D. Schultz
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Patent number: 7429918Abstract: A vehicle lighting system for illuminating ahead of a vehicle is provided with a plurality of light sources each adapted to illuminate a different illumination area to thereby form a predetermined light distribution pattern as a whole and a control unit for determining a traffic scene in which the vehicle is running and independently changing at least either an orientations or the light quantities of the plurality of light sources so as to form a target light distribution pattern which has been set in advance for the traffic scene.Type: GrantFiled: June 2, 2005Date of Patent: September 30, 2008Assignee: Koito Manufacturing Co., Ltd.Inventor: Takao Watanabe
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Patent number: 7425088Abstract: A running light is activated in response to a number of command signals that correspond to the activation of one or more vehicle lights. For example, the running light may blink when an associated turn signal blinks, may dimly illuminate when a parking light is on, and may shine brightly when a brake light is on.Type: GrantFiled: March 25, 2005Date of Patent: September 16, 2008Assignee: JAD Solutions, LLCInventor: David M. Weitzel
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Patent number: 7419281Abstract: A light bulb (10) includes a translucent housing (12) and a base (24). The housing (12) includes a plurality of LEDs (14a, 14b, 14c, and 15) positioned so as to emit light through the housing (12). The base (24) is configured to mate with a light socket. The base (24) also includes a compartment (23) for receiving and securing a replaceable active ingredient cartridge (22), and an active ingredient dispenser (20) for emitting an active ingredient from the cartridge (22) when the cartridge (22) is secured in the compartment (23). A fluorescent light source (30) may also be provided in the housing (12) as a source of illumination.Type: GrantFiled: June 18, 2007Date of Patent: September 2, 2008Assignee: S.C. Johnson & Son, Inc.Inventors: Jose Porchia, Jeffrey J. Wolf
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Patent number: 7417555Abstract: A device which can be used on rotating visible surfaces of, for example, machines, appurtenances, vehicles, and fans, utilizes N light sources, evenly disposed on a flexible substrate, and connected by means of a driver to a microcontroller with an independent power supply. A synchronization sensor is connected to the microcontroller. The light sources may be LEDs—one- or three-colored (RGB). The synchronization sensor responds to gravity when mounted on a rotating surface, whose rotation axis is not perpendicular to the Earth's surface, or is actuated at a position relative to a given immovable point, provided the rotation axis is perpendicular to the Earth's surface. A light sensor is connected to the microcontroller, which in turn is connected to a control panel. Sensors and the control panel are disposed on the substrate. The microcontroller has a serial interface.Type: GrantFiled: November 29, 2002Date of Patent: August 26, 2008Inventors: Stefan N. Chivarov, Joseph E. Shurance
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Publication number: 20080198578Abstract: A fashion apparel accessory, such as a garment, having one or more concealed light sources positioned so as to illuminate the skin of the wearer, as opposed to focusing attention on the light sources themselves. A particular embodiment includes concealed light sources proximate to a low-cut neckline of a female's garment, such as brassiere, shirt, or item of lingerie, with the light sources being oriented so as direct illumination across the wearer's chest area in an alluring way, potentially offering multiple color, intensity, direction/control options as well as multiple deployment techniques/devices. A portable power supply is integrated with the garment or accessory and electrically connected to the light sources.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 26, 2007Publication date: August 21, 2008Inventor: Bruce L. Finn
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Publication number: 20080198292Abstract: The present invention relates to a lighting device wherein an in-coupled light flow is at least partly constrained within a light-guide plate (4) by means of total internal reflection. The device includes means for achieving a selective local light output from the output surface (6) of the light-guide plate, such that the intensity of the emitted light flow from the light guide can be locally controlled over its output surface area. This is achieved by a number of closed cells adjoining the output surface. Each cell contains a liquid element (11), the form of which may be manipulated by electrowetting, such that the liquid can be brought to a greater or lesser extent into optical contact or out of optical contact with a local area of the output surface (6), thereby varying the intensity of the locally out-coupled light flow therethrough. The cell may be built up by the light-guide plate (4), a support plate (8) and lateral wall parts (9,10).Type: ApplicationFiled: May 12, 2006Publication date: August 21, 2008Applicant: KONINKLIJKE PHILIPS ELECTRONICS, N.V.Inventors: Johan Marra, Dirk Kornelis Gerhardus De Boer
