Abstract: The converter device transforms a changing direct signal generated by a source of direct current, into a signal whose amplitude is substantially greater than that of said changing signal, at least for certain values of this signal. It comprises a first transistor, an inductance with a high overvoltage coefficient wound on a core of ferrite and arranged in the collector circuit of said first transistor, so that one terminal of this inductance is directly connected to the collector of said transistor, a second transistor of which the collector is directly connected to the base of the first transistor, a connecting capacitor between the collector of the first transistor and the base of the second transistor, and a polarizing resistance arranged between the base of the second transistor and one terminal of said source.

Abstract: A flame detection system responsive to an arc triggering voltage in a spark gap having at least a portion located in a flame is used to control spark generating equipment. A pulse generator used to trigger the arc is inhibited upon detection of a lowered spark triggering voltage resulting from ignition of a flame.

Abstract: A detection device comprising two spark-gap electrodes connected to a voltage pulse source having an amplitude greater than the striking voltage of the spark-gap, so that each pulse produces a spark between said electrodes. Such a detection device is characterized in that it comprises, connected to at least one of the electrodes, a detection circuit able to supply at its output a signal whose amplitude is representative of a definite condition of the atmosphere present between said electrodes, particularly of the presence or of the absence, between the electrodes, of an ionized gas such as a flame.Main uses: devices for the generation of sparks for igniting a fuel.

Abstract: A bistable device comprises a thyristor having anode, cathode and gate electrodes and a transistor having emitter, collector and base electrodes, the emitter-collector path of the transistor being connected to the anode-cathode path of the thyristor. A first control input is connected to the gate of the thyristor for determining one stable state of the device and a second control input is connected to the base electrode of the transistor for determining the other stable state of the device. The first control input is connected through an amplifier to the gate of the transistor.

Abstract: An electric ignition lighter of the type having a fuel gas reservoir and a nozzle for releasing the gas includes a pair of spaced-apart electrodes defining therebetween a spark-gap. One of the electrodes comprises the nozzle and the other of the electrodes comprises an elongated electrically conductive element the lower portion of which comprises the magnetic core of a transformer and has wound therearound the primary and secondary transformer windings. One terminal of the secondary winding is electrically connected to the nozzle which forms one electrode and the other terminal of the secondary winding is electrically connected to the elongated conductive element which terminates in the other electrode.

Abstract: A power pack for a d.c. energized device, the power pack providing a predetermined d.c. voltage and being of given shape and dimensions, its output terminals having predetermined positions. This power pack includes a casing having the given external shape and dimensions and two output terminals in said predetermined positions. Inside the casing a d.c. power supply is provided adapted to deliver an on-load d.c. voltage lower than the said predetermined d.c. voltage, and a low consumption converter circuit for converting a signal from the d.c. power supply into a d.c. voltage signal of the predetermined value. The signal from the converter circuit is applied across the output terminals.

Abstract: A detonator control circuit, principally for use for setting off an explosive charge, but other applications include, e.g., setting off a burglar alarm. The circuit includes a D.C. source, a first thyristor connected in series with the source and a detonator or alarm bell, etc. and a second thyristor connected in a triggering circuit. The control circuit is primed by causing the second thyristor to conduct and thereafter is kept in a state of readiness for allowing the first thyristor to conduct when required and detonate an explosion or ring the bell, etc.Preferably an indicator lamp shows that priming is taking place successfully and when it goes out the circuit is ready.

Abstract: A device for controlling a gaseous or liquid fuel fired appliance as a function of a parameter includes a fuel supply controlled by a valve operated in dependence on a signal furnished by means sensitive to the parameter. The device includes a first circuit triggerable by the parameter-sensitive means when the parameter exceeds a first value and a second circuit triggerable by the parameter-sensitive means when the parameter falls below a second value lower than the first value. These circuits operate the valve appropriately for a given period of time. The device includes a spark generator for ignition of the fuel and an inhibitor to stop spark generation on fuel ignition. The device also includes first and second dc sources for independent supply of the first and second circuits, which require negligible current when not operative.