Abstract: An electric switch for controlling a light has an infrared radiation detector. In response to a change in the radiation being sensed by the detector, the light is illuminated to a first brightness level. A manual switch is provided to turn on the light to a second brightness level.

Abstract: An electrical power delivery system and method of operation particularly suitable for use in a vehicle is disclosed. A single wire power conductor is connected through remote power switches to a plurality of loads. The power conductor is sized such that its current-carrying capacity is less than the current required to simultaneously operate all the loads connected thereto. Logic means are provided for delivering a control signal to the remote power switches to selectively energize the appropriate loads. The logic means additionally includes means responding to excess current flow through the power conductor to schedule the control signals to prevent simultaneous operation of all the loads thereby limiting current flow through the power conductor to its current-carrying capacity.

Abstract: A modular power system for use with a digital computer is disclosed. The following major components of the power system are mounted in a convenient removable module, with at least one module for each required power output level: a pass transistor, a power transformer, a rectifier/filter, and a feedback circuit which controls the pulse width of the pass transistor. The modules contain air channels surrounding the pass transistor, for introducing cooling air via an air duct (manifold), so that the pass transistor is efficiently cooled. The need for potentiometers is abrogated by using a precision voltage reference in the feedback circuit to derive output voltages. The modules can also be used in a battery backed-up power system, in which a power system controller monitors and controls the inputs and outputs of the modules and other major components in the system in the case of line power failure.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for supplying continuous output power from at least one of two sources of input power. A rectifier circuit rectifies an AC current from an AC power source into a DC current. A first sensing circuit respectively provides first and second control signals in response to the input voltage provided by the AC power source. The first control signal is provided when the AC power source voltage is within a predetermined voltage range. The second control signal is provided when the AC power source voltage is outside the predetermined voltage range so as to inhibit the rectification of the AC current. An inverter circuit converts a DC current from a DC power source into an AC current which is then rectified into a DC current. A second sensing current, responsive to the first and second control signals, generates a third control signal which controls the magnitude of the output of the inverter circuit.

Abstract: A control device includes an electrically contactless depluggable logic module such as a computer that is used to interface between a power supply and input and output elements to process a system of control signals. There are no electrical connections to the logic module. This eliminates electromagnetic interference and conducted line interference. The power supply is magnetically coupled to the logic module. Information and control signals are optically coupled to the logic module. It is a free standing, environmentally immune unit, electrically isolated from the outside world.

Abstract: A device for regulating the maximum time a television or the like can be operated, comprising a first counter (19) that can be manually set by use of a key (24A) to set a switch (24) with a predetermined time period. A second counter (20) deducts the actual operating time of the television from the first counter. The device interrupts the power circuit to the television when the predetermined time period expires. The switch can be set to allow operation of the television without deducting time from the first counter.