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Patent number: 7401935Abstract: Various embodiments relate to beverage accessory devices for use within beverage receptacles. In one exemplary embodiment, a beverage accessory device generally includes a housing having sidewalls defining a cavity therein. A substantially fluid-tight container is within the cavity of the housing. The container includes sidewalls defining a chamber. At least one of the container's sidewalls is spaced apart from at least one of the housing's sidewalls such that a portion of the housing's cavity remains separating the at least one container sidewall from the at least one housing sidewall. At least one electric light source is substantially entirely within the container's chamber. The chamber can also be configured for receiving at least one power source. The at least one electric light source is operable for illuminating at least a portion of a liquid within the beverage receptacle when the beverage accessory device is within the beverage receptacle.Type: GrantFiled: June 16, 2006Date of Patent: July 22, 2008Inventor: Carl R. VanderSchuit
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Patent number: 7396145Abstract: A backlight module includes at least a light source generator, a housing, at least a thermal detector, and an inverter. The thermal detector is disposed in the housing for measuring the temperature within the housing when the light source generator is operating, and the inverter is electrically connected to the thermal detector and the light source generator for adjusting the electrical current of the light source generator according to the temperature measured by the thermal detector.Type: GrantFiled: December 29, 2005Date of Patent: July 8, 2008Assignees: Innocom Technology (Shenzhen) Co., Ltd., Innolux Display Corp.Inventors: Mao-Jung Wang, Chuan-Pei Yu
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Patent number: 7397654Abstract: An uninterruptible power supply comprises a power source (250) and a housing (110) to contain the power source. The housing comprises an outer surface (111) in which are located a recess (121) and a flat region (231). An electrical outlet (241) is located at the flat region, and a light source (130) is removably housed in the recess. The power source is capable of supplying electric power to the electrical outlet in response to a condition external to the uninterruptible power supply.Type: GrantFiled: June 7, 2005Date of Patent: July 8, 2008Assignee: Belkin International Inc.Inventor: Kenneth Mori
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Patent number: 7393118Abstract: A light facility includes one or more batteries disposed in a housing, a processor device includes two power terminals coupled to the batteries and includes a switch terminal and a key terminal and three light terminals, a light device may be energized by the battery and includes a red light member, a green light member, and a blue light member coupled to the three light terminals of the processor device for being operated to generate red light, green light, and blue light, a switch is selectively coupled to either the switch terminal or the key terminal of the processor device for actuating the light device to generate lights, or gradually darkened light, or gradually brightened light.Type: GrantFiled: December 28, 2005Date of Patent: July 1, 2008Inventor: Shen Ko Tseng
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Publication number: 20080151530Abstract: A lighting system for clothing, footwear, backpacks, and other accessories incorporates a battery, a switch, a counter circuit, a flasher and lamps or LEDs driven by the flasher. The switch has a tubular housing of electrical insulating material which may be round or square in cross section. A pair of electrical contact pins extend into the interior of the housing and are aligned longitudinally. The external ends of the contact pins are wired to the counter circuit and the battery. A free-floating contact bar of electrical conducting material normally resides on the bottom of the pins thus closing the switch and causing an input signal to the counter circuit and causing the lamps or LEDs to be illuminated momentarily. The contact pins can alternatively extend through the bottom of the housing and the contact bar may rest against the contact pins.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 29, 2008Publication date: June 26, 2008Inventor: Carmen Rapisarda
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Patent number: 7387405Abstract: Lighting apparatus and methods involving a plurality of light-emitting devices configured to emit radiation having at least two different spectra, in which the plurality of light-emitting devices are controlled to produce composite radiation having at least one resulting spectrum that simulates a desired spectrum.Type: GrantFiled: November 10, 2003Date of Patent: June 17, 2008Assignee: Philips Solid-State Lighting Solutions, Inc.Inventors: Alfred D. Ducharme, Frederick M. Morgan, Ihor A. Lys, Kevin J. Dowling, George G. Mueller
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Patent number: 7384171Abstract: The invention relates to a large-surface billboard for outdoors advertising. In order to generate a luminosity of the LCD elements of the billboard, extraneous light is required. In times of insufficient sun light, an artificial lighting device activates the luminosity. The aim of the invention is to prevent the lighting device from casting a shadow onto the billboard during daylight. For this purpose, the lighting device is moved out from its beam path incident on the billboard when there is sufficient solar radiation.Type: GrantFiled: February 2, 2005Date of Patent: June 10, 2008Assignee: Distec GmbHInventor: Michael Schöning
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Patent number: 7384164Abstract: A liquid dispensing container includes a transparent or translucent vial. A base is secured to the vial and contains a light source and a battery source. The light source being monochromatic or outputting multiple colors in sequence. A switch is provided for selectively forming electrical engagement between the light source and the battery source. A printed circuit board interspersed between the light source and the battery source affords optional subcircuits including a timer, step-up voltage, or step-down voltage capabilities, or light source output color modulation.Type: GrantFiled: September 16, 2004Date of Patent: June 10, 2008Inventor: Sun Yu
