Abstract: The present invention involves a lighting kit adapted for installation into a conventional fluorescent lighting unit having a fluorescent socket and a ballast disposed in the lighting unit. At least one elongated body has fixture ends configured to engage a fluorescent socket. The elongated body supports a plurality of light emitting diodes (LEDs). A control unit, capable of receiving exterior control signals, electrically connects the LEDs to a power source for selectively dimming the LEDs, and is adapted to be mounted in place of the ballast. Dimming may be accomplished by control circuitry that recognizes repeated switching of a power source, and/or by a dipswitch on the LED device that sets the dim level. A method of retrofitting a fluorescent housing unit involves installing a LED device in the fluorescent housing unit and mounting an LED driver in the location configured to receive a conventional fluorescent ballast.

Abstract: A power line communication system. The system includes at least one transmitter for generating and transmitting signals over a power line and at least one receiver for the receipt of signals transmitted over the power line. The transmitter and receiver(s) devices include a storing mechanism containing the address of the device and a programming port for electrical connection to a mating connector of a programmer. The programmer also includes a selector for selection of a desired address such that the address of the addressable device may be changed by the programmer. The transmitter also includes a timing mechanism for automatically retransmitting signals over the power line and the receiver includes a time measuring mechanism for ascertaining whether a signal has been received within a predetermined time period and a mechanism for setting the receiver in a default state should no signals be received within that time period.

Abstract: The invention comprises a linearly actuated valve which includes a valve body, a valve seal linearly movable with respect to the body between closed and open positions, a spring and a shape memory alloy wire. The spring both biases the valve toward the closed position, and forms a part of the electrical circuit providing current to the shape memory alloy wire. The valve seal may be accurately positioned between the closed position and the open position by applying a pulse frequency modulated electrical current to the spring and the shape memory alloy wire. The electrical circuit is continuously closed and is comprised entirely of electrical conductors having no sliding electrical contacts to eliminate arcing and sparking.