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Publication number: 20080117634Abstract: A portable electronic light providing a light resembling a candle that can be turned off by blowing on the light or by generating other predetermined sounds. The electronic light comprises a sound sensor, one or more light emitting diodes, or LEDs, a light cover, a housing, and a circuit board. The circuit board includes an amplifier/demodulator circuit, a counter/oscillator circuit, a driver circuit, and a switching circuit. The sensor detects a low frequency created by blowing on the candle type light or other signal, in order to control the power circuit and turn off the light. The counter/oscillator circuit and the switching circuit cause the LEDs to turn on and off, simulating the flickering of a candle.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 16, 2006Publication date: May 22, 2008Applicant: SAP PRODUCTS LIMITEDInventor: Sau Man Wong
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Patent number: 7375313Abstract: A motion-activated light fixture having an aimable motion detector with a zonal configuration providing improved monitoring of the region behind the motion detector. In one embodiment the motion detector defines a first plurality of generally forward-looking detection zones for monitoring the region in front of and to the sides of the motion detector, the forward-looking detection zones having a side-to-side coverage angle of at most 180 degrees and having forward zones for monitoring the far region in front of the motion detector. A second plurality of detection zones for monitoring the region behind the motion detector forms a zonal pattern angulated with respect to the zones of the first plurality monitoring the far region. At least some of the detection zones of the second plurality extend generally in the backward direction although in some embodiments the motion detector head must be tilted down through a pre-established offset angle before the angulated zonal pattern begins to look backward.Type: GrantFiled: November 29, 2003Date of Patent: May 20, 2008Assignee: EML Technologies LLCInventors: Wade Lee, Donald R. Sandell
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Patent number: 7370991Abstract: The assembly includes a strap adaptable to a variety of positions. Such a strap is placed directly about the user's head. A light-emitting source spaced from the strap includes a power supply source electrically coupled to the light-emitting assembly. Such a power supply source is rechargeable. A voice-activated mechanism for biasing the light-emitting source is defined from the strap so that the light-emitting assembly can be adapted along an x-axis, y-axis and z-axis. A motor assembly is directly and operably conjoined to the voice-activated mechanism and the light-emitting assembly. The voice-activated mechanism cooperates with the light-emitting source and the motor assembly during operating conditions. Such a voice operating mechanism is power-operated. The voice-activated mechanism is conveniently responsive to a user's voice commands in such a manner that the user can selectively operate the motor assembly and the light-emitting source from a remote location.Type: GrantFiled: December 18, 2006Date of Patent: May 13, 2008Inventor: Wanda J. Ellis-Fant
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Patent number: 7364329Abstract: An adaptor (10) including a sensor (18), a gimbal housing (12) having a male connector (14) at one end and an female connector (16) at another end, wherein the male connector (14) is configured to connect with an electrical socket and the female connector (16) is configured to connect with an electrical device, and a circuit for selectively controlling the electrical device in response to the sensor (18). The gimbal housing (12) is adapted to rotate around the male connector (14) about a first axis and support the sensor (18) for independent rotation about a second axis perpendicular to the first axis so that the sensor (18) can be moved to a selectable sensing orientation.Type: GrantFiled: April 2, 2004Date of Patent: April 29, 2008Assignee: Beon Light Corporation Pty LtdInventors: Peter Grahame Murray, Geoffrey Laurance Jackel
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Patent number: 7360919Abstract: A portable lighting device includes a main unit, rechargeable battery cells housed in the main unit, and a lighting unit including a light source and a solar panel. The lighting unit is attached to the main unit and is supported by the main unit for movement between a first position situated close to the main unit and exposing the light source for illumination and a second position extending from the main unit and exposing the solar panel for recharging the battery cells.Type: GrantFiled: January 26, 2006Date of Patent: April 22, 2008Assignee: Germain Electronic LimitedInventor: Louie Siu Heng Chan
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Patent number: 7360912Abstract: An electrical wiring device for use in an electric circuit. The electrical wiring device includes a device housing and at least one switch disposed within the device housing. The at least one switch includes at least one terminal member configured to be coupled to the electric circuit to thereby energize the electrical device when coupled. The electrical wiring device further includes a lamp receptacle formed in the device housing, the lamp receptacle including a contact element that is electrically coupled to the at least one terminal member and a lamp module including a circuit contact member.Type: GrantFiled: October 24, 2005Date of Patent: April 22, 2008Assignee: Pass & Seymour, Inc.Inventor: Gerald R. Savicki, Jr.
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Patent number: 7360917Abstract: A lamp holder with a securing stake is disclosed, comprising a power input line provided with a plug; a main body provided with an accommodating space whose front end is provided with an opening, whose back end is provided with an power line opening for the passing of a power line, and whose bottom is provided with a protrusion, which is provided with a connecting part; a bulb socket disposed in the accommodating space; a control circuit disposed in the accommodating space and coupled with the lamp holder and the power line; and a stake whose upper end is provided with a protrusion which is provided with a connecting part, such that the connecting part of the main body and the connecting part of the securing stake can be connected together to assemble the lamp holder with a securing stake.Type: GrantFiled: February 8, 2006Date of Patent: April 22, 2008Inventor: Chao Chuan Chien
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Patent number: 7360930Abstract: An electronic candleholder includes a cup, a set of electronic installation containing a functional circuit, and a candleholder, in which decoration items may be placed. The functional circuit is activated in two phases, wherein a toggle switch in the form of an expansion press lever is disposed to activate phase one conduction when the cup is filled with a certain amount of candle; and a photosensitive switch or a slide switch is disposed to activate phase two conduction. The functional circuit is cut off once the candle is consumed to a certain extent. Light produced by a light emitting device is allowed to transmit through the interior of the candleholder to create unique effects.Type: GrantFiled: June 23, 2006Date of Patent: April 22, 2008Inventor: Shung-Lun Yu
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Patent number: 7354181Abstract: The cockpit module of a vehicle has a cup holder which has an opening for receiving a drinking vessel, and an illumination device for illuminating the cup holder. The cockpit module also has a printed circuit board on which the illumination device is arranged. A motion sensor is preferably provided which recognizes an object approaching the opening of the cup holder and the state of occupation of the cup holder, so that the illumination device can be controlled in a definable manner as a function of the occupation and if an object approaches.Type: GrantFiled: November 20, 2006Date of Patent: April 8, 2008Assignee: Siemens AktiengesellschaftInventor: Winfried Moell
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Patent number: 7350944Abstract: In an automatic leveling apparatus, a motor inclines an optical axis of a headlamp in an up and down direction relative to a vehicle body, a vehicle height sensor detects a change in a height direction of an axle portion of a front wheel or a rear wheel of a vehicle, and an involatile memory records a control constant inherent to the vehicle. CPU determines whether the control constant is recorded to the involatile memory, calculates a pitch angle based on the control constant inherent to the vehicle and a detecting output of the vehicle height sensor, and controls to drive the motor by generating a control signal for canceling the pitch angle. CPU calculates the pitch angle on a condition that the control constant is recorded to the involatile memory, outputs the control signal and stops to output the control signal to the motor otherwise.Type: GrantFiled: February 1, 2005Date of Patent: April 1, 2008Assignee: Koito Manufacturing Co., Ltd.Inventor: Atsushi Yamazaki
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Patent number: 7347577Abstract: A lighting system for clothing, footwear, backpacks, and other accessories incorporates a battery, a switch, a counter circuit, a flasher and lamps or LEDs driven by the flasher. An improved switch has a tubular housing of electrical insulating material, which may be, for example, round or square in cross section. A pair of electrical contact pins extend into the interior of the housing and are aligned longitudinally. The external ends of the contact pins are wired to the counter circuit and the battery. A free-floating contact bar of electrical conducting material normally resides on the bottom of the housing and, upon movement of the shoe or clothing, will bounce against the contact pins thus closing the switch and causing an input signal to the counter circuit and causing the lamps or LEDs to be illuminated momentarily. In a second embodiment, the contact pins extend through the bottom of the housing and the contact bar may rest against the contact pins.Type: GrantFiled: January 27, 2004Date of Patent: March 25, 2008Inventor: Carmen Rapisarda
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Publication number: 20080068841Abstract: According to a first embodiment of the present invention, a lighting fixture is provided with a housing space to receive a retractable sensor module. The housing space is provided with an internal holder with electrical circuitry to operate the lighting fixture. The internal holder is essentially cylindrical in shape, with one closed end. The closed end is provided with openings and slots for screw and wires. The internal holder allows for pan rotation of a retractable sensor module. The retractable sensor module includes a control module comprising a top cover, a lower cover and a printed circuit board sub-assembly inside, and a lens assembly. The printed circuit board sub-assembly comprises a power printed circuit board, a sensor printed circuit board, with a printed circuit board and a transmitter printed circuit board. The lens assembly constitutes dotted lenses.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 14, 2006Publication date: March 20, 2008Inventors: Yung Chih Chi, Ching-Chen Chen, Wei-Jen Ho, Kong Yeow Lai
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Patent number: 7344277Abstract: An ambiance lighting system for a vehicular passenger compartment has a variable color light output which is automatically responsive to temperature changes. First and second light sources of different colors (e.g., blue and red) are positioned immediately behind the air discharge vents and are selectively energized by a control circuit so that the first light source radiates light through the vent when the temperature falls below a predetermined value and the second light sources energizes the second color of light when the air temperature rises above a predetermined value. Sensors are used to detect the temperature of air, preferably in the ducting plenum. Various control strategies can be deployed to achieve aesthetically interesting light presentations which enhance ambiance within the passenger compartment.Type: GrantFiled: August 29, 2005Date of Patent: March 18, 2008Assignee: Federal-Mogul WorldWide, Inc.Inventors: James Burr Anderson, Jr., William Colie Smith
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Publication number: 20080055896Abstract: Disclosed are various embodiments of system, devices, components and methods for controllably configuring the color of light emitted by an automotive LED illumination system. The colors of light emitted by LEDs, or clusters or groups of LEDs, may be varied smoothly or in step-wise fashion to produce virtually any desired pattern of collimated light. Such a pattern may be varied in respect of time or space, or both time and space. Light and other types of sensors may be employed to provide feedback control as a further means of controllably configuring the color of light emitted by such a system in response to changes in external and other conditions.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 30, 2006Publication date: March 6, 2008Inventor: David Charles Feldmeier
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Patent number: 7338190Abstract: A vehicle rearview mirror system includes a rearview mirror assembly comprising an electro-optic reflective element and, preferably, at least a first and a second photo-sensor, both facing generally in a common direction. A light piping element pipes light to the first photo-sensor from a light environment different from the light environment to which the second photo-sensor is exposed. The first photo-sensor may comprise a semiconductor photo-sensor sensitive both to visible light and to infrared radiation. A spectral filter may be disposed in front of the first photo-sensor to reduce the amount of infrared radiation incident thereat. One of the first and second photo-sensors may have a rearward field of view relative to the forward direction of travel of the vehicle, and the other of the first and second photo-sensors may have a forward field of view relative to the forward direction of the travel of the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: March 28, 2007Date of Patent: March 4, 2008Assignee: Donnelly CorporationInventor: Rodney K. Blank
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Patent number: 7336037Abstract: The present invention, according to a preferred embodiment, is directed to portable electronic devices which operate on exhaustible power sources, for example, batteries. The electronic devices of the present invention comprise at least one signal switch and a microchip in communication with the switch wherein the switch is only capable of transmitting a signal to the microchip that the switch has been activated or deactivated. The microchip is in communication with the exhaustible power source of the electronic device and controls (i) the power on/off function of the device, (ii) at least one other function of the device in response to activation and deactivation signals from the switch, and (iii) an automatic shut off function in response to the receipt of an activation signal from the switch.Type: GrantFiled: February 17, 2005Date of Patent: February 26, 2008Assignee: Azoteq Pty Ltd.Inventor: Frederick J. Bruwer
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Patent number: 7334924Abstract: An optical occupant monitoring arrangement for a vehicle includes a mounting device attached to a fixed structure of the vehicle. A frame is pivotably attached to the mounting device. A rearview mirror is retained within the frame. An optical energy source is fixedly attached to the mounting device and emits optical energy through the mirror into a passenger compartment of the vehicle. An optical energy receiver receives the optical energy emitted by the optical energy source after the optical energy has been reflected within the passenger compartment of the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: June 9, 2005Date of Patent: February 26, 2008Assignee: Delphi Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Gregory K. Scharenbroch, Joseph E. Harter, Jr.
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Publication number: 20080043457Abstract: An integrated illuminating reading material holder and system for recharging the holder(s) that uses an electro-luminescent sheet positioned parallel to and under a top flat transparent surface. The reading material is adapted to be supported on top of the transparent surface. A multi-slotted recharging station includes contacts in designated slots for recharging the battery of the holder when received in a respective slot.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 21, 2006Publication date: February 21, 2008Applicant: PIRD, LLCInventor: Gary Braxson
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Publication number: 20080043471Abstract: A night light device that provides low level illumination, which turns on automatically when motion is detected near the device and only if the ambient lighting level is too low. The device operates using battery power and is only activated upon detecting both motion and low ambient light level simultaneously. The device will remain active for a period of thirty seconds unless additional motion is detected, in which case it will remain active for thirty seconds after the last detected motion. Two AA alkaline cells are expected to last for one year at an average of 35 light activations per day, resulting in usability and cost efficiency. The device may also be held in the hand for use as a low-lighting flashlight. Illumination with both functions is provided by a single light source, reducing the energy consumption and cost for the user.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 21, 2006Publication date: February 21, 2008Inventors: Bryan H. Musgrove, Clifton J. Seusy
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Patent number: 7333021Abstract: An opening/closing apparatus for a vehicle door includes: a door handle secured to an outer surface of the vehicle door, the door handle being manipulated by a user for opening and closing the vehicle door; an operation detecting portion for checking whether the door handle is manipulated to open or close the vehicle door, the operation detecting portion being provided in the door handle; a controller establishing locking and unlocking conditions of the vehicle door on the basis of user's intensions; and a light emitting device provided in the door handle, the light emitting device being driven by the controller to emit light beams to and away from the outer surface of the vehicle door depending on the respective conditions of the vehicle door.Type: GrantFiled: June 24, 2005Date of Patent: February 19, 2008Assignee: Aisin Seiki Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Kiyokazu Ieda, Takeshi Ito
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Patent number: 7322724Abstract: A headlamp for motor vehicles of the reflector or projector design having at least one low beam light chamber, with a discharge light source, and at least one high beam light chamber, with a halogen light source. The direction of the rays produced in the high beam light operational mode are adjusted by means of simultaneous vertical swiveling of both light chambers and independent horizontal adjustment of the low beam light chamber.Type: GrantFiled: April 8, 2004Date of Patent: January 29, 2008Assignee: Visteon Global Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Daniel Kletensky, Milan Cejnek, Libor Stambersky
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Patent number: 7322718Abstract: In a module socket, a connecter and a connector are connected by wiring, and three LED modules are connected in parallel with respect to a constant voltage circuit unit via the wiring. Each module has a constant current circuit unit and an LED mounting unit. The constant current circuit unit includes one resistor and two transistors mounted on a surface of a sub-substrate on which a conductive land is formed. The sub-substrate is bonded to a main substrate.Type: GrantFiled: December 22, 2003Date of Patent: January 29, 2008Assignee: Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd.Inventors: Tatsumi Setomoto, Nobuyuki Matsui, Tetsushi Tamura, Noriyasu Tanimoto, Masanori Shimizu
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Patent number: 7322723Abstract: An illumination device has an illumination means formed by an arrangement of a plurality of semiconductor light sources (2) grouped together to form a field. Sensor elements (3) are arranged at individual positions of the field instead of the semiconductor sources (2). A multifunctional headlight can thus be advantageously created. The headlight can be embodied as a robust, compact, low-space unit. By virtue of the fact that the light sources (2) and the sensor elements (3) do not necessarily use the same lens system (1) i.e. each individual element of the multifunctional headlight can be provided with an individually designed lens system (1), the beam path of the illumination device can be separated from the field of vision of the sensor system and can thus be determined independently over large areas.Type: GrantFiled: December 9, 2003Date of Patent: January 29, 2008Assignee: DaimlerChrysler AGInventors: Manfred Griesinger, Markus Hartlieb, Wilhelm Kinces, Hans-Georg Leis, Siegfried Rothe
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Patent number: 7318658Abstract: A high power LED color bulb with infrared remote function has a reflector having front and rear openings and a light guide hole, a light guide bar received inside light guide hole, an LED module with LED chips and a bulb cover with a controlling circuit board. The LED module is mounted on a rear end of the reflector with the LED chips inside the reflector. The controlling circuit board is inside the bulb cover, is connected electronically to the LED module and has an infrared sensor aligned with the light guide bar of the reflector. When an infrared signal comes through the front opening of the reflector, the infrared signal passes through the light guide bar and is received by the infrared sensor. Since the infrared sensor is behind the reflector and the LED chips, the infrared sensor avoids overheating from heat produced by the LED chips and does not have to be replaced simultaneously with the color bulb.Type: GrantFiled: January 12, 2006Date of Patent: January 15, 2008Assignees: Anteya Technology Corporation, Color Stars, Inc.Inventors: Hsu Cheng Wang, Wei Rur Chen, Chin Feng Su, Ting Feng Wu
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Publication number: 20080002407Abstract: A light emitting module for automatically adjusting the lighting power includes a light emitting diode module and a power control board. The power control board is electrically connected with the light emitting diode module. The power control board further includes a power converting unit and a thermal sensing unit. The thermal sensing unit detects the environmental temperature to generate a measured signal of temperature. The power converting unit converts the first power into a second power to output according to the measured temperature from the thermal sensing unit. Thereby, the lighting power of the light emitting module is automatically adjusted. When the temperature is high, the lighting power is decreased to lower the temperature. When the temperature is low, the lighting power is increased.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 28, 2006Publication date: January 3, 2008Inventor: Jan J. Chen
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Patent number: 7315139Abstract: A light source having first, second, and third component light sources that are driven by first, second, and third primary drive circuits is disclosed. Each primary drive circuit provides an average current to a corresponding one of the component light sources. A photodetector and processor generate three intensity signals representing the intensity of light produced by each of the component light sources. A servo loop adjusts the drive circuits so as to maintain the intensity signals at corresponding target values. One of the compound light sources includes first and second LEDs that are driven such that the currents through the LEDs are maintained at a fixed ratio by a secondary drive circuit that is connected to the third primary drive circuit. The magnitude of the currents is determined by the third primary drive circuit.Type: GrantFiled: November 30, 2006Date of Patent: January 1, 2008Assignee: Avago Technologis ECBU IP (Singapore) Pte LtdInventors: Maniam Selvan, Yoke Peng Boay, Hooi Choo Kang
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Patent number: RE40228Abstract: An improved outdoor lighting system is provided that comprises a light assembly formed from at least one tubular mast having a distal end for supporting an electrically powered light source, and a proximal end mounted in the ground, and an electrical cable for connecting the light source to an underground power source. The improved system includes an electrical connector assembly in the cable located in the vicinity of the ground-mounted distal end of the tubular mast. The electrical connector assembly spontaneously disconnects in response to an application of an tensile force indicative of an automobile collision with the mast, thereby preventing damaging tensile forces from being transmitted along the underground portion of the cable to the circuit breaker.Type: GrantFiled: October 8, 2004Date of Patent: April 8, 2008Assignee: Duraline, a division of J.B. Nottingham Co., Inc.Inventor: Paul F. Savoca